Rafe doesn't behave like a normal companion and Syndelle isn't a hunter like most Angelini but they are both mates to Brann. Lots of sex even when the timing seems inappropriate. I liked getting more of a glimpse into the Angelini and there were hints of more to come.
( )

3.5 stars

This was a pretty good book. Even though Syndelle is Angelini, there is something different about her. This difference is the main focus of the story and the driving factor for a lot of the action and mystery. Syndelle was a very likable character. She was smart, strong, and loyal and knew when to compromise. Her mates, Rafael and Brann, were secondary characters, IMO. I don't think Brann nor Rafael were developed enough, even though we got a glimpse of some of Rafael's past. The romance between the three was OK, but it was more lust, than love. It was the action and mystery that kept this story going for me. ( )

I was surprised when I came to the last page of this book. Not because there was not resolution to the mystery that the plot revolved around but because I wasn’t ready to give up these characters. We get more of the Angelini and Vampire politics in this story as well as hints of Rafael’s story. I was glad that Skye was finally able to meet her sister and there is the promise that she will meet the rest of the family soon. I did keep hoping that the family would show up before the end so they could have a reunion. The family not showing up does diminish the overall book in anyway though.

Syndelle Coronado has been protected all her life not just because her sister was abducted but because of what she will be. The magic in her blood is ancient and could be very destructive. It is magic that was thought to be destroyed when the vampire were regulated to the night. Syndelle is a little afraid of the magic. One of the things that I really enjoyed about Syndelle is her conversations with her wolf. The wolf that is so much a part of her is confident, self-aware and has a wicked sense of humor. It also keeps Syndelle safe and centered as she learns to deal with her mates. While in the beginning Syndelle appeared to be a weak helpless female she proves over and over that she can live up to her Angelini heritage.

Rafael Fiero is a product of the environment he was thrown into when he escaped from the cult he was born into. In order to survive he became a stripper and prostitute and learned that no one was going to care if something happened to him. He has carried a chip on his shoulder for a very long time and he hurts Syndelle emotionally several times with his thoughtless comments and attitude. While Rafe is arrogant and defiant it is to hide the insecure and lonely teenager that feels he is unworthy of love and security. It takes Syndelle to show him that Brann really does care about him and wants to be his lover as well as a friend. There are some tense moments when Rafe is kidnapped but the problem is taken care of with only minimum description in the book.

Brann O’Ciardha is an ancient vampire. He is known as a sorcerer as well as the executioner of the council. He came to Las Vegas to get rid of a witch and decided to stay. To say that he is set in his ways and more than a little arrogant would be an understatement. He is so sure that he will be able to control Syndelle once she is his companion. That doesn’t happen of course but it is fun to watch him try. Syndelle is his match in many ways even though she is younger and less experienced. It is enjoyable to watch his interactions with Syndelle and Rafe, to see the acceptance and love form between the three. Syndelle is the bridge that brings the two males together for the first time.

Be warned that there are several m/m scenes in this story. Ms. Strong does a wonderful of bringing these three very different personalities together to form a united triad. There is a mystery that started in SKYE’S TRAIL that is solved here and of course the resolution of how Rafe became Brann's companion. There is also the resolution of who Skye’s family is which was very nice. This is a very quick read and for those that like paranormal a definite recommend. ( )