Review: Unexpected Twist
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 07 14, 2012
Dark Awakening was released June 1, 2012 and is the third book of the Cursed in Darkness Series by Natalie Hancock. I would categorize this series as paranormal erotic romance.The main character in the book is Layla, a half-blooded vampire called a dhampir.  She is bonded to the sexy vampire, Shade. She is an interesting character with a lot of secrets and in the very first chapter we begin to learn more about Layla's past through a glimpse of her memories. Hancock has created a wonderful character in Layla. She is strong, sexy, and fearless. However, just as I was in the first book, I am intrigued by Layla's guardian, Nikalye.  I am still waiting to see more of his story.I really believe this series has potential. The storyline is interesting and unique; it just needs a little nudge in the right direction. Though Hancock is descriptive in her writing, it feels as though something is lacking. I don't know if it is the fact that the story is told by Layla in the first person, and this makes the flow a little choppy, or if the plot needs to be better defined. Something I have noticed is that the sex scenes are improving with each book.  In the first book, they seemed a little too technical. In this latest book, writing them appeared to come a little more naturally for Hancock.I have read all of the books in the series so far. Dark Awakening is my favorite book of the three because of the last couple of chapters. In these chapters, the story really starts to look up. Hancock hits us with a totally unexpected twist, and then keeps us wanting more by waiting until the next installment to resolve it.  I will be waiting for the fourth book, Dark Secrets, and hope it comes soon.**reviewed by Teresa D. for VampireRomanceBooks.com**