Dane (The Lords of Satyr) [Paperback]

Dane: Lords of Satyr by Elizabeth Amber
Paranormal Romance - May 25th, 2010
4 1/2 stars

Dane is the fabulous return to the Lords of the Satyr series. Elizabeth Amber has brought new depth to her characters and fascinating new twists that will keep fans of the Satyrs spellbound and convert new readers to her series. This series has been characterized by: strong, charismatic, and enigmatic Satyr men with insatiable 'appetites,' extremely sensual scenes and a decadent world of magic. All of which have thrilled me from her very first book, Nicholas. I felt this book was a real departure from the series in that I felt so emotionally connected to both the main characters.

What makes the latest installment of the Lord of the Satyrs intriguing is that Dane is no 'normal' Satyr. Dane is one of Nicholas's sons. He is super sexy and powerful but Dane was kidnapped at a young age. When he was taken he was abused and although he escaped he was unable to rescue his younger brother. Dane has coped by developing different personalities to deal with the pain and most of his memories were repressed. Dane is also tormented by the fact he could not save his brother who is still lost and being tortured. Unlike his brothers and other Satyrs Dane does not revel in his sexuality. In fact, the only way he can have sex during the pull of the moon is when his alter ego Dante takes over his body so he can forget. But Dane discovers a surprising and enjoyable change when he finds an attractive interloper on his grounds. There is something different about Eva. She attracts him and for the first time he notices he actually has sexual cravings that do not repulse him and he can remember her! Dane is determined to make her his 'own.' But Eva has secrets of her own. And pursuing Eva means stripping away both their secrets one by one.

Eva is a one of a kind female Satyr and if she were discovered she would be enslaved. Desperate to hide her identity she uses a secret olive potion that prevents her from being detected. However, the olives only reside on the Lord of the Satyr's olive grove. Using a map Eva finds herself becoming lost and the enjoying the unwanted attentions of a Satyr named Dante on the full moon. Knowing full well she cannot be discovered she struggles for release before he can detect her real identity. Unfortunately, her forbidden attraction to Dane are a complication she doesn't need.

There were 2 things about this story that I simply loved. One was the way Elizabeth Amber cleverly has Dane's different personalities. The reasons behind them and the insecurities and vulnerability behind them made for an engrossing read. Usually the Lords of the Satyrs are so self-confident and sometimes even distant/strong I don't feel as connected to them as the female characters. I enjoyed Dane's journey as he finally realizes his full potential. I also loved that Eva is the first female Satyr, it made her more on equal footing than any other of the previous mates of the Satyrs since I felt she could match them sexually. (I really hope the author has more female Satyrs!) I also liked that Eva could call her own male Shimmerskins! She conjures one who looks like Dane to pleasure her. Oh yeah! (For those new to the series at the full moon the Satyrs have uncontrollable sexual urges and often call magical Shimmerskins to help release their sexual tension.) Wouldn't that be nice in real life!

This is a fabulous continuation to a series that is remarkable in its imagination and feel of old world decadence. I enjoyed it from the first page and didn't want to let go of the last. The only aspect I found might be difficult for first time readers is that because this is the 5th book in the series the author assumes that you have some knowledge of the Lords of the Satyrs and the history with their enemies. Although it isn't too difficult to figure out it may be a little hard for a new reader to orient themselves initially.

Not since her first novel Nicholas have I been so 'wowed.' If you love this series you will enjoy this book as it brings a new emotional depth to the Satyrs that I found fascinating, I'm so glad Dane has more brothers to read about. (I specifically would like to know about Dane's kidnapped brother-Hint!)

Fresh and always original I am enthralled and bedazzled by this vibrant and sexy paranormal series.

Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club

I think this might be my favorite of the Satyr Lords yet. The story was filled with secrets, mystery and romance. I could feel the chemistry between Eva and Dane through the whole story.

I liked Eva. She was strong, confident and well centered. A genuinely good person. The orphans she took in and her obvious love for them warmed my heart.

Dane was traumatized early on, causing the split personalities. Armed with just enough information to understand his plight, I am grateful we as readers were not forced to relive his torment in graphic detail. He didn't wallow in self pity or take it out on others. He used his frustrations to push him forward. He never used it as an excuse not to open his heart to love. He made for a very attractive Alpha Male.

If you have read the first trilogy of brothers, this one covers less of the Moonful Calling of the Satyr and delves into other sexual areas as well.

A matchmaker and a man looking for a wife, what could go wrong? Plenty when they've kissed before they've been properly introduced.

There is more to Eva than meets the eye. She is a Satyr and has to hide her true identity because she is unique.

Dane has his own burdens to bear. He hopes that marriage to a human will solve his problems and let him continue to look for his brother. There is something about Eva that draws Dane in. Can he figure out what it is before it's too late?

Elizabeth Amber draws you into her magical world with each book and Dane is no exception. The twist and turns are wonderful to discover. Dane kept me on the edge of my seat to find out what happens next. I couldn't stop reading.

Eva is so complicated and has a big heart. It is easy to see why Dane falls for her. Dane is so hard on himself and so loyal. He's just what Eva needs. The ending was perfect and made me very happy. I can't wait for the next Satyr book.

Jambrea
Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed