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Cursed because he and his friends could not save a Blood Taker’s children, Raede lives to slake his lusts for blood and sex. Living near a small, superstitious village in Mexico, Raede has become the “Dark One”, exchanging his magical protection for human sacrifices. But when Roja is offered, Raede realizes that she is special and that she may just be his salvation. One of his fellow Pleasure Seekers has found his mate, a descendant of Jantra who is a twin with psychic abilities, and has regained his humanity. Will Roja be his salvation or just another sacrifice?
At age sixteen, Roja volunteered to be the village sacrifice in order to save her fragile twin sister from such a fate. But when she meets the “Dark One”, he doesn’t want her then. He declares that she will be the last sacrifice, but not until her eighteenth birthday in two years. In addition, she is to be treated as a queen
and given the best of everything. Unfortunately, his decree changes Roja’s life, but not for the better. The villagers begrudge her everything and even her mother changes, becoming lazy and sanctimonious. When the time comes for her to take the death walk, she is relieved to leave the village, fearful for herself, and resentful of the “Dark One”. To her disbelief, he treats her wonderfully, giving her things she’s only dreamed of…including sensual fantasies. What will happen when she begins to feel lust for him? Will Raede risk her life for a chance at salvation?
This novella is a short, hot read that will keep you engrossed. For centuries, Raede has lived his life fulfilling all of his desires, regardless of the consequences to others. When his fellow Pleasure Seeker, Dake, finds his soul mate as well as his redemption, Raede thinks there may be a chance for him. But he is still wary. He doesn’t think he can feel emotion, especially love. Roja is just the woman for him. Although young, she is wise and has a completely different outlook on things. Once she realizes what she wants, she will sacrifice everything for it. This is one sizzling, sexy story. Although short, the characters are fairly well developed and the plot is interesting. In addition, Ms. Bardsley lays the groundwork for the next in the series and I for one, can’t wait to read it.
Reviewed by Trang Black
for The Road to Romance
July 6, 2005
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