The first book in Christine Feehan's popular " Dark" series, also known as her Carpathian series, is "Dark Prince", which is a story about Mikhail, who's the leader of an ancient race called Carpathians (who shares traits with vampires), and a psychic woman from America named Raven. Here's the thing, the Carpathians and Vampires are two sides of the same coin. They have their own unique story, everything that makes up a culture, and several very serious problems that are shown throughout all of the stories in the series. That said, each of the 38 individual stories can be read as standalones but to get the most out of the series (and to not be confused), it's best if they are read in order as there are overarching storylines.
Mikhail is the kind of hero who ruins you for other men, fictional or otherwise. He's ancient, powerful, and carries huge responsibilities while being desperate for that one love that is a part of his soul. He's been alive for 800+ years, losing pieces of himself, until he meets Raven. He becomes overly protective, possessive, and is completely devoted to her (no other woman drama to be found in this series). However, he isn't perfect by any means; he makes some colossal mistakes, which you might raise your eyebrow at, and must learn how to be with someone who isn't going to just do whatever he says when he says to do it. That growth is the epitome of what turns a boy into a man, in my opinion.
If Raven had been a weak and idiotic woman, this book would NOT have worked for me (I hate the "too dumb to live" types). However, she's absolutely fantastic; she's strong, independent, doesn't lose her mind when she meets Mikhail, and doesn't act in a way that would be expected of her. Yes, she is overwhelmed by the intense connection between them, (I mean, who wouldn't be?) but she stands up to him when he's being too controlling, going so far as to openly defy him at times. She calls him out and doesn't just accept his overbearingly protective and occasional chauvinistic behavior, to which I say "You go, girl!". The fact that she doesn't just fall in line, makes their relationship feel authentically healthy, and that's a wonderful trait to find in a story.
The Carpathian Mountains are a real place, spanning multiple European countries, which is full of small villages and communities. These communities tend to be rich in heritage and traditions, which Christine Feehan has effortlessly incorporated into her series, despite it being a fictional community and species. The Carpathian culture is really interesting; they have their own language, rituals, and society that is as complex as any real-world community. The idea of Lifemates, soulmates who are perfectly matched, and the consequences that may happen if the men DON'T find their Lifemate, is central to everything in their society. What I love is how she balances the fantasy stuff with real emotions; Yes, there is magic and supernatural abilities, but the heart of each story, is about two people finding each other and learning to build a life together. Christine Feehan creates this feeling of old magic that had me completely hooked.
Let me be honest about the heat level: this book is HOT. I'm giving it 3 out of 5 chili peppers on the spice scale. The attraction between Mikhail and Raven starts almost immediately, and when things finally get physical, Feehan doesn't hold back. The love scenes are passionate and detailed, but not in a raunchy manner. If you prefer your romance reads without detailed intimate scenes, this isn't for you; However, if you like steam with your supernatural romance, you'll be very happy.
As someone who has certain triggers, and knows that others may as well, I always want to be upfront about content that might bother people. If any of the following will affect your mental health, PLEASE do not read.
1) There are violent and dangerous scenes which could cause nightmares
2) Mikhail is extremely possessive and controlling at times.
3) The supernatural bond between them might feel like it takes away some of Raven's choices
4) Mikhail's possessive, dominant personality makes an appearance in some of the bedroom scenes. Some readers will love this, some will not; therefore, I feel it is pertinent to mention.
5) The book deals with themes about a species dying out and the desperate things they might do to survive. If you need your heroes to be completely good guys with no moral gray areas, this might not work for you.
Thanks to Christine Feehan's mastery at crafting an authentic world filled with ancient magic, soul binding love, and a vast array of unique characters and individual intriguing stories against a stunning backdrop, I've continuously had to know "What happens next?" which has led to me reading all 38 books in the "Dark" series. Hopefully, I've convinced you to join me in this obsession by giving "Dark Prince" a read. It is the type of book that always reminds me of why I love paranormal romance so much: the fantasy, passion, and emotions that make you believe in "one true love" and old magic. If so, click whichever link at the bottom of the page that allows you to have the best version of the book that suits your tastes, (quick disclaimer: yes, I do get a commission from Amazon on your purchase, so THANK YOU IN ADVANCE!) Trust me; If you want a hero who will ruin you for regular guys (or girls, for that matter, depending on what characteristics you want your partner to have) and a love story that's epic, Mikhail and Raven are waiting for you in the Carpathian Mountains. Just don't blame me when you stay up all night reading, emerging the next day with a book hangover, having bought half the series. I did it too, so I am right there with you.
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Here’re the links for purchasing!
2) Dark Prince Trade Paperback
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