Dark Stranger: The Dream is the first book in The Children of the Gods series by I.T. Lucas, a paranormal romance that seamlessly blends elements of mythology, suspense, and sensuality. This novel introduces readers to an intriguing world where gods and immortals live among humans, their fates intertwined in ways that affect the course of history. It’s a heady mix of action, romance, and supernatural elements that will likely appeal to fans of both paranormal and urban fantasy genres, especially those who enjoy rich character dynamics and slow-burn romance.
Plot Overview:
At the heart of Dark Stranger: The Dream is the story of Syssi, a brilliant, sensitive human woman who has unusual dreams that seem to foretell a future she’s unaware of. Syssi’s world is turned upside down when she meets Kian, an enigmatic and powerful immortal who belongs to an ancient race known as the descendants of gods. As their paths cross, Syssi becomes entangled in a hidden world of immortals, where power struggles, destiny, and attraction collide.
The book begins by introducing Syssi as an unassuming but gifted academic working in a neuroscience lab. Her life is predictable and comfortable, though her recurring, vivid dreams of a mysterious man haunt her. She’s unaware that her research into human brain activity is connected to a much larger and more dangerous world—a world that Kian and his family are determined to keep hidden. Kian is the leader of a powerful immortal clan, tasked with protecting his people from enemies and ensuring their existence remains secret from humans.
When Syssi catches the attention of Kian and his sister Amanda, who is a gifted psychic, she is drawn into their orbit. Amanda believes Syssi may have latent abilities, potentially marking her as a “Dormant,” a rare human capable of becoming an immortal. Kian, however, is wary. Though attracted to Syssi, his past experiences and his role as leader make him hesitant to involve himself with a human. Yet, as danger closes in and their connection grows, Kian and Syssi find themselves drawn together, both in the struggle against external threats and in their undeniable mutual attraction.
Character Development:
One of the most compelling aspects of the novel is the dynamic between the two central characters, Kian and Syssi. Kian is the quintessential alpha male—strong, brooding, and deeply protective—but the author manages to avoid making him a one-dimensional character by delving into his complex backstory. As a leader of his people, Kian bears the weight of responsibility, and his reluctance to open his heart to Syssi stems from his fear of vulnerability and the dangerous world he inhabits. His internal struggle between duty and desire makes him a layered and relatable character, despite his supernatural strength and immortality.
Syssi, on the other hand, is a refreshing departure from the typical damsel in distress. While she is initially introduced as a quiet, academic character, she quickly demonstrates courage and intelligence, and her vulnerability is tempered by an inner strength that makes her a perfect match for Kian. Her transition from a skeptical outsider to someone who begins to embrace the mysteries surrounding her is well-paced, allowing the reader to grow with her as she discovers the truth about herself and the immortal world.
The chemistry between Kian and Syssi is palpable, and Lucas builds their relationship in a slow and satisfying way. The author takes time to develop their connection, blending tension and emotional depth with a slow-burning romance that eventually ignites into passion. The push-pull dynamic between them is balanced with moments of genuine vulnerability, making their relationship feel both grounded and intense.
Supporting characters like Amanda, Kian’s sister, and other members of the immortal clan are also well-drawn. Amanda, in particular, is a standout. Her psychic abilities and her fiercely independent nature make her a key figure in the story, and her bond with both Kian and Syssi adds richness to the interpersonal dynamics. The interplay between the characters, as well as the history of their immortal race, adds layers of complexity to the plot, hinting at much larger conflicts and secrets yet to be revealed.
World-Building:
One of the highlights of Dark Stranger: The Dream is the world-building. I.T. Lucas creates a well-constructed universe that blends mythology with modern-day settings. The concept of the Immortals, descendants of gods who possess extraordinary powers but live in secrecy among humans, is fascinating and original. The rules governing their world are gradually revealed, allowing the reader to become more invested in the characters’ dilemmas and challenges.
The mythology behind the Immortals—their origins, their powers, and their enemies—is intriguing and promises to be further explored in the series. The idea that some humans, like Syssi, might be Dormants with the potential to become immortal adds another layer of suspense, as it raises questions about fate, destiny, and free will. There are also hints of larger power struggles between different factions of Immortals, which sets up future conflicts that will likely be explored in the following books.
The setting, particularly Kian’s luxurious estate where much of the action takes place, provides a perfect backdrop for the romance and intrigue. The contrast between Syssi’s everyday human world and the opulence and danger of Kian’s life adds to the sense of adventure and discovery that runs throughout the novel.
Themes and Tension:
At its core, Dark Stranger: The Dream explores themes of destiny, power, and identity. Syssi’s journey from an ordinary woman to someone who might hold the key to a much larger fate reflects the theme of self-discovery that runs throughout the book. Similarly, Kian’s struggle with his responsibilities as a leader and his desire for a normal, human-like connection with Syssi underscores the tension between duty and personal fulfillment.
The romantic tension between Kian and Syssi is a central focus, but the novel also incorporates a sense of danger and suspense. There are external threats to the immortals—enemies who seek to destroy them—and these antagonistic forces add a layer of urgency to the story. While much of the book is devoted to the developing romance, the growing sense of danger keeps the plot from becoming too slow or stagnant.
Pacing and Writing Style:
I.T. Lucas’s writing is fluid and engaging, with well-paced dialogue and descriptive passages that bring the characters and settings to life. The pacing of the novel is steady, with a gradual buildup of tension and romance. While some readers might find the early chapters a bit slow as the characters and world are introduced, the payoff comes as the stakes rise and the connection between Kian and Syssi deepens.
The blend of romance and action is balanced, and the dialogue between characters feels natural, helping to build emotional connections. The steamy scenes are well-written, enhancing the emotional intensity of the story without overwhelming the narrative with explicit content.
Conclusion:
Dark Stranger: The Dream is a captivating start to The Children of the Gods series, offering a unique blend of mythology, paranormal romance, and suspense. With well-drawn characters, an intriguing plot, and a richly imagined world, the novel sets the stage for future installments that will further explore the immortal world and its secrets. Fans of paranormal romance, particularly those who enjoy slow-burn relationships with a strong emotional core, will find much to enjoy in this book. It’s an engrossing read that leaves you eager to see what happens next in Syssi and Kian’s journey.
Product details
- ASIN : B0101EUY1O
- Publisher : Evening Star Press, LLC.; 9th edition (July 2, 2015)
- Publication date : July 2, 2015
- Language : English
- File size : 2562 KB
- Simultaneous device usage : Unlimited
- Text-to-Speech : Enabled
- Screen Reader : Supported
- Enhanced typesetting : Enabled
- X-Ray : Enabled
- Word Wise : Enabled
- Print length : 356 pages
- Best Sellers Rank: #1,542 in Kindle Store (See Top 100 in Kindle Store)
