Dark Rival by Brenda Joyce

Dark Rival by Brenda Joyce
Why I read this: It was time.

A golden man, he is called Black Royce—a battle hardened soldier of the gods. His vows are his life—until he is sent to New York City to protect a Healer from those who would use her powers for themselves. The moment Royce sees beautiful, feisty Allie Monroe, he knows she will be his only weakness—and he is right. Allie Monroe is more than an heiress. She is a Healer, willing to do anything to save victims of the evil that lurks in the city at night. But alone, she can do only so much—until destiny sends her the darkest Highlander of them all. Then evil strikes and Royce is destroyed before Allie's eyes. Now Allie will do anything to save Royce—even if it means going back in time to a dark, dangerous world to be with him. And confronting their enemies could cost not only their lives, but also their love—for all eternity.

I went into this read a little bit scared. I was very disappointed with the first book in the series. You can read why here. My reason for waiting so long to read this one directly relates to how I felt about the first book.
Brenda Joyce is a favourite author for me, so I wanted to give this series another chance. I'm glad I did. It was SO much better than the first one.

True to the series, Royce is a Master of Time. He protects people from those who commit pleasure crimes. (Bad guys who sex you up so good you die of orgasm. I am paraphrasing, of course)

Allie has powers of her own. She is a healer who can send her white light into the sick and hurt. You have a sore throat, fever or your arm is nearly cut right off? Allie is the gal you want to go to see.

What I liked about Dark Rival is that it is romantic. I wanted the couple to be together no matter the obstacle, and believe me, there were obstacles to climb.

Royce was hot, Allie was a smart, likable heroine.
Good book. Going with a B-.
Give it a go, I think you'll like it, too.