Several centuries later, Darius fears he may be sliding over the edge toward vampirism. Every male Carpathian needs a female lifemate but there are far fewer females than males in this closed world. Without a lifemate a male Carpathian eventually loses his soul. Darius knows he can’t hang on much longer even though he feel tremendous responsibility to his “family.”

That’s when Tempest - Rusti to almost everyone - appears. She’s beautiful, able to communicate with animals and Darius instantly recognizes her as his lifemate. But she’s human. Humans and Carpathians aren’t meant to be lifemates . . . for one thing Carpathians don’t age. Then there is the whole sleeping under the earth, need for blood, and Carpathian males’ alpha tendencies. Tempest is attracted and repelled at the same time. After all, Darius is also sensual, handsome and utterly devoted.

Tempest’s problems with Darius are similar to the reader’s. What is irritating and what is exciting about the story is the same thing - Darius. Is he sexy or overbearing? Darius is larger than life. He is literally willing to give his life for Tempest. Very sexy. Then again this is what Carpathian men do. Their devotion is enthralling - and in every Carpathian male’s genes. It’s like a dog chasing its tail. A Carpathian’s gotta do what he’s gotta do. . . that is, become completely a part of his mate. Is it sexy if the couple has no choice?

All of this summation sounds negative but, intertwined with the negative there is the whole world of the Carpathians, which is detailed and rich and completely thought out. And, last but not least, there’s the sexy part. The hero and heroine have intense chemistry. Carpathians ooze sex. They adore those they love. The “love bites” are made intensely sensual for both parties.

Sexy or overbearing? Both. Feehan’s intensity makes a compelling read even when you want to shake the hero. My final recommendation? Dark Fire is definitely worth reading, even for those who aren’t in love with the vampire genre.

--Irene Williams