Rebels Karma by Rebecca Zanetti
Dark Protectors book 17. Paranormal romance. Best read as part of the full Dark Protector series. Benny in particular can be found in the 1001 Dark Nights novellas (Teased, Tricked, Tangled, Vengeance, Vixen and Vampire). Those books do not need to be read before this book.

“I’m Benny. You can call me Benny, Ben, Benjamin, or butthead.”
Benny has been searching for Karma for three years. He’s known since the beginning that they are destined to be mated but he’s willing to let her be free to live her life however she wants. Karma is terrified when she is first brought to Realm headquarters. She’s been told about the Queen’s experiments and when she hears the men joking about being chased with a needle, she takes it literally. Karma is also brave and willing to do whatever is needed to return to the Kurjans and her adopted daughters, even if it means betraying these people being so nice to her.
Karma emerges from her cocoon in this story from beaten servant to empowered woman. It’s wonderful that Benny finally gets his happy connection.

This story also continues the connections between Hope, Pax and Drake (mid teens) as they grow older and closer to their key roles in the ultimate and final battle between the nations.
I’m looking forward to where the storyline goes in the next few books and in the meantime, loving these matings that make the couples so deliriously happy in each other’s arms.

I received a copy of this from NetGalley. I also purchased a copy of this to keep.

Karma comes in her own time
This book is just amazing! Benny has always been one of my favorite characters, and I absolutely love that Karma finally gets her HEA. Not to mention getting to see more of the other key characters and getting to delve deeper into the final destination for the current war. Like with all her books, the author kept the action and intensity high throughout the book keeping me glued to my seat until the very end. Be sure you are prepared to hunker down for the long haul when you open this book. Because this is one that will suck you in and not let go until the last page turns. If you are like me, you are going to love every minute of it.

Benny's book - for better or for worse. Unfortunately, it could have been a lot better.

I may have expected too much because my introduction to the Realm came from reading Conn and Moira's story. And lemme tell you, those two are relationship goals. I keep hoping that the rest of the couples I've since read have at least that wham factor, but I've only ever come across 3 couples do far who do it for me.

The problem is I loved the cameo Benny played in a previous novella (it's been a while since I've read these books and I've forgotten the name - also, I'm too lazy to Google it!) and I hoped he would be one of the characters who's story would grip me because the groundwork was already laid.

After reading the book, I stepped away for a month to figure out what didn't connect with me and I've since realized it.

1. The Pax-Hope-Drake drama. I've mentioned this in my review for Guardians Grace, and my thoughts haven't changed.

2. Where's the rest of the Seven? As mentioned, It's been a while so my memory is likely to be spotty, but all the brothers played a role in the flagship Realm stories. Too much sometimes, but that's preferable to too little in this instance.

The things I liked though - Zanetti can surely write and Benny gets his girl. I wanted more, damnit and I haven't been able to get it in the Seven storyline.

At this point, I'm simply hoping for Garrett's story, which feels like a 'make or break' one for me as far as this series goes.

Sadly, only 2 stars for the book and 1 solely for the talented author. This was a miss for me, I'm afraid. Fingers crossed for the next one.

***ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review***

I really enjoyed this book and the characters. I would recommend the book to anyone who enjoys the series.

4.5 stars

An action and suspense-filled paranormal rollercoaster ride with a gorgeous romance, Rebecca Zanetti’s Dark Protectors series continues with the long-awaited story for Benjamin (Benny) Reese – hilarious yet badass vampire/demon hybrid, and member of the Seven.

Note - This book is not a standalone, so make sure you’re up to date on events in this series before making a starts on this one.

Benny found his destined mate in the last book of the series – an enhanced female who was once mated to a Kurjan, and who know lives as a prisoner of the Kurjan leaders. Though he has no intention of actually mating Karma (knowing that it’s his fate to die as a member of the Seven), he can’t leave her in the hands of the bad guys, so he breaks her out, and brings her into his world.

“Just leave. Take an opening and find freedom,” she whispered tersely, her stomach cramping. “Forget about me.”
“Not a chance.” His gaze ran over her face like a physical touch … “Get ready, darlin’. We’re about to escape this place.”

Karma was married only for a very brief time, and her husband died centuries ago. Since then, she has lived as a captive/slave for the Kurjans, and has been fed all kinds of false information about the Realm. Having been downtrodden for so long, and fearing for her life amongst those that she wrongfully fears will torture her, watching her interact with the boys of the Realm, and their inquisitive Queen, is so entertaining. And I love her strength, intelligence and sense of wonder as she begins to explore and understand her new reality, with Benny as her guide.

“I also read a novel about vampires who sparkled in the sun, and I truly enjoyed it…” She wanted to sparkle. Who didn’t? “Wouldn’t it be lovely to sparkle, Benjamin?”
His face seemed to morph in every direction and then settled back into place. “Covert Ops would be difficult if I sparkled, but I guess everyone deals with obstacles.”

The dynamic between Benny and Karma is fantastic. Being destined mates, of course there is chemistry there, and their attraction is undeniable. But Benny refuses to subject Karma to losing another mate, and can only give her something casual. But she is a woman who is beginning to understand what she wants, and appreciates the fact that she can have it, and when they finally cave in to all of that sexual tension, it’s hot as all hell!

“I’m done holding back, sweetheart. I’m not nice or easy or casual. I’m just me. You in or out?”
“In,” she breathed.

But the Kurjans are watching, and while Benny is fighting to protect Karma, she has a mission of her own to protect those that she loves. It’s a wild ride full of action, intrigue, suspense and a whole lot of badassery, and I loved it! The story moves at a great pace, and I was glued to my kindle the whole way through.

There is more time spent with Garret, Logan and Sam (FTW), and some great cameos from series faves. Things are developing with Hope and her destiny, and I’m so intrigued where the series is going to go from here. It’s building up to its big finish, and with only a few books left, I am so excited for what is to come.

I loved this one. Sexy, action-packed and intense with a gorgeously sweet love story, it’s such a fun read.

4.5 stars!

What a great way to leave your troubles behind and be entertained, waiting to see what happens next. To laugh out loud, to sizzle through the steamy intimate scene and just flat out enjoy! I love everything Rebecca writes. I started with her in Fated and have never left. Ah crazy Benny, there is someone for everyone. Your depth, your heart, sigh. I loved this one, as Karma says, she is not a modern woman. So if you have read this series you know most of the mated are from current times. If you haven't you can still read this, but I will tell you flat out you will be kicking yourself for missing this series, Just think you can go back to book 1 Fated, our first generation. We see Hope, Drake, Pax and know things are coming. to a head. I don't know if I can do the Drake Hope thing. He is so nonchalant about what has to be and doesn't mind lying to Hope. Score for Pax. Shoot I digress, this is Bennys and Karmas book. and if you like paranormal, romance, steam and family with war brewing this is the book for you., To top it off there is humor and snark, the fact that Karma has lived for so long just opens up a world of opportunity for love and laughter as she grows into her inner strength. Anyone else want to know how The Kurjans are getting all the new and best in electronics, weapons and knowledge? Ok, Ok, I know they can't always lose, they have to have brains etc. but still, hmmm. Loved the twist and the surprises. Don't judge a book buy its cover, thought this one is hot, its so miuch more.

I'd fallen a wee bit behind in this series and was worried I'd feel confused jumping back in with Rebel's Karma - I should not have worried. Zanetti's writing style quickly had me falling right back into the grove of the Dark Protectors. Action, suspense, I mean roller coaster ride suspense just like I remembered, Zanetti's books are always a joy to get lost in...in the best possible way!

I enjoyed Benny and Karma so very much. The fated mate pull is strong and even the best of intentions can't ignore said fate! The banter is funny and sweet and of course sexy, and the danger feels so very real it practically leaps from the page. I've recommended this series for years and I'll continue doing so as this book does not disappoint.

Rebel's Karma was another amazing read by Rebecca Zanetti. The 13th book in the Dark Protector Series and the story line is still going strong. Things are heating up with the Seven and the Cyst and I can't wait to see what happens next. Benny has always been a favorite of mine and I knew I would love his book. I just didn't know how much I would end up loving Karma.
Karma was such a mystery going into this read. I knew from the last book that she had been mated to a Kurjan and she helped save a toddler in the last book, but other than that she was a blank page. Karma was amazing and the perfect mate for Benny. She was so brave and strong enduring for so long with the Kurjans yet never letting them kill her spirit. Benny was as fun and crazy as I thought he would be, but he had such a sweet side too. I fell so hard for Benny the way he tried to build up Karma, give her freedom, and a sense of self. Together they made such a great couple. They had a ton of chemistry, but the sweetness to their relationship was what really did it for me.
As we get closer to the end of the series,(I believe there is 3 more books) the plot is getting so intense. The Pax, Hope and Drake plot has me dying to know more. Hope like her mom Janie is torn between the two men(teens) in her life. When it came to Janie, Zane and Kalin I always wanted Zane to win Janie's heart. I liked Kalin and I was glad he redeemed himself in the end. The thing is this time around I am really liking Drake. He doesn't come off as crazy evil like most Kurjans. The chemistry between Drake and Hope is off the charts. there is still so much about Drake that we readers don't know and I can't wait to learn more. Pax is a cute guy and I wouldn't mind him ending up with Libby but I feel like he is not the one for Hope.
I loved all the parts with Dage, Emma, and Talen. I would love to get more time with the old gang in upcoming books. I also think it's time for the Seven to let others in on the secret. The whole Cyst army is creep af. The pressure is building with Ulric and the "Big Ritual" and I can't wait to see how it all unfolds. Although this book was action packed there was some really cute moments in it too. I loved the friendship between Benny and Mercy. The twins were really cute and Benny with the twins was swoon worthy. Quade, Garrett and the toothpaste had me laughing my butt off. God I love this whole world. Sam, Garrett, and hope's books are coming up and I really can't wait to get my hands on them. This series is an amazing series and I would recommend it to everyone. Start with book one Fated for the full world or Vampire's Faith for the new arc of the series. Personally I would suggest starting from book 1 because you don't want to miss out on all the yumminess that is Talen, Dage, and Jase!

I really like this book especially because of the beautiful relationship between Benny and Karma. They had great banter and such sweet moments together. I loved how protective Benny was of Karma. Their passionate moments together were wonderful to read. I also love all of the side characters in the book and hope to see some spin offs from it. All in all this was a lovely read.

I have been waiting for this book and I tell you I was not disappointed. I love Benny and Karma, they were so cute together. I loved the banter and the sweetness in their relationship. This is one of the best series I have ever read and I can not wait for more.

From the first Rebecca Zanetti I read I was hooked and always waiting for the next book in her series. Rebel's Karma does not disappoint, romance, strong man/strong woman, paranormal activities, friendship, family, bringing in the past to the future, and the best characterization all make this another hit. As usual we are introduced to the latet vampire-demon who will found his mate in an unexpected way. You get to know Benjamin in more detail and have to like him for his vulnerability, his respect for Karma, and his support for his team. After all once again it is the Cysts that are causing them a whole lot of trouble and the Cysts want Kujan Karma back. I love how the story continues to grow with the rest of the gang bringing in the new female character to the family where her life will one day, in betweeen battles, be more complete. As the story of Hope continues to grow where oh where will her story take her and the family of characters we have come to love. Now with patience I await for the next in the Dark Protector series because Zanetti''s writing is getting more and more fun and the characters have more stories to tell before the Seven and the keys bring it to an end.

I've liked Benny since he was first introduced in the series, he's a really funny, crazy, sweet character but I have to say it took me a while to warm up to Karma. Benny has spent the last 3 years searching for Karma since meeting her in the last book. Once Karma started to trust Benny and the other members of the 7 I started to appreciate her character more. She's a survivor who has been through a lot of challenges but stayed a genuinely good person. There was lots of action in this book and the plot with the Kurjans has continued to develop. Another great addition to the series. I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series and hoping it is Garrett's story!

ARC received via NetGalley

4.5 stars

Benny has always been the crazy one of the group, or so he would like you to think. Behind that demeanor is a battle-hardened warrior with a sense of humor, caring personality, and a certainty that he is most expendable member of the Seven as he not mate material. Of course when the mating mark appeared on his hand several years ago after meeting Karma, his natural protective instincts went into overdrive and he became focused on saving her from the Kurjans no matter the cost.

Karma has lived for several centuries in a repressive environment, but in the past couple of years the stakes were raised when she adopted a pair of human genetically enhanced toddlers. Unfortunately that means she is now an even bigger pawn in the Kurjan's plan to eliminate the Seven and bring back Ullric. Her first experiences with Benny are a shock to her system followed by even bigger ones when she is introduced to the Realm and then the other members of the Seven along with the women who have become mates over the past few years.

There is no denying the sizzling chemistry between Karma and Benny, and she is surprised to realize that the huge male's dominant tendencies don't scare her despite living through centuries of oppression because his reactions come from a place of protection and the heart of a good man. That doesn't change the fact that the impending final showdown is like a ticking clock counting down ever faster, and it seems as though the Kurjans are somehow getting the upper hand on the Seven with each new piece of technology revealed and attack that takes place. Karma is willing to go all in, but Benny has to decide if bringing this sweet woman and her adorable girls into the sometimes hellish life and always uncertain future that awaits.

I really loved their story and the dynamic between Karma and Benny. I am eagerly awaiting and anticipating Garrett's story (and hopefully Sam's), and I definitely can't wait to see how things progress with the next generation of Hope, Pax and Drake!

This is the book that I have been waiting for!

Benny has had my heart since his first appearance and I knew that I would love his story most!

Benny has been searching for his mate for the last 3 years. He is constantly being captured, on purpose, in search for her and finally he has hit the jack pot. His latest capture has put himself in her presence and in such a serious moment, he only has eyes and questions for Karma. He couldn't care less if anyone is around, especially when he asks her if she wants anybody dead before they leave. It's the most romantic sentiment out of his mouth!

Karma, a Kurjan Soti or mate, has been with the Kurjan's for over 2 centuries and she is used to a certain way of life and knows no better. She believes everything that the Kurjans have said about anyone who isn't them. Karma is from a completely different time and it shows. Since she has been with the Kurjans that long she is the perfect person to see that lifestyle through. They way that they treat her is so different from the Vampires/Demons/Witches and it overwhelms her.

She is very terrified of The Realm but it's like she has totally given up fighting to free herself... if she ever did. Though she has a set of twins, that she adopted, and is only thinking of them and their safety when she agrees to be a spy. The Kurjans knew Benny was looking for her so they saw an opportunity and took it.

Benny hates being played the fool so once it was known that she was helping them spy he used it to their advantage. Karma's enhancement is a unique one. She can channel the dead and that also helps them when they find themselves in a situation they didn't expect.

Benny is known as the "crazy" one and he has pretty much embraced it. He is so different from the others because while he is "alpha" he isn't as overbearing as the other characters. He doesn't think he has it in him to be a caregiver, not with the sacrifice they have to bare, but when it comes down to it, he is the PERFECT candidate for it. His brand of crazy is endearing and quite comforting. He doesn't care what the others think (the skirt scene lol) but he always gets the point across.

They say that there is nothing like a mother's love and this book embodies that. Even if it isn't biological it is a force to be reckoned with. Karma is a force to be reckoned with and seeing her come into herself was super nice.

This one is probably my favorite in the series by far!

side note: Quade and the toothpaste is probably my favorite scene in any of the books!

Rebel's Karma is an action, drama, romantic story that is part of Rebecca Zanetti’s Dark Protectors Series. This is a long running series with more than one overarching theme over time. Benjamin Reese has been a supporting character who is now receiving his own story. While Benny doesn’t want Karma as n enemy, she feels as if he is. He knows that she is his mate. As for Karma she has so many gaps in her memory that she doesn’t trust him or herself.

A passionate story that has characters who are smart but can be confused, loyal but not easily given to others and fierce in their love. Well written with a balance between the action, the humor, the young ones and the romance. It is everything fans of the series want and love.

An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Three B's Club

Benny, the jokester, who's very serious about saving Karma. He's been trying to find her for three years. She's the weapon for the Kurjans, and when Benny finds her, the Seven will be in trouble, as well as all the other shifters, vampires and other beings just trying to survive. Karma is centuries old and very sheltered in her actions as well as thoughts. It's going to take quite a bit of perseverance, patience and humor to get through to Karma.

The shower curtain fight scene was a good lesson for Karma, "Fights are never fair", and it was wonderful to watch Karma grow under Benny's guidance, even though he was a dumbass, he said so himself! "All of me and all of you." and nothing is ever easy, and now he'll be outvoted for the rest of his life. Thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next one.

I voluntarily reviewed this book.

I really have to stop jumping in the middle of a series and expecting to full understand it! Rebecca Zanetti does an amazing job getting you caught up, but if you're reading this review and haven't read the previous books yet, don't be like me. Go read them first.

I have read only one other book in this series, about Haven, and I loved it. I was excited to read this one, especially because I love fated mates and this seemed like a really great pairing. I was expecting the heroine to have amnesia based on the synopsis, but it's more that she's lived so long that she's forgotten who she used to be before she mated the first time. The world is complex and dark, yet the author creates a lot of comic relief and unique, exciting characters to keep us energized and happy. Every character stood out in a positive way for me, even the villains in how they weren't stereotypical. Their was some form of "other" about them, where their evil came from a unique source of darkness and you don't realize it until after you've been reading for a while. We also get the hint of a secondary love triangle forming, for a future book. Loved that we got a teaser ahead of time.

Since mating a Kurjan general two centuries ago, and losing him not long after, Karma has been trapped with the Kurjan people as an formerly-human immortal. Having tried to escape several times, she is now kept there for two very special reasons - twin girls who would be threatened if she didn't do all she was asked. Three years ago, she had the opportunity to leave with an intriguing man who was also her enemy. But believing the tales she had been told, she stayed behind, and now he has returned for her. Benny Reese has been looking for Karma for three years, ever since the mating mark appeared on his hand, identifying her as his mate...if they choose to complete the bond. However, Karma can't be touched as someone who has already mated, and only a uniquely created virus can do that. When Benny kidnaps Karma and takes her home with him, he does so to save her, but Karma knows better. He's not saving her. And he didn't kidnap her. Because her being taken was all part of the plan.

Karma was a sweetheart, thinking of others before herself all the time. I felt so bad for the situation she found herself in, and I couldn't imagine how I would handle it if I were in her shoes. She had no choice to make the decisions she did, for the wellbeing of her adopted daughters, and though she felt strongly for Benny, another mating wasn't something she was looking for. Benny had reasons of his own not to wish to mate, and it became difficult over time to stomach that he wasn't "into love" and really had no desire to love Karma. With Fated Mates, I prefer that insta-love that comes with it. You're bonded, your souls reach for each other, and oftentimes the man realizes his love before the woman. In this case, it took Benny a long time. I really liked his character, but his delay at showing his love back to Karma affected the story a bit for me. He showed he cared for her, and their sex scenes were off the charts with the steam, so that did help. Also, there is one scene where he wants to prove to Karma that she can fight effectively wearing a dress and...it was the sweetest thing I had read in a while. He loved her, he just didn't understand or know it.

I keep saying I will go back and read the other eleven books in this series, and hopefully I mean it this time. HIghly recommend the series based on the two books I have read.

This is the 13th book in the Dark Protectors series by Rebecca Zanetti. Each book focuses primarily on one couple so they can be read as a stand alone but the back story is clearer if you read the series in order. This is Benny and Karma's story. Benny is one of the Seven vampire-demon hybrids with a prophecy to fulfill. He has been searching three years for his mate, Karma, to free her from the evil Kurjans. I really enjoyed this fast-paced paranormal romance and highly recommend it.

4.5 stars

Finally we get Benny's story. We have seen him as part of the 7 in the previous books. What we only suspected but now know is that Karma is his mate. No he just has to convince her of that.

What follows is saving people, blowing things up, bad guys trying to blow them up and steal back Karma oh and lets throw in the whole prophecy thing as well.

Loved visiting with the rest of the vampires in the realm and catching up. Everything should be coming to a head very soon. Always a pleasure to read anything in this world by this author.

I adore Rebecca Zanetti. I think she’s a fabulous storyteller that really pulls you in deep. Rebel’s Karma is book 13 in the Dark Protectors series. The books she’s writing now have to do with the Seven. Seven vampire/demons/vampire-demon hybrids have been chosen to keep Ulric in another dimension so he doesn’t come destroy the world.

This book was really about Karma coming into her power as a woman. She has been with the Kurjans for centuries, had even mated one. He died and now she’s only a tool for the Kurjan’s to use. When they use her to spy on Benjamin Reese, she wants to say no. She can’t. Whether she likes it or not, she lives with the Kurjans.

Benny knows that Karma has some kind of Stockholm syndrome. Except she doesn’t. She has to protect her two daughters. To do that, she has to find out more about the Seven and the Realm. She’s already heard all sorts of horror stories about the Queen of the Realm. It doesn’t take Karma long to realize that most of the things she was taught were a lie.

Benny wants nothing more than to take care of Karma. She is his mate, and he hers. But he won’t mate her when death is looming over his head. He’s sure that to stop Ulric, he will have to sacrifice himself. Benny refuses to mate because he knows he’s going to die.

One thing I appreciated was that RZ addressed what would happen if someone actually broke through an alternate dimension. Scientifically that is. It was clear that you can’t just go willy-nilly through dimensions without there being consequences. The Seven are dealing with the fallout of those consequences and have basically been exiled by the Realm.

This series keeps getting better. I like where it’s going and am really looking forward to Sam’s story. Oh, Sam.

Rating: 4 out of 5.