When pregnant vampire Tessa Noble Davenant agreed to drive to Lake Tahoe, California, with her brother’s best friend Rene Morin, she didn’t realize what a challenging journey it would be. Rene, half human and half vampire, completely infuriates her with his self-destructive behavior and moodiness.

Rene is equally on edge by Tessa. Not able to sit in a car with her for more than a few minutes without arguing, he has no idea how they’ll make it to California without tearing each other apart. But as their car eats up the highway miles bringing them closer to their destination, they discover an attraction that neither of them is able to deny.

Tessa and Rene both have secrets and painful pasts that continue to haunt them on their trip out west, with danger lurking in every shadow. Together they join forces with Tessa’s brother Brandon and his mate Lina to battle the absolute darkness that wants nothing more than to see them suffer and fail, making all of them wonder if they will ever be safe again.

Dark Hunger is author Sara Reinke’s second book in her highly fascinating vampire series. The first book Dark Thirst showcased the story between Brandon Noble and Lina Jones, although Tessa and Rene had been introduced at that time. Dark Hunger continues where the first novel left off, hurtling the reader along with fast-moving plot and a mélange of emotions as familiar characters are met once again but in new situations.

Both Tessa and Rene have experienced more than their share of pain and suffering in their lives, making them, like their Dark Thirst counterparts, unique and almost physically fragile in the paranormal world, where physical perfection and supernatural strength is par for the course. As this couple found themselves in one dangerous situation after another, I found myself holding my breath fearing for the life of Tessa’s unborn child within her.

I cheered while witnessing Rene’s internal barriers crumble one by one as his relationship with Tessa blossomed and his masculine protective instincts kicked into overdrive. The sensuality and intimacy between Rene and Tessa is as sultry as Rene’s Louisiana bayou roots. The suspense is taut throughout the story, keeping the reader fully engaged from the first page until the mind-blowing conclusion. I eagerly anticipate the sequel that is sure to come. Kudos to Ms. Reinke for another amazing read.

Reviewed by: Bella