Lover Revealed is fourth in the series Black Dagger Brotherhood by J. R. Ward. This book can be read as a stand alone but would be understood and enjoyed more if read in series order.

There is an ongoing war raging between vampires and their slayers in Caldwell, New York. “Butch” Brian O’Neal is now a member and though he is in the inner circle, he is always on the periphery, not allowed to fight the Lessers and considered unworthy by some because he is human. An ex-homicide cop with an attitude, and a hero complex that’s not ego, he feels that maybe if he saves enough people he’ll be forgiven. Butch is frustrated with his life, always on the outside looking in. For as long as he can remember he has existed on the fringes. No family, no real friends until the Brotherhood. He aches to join them in their fight for their race and he yearns for an aristocrat of the glymera, Marissa. His darkest desires are about to come true, saving the life of a civilian vampire, Butch is captured, tortured and left for dead. His love is called on to save him but it may not be enough.

J. R. Ward definitely has a hit with this series, she just keeps getting better and better, I’ve read all the Black Dagger Brotherhood books and begged for more after reading the first one. This series is about six vampire warriors, and the secrets kept to defend their race. All the warriors have serious issues to overcome, and they must overcome them to reach their full potential as a warrior and member of the brotherhood.

Butch met Marissa in Book 1, Dark Lover. Their relationship has grown and lapsed throughout each of the books until finally Butch got his. Whew, could hardly wait. These books will make you laugh and cry. The emotional highs and lows are like a roller coaster. The action is non stop and the love scenes will make you sigh, and your other half really happy. I give this book 5 Angels and a Recommended Read. If you don’t check out this series you’re definitely missing out.

Reviewed by: Dana P.