Night Embrace by Sherrilyn Kenyon

Title: Night Embrace
Author: Sherrilyn Kenyon
Series: Dark Hunters (Book #2)
Previous in series: Night Pleasures
Next in series: Dance with the Devil

My rating: 3.5 Stars


Synopsis: After sacrificing his soul for vengeance against those who murdered his family, Talon becomes a Dark Hunter and vows never to love again. However, once Sunshine Runningwolf comes into his life, he can no longer deny his emotions. As the two grow closer, they discover that they are merely pawns in a horrendous plan to release the ultimate destroyer on an unsuspecting world. Talon and his fellow Dark Hunters are the only ones who can stop the inevitable destruction but will it be at the price of Sunshine’s life?

Review: A good story with some really funny moments and some equally poignant ones. It does, however, drag at times. The first half in particular feels too drawn out until the action begins. In addition, an excessive number of characters and concepts are introduced, and I personally found it difficult to keep track of everyone.

Kenyon’s strongest skill is her characterization and this book is a case in point. Talon and Sunshine's personalities and back stories are engrossing and they are what make this a worthwhile read. Talon’s suffering is heart-wrenching but not overwhelming and he never comes across as too anguished or whiny. Sunshine is also a likeable character once you get passed her annoying name and tendency to fall for inappropriate men. She is strong and independent, and I found her quirky forgetfulness endearing. While their sexual relationship begins very quickly, their immediate connection is explained within the plot and is, therefore, realistic and believable.

The secondary characters are just as interesting, especially the psychological and physically tortured Zarek. I also look forward to reading more about Vane and the other Were-Hunters.

The epilogues are also something I appreciated in the book. The flashbacks of the other Dark Hunters’ histories are actually what compel me to continue reading the series as I am interested in discovering the connections between the characters and how they will overcome their differences.

Overall, a worthy read with enough twists and turns to keep you guessing.