Reviewed by: Rabid Reads 
 Dark Lover is what Paranormal Romance is all about! I'm kicking myself for not having taken up this series before now. This isn't your typical vampire read. Yes, there's blood and sex but it's of a different variety. Vamps are far from being the dominant race that they're normally portrayed as. In Dark Lover they're actually bordering on extinction. Their feeding habits are different, the hierarchy of the undead undergoes an overhaul and the main crime fighting unit is comprised of a group of cursed bandits. Nope, definitely not your typical vampire book. 
 Getting to know all of the brothers was a treat in itself. They each have their own story to tell and their personalities are very diverse. This book stars Wrath, the blind vampire king. He's a very conflicted character. On one end he wants to fulfill his duties towards his dying race but on the other, he's a fighter and would rather be out on the front lines dodging bullets than playing politics. Beth brings out a completely different and up until this point unknown side to this vamp. I enjoyed watching him waver between being a cold blooded killer and a cuddly puppy dog. Who would have thought that he was such a softie! Then again, that's what soul mates do. They bring out the best in us. 
 I liked the idea that drinking blood isn't just about sustenance for these preternaturals. It's intimate, proprietary even and poses no threat to your average joe humans. I also enjoyed the few glimpses that we get of the Scribe Virgin. She's quite the mystery and I'm interested in learning more about her. Who is she? What's her purpose? Hopefully more will be revealed in future books! Butch was also a neat addition. This rough and tough cop is suddenly and inexplicably thrown into the Brotherhood mix. He handles himself very well and I loved his blase attitude. Butch's whole world is turned upside down and he might not make it through the night alive but he just rolls with it. What a guy! It's a shame that he doesn't get the girl in the end but then again, it was expected and second place turns out to be not too bad after all! 
 The action in Dark Lover is intense and so are the romps in the sack! The story will get your adrenaline pumping in more ways than one. I expected both but not at such mind blowingly high levels. Oh my! You'll definitely find yourself feeling hot and bothered after this read! You might even consider taking a cold shower. Be advised, this book's not for the faint at heart. There's lots of blood, carnage and gore but it's not over the top. I thought that the story achieved a nice balance between naughty and nice. 
 What a brilliant start to the renowned Black Dagger Brotherhood series. It satisfied my need for violence and passion tenfold. I can't wait to discover Rhage's story in Lover Eternal and I think that I've found my newest series addiction.