Briana has known for quite a while that Lucan is her mate but Lucan, though aware of Briana, is unwilling to see that they are meant to be together. Instead, he does his best to avoid her. Due to a series of events that occur near the beginning of the book both Briana and Lucan suddenly find themselves transported to another realm and amidst a group selected by some gods to participate in “The Gauntlet”. The Gauntlet is a no holds barred event with five tasks to be accomplished. In the pursuit of meeting the goals there is plenty of danger, fighting, bloodshed, and there are some rather interesting revelations made that give a great deal of information related to the backstory of this series. The author’s take on the Arthurian legend and its players is not the usual and is rather intriguing. It was nice to read a few scenes in the story let me know how Briana’s brothers and their spouses were doing. A number of new characters in this book could easily find themselves in future book should Ms. Somers decide to continue this series. ( )

Reviewed by: Rabid Reads

I haven’t picked-up a Pendagron Gargoyles book since 2011 but managed to fall back into Sydney Somers’ world with ease. Her spin on King Arthur & The Knights of the Round Table is both sexy and fascinating. Briana and Lucan’s thousand-years-in-the-making love story also helped ensure that this novel did not suffer from the insta-love syndrome that so often plagues paranormal romance. Primal Temptation is a well-rounded read packed with fun mythology and lovable characters; a definite must for fans of the genre!

I enjoyed watching the romance between the two main characters develop and I especially liked the flashbacks; Somers creatively weaves them into the plot which adds a lot of fluidity to the story. One of the aspects of mate bonds that I enjoy the most is how oftentimes “the one” isn’t necessarily the person you’d expect. In this case, it’s a matter of a cat shifter falling in love with a wraith. Adding to the list of reasons why they shouldn’t be together is the fact that Briana’s brothers dislike Lucian. Oh, and there’s also the small matter of him having broken her heart all of those years ago. But, as much as the odds are stacked against them, love always finds a way.

The main plot line of this installment is exciting; I liked the gauntlet set-up and enjoyed watching the characters overcome each trial. There are a few hints along the way that the gods may be playing with the immortals and that they might have ulterior motives. A lot of the characters get put through the wringer in this book while new ones are also introduced as possible future love interests. The story ends with a couple of major revelations which guarantee that there are turbulent times ahead for this series (i.e. more installments!).

I’m a sucker for the tall, dark and tormented type so I took an instant liking to Lucan. He can be a real ass at times but it’s mostly a front for his insecurities and protective nature. We learn his true identify in this novel and it’s hell-a shocking! Briana is strong, independent and courageous which just so happen to be some of my favourite traits in a heroine. I loved watching her give it her all in the gauntlet competitions and her refusal to take any crap from Lucan was admirable. A lot of this series’ previous characters also make cameo appearances throughout the book which helps make the story extra special for long-time fans of Sydney Somers.

Primal Temptation is the perfect read for a chilly night with its amped-up sexual tension and heated battles; I just hope that I don’t have to wait another 2 years for the next installment! ( )