Dark Promises

Dark #25

by Christine Feehan

OTRA FASCINANTE HISTORIA CARPATIANA DE LA REINA DEL ROMANCE PARANORMAL.

Gabrielle ya ha presenciado demasiadas batallas y guerras; ya ha sufrido suficiente viendo cómo el guerrero carpatiano al que ama casi pierde la vida en luchas que ni siquiera le corresponden. Ahora solo quiere irse lejos de los montes Cárpatos, lejos de los vampiros y de las sombras del monasterio en ruinas, ese que esconde terribles secretos. Pero ella no es la única que busca respuestas en los rincones de lo desconocido…

Trixie Joanes ha llegado a los montes Cárpatos buscando a su nieta, temiendo que haya sido atraída hasta allí por algo terrible. En su lugar, Trixie se tropieza con un hombre y una mujer que huyen desesperados. Y todos ellos van a parar a la guarida de un misterioso anciano cuya alma está sedienta de venganza y que alberga el poder eterno de hacer realidad las pesadillas.

Genres: Paranormal, Paranormal Romance, Romance, Vampires, Fantasy, Dark, Fiction

384 pages, Hardcover

First published August 23, 2015

About the author

Christine Feehan is a #1 New York Times bestselling author multiple times over with her portfolio including over 100 published novels, including five series; Dark Series, GhostWalker Series, Leopard Series, Drake Sisters Series, the Sisters of the Heart Series, Shadow Riders, Torpedo Ink and her Romantic Suspense novels. All of her series have hit the #1 spot on the New York Times bestselling list as well. Her debut novel Dark Prince received 3 of the 9 Paranormal Excellence Awards in Romantic Literature (PEARL) in 1999. Since then she has been published by various publishing houses including Leisure Books, Pocket Books, and currently is writing for Berkley/Jove. She also has earned 7 more PEARL awards since Dark Prince.
Her series include:
The Dark Series - https://www.christinefeehan.com/darkb...
The GhostWalker series- https://www.christinefeehan.com/ghost...
The Leopard Series - https://www.christinefeehan.com/leopa...
The Shadow Series- https://www.christinefeehan.com/shado...
Torpedo Ink series- https://www.christinefeehan.com/torpe...




IN HER WORDS:
I've been a writer all of my life -- it is who I am. I write for myself and always have. The ability to create pictures and emotions with words is such a miracle to me. I read everything; I mean everything! All kinds of books, even encyclopedias. I am fascinated by the written word and I love storytellers. It is a great privilege to be counted one myself. (www.christinefeehan.com)

Reviews

[Jessica's Totally Over The Top Book Obsession · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Two couple Stars



* There will be Spoilers!! Do not read if you don't want to know*

I'm for real gonna spill my guts don't read any of this if you don't like spoilers!!!

"No, Gary," Gabrielle said. "Finish it. Say it in the ancient language, maybe the ritual needs to be recited in the ancient language. They aren't going to take you away from me. Not that. You're all I have left. I can't make it without you. Say the words to tie us together."-Gabrielle

So when I started this book I was worried. When the blurb for this book came out about 2 years ago, it sounded like it was going to be Gary's book. So I was super excited. Yea Gary and Gabby finally get their book. But as time went on the blurb was changed and some more information came to light, I realized that this is Gabrielle's book not Gary. So at that point I started to worry. How could I ever like a book let alone love a book where my sweet Gary doesn't get his Hea. Yesterday when I got Dark Promises on my kindle I started it with fear in my heart and I have got to say that I FUCKING loved it!!!!! I could not put it down. I read it straight through til 3:30 in the morning. This book made me mad, it made me laugh, it made me cry(over my sweet Gary), and it made me very happy. Dark promises has two set of lifemates in it. There was Aleksei and Gabrielle and Trixie and Fane. I loved both couples!

"You dare to touch my woman? My lifemate? You dare such a thing?" He switched to English, realizing they had been using that language. "I am Aleksei, and the woman is mine."-Aleksei



"I have lived my life in honor. I will not allow one such as you, so deceitful, a selfish Carpathian woman who is willing to force her lifemate to choose between dishonor and death, to have her way. You know what that bond is and still, you broke it. I am far too close to darkness to watch you go to him. You can wait one rising. I will walk into the sun, and you can go to ground satisfied that I will no longer keep you and your lover apart."-Aleksei

Aleksei was so dark. An ancient warrior so dangerous he locked himself away for over 100 years in the monastery to keep the world safe. Aleksei was awaken hearing his lifemate call out for help. When he got to her he thought Gary was trying to hurt her not help so of course he attacked Gary. Then he heard his lifemate crying for his opponent not him. Then she attacked Aleksei to help Gary and he was seeing red. Now here is where I as a read got pissed. Gabrielle humiliated Aleksei in front of Gregori, the Prince, Andre, Gary, Fane and all the warriors in the monastery when she said

"There is no reason to fear now. I am here, your true lifemate. This man will not touch you again." She shook her head, tears spilling down her face. "No, you don't understand. I refuse. I refuse to be your lifemate. I love him. I'm his."-Aleksei and Gabrielle

I felt so bad for Aleksei. She crushed him. He held on to his honor waiting for his soulmate and she rejected him so coldly knowing it would be death or vampire for him. Aleksei at this point snapped. Not that I blame him. He grabbed his woman and took off. Now I have read in other reviews that Aleksei was abusive and I will warn that for a few minutes he did get ugly he was so close to turning vampire and she ripped his heart out and took his hope away so he does grab her by the hair and pulling her with him and then flings her to the floor. But then he snaps out of it and realizes how unhonorable he was acting and tells her that he is going to greet the dawn. After that he softens and never crosses that line. So it didn't really bother me but it may bother others. So heads up.

"You got yourself a real bargain. I don't know the first thing about being your lifemate. I don't know how to be Carpathian, and I've loved Gary for a very long time. So not only did I inadvertently betray you, I betrayed him and I betrayed myself. So don't think you're all alone in this mess I've made. I pretty much screwed everyone."-Gabrielle



"If I really had a choice, I would throw you down and bury my cock in your body. I would taste you, eat you up, drink your blood. Claim every inch of you for my own. I would not let you rest until the sun began to climb and then I would put you in the ground with me and hold you while we slept. When we awakened, I would start all over again."-Aleksei

Aleksei for me was a sexy super domineeringly, arrogant male. He was all about fucking Gabrielle into submission. God that male. Yum! I loved Aleksei. He was dark, damaged and dangerous. He had a temper and he was use to having his orders obeyed. He was hard all through the book but he did soften towards Gabrielle. But to me Gabrielle was a weak cowardly person and she needed someone to take control. Fane was the total opposite of Aleksei. He was laid back and easier going. Sweet and funny. I really liked Fane too. I thought it was sweet that Fane didn't feel upset or cheated that his lifemate was 60 years old. Of course she looked Damn good for her age but still he loved her unconditionally and it was a beautiful thing.

Lifemate. You do not look at other men's asses, and not when we are saying our vows. You pay attention to your man.- Fane



"But no matter how angry you get, no matter how many times you throw what I did in my face, I can't change it. I did it. I betrayed you. I didn't mean to do it, but I still did. I accept that. And I accept who you are. I have lived a certain way and I'm going to make more mistakes because I don't know the rules of your world. But I won't go back on my word."-Gabrielle

Gabrielle, oh Lord but I wanted to shake her a few times. When I first started the book I was pissed at Gabby. I didn't like her at all. I felt she was childish, cowardly and that both Aleksei and Gary were hurt badly all because she wanted to live in denial. But as the book went on I felt bad for her. I started to understand her and then surprisingly I started liking her although I still feel she was a coward, but I really did feel like she realized how wrong she was and tried to make it right. Gabby may never be my favorite heroine, but she did worm her way into my heart. I am glad that she didn't end up with Gary. She didn't really love him she just loved that he made her feel safe, and my Gary deserves someone that sees how amazing he is. Trixie was hilarious. The things that woman thought and said had me laughing so hard. She was very insecure about her age, but she was strong, caring and an all around great person. I really loved Trixie and before I started the book I didn't think I would. Her age didn't bother me at all.

"It isn't very nice to sound arrogant and amused when you're pointing out a couple of minor mistakes. I'm certain I'll improve with practice." "Lifemate. You have enough attitude for ten women." "Exactly."-Trixie and Fane



"I almost destroyed you, Aleksei. I could have lost you. The world could have lost you, all because I was so foolish and didn't understand the gift I was given."-Gabrielle

I absolutely loved the monastery warriors. When Trixie, Teagan, and Gabrielle worked together they had the power to ease the pain of the warriors and point them in the general direction of their lifemate so we got to get little glimpses of the warriors and maybe a set up for upcoming books me thinks. I thought Gabrielle and Aleksei relationship was amazing and sexy. I think they both grew in this book into better mates for the other. Fane and Trixie's relationship was sweet period. Now Gary, OMG my baby Gary. He broke my heart. I cried twice. I mean damn! Within the first few chapters of the book Gary all of a sudden lost all his emotions and colors. Gregori and the prince didn't know why. Well it turns out that when all the men were converted and the dead warriors passed on their knowledge it wasn't just that they passed on. It was more like part of themselves and all of them were ancient warriors that greeted the dawn because they had no lifemates so Gary had all their years of pain, suffering, and hopelessness all at once. And it almost destroyed him. So Gary is totally changed and he is close to needing to meet the dawn himself. Like I said I cried! My Gary was suffering bad! Then there was a part at the end of the book where Gary comes back to Gabby to ask if she is happy and if Aleksei is a good lifemate and I was crying again. OMG heart wrenching.

"Are you happy? Is he a good lifemate to you?" She shivered and wrapped her arms around herself. Even his voice was different. She had to work to fight back the tears. She nodded. "He's very good to me, Gary. She's out there. For you. Your lifemate."-Gary and Gabrielle

Aleksei was so grown about Gary at the end when he let Gabby say goodbye and was so very understanding. They do help Gary and little and point him towards his lifemate who is somewhere in France. The book was amazing. I really enjoyed every minute of it. I can't wait to see some of the monastery warriors get their books and God I don't think my poor heart can wait much longer for Gary's book. After all the pain and suffering Gary has been through he better get a super awesome beautiful lifemate that shoots rainbows out her magical vagina! I'm just sayin'!

I guess macho, arrogant, bossy men don't laugh in front of other macho, arrogant, bossy men? Because this is funny. Although not quite as funny as you and Andre pretending it isn't. If we laugh we would lose the status of macho, arrogant, bossy men. - Gabrielle and Aleksei

[Flo Camus · Rating 1 out of 5]

[1.0⭐] 𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙨𝙖𝙨 𝙤𝙨𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙨 es la entrega número veintinueve de la saga 𝘿𝙖𝙧𝙠 de Christine Feehan, publicada en 2015. En esta ocasión, nos reencontramos con Gabrielle, una mujer que ha pasado por batallas internas y externas, que ha visto la muerte de cerca y que simplemente desea escapar del mundo carpatiano. A su lado, aparece Trixie, una abuela decidida y desesperada por encontrar a su nieta desaparecida, dando inicio a un nuevo capítulo cargado de tensión, secretos y vínculos inesperados.


Lo primero que quiero decir es que es de estas novelas de "romance exótico" que tiene demasiados fetiches extraños y que claramente no van conmigo. Por desgracia, me dejé llevar por la portada y metí este libro a mi booklist de Buscalibre, mi pareja saca de ahí los libros que me regala y me compró este, pero creo que fue una mala decisión. Claramente, a él le diré que me gustó el libro para no herir sus sentimientos, pero quiero que a todos los que lean esta reseña les quede claro de que lo odié.

Empecemos por Gabrielle. Me costó muchísimo empatizar con ella. Su historia tenía todos los elementos para ser desgarradora: es dejada en su noche de bodas por el hombre que ama, Gary, quien descubre en ese preciso momento que no es su compañera eterna. Lo trágico, lo romántico, lo intenso, ahí estaba todo, listo para atraparme, pero no. Gabrielle no solo es abandonada, sino que, en lugar de hacer algo de dignidad con ese dolor, se dedica a auto-humillante para recuperar a un hombre que ni siquiera pareciera quererla (ya que no lucha por ella). Su persistencia se convierte en obsesión, en una persecución digna de una telenovela donde ella, cual “novia celosa”, no hace más que rebajarse, suplicar e, incluso, excusarse por cosas que jamás deberían excusarse. 

Cuando pensaba que nada podía ir peor, entra Aleksei. Un personaje que, lejos de ser un héroe torturado o un alma en pena buscando redención, es simplemente un abusador disfrazado de guerrero carpatiano. La forma en que se presenta su relación con Gabrielle me dejó absolutamente perturbada. Gabrielle es secuestrada, forzada, manipulada psicológicamente y sexualmente por Aleksei y lo más grave no es solo que esto ocurra, sino que ella termina convenciéndose de que está enamorada de su captor, de que “no puede vivir con la culpa” si él muere y que, de algún modo incomprensible, todo esto ha sido culpa suya. Incluso, le llega a pedir perdón a él. Sí, le pide perdón a él por haber estado con otro hombre antes, como si su abuso se justificara. Es ofensivo, preocupante y, honestamente, peligroso.

El ritmo del libro tampoco ayuda, es increíblemente repetitivo. Hay párrafos enteros que parecen reciclados de capítulos anteriores. Se dan vueltas y vueltas sobre lo mismo: el deseo incontrolable, la conexión entre compañeros eternos, la necesidad carnal y la rendición absoluta, pero la trama no avanza. Es un libro de 400 páginas donde casi nada relevante ocurre, salvo encuentros sexuales y discusiones circulares que no llevan a ningún lado. 

Además, el “reino carpatiano” podría haber sido un escenario fascinante, tenía todos los elementos para convertirse en un mundo original y absorbente, pero queda reducido a un telón de fondo mal aprovechado. No se explora su historia, ni su organización, ni su mitología con suficiente profundidad. Me sentí constantemente perdida, como si estuviera leyendo una versión incompleta de un universo con mucho potencial, pero pésimamente desarrollado.

Otro elemento que me dejó perpleja fue el supuesto triángulo amoroso. Debo decir que ese cliché sí me gusta: el drama emocional, las tensiones, las decisiones difíciles, pero aquí no hay triángulo real. Lo que hay es una mujer que amaba profundamente a alguien y que, tras ser violada y manipulada, termina diciendo que siempre perteneció al agresor. La autora intenta disfrazarlo como una epifanía romántica, pero lo que yo vi fue una narrativa sumamente problemática que romantiza el abuso y perpetúa ideas dañinas sobre la sumisión femenina como forma de amor.

Por si fuera poco, la historia paralela de Trixie no aporta nada. Es otra mujer que es manipulada, convertida en carpatiana sin su consentimiento y que, como por arte de magia, también termina enamorada de su “salvador”. Otra relación tóxica, otra excusa para introducir más escenas sexuales que se sienten absurdamente forzadas. Trixie es una abuela preocupada por su nieta, pero una vez que aparece el macho carpatiano de turno, todo eso desaparece: la mujer racional, amorosa y valiente que podríamos haber conocido es reemplazada por una marioneta hormonal sin criterio.

En definitiva, este libro fue un calvario. Me aburrí, me frustré y me sentí incómoda con cada página que pasaba. A pesar de todo, decidí terminarlo, en parte porque me cuesta dejar libros inconclusos y en parte porque al haberlo recibido como regalo me sentí obligada a darle una oportunidad completa, pero si algo me queda claro es que jamás volveré a leer otro libro de esta autora.


Finalmente, puedo decir que 𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙨𝙖𝙨 𝙤𝙨𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙨 es: sexo, abuso disfrazado de amor, diálogos repetitivos y mujeres sin personalidad propia que giran en torno a hombres controladores. No entiendo cómo este libro puede tener tan buena valoración. Me duele especialmente porque la portada y la sinopsis me engañaron.
Mi consejo: si buscan un romance paranormal con fuerza, con desarrollo emocional, con personajes complejos y relaciones coherentes, me temo que este libro no es para ustedes.

[Elfina Renee · Rating 1 out of 5]

I'm not upset this story wasn't about Gary and Gabrielle. What I am upset with is how Trixie and Gabrielle came across as being weak, empty headed and pathetic. Lets first look at Gabrielle. The night of her wedding she's rejected because she's not the lifemate of Gary. Fine, no problem I can deal. She foolishly follows him up to the monastery and discovers her real lifemate. He jealous, pissed and feels she's betrayed him and treats her in abusive manner. Like the good cow she is, she cries, thinks of facing the dawn. Solution to their problems, sex....more sex and orgasmic sex. Did you pick up there was sex?

I wanted to stake the bitch myself because of how passive and submissive she was. No backbone, or personality, her world revolved around an ego dominant jackass. Then there is Trixie, human frail, misunderstood Trixie. Fane steals two blood transfers, not bothering to tell her he's converting her. The poor middle age woman is wanting to reunite with her family. She worries relentlessly about her granddaughter and possibly her having met up with vampires. Not really taking into consideration she with one herself. She's daftly told she's his lifemate and you guessed it, sex, more sex and powerful sex! Two women, two different Carpathian warriors and a shit ton of sex, left little to actual storyline and plot. Not much in the way of action, danger, suspense or anything.

[Krissys · Rating 1 out of 5]

Gabrielle has had enough of battles, of wars, of seeing Gary Jansen, the man she loves nearly lose his life when it isn’t even his fight. Once he was a gentle and very human researcher. Now he’s a fearless and lethal Carpathian warrior with the blood of an ancient lineage coursing through his veins—a man Gabrielle still needs and desires and dreams of with every breath she takes. All she wants is a life far away from the Carpathian mountains, far from vampires and the shadows cast by the crumbling monastery that hides so many terrible secrets. But Gabrielle soon learns that promises made in the dark can pierce the heart like a dagger.

And she isn’t the only one in search of answers in the corners of the unknown...

Trixie Joanes has come to the Carpathian mountains in search of her wayward granddaughter, fearing that she has been lured there by something unspeakable. Instead, Trixie has stumbled into the path of a desperate man and a woman in love and on the run. And they’re all fated for the lair of a mysterious ancient with revenge in his soul and the undying power to make bad dreams come true.











My Review:

This review has spoilers so if you don't want spoilers turn back now.

It took me awhile to force myself to finish this book. I really didn't want to because I got stuck at the beginning but I kept staring at the book just sitting unfinished on my shelf hoping that somehow Feehan would redeem herself. I'm sad to say she didn't.





So this book really wasn't about Gary and Gabrielle at all. It was about Alek and Fane. Gary and Gabrielle were its center as a couple that had been converted into Carpathians after being attacked. Regular readers will know that Gary and Gabby have had a serious love thing going on for a long time. We've all been cheering for them to finally get their happily ever after. Well Dark fans... its not happening.



Gabby and Gary suddenly have reality hit them during their wedding ceremony that they can't be together. Gabrielle in her desperation to convince Gary to give them a chance to be together away from the Carpathians wakes Alek who's been in sleep.

Alek shows up while Gabby's begging Gary not to give up on them, Alek drags Gabby off by her hair quite literally shoves her to the ground strips her naked force feeds her and sexually abuses her in the process, manipulates her mind until she gives in to him, then repeats the process several times.

Once Alek finally partially releases control of her mind and she continues to refuse to be with him he threatens to kill himself if she won't be with him, manipulates her into being with him of her own accord. Alek commands to have control of her mind and body and this is the sum of their entire relationship.

She is his slave, she thinks, she does, she feels, she exists just for him, he guilt trips her and manipulates his way into her life convinces her she needs him and loves him and wants him and it continues on and on and on... and on... and on... and on.



I really despise their relationship and the fact that Gabby eventually is convinced that they belong together, that she has been in the wrong the entire time, that its her fault that she and Gary have been emotionally broken by it, that its her responsibility to give herself to Alek regardless of what she thinks or feels same as most abuse victims do in relationships like it.

Eventually I started skipping through the pages where Gabby and Alek were together simply to avoid my own disgust at their pairing and the excuses Gabby made to make this kind of behavior okay.



You get several cameos of the other Carpathians and a rather pointless pairing between Fane and Trixie.

We finally get to find out what happens with Teagan's grandmother which kind of winds up feeling completely out of place between what is going on with Gary and Gregori also Mikhails tolerance for the continuing abuse that he's witness to in these relationships that the women suffer at the hands of the males who 'aren't in control of themselves since they are close to turning.' Which is the lamest excuse for tolerating what they're doing to them, and saying that ''the women will come around and the men know whats best for them' really sickens me.

Its that kind of warped thinking that get a lot of women killed in abusive relationships. The fact that Feehan seems to be such a strong supporter of such nonsense really upsets me on a personal level.

I honestly have no idea how to rate this book because everything about it screams wrong on every level. I honestly have no idea how I feel about this book emotionally besides sickened so I really can't say if it was good or bad. It was written well but everything that was in it as far as the relationships... no.





My Rating:





Reviewed By:
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews



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Note: I received a print copy in exchange for an honest review from Berkley Publishing

[Ꮗ€♫◗☿ ❤️ ilikebooksbest.com ❤️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Twofer!



The following ratings are out of 5:
Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Romance: 💙💚🖤💛❤️
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌎🌍🌏🌎🌎
Character development: 🧐😕😍😗

The heroine(s): Gabrielle - she was a researcher who worked with Gary, whom she loved for years. They were helping the Carpathians overcome issues with fertility and childbearing. She worked in a lab and liked being away from all the action and safe in her little lab. However she was stabbed multiple times and then turned into a Carpathian by prince Mikhail, while Gary was turned by Mikhail’s bodyguard and protector Gregori.

Trixie - She is the grandmother to Teagan from the last book, Dark Ghost. Teagan had come to the Carpathian mountains to find a cure for Trixie whom Teagan thought was going crazy because of her insistence that vampires are real. Now Trixie has come to the Carpathian mountains to find Teagan.

The Hero(s): Alexi - He is an ancient Carpathian who spent his life hunting vampires. He is now a resident of the monastery high up in the mountains. The Carpathians who have holed up at the monetary do so because they have lived an honorable existence fighting against vampires who kill humans and Carpathians indiscriminately. Now that they are ancient they are dangerous and very close to turning into the very vampire’s they fought.

Fane - Fane is also an ancient Carpathian living at the monastery. He is charged with guarding the gate since he is the least dangerous of the ancients. He is also the de facto leader of those housed in the monastery. He led them to go and help Andre and Teagan after Andre fought against the master vampire Popescu, and helped feed Teagan and Andre when they were in need of blood after the battle.

The Story: The Carpathians at the monastery have all but given up on finding their life mates, each of them has traveled the world in search of their mate, but retreated to the monastery after they stopped seeing colors and feeling emotions. Having led honorable lives they feel that to go out in the sun and end their existence wouldn’t be an honorable death. So they stay at the monastery away from others and battles and try to live as long as possible. If any of them turns into a vampire the rest have sworn will put them down before they cause destruction.

I liked the dual storylines and romances in this book quite a bit though there was a few things that I disliked. First of which was the how stupid and naïve Gabrielle was despite supposedly being an intelligent scientist. She denied the fact that she was turned into a Carpathian and buried herself in her lab work. So she didn’t know all the in’s and out’s of being an immortal and of life mates.

Gabrielle thinks she loves Gary and fights to be with him, which is ridiculous after they find they aren’t life mates. Even not knowing everything about life mates, she should know enough to figure out that things weren’t going to go anywhere with Gary. Also the fact that she is still a virgin even though her and Gary were in love when they were human is against the odds of being possible. Since she and Gary were both scientists (years of college) and had worked for the carpathians together for years after that, it is just a bit outside of reality that she is still so naïve and innocent.

Then we get to Trixie, who I really liked, but when she says she has so little experience that she is practically a virgin, that completely defied all reality. She is grandmother to Teagan, and even has great grandchildren from Teagan’s sisters. So are we really to believe she is nearly innocent? Why even put that out their?

The narration was terrific. I can’t say enough how much I love it when the guys do the guy parts and women do the women parts even when in the POV of the opposite person. I just loved it. Phil Gigante and Natalie Ross both are awesome at doing different voices for different people.

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[Kristin & Sue Ellen ~ GirlyGirlBookReviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

****** This review does have some SLIGHT SPOILERS but if you read the book blurb,you can read between the lines of what is going on in the book. It is just elaborating on that. ******


Wow! That is the best word to describe Dark Promises! This is truly Christine Feehan at her finest! I was an emotional wreck while reading this one! I'm not kidding! Big wet tears! I never seen it coming! My mind was screaming and crying, "Why!! How can this be"!! 
It's completely not where I thought their journey was headed but I grew to love the new spin, and I can see why things developed as they did. My heart hurts for all the Carpathians that have yet to find their lifemate, but Gary is just tearing me up inside!

Gabrielle has loved Gary Jansen for a long time. He made her feel safe when her world was falling apart. When she was turned Carpathian to save her life years ago, she put her human dreams to the side to help research solutions to their problems. She has held on to her humanity and hasn't accepted her new life. She doesn't like change and nothing will ever be the same again. 
Now that Gary is fully Carpathian, their should be nothing to stand in their way of finally being together. Except, something neither of them can control ... fate.

Even though your heart will be breaking at one point, keep reading. I can understand why it all changed. Gabrielle and Gary may end up leading separate paths but he will always be in her heart.

Aleksei is one of my favorite Carpathian males yet! 
He is ancient, dominate, deadly and on the very edge of darkness but has chosen the honorable path. When he hears his lifemate cry for another male, all bets are off and he succumbs to his dark side. He has endured for so long just to find she loves another. He has no intention of sharing any part of her, and he goes extreme alpha male on her! He is exactly the kind of man Gabrielle needs and he is determined to show her all the ways they can be great together.
 Aleksei ignites a hunger in Gabrielle that she never dreamed was possible. 
She is feeling so many different emotions so fast, but she knows Aleksei is what she needs. He is who, she wants to spend her life with. She is tormented over how things ended up with Gary and she wants to make it right with him but also not hurt Aleksei in the process.
 Together they have a lot to over come and there are enemies seeking to destroy their newfound hope.
 We also have Trixie to brighten things up! 
She was awesome! Hilarious! I loved her! Vampire hunting kit and all! I liked seeing her over come her insecurities about her age and her lifemate was perfect for her. I really loved seeing their relationship grow! If anyone deserved happiness it was her!
Teagan, Trixie and Gabrielle are fast friends and together they will give hope to all the Carpathians!
I loved every minute of this book and hated to see it end! The thrilling blend of dark passion and all consuming love will leave you breathless! Again I will say this is Christine Feehan at her finest!
I received an ARC for an honest review.
Reviewed by Kristin
Here is the Link to the Review on our Blog!
http://wp.me/p3lVwy-2gz

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

For the 25th book, I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed it! The Carpathian series is one of my beloved series that I have gotten so much pleasure out of over the years. I will admit though, as the books went on they began to lose the initial spark that they used to have! In this instalment though, I felt Christine Feehan breathed some life back into the series!

“Dark Promises “ introduced us to some ancient Carpathians who have been tucked away at a monastery isolated from people... mainly because these guys are very close to turning into vampires. They have lost all hope of finding their life mates and all that is left for them is to meet the dawn!
I felt we needed some new Carpathians to be able to keep this series going, and this book did exactly that!

There was another surprise in this story, and that was regarding who Gabrielle would end up with. I hadn’t seen that coming so that added the element of surprise for me!

We are treated to two couples in this book and my only complaint would be that I felt there was too much sex!! Lol! Yes... you read that right!🤣🤣🤣 Too much sex?? How is that possible?!!! lol! I could have done with more story and less sex... I rarely say that but sometimes the sex over powers the story!! I will say that the sex scenes are super hot!! So that did make up for too much!

I am looking forward to what comes next! I hope that we will have more freshness come into the series!! This one was definitely a step in the right direction!

[Edwina " I LoveBooks" "Deb" · Rating 1 out of 5]

Dark Promises bk 29 in The Dark Series by Christine Feehan is a great disappointment. Leaving me in utter despair. I felt the author has been misleading into what this story was actually about. I thought for over a year now that this would be Gary Jensons story with Gabrielle Sanders as his lifemate or her as a featured character in the story along with Trixie. I never once believed that instead I would be reading a story with a great grandmother Trixie finding her lifemate Fane who we just briefly met in bk 28 Dark Ghost. Trixie is being portrayed as an uneducated Black women with a nonsensical temper. I know who Trixie is modeled after and let me tell you she is very intelligent and highly educated. I do believe in older people "Like Myself" finding love and having a sexual relationship, But I don't want to read about it. I know what my 65++ body looks like with its wrinkles and sagging skin, sorry but its true. So I don't want visuals about older people having lots and lots of sex. Some things should be left to the imagination.

Gabrielle Sanders part of the story was truly disturbing!! She is lifemate to Alexie and Ancient Carpathian residing at the Monastery. He was Physically Abusive to Gabby and he hurt her many times physically and mentally in the story!! I wanted a Vampire to STAKE ALEXIE!! He treated Gabby worst then a Vampire would have treated her. He was not a real Carpathian who loves and treasure and worship there lifemates.

My poor Gary after being a character in this series since 2008 Bk4 Dark Magic, has very little to do with this story. Why mislead fans? I what to tell Ms. Feehan don't burn the Bridge tht Brought You!! You can't cross it to get back!! I am not the only one who thought this was Gary Jenson/Daratrazanoff's story.

Dark Promises have virtually no storyline. The one story about the Human Hunters is at most 5% of the story. The Dark series world and storyline has not moved in years. I have been an huge Fan of Christine Feehan since Lair of the Lion back in 1998. I was one of the first people to sign up for her Community page and create a wall of my own there. Meeting and chatting with friends from all over the world. But with Great Sadness I say Goodbye to the Feehan world and all my wonderful Feehan Friends. I Cannot in good judgement support this author's work any longer. Not when I don't believe myself that she is writing her books anymore!!

With a Heavy Heart and Sadness I am Signing Out and Off from the Feehan World!!
Deb "The Rose Lady" Allen

[Cat Wright · Rating 2 out of 5]

I liked Trixie, I liked how the 3 women were able to help the ancients in the monastery. Other than that, the book once again was all sex. No real plot, nothing of import on the master vampire front.

Gabby was the usual whiny heroine and Aleksei was the typical caveman Feehan seems to be fond of writing lately. So disappointing. Where is the author who wrote Dark Slayer? Sex is fine in a book as long as it isn't the entire flipping story! Add to it the abusive way this started? Seriously, WTF???!!!

I've been reading Feehan since 1999 and have always looked forward to the next release no matter which series. Not anymore. She is ruining the Dark series, and has totally gone off the deep end with the Ghost Walkers. This is shades of LKH all over again. This makes me so sad, I have a lot of years invested but I don't think I can keep reading if this is all it comes down to.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

A grandmother? Really? That's the best Christine Feehan could do for sweet, amazing Gary Jensen? And who wrote that book blurb description - a 15-year-old?

I'm feeling very apprehensive about the direction this series is going...
----------------------------------------------------------
Finally read this one. I still wasn't sold on a grandmother, however young, being a lifemate (thank God not Gary's, at least.) And I was still bummed that Gary and Gabrielle weren't meant for each other in the end. But CF made it work. Gabrielle is happy and finally empowered - she may not be a warrior woman like some of the other formerly human lifemates, but she turned out to be stronger than she seemed. Now Gary needs to find his psychic Frenchwoman so he can be happy too!

[Miranda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark Promises written by Christine Feehan, is the 29th installment of the Dark series. As I sit here, attempting to gather my many thoughts, and place them into some semblance of order, I wonder where to even begin. It is difficult to recall a single book, out of the countless I have read, that has dragged such a spectrum of emotions from me. It is difficult to call to mind, a single author that can manage to surprise me so totally, 29 books into a series. Why has Ms. Feehan been able to keep readers returning time, and time again you ask? Drawing some readers like myself, for 13+ years, and continuing to garner the interest of new readers as well? Because of a novel like Dark Promises.

I will begin by stating that once I realized this was not the journey of the two people the blurb had led me to believe; I wanted to HATE this book. I will be honest and admit that while reading the first few heartbreaking, sickening, B.R.U.T.A.L chapters...I fully expected that I would come away DETESTING this novel completely. Not only would I be unable to finish, but that I would never again be able to read an installment from this series, that I have loved for so long. Halfway through those first chapters, I closed the book. So angry, so shocked, and so upset, that I never expected to open it again. Yet there I was the next night, compelled to sit down, and try once more.

My experience through those first chapters was like passing a horrific accident on the highway. I didn't want to look, and I knew if I did look, I would see something terrible that could never be unseen. Yet I could not make myself look away. I couldn't make myself stop reading. I had to know what would happen...and much like ripping off a band aid, I gritted my teeth, and just did it. Kept pushing through, hoping to see some light at the end of the tunnel. I wouldn't really say that there was light...but I forced myself to compartmentalize my anger over what happened to Gary's character. I forced myself to compartmentalize how horrendously Gabrielle's life mate treated her upon their meeting. I forced myself to push through how deceived I felt that this wasn't going to be a soft, gentle, romantic jaunt--and to simply embrace the harrowing journey Ms. Feehan was taking us on, no matter the destination.

Getting to the actual story, Dark Promises is a book told in multiple perspectives. Mainly Gabrielle, and an Ancient Carpathian male named Aleksei. First things first...like many other readers, Aleksei was NOT the male I believed would even be the hero of this story. Once getting through that initial shock, this hero did not fit into the neat little box that I previously placed my beloved Carpathian males in, what-so-ever. Christine did not make it easy to even like this Hunter at first. He was not the elegant, courtly, old world "can do no harm to my life mate" Carpathian. There was nothing polished, or civilized about him. Nothing soft, or gentle. Actually, I think he makes even Zacarias look like a kitten in comparison. I would describe him as angry, demanding, pushy, and down right savage--even on Carpathian terms.

As one of the intriguing males, whom have locked themselves away from the outside world in the Monastery. Aleksei has done so with great reason. He has been too long without color, and emotion, and has been too long from civilization. Demons ride him hard, and he has only his honor to keep him from turning Vampire. I have read many reviews of Dark Promises that mentions violence, and brutality towards women. Although I was left feeling sick in my stomach...I never lost sight of the fact that this is not a series based upon human men. Ms. Feehan has gone to great lengths to explain the elements of this species. Predators by nature. No color, or emotion; oft times for centuries. She has gone to great lengths to explain how volatile, and unstable the sudden return of their emotions can be. So it never ceases to amaze me that so many readers "humanize" these males, and label them abusive.

I feel it is important to add that Aleksei and Gabrielle's first meeting is utter chaos. Aleksei awakens to the cries of help from a life mate he did not know existed. His emotions are restored, and instantly a battle ensues where he believes he is protecting the salvation to his soul, only to be attacked by that same woman. Aleksei is disoriented, and confused as his life mate screams out hatred towards him, and love for another, all in the same breath. Fresh emotion, turns quickly into dark feelings of betrayal...betrayal that he has held out centuries against the darkness...for this. It is a complete train wreck for all involved, which in no way excuses the travesty which occurs after. But if readers make an effort to remember the foundation of the Carpathian species, I believe they can come to at least understand, if not forgive Aleksei by the end, as I did. He stops himself before crossing that crucial, critical line in the sand. Not only does he reign himself in...but he decides he will let his life mate go...that is not the trait of an abusive monster.

Gabrielle's behavior, and ignorance to what it means to be a life mate, her ignorance about being a Carpathian female in general, certainly plays a role in the chaos. May I just say, that prior to this novel, I held no interest in Gabrielle as a heroine. The first few chapters of this book, did nothing to change this. In fact, her inability to let go of her "humanity"or to release the heart of the brilliant, gentle, wonderful man she has dragged along with her as a crutch--combined with her complete, and utter disregard to the fate of the Carpathian hunter with which she shared a soul--only increased my feelings of dislike towards her.

I didn't have much faith that this heroine could turn my opinion of her around. Yet Gabrielle truly surprised me. I have read some reviews describing Gabrielle as "whiny" and "weak". However, I believe strength comes in many forms. It doesn't take her long to realize the weight of the responsibility she alone has. To literally have the power to choose either life or death for another being. Once Gabrielle recognizes how close to the edge she pushed Aleksei with her actions, however unintentional, she did not whine, or shrivel in weakness. She did not make excuses to absolve herself of guilt. She makes a conscious choice to be a better woman, and try make right, the wrongs she inadvertently caused. She pulls up her big girl panties, and does what she had to do to try and save a man, only she has the power to save. Gabrielle was terrified, and treated atrociously by this Carpathian at first, and yet she attempts to save him anyway. If that is not strength, I do not know what is.

This couple does not have an easy go. Nor is their coming together, easy to read. Yet I appreciated the uniqueness of their relationship. The fact that they had to communicate their thoughts verbally, rather than the usual merging of minds, where it is all right there for them both to see. There were many, many times I was angry with Aleksei, and angry with Gabrielle throughout my navigation of this novel, yet in the end, I came to understand them both.

In contrast, the union between the other two main characters of Dark Promises is a polar opposite experience. "Gramma" Trixie is much needed comedic relief, and a light among the darkness of this journey. It confuses me to have read her character described as "dumb-ed down" when I found her lively, intelligent, and wholly entertaining. Being a single mom myself, I could relate to Trixie on a personal level. I really liked Fane from Dark Ghost, and immensely enjoyed the side story of these two personalities. They added great balance to the overall story arc.

In closing, this book that I wanted to hate at first, stubbornly grabbed my interest, and held me in place. Riveted until the very end. This book made me FEEL. Dragging from me, a vast, sweeping, plethora of different emotions. It is the character driven stories, filled with emotion, good or bad, that stay with me long after the words "The End." I wanted very much to rate Dark Promises five stars, which surprises no one more, than me. I could not award the fifth star however, because there was honestly too much sex. One common element in reviews, is the claim that this book was 70% sex, and 30% story. Seems rather accurate. This was a disappointment for a reader like me who loves backstory, lore, and action. I desperately wanted to learn more about Aleksei's past, as well as Fane's.

Looking forward, I believe that Dark Promises has breathed new life into this very long running series. I anxiously await learning the fate of the others in the monastery. Mostly, I await learning the fate of a character whom I have loved since Dark Magic. A book I have reread so many times, I could recite it word for word. Take care of my beloved Gary Ms. Feehan, and dont leave us waiting in agony too long. For anyone on the fence as to whether they should or should not read this novel...I urge you to give it a try, and judge for yourself. The negative reviews can be daunting...but we all experience books differently. You may just come away from this book, as surprised as I did :)

[KatieV · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up. I liked it. I wasn't married to the idea of Gary/Gabrielle and I think that's probably what caused some readers disappointment (as well as initial misleading book description).

The main hero is super scary at first, but he settles down. There's definitely a dom/sub thing going on, which may turn some readers off. I LOL'd when the hero said he'd bite the heroine's lip if she kept doing it. I guess Feehan was channeling Christian Grey. *shakes head* Will it never end?

Was it repetitive at times? Sure. Too many sex scenes? Yep. It's a Feehan, so it's a given. Still, somehow I continue to enjoy most of her offerings in this series.

[Lover of Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Summary
Gabrielle has been in love with Gary Jensen for a long time. But Gabrielle has had enough, especially seeing the changes that her sweet Gary has gone through after his conversion. Gabrielle is a scientist, she doesn't believe that she can live in the Carpathian world, its way too violent for her. But on the eve of their wedding night, Gary and Gabrielle realize the truth and soon after Gary loses all colors and emotions. Which shouldn't have happened this soon. Then suddenly Gabrielle finds herself lifemated to a domineering and violent carpathian...an ancient. Alexsei has lived for over a thousand years, in darkness and violence barely keeping his soul intact from turning. Then he sees colors and senses the anguish of his lifemates call, and goes to her and feels betrayed when he senses her love for another carpathian male. Meanwhile, Trixie Jones has come to save her daughter but unknowingly brought danger with her and Trixie meets Fane another of the ancients. Their relationship starts off rocky with Trixie trying to kill her lifemate thinking he is a vampire and she must use her vampire kit she found online. But soon both couples will be bound together to bring down a greater evil that is stalking them.
The Heroes
Alexsei
Now this is probably one of the most dominating males that Feehan has ever created. YUMMY!! He definitely put a red on my radar that is for sure. He is more controlling and domineering than even Gregori. He has a temper, gets angry easily, but has gone through hell. He has only known a life of danger, violence and darkness for over a thousand years. He has taken care of the ancients at the monastery barely keeping them from turning. He is the leader, their commander ruthless in every regard. He had search the earth for centuries for a lifemate but never found her. Until he hears her pain and anguish and sense love for another male which sends him off the edge...LITERALLY!! Boy when he gets angry...he gets angry. He feels betrayed by Gabrielle (and for good reason) and doesn't take it well. He does get a bit rough but not violent with her. You see how all the emotions he is suddenly feeling are overwhelming and he can't control them. Of course you see how he regrets his actions against Gabrielle. But there are good aspects to Alexsei. Once he gets over his anger, you see his caring nature for Gabrielle. He seeks a honest and open relationship with her. He is dominating in bed...VERY. But he can be so tender and sweet in those needed moments with his lifemate needs that.

Her body had come alive with just his mouth on hers. Alive. Singing. Screaming for more. Every single cell was aware of him. An electrical current seemed to have taken up residence in her bloodstream. She'd never felt anything like it in her life. She hadn't known a woman could feel like that. 

Fane
Now Fane is complete opposite from Alexsei in many ways. Fane is an ancient carpathian, dealing with his own darkness. But his lifemate amuses him. He has a solid sense of humor and seems to delight in teasing Trixie all the time. I love his mannerisms, because it helps take a breather from Alexsei who is overpowerfully strong. But Fane, is a talented hunter but he reacts better to his lifemate even though she tries to kill him with a online vampire kit. What was quite admirable about Fane was seeing how kind he could be with Trixie. He is gentle, sincere and is very mischievious at times, it was very contagious. I definitely loved him as one of the main characters in the book.
The Heroines
Gabrielle
Gabrielle is one of those characters we don't know that much about. We see glimpses of her throughout the series, but not enough to know whether or not to like her. Not until this book. Gabrielle is not like her family. She is reserved, quiet, intelligent and loves her quiet world. She never wanted to be Carpathian. She always is fearful of her surroundings and it doesn't help that no one of the Carpathian community has made an effort to teach her what she needs to know. She has her own talents but only views them as "parlor tricks". She is very smart---scientist kind of smart. She loves working in lab with no one around to bother her. Now I will admit, in the beginning I kinda struggled with her character. She seems a bit selfish especially when it comes with her dealings with Gary and Alexsei. You see that she knows better but she still acts like a child at first. But from the moment that Alexsei takes her away, she grows up very QUICKLY. She starts to come into herself. She is still afraid of her lifemate, but we see her growth of confidence and she takes responsiblity for her foolishness.

"I almost destroyed you, Aleksei. I could have lost you. The world could have lost you, all because I was so foolish and didn't understand the gift I was given."

Which I was glad to see. Throughout the story, she grew on me and I really liked her in the end. She understands what Alexsei needs in her and gives him what she can but stands on her own ground when its important.
Trixie
Now Trixie...was freaking hiliarious and every time we entered a scene with her and Fane I just cracked up. Honestly her character was so refreshing. She has attitude, she is older, a grandmother, only known betrayal by men. She doesn't trust them at all. Despite her age, she keeps fit and in healthy condition so she probably doesn't look her age--which she is VERY proud of, kinda cocky about it which I found so entertaining. I love her attitude of doing what she wants and doesn't apologize for it. Her humor is fantastic. She is kind, caring and empathatic. But she can be a bit obsessed with her age.
Plot and Story Line
Okay now....I want to say that this story bowled me over in many different ways. I will say this DONT believe the blurb. It gives off the impression that its about Gary and Gabrielle---a LIE folks. I mean, there are important factors of their relationship that we see get revealed, but man GARY...this story just broke my heart for him. He goes through hell in this book and loses the woman he loves which almost breaks him. We also see how the line of ancients that he is connected to, converge on him all at once. The once sweet scientists who won our hearts in Dark Magic, has changed into a warrior. Even Gregori and the Prince are shocked by his changes.

The story starts off with some tough truths....first off Gabrielle has to learn the hard way about lifemates. She literally has no clue, I mean you would think her family would inform her about it all, but they just leave her clueless for the most part. So that irked me a bit, is how the other Carpathians treat her in some ways. This doesn't help her situation with Alexsei, in fact she is practically blind in dealing with him. She is this quiet reserved woman who just loves her lab and the quiet. We see her act out against Alexsei in front of others, which is a firm betrayal to Alexsei. Alexsei on the other hand is pretty damaged here at the beginning. I know some would say he would be too violent, and yeah he gets a bit extreme but not too much you can't handle it. I was okay with it, but then Gregori in his book was pretty violent too.. What I did find interesting was seeing how they find a balance in their relationship.

That vow for my lifemate flows in letters across my back. For you. To you. Whether I found you or not, I knew you. I saw you, there in my mind. In my heart, I knew you would be passionate and sweet. That you would give me whatever I asked for. And that is you. You always give me what I ask for. When I wasked if you would wear you hair down for me when we were alone, you said yes. You gave that to me. Every time I have asked you for something, you have said yes. You give it to me. I had no idea you would be this beautiful, but I knew you. I talked to you. Each rising, before I went hunting, I told you I would be there for you. I would give you everything you wanted or needed. That I would keep you safe. I would protect you. I would love and cherish you.l I mean those things. You saved me. You did that, No one else. 

It has its unbalanced moments, for sure---but we do see how good they are for each other. Gabrielle finds passion and desire....but she also begins to realize how much she cares for Alexsei in ways she never did for Gary. Also another aspect I liked about Alexsei, was seeing how eventually he comes to terms with Gary, he sees the importance of closure and that Gabrielle can help Gary find his true lifemate. I will admit their last moment, just brought tears to my eyes.

"Are you happy? Is he a good lifemate to you?" She shivered and wrapped her arms around herself. Even his voice was different. She had to work to fight back the tears. She nodded. "He's very good to me, Gary. She's out there. For you. Your lifemate."

Now Fane and Trixie were just rocking awesome. Their relationship is needed to balance out this book. I like that Feehan had the two couples and their stories. Because quite frankly if she didn't put them in, I would have had a huge book hangover. The emotions are so dark at times, that Fane and Trixie add lightheartedness and a flirty relationship with some great laughs. Especially their first meeting===was just perfect. It was perfect and I really liked their bond. We also get some fun moments with Andre and Teagan which was fun. We some truths revealed about what happens when Teagan, Trixie and Gabrielle use their talents together to help the ancients. Wow....I liked this new twist in the Carpathian world. Now these ancients are AWESOME!! I was very intrigued by some of them. It will be unique to see how Ancient carpathians deals with modern women as lifemates. Gives me the shivers --the good kind. hehe
The Cover
This is one of my favorites....I love green on covers. I am big on nature, and I love how it really gives that theme. I like the monastery in the background. The whole effect gives off a eerie vibe that I just love and is perfect to portray this story.
Overall View
Dark Promises is a story of fighting for love even in the darkest of moments....a tale of fated love and desire that is consuming. One of the best books Feehan has written!!! UTTERLY MESMERIZING
Books N'Tunes Challenge
I chose this song because one its such a romantic song and I love it. Not ashamed. But the lyrics are just a perfect match for this book!!





[foogallery id="18804"]

[Alex is The Romance Fox · Rating 2 out of 5]

1,5 stars

I have been a reader of Christine Feehan's Dark Series since I read the first book, Dark Prince and have read all the books in the series.

DARK PROMISES is Book 29 in Christine Feehan's Dark series. This was, for me, the biggest "misses" in this series.

I was so looking forward to Gary Jansen and Gabrielle Sanders, the humans turned Carpathians, story. And what happened when I turned a couple of pages???? This book is not their story together!!! That's right!!

What is suppose to be their wedding night turns into a nightmare of unthinkable proportions. Gabrielle, it turns out, is not Gary's lifemate!!! Horrors of Horrors.

But Gabrielle refuses to give up on Gary -so she follows him to some monastery deep in the mountains....and what happens??? Aleksei, one of the Ancient Carparthains, living in the remote monastery, who has been sleeping for centuries, wakes up - he now has his feelings back, he can see in colour........and all because???? Gabrielle is his life-mate!!!

So, she fights it!!! But of course, he turns her on totally!!!! Man, I just could not get into these two's path to love and happiness!!!

Even worse........there's another love story happening here. Trixie Joanes meets a much, much younger hot and sexy man in the Carpathian mountains, where she has been looking for her missing granddaughter. His name is Fane and he informs Trixie that she's his lifemate.

Okay, now that sounds okay....we all know that Carpathian males need their lifemates to have colour and feeling in their lives....but a thirty year old falls in love with a 60 year old grandmother!!!!!! Please, can someone send me a guy like Fane, who will fall in love with me and my "ripen" body!!! After a couple of pages....I just skipped the rest where Trixie and Fane made appearances!!!! Sorry, I know I sound cruel..why wouldn't a 30 year old man fall for an older woman....would I feel the same if it was a younger woman and an older man???

Yes, I can't imagine a 30 year age gap!!!!! Even if it's vampires!!!! Don't get me wrong again...I liked Trixie...I found her to be a total gas...but just when I thought of her with Fane...no, no, no!!! Sorry Trixie........
This was not a great book..........sorry, but unless you are a die-hard fan of the Dark Series - you then have to read this one...but if you are not!!! Give this one a miss!!!!

[BookAddict ✒ La Crimson Femme · Rating 2 out of 5]

I keep hoping this latest book is the one which will bring this series back. I'm wrong. This story was completely lackluster. It is the same thing over again. Female is modern. Male is "ancient" and chauvinistic. Miscommunications abound. Female is weak, annoying and stupid. Male is pig headed and just short of raping his "soul mate". The melodrama is disappointing. Ms. Feehan writes such great stories. This series, it's time to call it an end. They are poorly recycled characters with each iteration less palpable.

The only saving grace in this story was the grandma. She was hilarious with her Amazon purchased vampire killing kit. Apparently the kit sucks because it is no longer on amazon. However, there is this one - http://amzn.com/B016MWZOCI - for in case of a Vampire...

This story ended predictably with the girl (Gabrielle) falling in lust love with her "man". Her previously "foolish" power is now a superpower to help all other ancients looking for love. This way they can *queue music* stop ... looking for love in all the wrong places...

[Namita · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing read! Christine Feehan threw such an amazing if not interesting curve ball, that had me shocked. I couldn't put this book down, I read it in one sitting, finished early in the morning. Needless to say I feel like a zombie today but let me tell you, it was well worth it. I love the direction these books are going.
This new Gary is mesmerizing. I would definitely would like to read about his HEA in the near future. The introduction of the Carpathians from the monastery is really a treat and the power wielded by Teagan, Trixie and Gabrielle is nothing short of awe inspiring.
Looking forward to the next book in this wonderful series. Hats off to Ms Feehan for such a beautiful read.

[CC · Rating 2 out of 5]

Seriously?

Gabrielle was so unlikeable. I really hated her whiny, immature ass. Never ever liked her I thought I would feel so sorry for Aleksei. But he managed to be such a total asshole, I think they deserved each other! It is really hard to enjoy a book when you dislike the MCs.

The other couple was only slightly better. Trixie was such a ridiculous compilation of stereotypes that she annoyed me too. But not nearly as bad as her granddaughter, Teagan, from the last book. I did like Fane. He was a highlight.

When the 3 annoying women worked together I was excited about the prospect of new stories. But that was a small part of the book and did not in any way make up for my extreme dislike of Gabby and Aleksei.

[Barb Lie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dark Promises by Christine Feehan is the 29th book in her Dark series. As this story started, it was about two people we have been following for a long long time: Gabrielle and Gary. Though when they first met and fell in love, they were human, and now both have been converted to Carpathian. Early on, we can see Gabby’s unhappiness in all things Carpathian, and her plans on making Gary walk away with her when they are married. She can see a change in him since he was converted, but she is determined to marry him and pull him away from the Carpathian world.

When the time comes to for Gary to do the lifemate words to bond Gabby, he senses something is not right between them; something is standing in their way. This is where we get thrown for a loop, and at the same time I have to admit, I became upset, enough to stop reading this book. We have known Gabby a long time, and when she is brutally pulled away by another Carpathian male; it was disturbing. This man is her lifemate, and in the current fashion of macho abusive men that Christine is so fond of lately, he treated her horribly, so much so I was disgusted. Poor innocent sweet Gabby. Why do this to her?

I kept reading, and in time Alexsei who has become Gabby’s lifemate, begins to calm down and eventually throughout the story, she will fall for him. She will accept that Gary is truly a friend that she depended on, not a lifemate for her. There is also the story of Trixie, who is Teagan’s (last book heroine) grandmother, who will also find her lifemate.

There was an interesting storyline, involving all the Carpathian men who are living in the monastery, as they are all near the end and extremely dangerous. The three ladies will try to help them, and that part was an interesting twist for the future.

Except for the early part of the story, and the latter part, which was nice, the rest of the book was mostly sex scenes. Christine Feehan has always had steamy sex in her books, but in the last few books the sex becomes more dominant and the story becomes the background. I would say this book is 70% sex and 30% story. I enjoy steamy sex scenes in romances, but I prefer the story to lead.

I loved this series, as at one time this was my top favorite, and loved Christine’s writing. But a lot has changed in the last few books, with more abusive men, who in the beginning you have a hard time liking; and the overall exciting story, which is missing. Sadly, after 29 books, I am considering not reading this series anymore. But there are so many recurring characters that I love that still holds me, so time will tell if it will keep me here.

Barb
The Reading Cafe

[Reading In Pajamas · Rating 5 out of 5]

REVIEW: Dark Promises: A Carpathian Novel by Christine Feehan http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-4t7
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publication Date: March 15, 2016
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated: 4.5 Stars

I enjoyed this book and the hopeful lead in to the ancients but also the unexpected. That's hard to find in such an extensive series. I hate to say that I wasn’t too fond of Gabrielle and just didn’t warm up to her but she sure got lucky with that mate of hers. He is super-hot and domineeringly sexy. Then we have Trixie, Teagan’s grandmother. I loved her and thoroughly enjoyed her journey into the sexy Carpathian world. This story of course covered the dangers of their world and the bonds of the warriors but it also had romance and heart thumping sex. Just what Feehan is known for.

*Review copy provided by Penguin in exchange for an honest review.

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Kindle | Amazon HBK | B&N | Kobo

Amazon Series Link

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Read Chapter 1 of Dark Promises: http://tinyurl.com/zuvhyzq

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Dark Promises by Christine Feehan Book Trailer https://youtu.be/UFobh4T0PvU via @YouTube

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[Maria · Rating 2 out of 5]

Disappointed. There's not a whole lot of story in this book. It's pretty much sex, sex, and more sex. So if that's what you're looking for then this book would get a 5 star rating. As for me, I prefer a good story line mixed in with the romance. It's all about balance. Too bad Feehan ran out of creative ideas for her characters and relied on her fans to enjoy the sex scenes so much that they forgot to notice that there's so little story line. It had a lot of potential. Maybe she ran out of time.(Extract the sex scenes and you have about 1 chapter full of actual story.)

Spoiler Alert:

Here's the quick rundown... As humans, Gary and Gabrielle loved each other and thought they were Life Mates. They quickly found out that was not the case and that realization led them into the heart of the story - what there was of it anyway.

Gabrielle finds her Life Mate (LM) while searching for Gary at a monastery housing several ancients. The ancients secluded themselves in the monastery for everyone's safety since they were so close to turning. Gary reacts badly to losing Gabby and starts to lose color and emotions quickly. (Bye Bye, Gary. See you in the next book.)

After a rocky start, Gabby and Alexei settle into sex, sex and more sex. Turns out Gabby's a submissive and her LM is a dominant. Alexei figures out that Gabby was never properly indoctrinated into the Carpathian lifestyle. He takes on that task... in between sex, sex, and more sex. Gabby also figures out that her psychic gift might help Carpathians find their LM by pinpointing a location for them to start searching again.

Meanwhile, a 60+ grandmother traveled to the Carpathian mountains in search of her granddaughter, Teagen, who she thought was in danger. Teagen is LM to Andre. Trixie, the grandma, is led to a monastery by her own psychic talents. (She can see music around people -somewhat like a person's aura.) While there, Trixie finds her own LM (Fane). Sex, sex, and more sex. Grandma's issues of being old and set in her ways are the focus of her relationship with Fane... which they attempt to resolve in between bouts of sex, sex, and more sex. As it turns out, Grandma's psychic talent restores light (to a small degree) to the ancient Carpathians, giving them a little more time to search for a LM. Apparently, Gabby's psychic gift along with Grandma's give the Ancient's hope that they will find their LM before succumbing to darkness now that they know where to look.

By introducing an entire monastery full of Ancients (who have not given allegiance to Mikhail), Feehan gives herself several more characters for future books. ( I think there were 7, not including Gary.) I'm looking forward to reading them and hope that their adventures in finding a LM are a little more interesting than just "sex, sex, and more sex."

[Incy Black · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really wanted to like Dark Promises but...

The portrayal of brute violence against woman as acceptable so long as the offender is a 'lifemate' is mindless and--I want to say reprehensible, but that smacks of censorship so I'll stick with mindless, because it is a bit more polite than using ignorant.

It is terribly afflicted by '50 Shades' syndrome: throw in as much sex as you can, in this case about 80% of the book, which left no room for a story. Worse, it left no room for a convincing connection between the characters. Where there was a bit of story, it was obviously inset to foreshadow the next book in the series. This happened in the last two titles too...so annoying.

Overall, I'm hugely disappointed that a brilliant series by a fine writer has not just gone down hill, but has fallen down a mineshaft.

Will I by more titles by Ms Feehan? Maybe...probably...if she gets her mojo back, because she was one that good.

[1-Click Addict Support Group · Rating 4 out of 5]

An unexpected turn…

Unexpected? How is that possible when it is the twenty-ninth book in this series? Twenty-ninth! I don’t know how but the author manages to include enough of the familiar to keep the story true to the series while, at the same time, throwing a wrench or two in the works to also make it unique. And this time out there are two couples who are faced with their battle for love…

Gabrielle and Gary are characters that I’ve loved from the beginning. I was so excited to find their journey was finally coming together and their story would be told. And I couldn’t have been more gob-smacked with how it all played out… I had no idea this was the path it was going to take and really didn’t know how I felt about it, truthfully. Talk about a one-eighty turn! I hung in there though as the writing always keeps me engrossed, wherever it leads me… And why I doubted the author I’m not sure as the destination was all I could have hoped for…

At the same time as their story played out, Trixie Joanes was making her first journey to the Carpathian Mountains and finding herself in the midst of a centuries old fight… A grandmother she may be, but age is no barrier to true love and selflessness… What’s few centuries, after all? And Fane was big, bad and sexy, and utterly irresistible.

Both stories are interwoven into the fabric of the Dark dwellers, and each provides more insight and further steps towards what I can only imagine as a ‘final confrontation’. There is magic and revelations amidst love stories that were destined to be… The characters, as always, are strong yet vulnerable to their loving partners. Capable, protective and sexy—whether man or woman—make for combustible relationships!

Sexy and mysterious, a stellar outing in a series I loved already. With so many hints for what may come next, I can’t wait! ~ Diane, 4 stars

[Megzy · Rating 2 out of 5]

It is the story of two couples in one book. Gabriella is Josie's sister who was transformed by prince Mikhael many years ago after she got fatally stabbed by a vampire but no one cared to take responsibility for her and therefore she never learned anything about the Carpathian way of life. She was in love with Gary Jenson ever since before her transformation and believed she was his lifemate. They were wrong about that and it seemed everyone knew but no one cared to inform Gabbie the importance of a lifemate to a male Carpathian. Trixie is Teagan's 60 years old grandmother. Gabbie and Trixie's lifemates were two of the ancient warriors in the monastery.

The book is 90% sex scenes and about 10% other parts of the story. I don't find extreme details of sex scenes between a 60 years old grandmother and a man who is a few centuries old but looks like someone in their late 20's/early 30's sexy so I skimmed/skipped through those parts. Gabbie's lifemates, Alek was your typical old ancient bastard. Feehan's typical caveman, dark, abusive alpha male and very unlikable. I was disgusted by him and his rights to grab gabbie and use her like a slave because in his mind she dishonored him by falling in love with another man. I was more disgusted by Mikhail to allow such abuse take place. I found Gabbie very immature and selfish. Trixie and Fane were likable but I cringed when I read the first few sentences of the sex scene and needed to bleach my mind.

I basically forced myself to finish this book just to find out what was happening with Gary.

[Greeneyes Belle28 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book...

[Anita]

k

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars---

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 15, 2016

Gabrielle has had enough of battles, of wars, of seeing Gary Jansen, the man she loves nearly lose his life when it isn’t even his fight. Once he was a gentle and very human researcher. Now he’s a fearless and lethal Carpathian warrior with the blood of an ancient lineage coursing through his veins—a man Gabrielle still needs and desires and dreams of with every breath she takes. All she wants is a life far away from the Carpathian mountains, far from vampires and the shadows cast by the crumbling monastery that hides so many terrible secrets. But Gabrielle soon learns that promises made in the dark can pierce the heart like a dagger.

And she isn’t the only one in search of answers in the corners of the unknown...

Trixie Joanes has come to the Carpathian mountains in search of her wayward granddaughter, fearing that she has been lured there by something unspeakable. Instead, Trixie has stumbled into the path of a desperate man and a woman in love and on the run. And they’re all fated for the lair of a mysterious ancient with revenge in his soul and the undying power to make bad dreams come true.

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: DARK PROMISES is the twenty-ninth installment in Christine Feehan’s adult DARK paranormal romance series focusing on a community of supernatural beings known as the Carpathians. Two ancient warriors will find their mates, and two psychic human females will struggle with their new life.

SOME BACKGROUND: 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. As the unmated Carpathian male ages, the darkness begins to envelope his soul.

At the onset of the story line we revisit the relationship between Gary and Gabrielle –once human, but now both have been converted to Carpathian due to fatal circumstances. As their wedding hour draws near, Gary soon realizes that to claim Gabrielle as his lifemate is something he is unable to do……

Told from several third person points of view DARK PROMISES tells the tale of two ancient Carpathian males-close to turning, Aleksei and Fane have been secluded along with several other warriors in a monastery in the Carpathian Mountains. As they approach the end of their supernatural existence, these warriors find themselves on the verge of turning vampire or greeting the sun. The monastery is the last line of hope for a once proud group of Carpathian men.

Aleksei will be awakened when he ‘hears’ the cries of his fated female as she comes to realize that everything she had hoped for in her life has come crashing down. Aleksei is an ancient who demands obedience and respect, and in this his lifemate will struggle with the arrogance and dominance of the Carpathian male. The former human female Gabrielle is unprepared for the Carpathian lifestyle, a failing that falls upon the Carpathian race. The $ex scenes are aggressive, seductive and provocative- Aleksei is a male who likes to discipline his mate during $ex;. Aleksei is initially abusive towards his new lifemate which is a recent, ongoing issue with many of Christine Feehan’s leading males (in all of her series), but like all Carpathian males, he will come to see that his lifemate is the light to his soul, and his initial treatment was questionable and dishonorable.

Fane is another ancient who will find his lifemate in the guise of an American vampire hunter-Trixie Joanes-Teagan’s (Dark Ghost #28) grandmother-and a woman who is a bit of a snarky, spitfire with attitude to spare. Unlike Aleksei, Fane welcomes his lifemate’s idiosyncrasies, and the couple easily adapts to one another’s emotions. I did have a bit of an issue with the explanation as to her age and fertility, but I leave that up to Christine Feehan to explain this one to the reader!

DARK PROMISES is a story rich in sexually graphic details, but to be fair there are TWO couples who find their happily ever after, and each is given some page time to build up their new found relationships. Christine Feehan’s story lines have always traversed a path of erotic fantasy, and DARK PROMISES is no different. The characters are varied and colorful although Gabrielle’s personality and persona are fragile and weak. The romances are passionate and energetic.


Christine Feehan has, once again, ‘tweaked’ the Carpathian backstory and lifestyle to suit her most recent adventures into the Carpathian Mountains. At one time NO male could be converted, let alone be imprinted with the ritual words of the lifemate vows. There is also an issue with Gary’s conversion that sees a development that Mikhail and Gregori never saw coming; and the latest trio of women introduced to the Carpathian world combine their own psychic powers enabling them to help the ancient warriors. With the conversion of two males and the difficulties of addressing the new complication, the series premise has been modified to allow for another change in direction to the story lines.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

www.thereadingcafe.com

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark Promises is the 26th book in the Carpathian series. Usually in a long-sunning, multi-book series ennui starts to set in wherein readers come to presume certain stories/pairings are forgone conclusions. Not here. In Dark Promises the author has taken the story in a surprising twist that takes this series in a bold, new direction.

The foundation of the Carpathian male finding his lifemate and pulled from the brink of the abyss is on terra firma in this story. But, it’s not the Carpathian male that many presumed would be next to find salvation in his one and only. The premise of this story turned in a direction to show that fated is not exactly what it initially implied. The Carpathian bond is an organic life force of nature; therefore, merely converting two mortally wounded humans, who met and feel in love as mortals, does not mean that they are fated to be lifemates once converted. No matter what, the Carpathian-born male is the only party who is born with half a soul…the other half is placed in his lifemate care for safekeeping at a random, ambiguous space in time.

This soul re-connection cannot be artificially forced or transferred or superimposed by converting two humans because the lifemate bound is fate-based not a thing of chance. I love that this story reiterated that canon. It was a bold move for Ms. Feehan do the unexpected and turn the presumed expectation of Gary and Gabrielle’s story on its head. I was resigned to see this couple grafted together in an expected albeit boring HEA now that they have both been converted. Sometimes, it is inspiring when an author does the unexpected.

I was not only pleasantly surprised with the plot twist but also elated with the introduction of recently discovered Carpathian ancients…nine males whose self-imposed exile offered new insights into the psyche of honorable, courageous Carpathian males. It is one of the nine, Alexei, turned out to be Gabrielle’s true life mate. Following her conversion, I had always secretly hoped that Gabrielle was the other half of a true-born Carpathian male and not just converted by merely because of a tragic incident.

Additionally, the combined powers of three new human life mates of Gabrielle, Teagan, and Trixie who form a special Triad, can actually point unmated, long-suffering Carpathian males in the general location of their lifemates. At last, there is real, renewed hope for the magnificent seven remaining monastery men as well as other long-suffering Carpathian males everywhere.

There was so much new and exciting information revealed in this novel. I loved every moment reading Dark Promise and I am very excited about this direction of the Carpathian series.

[Adaiah · Rating 5 out of 5]

SMALL SPOILER

Dark Promise was a wonderful read! I think many were disappointed that Gary and Gabrielle weren't lifemates. Christine never said they were. Many like myself had high hopes for this couple. But, it wasn't meant to be. Christine being the outstanding writer that she is, is so far ahead of her fans on choosing the right lifemate for our long suffering Carpathian males. But, I love playing, "guess the lifemate" and will continue to do so.

Aleskei gave Gabrielle what she needed to thrive as a woman as well as a Carpathian. He became her shield and protector against the harsh world she's trying to fit into. Aleskei is a dominate male in and out of the bedroom, and Gabrielle being a natural submissive gives him what he needs to be happy and learned important things about herself as they got to know each other. It's a win-win for this couple. Fane and Trixie were adorable and perfect for each other. Trixie is saucy as well as snarky. Fane is in for a fun and adventurous life trying to keep up with his "Lady". I hope to see Trixie in many of the future books.

Gabrielle, Teagan and Trixie are powerful together and brought relief and hope to the remaining seven ancients living at the monastery. The ancients are leaving the Carpathian Mountains on the hunt for their lifemates with the assistance of Josef and the database of psychic women. These are dark and deadly men so ancient that their hair has turned a natural salt and pepper. The ancient, Dragomir, is heading to Northern, CA. I hope we get his story soon.

My "precious" ancient Gary has lost his emotions as well as seeing in color. I hope Christine will write his book soon. Mikhail stated, "Gary destiny is to do great things for the Carpathian people". So while Gary fulfills his destiny I hope he finds his lifemate quickly. He's earned his HEA many times over.

I'm looking forward to returning to the U.S. in Dark Carousel.

[Farrah · Rating 1 out of 5]

Another book that glorify and romanticize the abuse of women. This book has not story, is sex, sex and more sex, to the point that if you read the final 2 chapters is enough to get the only important thing that happened in the book.
Gabrielle is in an abused relationship from the beginning and that doesn't change in any point, and is justify as love and dominan man behavior.
" The definition of Domestic violence includes:
Physical abuse like hitting, shoving, kicking, biting, or throwing things
Emotional abuse like yelling, controlling what you do, or threatening to cause serious problems for you
Sexual abuse like forcing you to do something sexual you don't want to do." All of that you found in this book.
Violence again women is not romantic, no matter how you try to justified it. Very sad this is the new direction of this series. This book has no story, if we read the final 2 chapter we got the only important thing that happened. What is really sad is a woman writing a "love Story" about a women being abused for half the book for her lifemate. 23% 1 star and 13% 2 stars in Amazon review said something about the quality of this book.
Trixie and Fane relationship was much better and got so little focus, and when it had was more sex. Trixie is show as a grandmother that know nothing about Carpathian but she is sooo OK with being turned (without asking her for permission) and with enter this new life without conflict.
This series had going dow the hill for a while and, at this point, Miss Feeham is making money and nothing else.
Don't wasted your money in this garbage.

[Farah · Rating 1 out of 5]

Oh boy It took me for-ev-er to finish this ... this *thing* Oh wow .. just wow .. so uh I don't know what exactly happened here I mean yeah sure in the early dark books we had this me tarazan you jane thing going on and I didn't mind that .. I actually enjoyed it sometimes but this book just completely wipes the floor with the heroine. The only thing missing was for her to kneel at his feet to uh .. wait she kinda of did that.

Aleksei was downright abusive .. he actually considered killing Gabrielle at the beginning of the book because she uh *betrayed* him .. and don't get me started on that ridiculous part. Gabrielle is treated like a slave and when she isn't she acts like one. I hated this couple .. he grabs her from the hair and drags her around and she spends most of the book scared of him and oh he re assures her by telling her that if he ever needs to "punish" her he'd never hurt her *gag*

Trixie's story was a little weird .. I mean she's not a mother .. she's a grandmother to an adult so it was a little uh .. strange , I didn't like the conversations between her and Fane .. they were kinda of cringe worthy .. overall I hated this book.