MARKED is book seven in the Dark Protectors world, and is the final book in the series. I've been a faithful follower of this series for its whole run, and I am so sorry to see it wind up. I'm very excited to learn that there is a related series starting next year, Realm Enforcers, that sounds like it will be about children from the Dark Protectors world. I can't wait to see where Zanetti takes us next! This series is a fabulous mix of intrigue, military action, science, and paranormal romance, and book seven does not disappoint.

The overarching story follows the Kayrs family, who lead not only the vampire nation, but also the Realm, a coalition of vampire, shifters, and witches. Years ago, the evil Kurjans declared war on the Realm by creating a deadly virus that infects vampire mates. No cure for the virus has been found, and war has broken out as the virus causes mass chaos. The tension has been beautifully sustained throughout the series, always keeping me clamoring for the next book. In MARKED, the stakes rise even higher, with a wonderful twist to the viral plot which I thought was oh so very clever.

Janie Karys is a human, stepdaughter of the vampire ruler of the Realm. Janie met Zane in dreams when she was very young, and they have been connected through those dreams almost her whole life. At four years old, Janie dreamed that they would be friends and thus end the war, before the world even knew the war. What Janie didn't realize is that the first time she met Zane in real life, he would be across the negotiating table at the peace talks. Zanetti skillfully makes me feel Janie's shock at the unfolding surprises.

Zane has been drawn to Janie since the minute he met her in her dreams. He's been balancing on a razor's edge in his uncle's kingdom, trying to keep himself safe and his loved ones protected too. But how can he balance the needs of his family against the burgeoning and overwhelming passion he discovers with Janie? Poor Zane, my heart ached for him, and for Janie and the massive pressures placed upon her. I loved how protective Zane is of Janie, and how such an alpha guy could be so sweetly possessive.

MARKED is a very satisfying wrap-up to the triangle from Janie's dreams in the first six books, and the action kept me revved from the moment I opened the cover to the time I turned the last page. I am sorry to say goodbye to so many characters I have grown to love; dare I hope we may see some appearances in the splinter series coming up?

Book Summary

Janie Kayrs has known Zane almost her whole life. He was her friend in the dream world. She trusted him. But that was before he kidnapped her, spiriting her away to an isolated cabin to learn what her dreams never told her. Like how dangerous he looks. How he got on the wrong side of the negotiating table. And how much sexier he is in real life…

Zane is a battle-hardened warrior, used to command and solitude. But Janie has drawn him from the minute they met. His need for her could destroy everything he’s worked for, but the risk is too sweet not to take it. They call her the Chosen One. But when it comes down to the questions of peace or war, life or death, safety or passion, it will be Janie who makes the choice…

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