The Dark One by Angela Knight

The Dark One by Angela Knight
Publisher: Changeling Press
Genre: Erotic Romance, Dark Romance, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Fern

Kaska means to make Matia the centerpiece in an erotic ritual to honor his Dark god.

Matia of Ruza is one of the legendary Battlemaids — a woman warrior who has taken an oath of celibacy in service of the Maid of Light. When mercenary Kaska of Artane helps Matia defeat a gang of brigands, the two become partners.

Matia finds her oath of celibacy tested by her handsome Shieldmate’s erotic appeal. But Kaska means to do more than test her. He worships the Dark One, and he wants to make Matia the centerpiece in a sizzling erotic ritual in honor of his god.

But first, he must defeat her in combat — and win her heart.

Matia is a legendary Battlemaid, a warrior woman who has taken an oath of celibacy. She meets Kaska, a mercenary, when he assists her to defeat a gang of brigands and the two become partners on the road. Matia is tempted by Kaska – but holds firm to her vows. Only Kaska has other plans in mind. Can he defeat her in battle and win her heart?

This is a short but seriously steamy book and one I most thoroughly enjoyed. From Kaska and Matia’s first meeting their chemistry is clear and enjoyable. Matia is a fierce and strong woman – everything I can enjoy in a modern heroine despite the fantasy/old style books setting. I especially enjoyed how even though Kaska and Matia had some sizzle from their first moment, they each understood timing was important. They each had their own paths and duties so this gave the reader a little time to enjoy watching them interact together as equals and dance around each other for a while.

Readers who like their spicy romance a little on the darker side – but not too dark – should find this a good fit. There are a number of darker elements here (BDSM, spanking, capture etc) but they weren’t written too harshly, or included for shock value. These aspects of the story were clearly woven into the fabric of the plot and characters and were quite tastefully handled. This story is dark, yes, but still spicy, sexy and a pleasure to read. Readers maybe looking to dip a toe into the newer Dark Fantasy genre might find this a good, quick story to see if this style of book is up their street.

Readers looking for a short but seriously smoking hot sexy read should find this a delectable book to indulge in. Filled with Fantasy, two strong characters and enough sizzle to set you on fire this is a fun read that’s sure to add some spice into your day. Recommended.