Review: The Darkness Within

Reviewed by Jen
 

Tucker is man who carries Darkness within him --an otherworldly essence that allows him to shift into a wolf, but can also make him violent and territorial. He had a tough time growing up, though he knew nothing about what he was then. His only happy memories were of the few years he lived with Del and her mom. He and Del were just friends at first, but when her mother walked in on them kissing, it all fell apart.

You see Del's mom was once married to Tucker's father. She knew about the darkness and feared for her daughter's safety. She explained the truth as she saw it: that Tucker was a monster; and she threw him out.

Now, years later, a suspicious death has brought Tucker's dad out of the woodwork. he kidnaps Del's mom, prompting Del to seek out the one person she knows she can turn to: Tucker. There is a whole lot of hurt and angst left between them. But more than that, there is still love and passion that simmers beneath the surface.

This is my second Offspring book and I'm still a little hazy on the dynamics of Darkness. But otherwise, this short story works really well as a standalone and it's a great place for new readers to step into the world. There's a great action storyline involving the kidnapping and attempts to rescue Del's mom. But there is an even better love story at the center of everything --as those old feelings flare up between Del and Tuck. It's sexy and emotional and a wild ride.

My only beef is that the ending cut off rather abruptly. Another chapter or a bit of an epilogue would have been welcomed. 4 stars.

*ARC Provided by Avon

Click to purchase: Amazon

The Darkness Within

by Jaime Rush

Release Date: March 13, 2012

Publisher: Avon