“SCENT OF DARKNESS” BY CHRISTINA DODD
I didn’t quite realize I was a fan of this type of novel—sensual thriller or a fantasy romance (I guess it depends on how you look at it…). Well, until, by pure chance, I picked up a copy of “Scent of Darkness”, that is. And I was instantly captivated by this world where reality bends rules and some humans are blessed (or cursed) with the ability to change form at will.
It is a first part (and you know it, I can’t wait for the next ones to come out!) of a series of stories of an ancient evil that still roams the earth in modern times. One of the main characters, Ann Smith is quite taken up with her boss, Jasha Wilder so she conceives a daring plan to seduce him. But to achieve that, she must surprise him in his mansion where he hides from the world of business. Her plan, however, goes south when she finds herself facing a powerful and terrifying wolf, which changes into the very man she loves right in front of her petrified eyes.
Trying to escape, Ann realizes that there is this deeper-than-nature bond between them. And as they fight for their lives, they discover that Ann is destined to break the curse that has been put on Jasha’s family. Since “a thousand years ago a brutal warrior roamed the Russian steppes and struck a sinister bargain. In return for the ability to change at will into a coldhearted predator, Konstantine promised his soul—and the souls of his descendants—to the devil.” (the back cover of the book).
Will Jasha’s family succeed in their battle against darkness or will they face damnation? Will Ann be able to trust the man she’s been in love for so long and is destined to stand by in the crucial times of their lives?
You will find the answers to these questions and so much more if you read “Scent of Darkness” by Christina Dodd. It’s really well-written (and I do appreciate a high quality language) and you will find yourself absolutely engrossed in it. The characters, both main and secondary, are captivating, which combined with a fascinating plot and enough romance and sexuality to make you flush, make this novel a very enjoyable read. Excellent choice for your summer vacation, I might add.
And as Lisa Kleypas wrote: “A book by Christina Dodd is like a glass of champagne… sparkling and sinfully delicious.”