Michele L. Sayre’s Darke Realms – One Tough Temporary She Alpha drops you into a world where supernatural beings, werewolf politics, and the remnants of a brutal war collide. The book follows Leiry Matthis, a reluctant alpha, forced back to her pack after the death of her rogue mate and father. The stakes are high. Her son is in danger, a self-proclaimed Rogue Alpha King is on the rise, and she has no patience for anyone trying to control her fate. With power struggles, deep emotional wounds, and a fierce determination to protect her own, Leiry embodies the grit and resilience that define Sayre’s heroines.

One of the strongest aspects of this book is its protagonist. Leiry is not your typical heroine. She’s hardened by loss, unapologetically strong, and yet emotionally vulnerable in moments that make her feel incredibly real. From the first chapter, where she steps back onto the packlands she once fled, the weight of her past is palpable. The author does a great job balancing her toughness with raw emotional depth, like when she recalls her mate’s death during the Arcana-Kabaltz War. The trauma is still fresh, and Sayre doesn’t shy away from showing how that grief shapes Leiry’s choices.

The world-building in this book is layered with supernatural history, werewolf customs, and high-stakes politics. Sayre weaves in elements of mythology and war lore, making the conflict feel bigger than just a personal struggle. It’s about survival, legacy, and the balance between light and dark. The concept of the Arcana, beings of light who oppose the Kabaltz, agents of darkness, adds an epic scope to the story. The inclusion of treaties, sacred burial rites, and pack dynamics makes the world feel lived-in, though at times, the sheer amount of detail can slow things down. Still, it’s a rich setting that fantasy lovers will appreciate.

There are moments where the pacing slows, particularly in the middle of the book. Some sections take their time delving into exposition, especially when exploring the mythology and history of this world. While these details add depth and intrigue, they occasionally pause the action. Similarly, some dialogue leans into exposition, particularly when characters reflect on past events. However, Sayre’s snappy writing style and Leiry’s sharp inner monologue keep the story engaging, ensuring the book moves forward in an enjoyable way.

Darke Realms – One Tough Temporary She Alpha (Arcana 2) is a gripping read for fans of supernatural fantasy, particularly those who enjoy strong female leads and intricate world-building. If you love stories with werewolves, war-torn pasts, and heroines who don’t take crap from anyone, this book will be right up your alley.

Pages: 542 | ASIN : B0DXKH34D2