The Dark Prince

Prince Yusef of Draig is struck dumb when he sees Olena Layton. The crystal pulsing around his neck only verifies the instant attraction he feels towards her, the knowledge that she is to be his wife. It’s too bad Olena doesn’t see it that way. She’s a successful space pirate who is currently on the run from the law and she is seeking sanctuary in Qurilixen. Though she signed up as a mail-order bride, she never actually thought she’d get chosen! Against her will, she is attracted to the fiery and sexy Yusef. She knows nothing can happen in their relationship though because she plans on leaving the planet as soon as possible. If only they weren’t married…

Once a Qurilixian Prince breaks his crystal, he is bonded to his wife for life. To have her leave would be a living death and that is what Yusef is facing, though he doesn’t know it yet. He can’t understand why Olena is so unwilling to be his wife, to face life at his side. All she does is fight and argue with him, when she’s not unconscious of course. The more he learns about his wife, the more Yusef falls in love with her. Unfortunately, when Olena lets the truth about not only her past, but her intentions to leave the planet slip, Yusef is stunned and sad. He doesn’t know how to convince her to stay, that he can be the perfect mate for, without curbing her natural zest and curiosity for life. But then an accident leaves Yusef incapacitated and Olena vows to make sure her husband is well before she leaves. But the more time she spends taking care of him, the more she comes to care deeply for this Prince who not only cares for his subjects, but only wants to live a happy and fulfilling life with his wife. What is a space pirate, a person without any moral boundaries or familial connections, supposed to do…stay and possibly endanger her husband, or leave, breaking both their hearts in the process?

Michelle M. Pillow brings us the third story in her Qurilixian Prince series and as with the previous two stories, the reader is in for a treat. This is a story filled with not only romance but also adventure, shape-shifting, and plenty of high-spirited female characters. I enjoyed the budding relationship between Olena and Yusef, though at times the constant arguing between these characters became tiresome. But, when the proper time came, Olena stepped up to the plate so to speak and really proved that she had it in her to not only love Yusef, but also love herself. Olena has led a hard life and isn’t used to the coddling and loving care Yusef has in store for her. She’s definitely a very determined woman who has done some questionable things, but finds out that learning to give and return love can be the hardest, and best, lesson to learn in life. Though this is part of a series, it can be read separately because Michelle M. Pillow does such a terrific job of interweaving the characters and plots from the other stories in her series. This was another great addition to the Qurilixian Prince stories. This reviewer is eagerly anticipating the last story in this series.

Reviewed by: Sarah