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Dark Soul #3
Dark Soul Vol. 3
In Dark Lady I, as Silvio Spadaro plans to take on the Russian hit squad that kidnapped his boss, he decides the best way to deal with four extremely dangerous men is to become an even more dangerous woman.
In Dark Lady II, Stefano discovers yet another disturbing—and arousing—truth about Silvio and how easily Silvio can use a man’s weakness to his own ends.
Dark Brother brings another player to Stefano Marino’s household. Franco Spadaro has just been released from the French Foreign Legion and is catching up with his little brother. In the middle of a war, a skilled sniper comes in right on time—but two Spadaros might be more than Stefano can handle.
Reader discretion advised.
In Dark Lady II, Stefano discovers yet another disturbing—and arousing—truth about Silvio and how easily Silvio can use a man’s weakness to his own ends.
Dark Brother brings another player to Stefano Marino’s household. Franco Spadaro has just been released from the French Foreign Legion and is catching up with his little brother. In the middle of a war, a skilled sniper comes in right on time—but two Spadaros might be more than Stefano can handle.
Reader discretion advised.
84 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 18, 2011
12 people are currently reading
933 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 277 reviews
November 25, 2013
How do you review Vol.3 without spoilers? You can’t.
A few thoughts should be enough. This volume was disturbing and dark, the darkest one so far I’d say. But I loved it. Yes, because I am sick, I know.
That first part with the Russians was…weird! I liked it but I am not sure what that means. It probably means Voinov’s voice is even better than what I thought because any other author would have turned that scene into something horrible but not definitely hot. And let me tell you, that was hot. Sergei, I promise I .
And then as if THAT hadn’t been enough, the author surprises us with Franco. My buddies know I love that kind of stuff, not even mentioning it under spoilers because that would be a HUGE spoiler. But I enjoyed it.
Enough said.
Once again, Silvio I seriously don’t know what is going on with you. Are you human? Do you have feelings?! What’s going on between Stefano and you? Give me some answers, buddy!
Overall, this volume was way better than the previous one. Now, I can say I highly recommend this series!
December 15, 2012
ANOTHER AMAZING BOOK BY ALEKSANDR VOINOV!
THIS WAS EVEN BETTER THAN THE LAST ONE- THE BEST SO FAR
[image error]
Silvio and Stefano are amazing together. Darkness and light (or lighter is more the phrase for Stefano).
The hot scene towards the end of the book had me
at first then
then admittedly
I couldn't wait to read the next one so I dived straight in and that rarely happens to me with books in a series, as I like variety.
BLOODY BRILLIANT (sorry when I am passionate about things the swear words appear oops)
THIS WAS EVEN BETTER THAN THE LAST ONE- THE BEST SO FAR
[image error]
Silvio and Stefano are amazing together. Darkness and light (or lighter is more the phrase for Stefano).
The hot scene towards the end of the book had me
at first then
then admittedly
I couldn't wait to read the next one so I dived straight in and that rarely happens to me with books in a series, as I like variety.
BLOODY BRILLIANT (sorry when I am passionate about things the swear words appear oops)
October 11, 2014
Will wonders never cease? I’m cautiously tiptoeing towards that Silvio bandwagon… I’m starting to see his appeal and really appreciate his fluid sexuality and “I don’t give a fuck” mentality.
I have a theory about him too. A theory regarding how this series will end. Yes…
I think Silvio will turn out to be a Trojan horse. Since he, during his sex fests with friend and foe, only randomly uses protection, I think in the end this sexy mofo is going to kill ‘em all with his STD-ridden body.
So what if I’m right, huh?
Other than that, Voinov always manages to grab you by the throat and forces you to read on and on, until you’re suddenly done and realize that Dark Soul 3 was, yet again, too short. Maybe this is a good thing after all though. I may have forgotten to head to work otherwise.
I have a theory about him too. A theory regarding how this series will end. Yes…
I think Silvio will turn out to be a Trojan horse. Since he, during his sex fests with friend and foe, only randomly uses protection, I think in the end this sexy mofo is going to kill ‘em all with his STD-ridden body.
So what if I’m right, huh?
Other than that, Voinov always manages to grab you by the throat and forces you to read on and on, until you’re suddenly done and realize that Dark Soul 3 was, yet again, too short. Maybe this is a good thing after all though. I may have forgotten to head to work otherwise.
October 17, 2013
4,6 EXTREMELY HOT DIRTY STARS!
WOW! HOLY HELL!!WHAAAAAAT DID I JUST READ ?!
I unquestionably love this Book 3 in Dark Soul series!
I loved the dynamics between Stefano and Silvio in the previous sequels, but having Franco, he brother of Silvio, in the third part was absolutely ..ahhhh..kinky(?!), twisted(?!), perverse(?!). It was MIND-BLOWING!!!
Oh, Aleks! His writing continues to amaze me every time I start a new book from him. I am not sure that I can recommend this series and especially this Book 3 to EVERYBODY because there are enough elements in it that some people may consider as taboo.
But.
If you love men. (I do)
If you love sex. (I do)
If you can handle some taboos like (I do sometimes)
You will enjoy it. (I hope)
It is simply soooo much fun!
Once you started you won't be able to put it down.
Do you think I am immoral and obscene because I enjoy the series so much?!
I DON'T CARE!!!!
WOW! HOLY HELL!!WHAAAAAAT DID I JUST READ ?!
I unquestionably love this Book 3 in Dark Soul series!
I loved the dynamics between Stefano and Silvio in the previous sequels, but having Franco, he brother of Silvio, in the third part was absolutely ..ahhhh..kinky(?!), twisted(?!), perverse(?!). It was MIND-BLOWING!!!
Oh, Aleks! His writing continues to amaze me every time I start a new book from him. I am not sure that I can recommend this series and especially this Book 3 to EVERYBODY because there are enough elements in it that some people may consider as taboo.
But.
If you love men. (I do)
If you love sex. (I do)
If you can handle some taboos like (I do sometimes)
You will enjoy it. (I hope)
It is simply soooo much fun!
Once you started you won't be able to put it down.
Do you think I am immoral and obscene because I enjoy the series so much?!
I DON'T CARE!!!!
March 3, 2014
White-hot. Had a boner for most of it. The dark lady sequence was spectacular.
August 31, 2012
Good god.
I thought I could handle twisted. But then, Volume 3 introduced me to a hooker and a brother...and now I have ZERO idea of how I feel about it. And I'm certain Mr. Voinov could care less. The reality is that this is his F'd up world and we're all just along for the ride. God, I'm loving this ride.
I can only describe Volume 3 as a deeper disturbing look into our beloved Silvio. And we walk away knowing more about him, understanding even less about him, loving him all the same...and wondering "is it ok that I love him?" (and maybe battling some nausea along the way)
It's not for the faint of heart or close-minded. It reminds me of how I felt after reading Tiffany Reisz' "The Siren": I was appalled, wanted to hate it, hated myself for not hating it, and then just resigned myself to the fact that I loved it. Both books challenge all convention and all notions of "acceptable" and "normal".
*sigh*. I do declare: I have an obsession w/ the sick mind of Aleksandr Voinov. He may just have ruined me for all other writers.
Dare I read on to Volume 4? Of course I do...
March 30, 2013
I love Silvio!!!!! He never fails me when I need him!!!!
He is so carnal that it's almost refreshing......it's just the basic needs.....
He doesn't either....it's all about what feels good to him....he's a killer........damn I love him!!!!
Short book, short review..
Are there other characters in this book...YES.....do any out shine Silvio...NOOOOOOOOO!!!!!
Of course Stefano is here.....he is his normal self...no big changes there.
We do meet Franco:) He is Silvio's brother....things happen...what can I say...well nothing because I'll give it away!!
Yea...that's how I felt when reading about it and all that transpired, however at the same time it was Silvio so what do you expect;) Shit...it was HOT!!!!!
I absolutely LOVE this series......LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!
He is so carnal that it's almost refreshing......it's just the basic needs.....
He doesn't either....it's all about what feels good to him....he's a killer........damn I love him!!!!
Short book, short review..
Are there other characters in this book...YES.....do any out shine Silvio...NOOOOOOOOO!!!!!
Of course Stefano is here.....he is his normal self...no big changes there.
We do meet Franco:) He is Silvio's brother....things happen...what can I say...well nothing because I'll give it away!!
Yea...that's how I felt when reading about it and all that transpired, however at the same time it was Silvio so what do you expect;) Shit...it was HOT!!!!!
I absolutely LOVE this series......LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!
July 6, 2012
This series, is so un-bloody-believably brilliant that I devoured each and every one of the books back to back! I could not put them down.
Because of this I will do a review as a whole on Dark Soul Vol. 5 I have also rated the series as a whole rather than individually.
Because of this I will do a review as a whole on Dark Soul Vol. 5 I have also rated the series as a whole rather than individually.
December 15, 2012
Words cannot describe. Pictures cannot express. This can only be read. But, 5 stars! (We really need more stars for this one.)
Read
February 27, 2017The new edition has been published (new covers, newly edited, also 3 parts rather than 5).
March 26, 2013
Well, he certainly GOT those Russians
didn't he?? 4.5 stars for this one....a double header....Silvio AND Franco
I fear for Silvio's sanity
I have to say, all of this killing is not going to do him any good whatsoever!! Signore Marino is pretty much a secondary character in this book....it's all about Silvio, his attitude to murder.....and his relationship with his brother Franco. Big guns are being talked about
, and I fear there'll be a lot more death
before this series is finished. Gripping.....and fascinating in a twisted kind of way....oh dear, what does that say about me
?? Many thanks once again Aleks. x
March 11, 2013
Most Disturbing and Darkest of the Series so far
Silvio intrigues me. He seams to have no moral compass, and yet his loyalty is beyond endearing. Does Silvio have a limit? The more I read, the more disturbed I am by his actions. If it feels good, then it's alright to indulge. Yet he is also willing to win this war of Stefano's, "by any means necessary"! His methods are shocking but effective.
We are introduced to Silvio's older brother, Franco. Franco is just as emotionally screwed up as Silvio. A testament to their father's love and parenting skills. Franco loves his brother, but their relationship was formed in darkness and is quite dysfunctional.
Franco teams up with Silvio, to help in the war against the Russians. He's just as much a cold blooded killer as Silvio! I would love for Voinov to give Franco a voice/series someday. He makes the perfect emotionally scarred hero, and is just as enigmatic as Silvio. I would love to see him find peace.
Vol 3 was my favorite thus far!
Buddy Read with Shelly
Silvio intrigues me. He seams to have no moral compass, and yet his loyalty is beyond endearing. Does Silvio have a limit? The more I read, the more disturbed I am by his actions. If it feels good, then it's alright to indulge. Yet he is also willing to win this war of Stefano's, "by any means necessary"! His methods are shocking but effective.
We are introduced to Silvio's older brother, Franco. Franco is just as emotionally screwed up as Silvio. A testament to their father's love and parenting skills. Franco loves his brother, but their relationship was formed in darkness and is quite dysfunctional.
Franco teams up with Silvio, to help in the war against the Russians. He's just as much a cold blooded killer as Silvio! I would love for Voinov to give Franco a voice/series someday. He makes the perfect emotionally scarred hero, and is just as enigmatic as Silvio. I would love to see him find peace.
Vol 3 was my favorite thus far!
Buddy Read with Shelly
July 31, 2013
I'm not sure how to rate this book. The first half was great- violent and disturbing but i couldn't stop reading. Then, in the second half of the book....
**edited to add**
I have since realized since reading this book originally that many people are into in their M/M romances. I vehemently hate it so I'm stopping this series. It it totally a matter of personal taste but that is just too dark for me.
**edited to add**
I have since realized since reading this book originally that many people are into in their M/M romances. I vehemently hate it so I'm stopping this series. It it totally a matter of personal taste but that is just too dark for me.
December 27, 2025
3/5
somehow, i'm both surprised and unsurprised by the direction this story took.
i'll admit that the cross-dressing bits were interesting and showed yet another side to silvio's character; i admire how comfortable and fluid he is in his sexuality and his ability to express himself.
that being said, i'm also a little disturbed by how sexually indiscriminate he's been over the course of the past few stories, particularly this one. to be completely fair, the blurb of volume one does make it clear that silvio is hypersexual—i guess i just wasn't prepared for the sheer extent of his behavior.
to give you a better idea what i'm talking about, here's a quick little trivia game. you can even play at home!
(honorable mention: him getting cockblocked by stefano when he called silvio to come rescue him in vol. 2)
alright folks, have your answer? the correct answer is... drumroll, please...
on a more serious note, there's nothing inherently wrong with him being promiscuous. like i said, it's almost refreshing to see a character so comfortable in their own skin. the problem arises, however, when a series is supposedly centered around the romance between two specific characters, and one of them insists on fucking every single side character. some readers may be placated by the fact that it's hot and means more smut, but to me, in the context of this series, it's mostly just off-putting.
i was hoping for some sort of progression in silvio and stefano's relationship (didn't have to be sexual), but they've started to feel more like an afterthought than the primary couple. i don't even mind that voinov is drawing out the moment they finally get together; in fact, i prefer when authors take that route because it gives more time for the characters to bond and actually develop a connection. i'm simply confused bc the two hardly even interact in this installment, not to mention disappointed by the decision to make silvio act so (*googles more tactful synonyms for whorish*)... roundheeled? 😬 in the meantime.
the funny part is that his promiscuity actually hasn't made me dislike his character. i'm still intrigued by him and the reasons why he does what he does. the term hypersexual also implies that his sexual urges are difficult to control, so in a way i almost feel bad for faulting him for his behavior.
something i enjoy in voinov's writing is that he puts faith in his readers, trusting that they'll put the pieces together and understand what's going on and how characters are feeling. he gives vague blink-and-you'll-miss-them hints without feeling the need to immediately explain them away in the next sentence. some authors treat readers like they're idiots and spoil the potential for nuance by intentionally making certain things obvious. others do it by unintentionally using language that tells instead of shows. in my experience, voinov hasn't been either of those kinds of writers, which i really appreciate.
additionally, while the integration of non-MC povs usually annoys/bores me, i found the unique perspectives of side characters like sergei and franco being utilized to show us different qualities of the MCs very clever. i actually enjoyed both of their narrations, which surprised me.
despite my niggles with this installment regarding the development of the romance between silvio and stefano as well as some of silvio's habits, the writing remains very much on point. i'm still curious to see which direction voinov will take this story—if nothing else, he's certainly proven that no trope is off-limits.
somehow, i'm both surprised and unsurprised by the direction this story took.
i'll admit that the cross-dressing bits were interesting and showed yet another side to silvio's character; i admire how comfortable and fluid he is in his sexuality and his ability to express himself.
that being said, i'm also a little disturbed by how sexually indiscriminate he's been over the course of the past few stories, particularly this one. to be completely fair, the blurb of volume one does make it clear that silvio is hypersexual—i guess i just wasn't prepared for the sheer extent of his behavior.
to give you a better idea what i'm talking about, here's a quick little trivia game. you can even play at home!
(honorable mention: him getting cockblocked by stefano when he called silvio to come rescue him in vol. 2)
alright folks, have your answer? the correct answer is... drumroll, please...
on a more serious note, there's nothing inherently wrong with him being promiscuous. like i said, it's almost refreshing to see a character so comfortable in their own skin. the problem arises, however, when a series is supposedly centered around the romance between two specific characters, and one of them insists on fucking every single side character. some readers may be placated by the fact that it's hot and means more smut, but to me, in the context of this series, it's mostly just off-putting.
i was hoping for some sort of progression in silvio and stefano's relationship (didn't have to be sexual), but they've started to feel more like an afterthought than the primary couple. i don't even mind that voinov is drawing out the moment they finally get together; in fact, i prefer when authors take that route because it gives more time for the characters to bond and actually develop a connection. i'm simply confused bc the two hardly even interact in this installment, not to mention disappointed by the decision to make silvio act so (*googles more tactful synonyms for whorish*)... roundheeled? 😬 in the meantime.
the funny part is that his promiscuity actually hasn't made me dislike his character. i'm still intrigued by him and the reasons why he does what he does. the term hypersexual also implies that his sexual urges are difficult to control, so in a way i almost feel bad for faulting him for his behavior.
something i enjoy in voinov's writing is that he puts faith in his readers, trusting that they'll put the pieces together and understand what's going on and how characters are feeling. he gives vague blink-and-you'll-miss-them hints without feeling the need to immediately explain them away in the next sentence. some authors treat readers like they're idiots and spoil the potential for nuance by intentionally making certain things obvious. others do it by unintentionally using language that tells instead of shows. in my experience, voinov hasn't been either of those kinds of writers, which i really appreciate.
additionally, while the integration of non-MC povs usually annoys/bores me, i found the unique perspectives of side characters like sergei and franco being utilized to show us different qualities of the MCs very clever. i actually enjoyed both of their narrations, which surprised me.
despite my niggles with this installment regarding the development of the romance between silvio and stefano as well as some of silvio's habits, the writing remains very much on point. i'm still curious to see which direction voinov will take this story—if nothing else, he's certainly proven that no trope is off-limits.
Read
July 31, 2013Third time is a charm right?
Or so I was hoping....
Dark Lady kicks off with vicicous va-va-voom...
I gotta say, I give her, er him 5 stars for creativity.
"Fuck, I liked you."
Ha, me too.
well, if I'm gonna nitpick I would say that the shower kinda ruined the groove I was finally feeling, but still, twas genius of Silvio.
Props.
Dark Lady II was a little more...
As much as I hate to say it (hellloooo wife anyone?) the seduction has begun and it's sizzling!
But then I see it coming,
Dark Brother
don't go there...pleaasssseeeee
Damn it, you went there!
and now
I. Is. Sad.
I tried, like really really tried...but for now I must say
* ?Ihavenofuckingcluehowtoratethis? stars*
Or so I was hoping....
Dark Lady kicks off with vicicous va-va-voom...
I gotta say, I give her, er him 5 stars for creativity.
"Fuck, I liked you."
Ha, me too.
well, if I'm gonna nitpick I would say that the shower kinda ruined the groove I was finally feeling, but still, twas genius of Silvio.
Props.
Dark Lady II was a little more...
As much as I hate to say it (hellloooo wife anyone?) the seduction has begun and it's sizzling!
But then I see it coming,
Dark Brother
don't go there...pleaasssseeeee
Damn it, you went there!
and now
I. Is. Sad.
I tried, like really really tried...but for now I must say
* ?Ihavenofuckingcluehowtoratethis? stars*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 13, 2012
O-M-G-!
December 17, 2011
Voinov once again screws with my comfort level and makes me question what really is "normal". This is why I love Voinov's work! Love, trust, acceptance...what should be a limiting factor for sharing that with someone (should it matter)? This story touches on subect matter I have avoided in stories I read. I continue to love this storyline and this in no way went the direction I thought this next installment would. This story really shed light on more of Silvio's past and offers glimpses of his current day struggles that make up this complex man. Silvio continues to completely intrigue and captivate me and more than ever, I want him to feel safe.
April 16, 2012
^^IT'S SIMPLY THE FREAKING BEST!^^
I don't think I want to make an attempt at writing an intelligent review, because I doubt it would express my serious feelings for this book. If you remember, I gushed about Vol.1, Vol.2, and I doubt I managed to express the awesomeness that is this series. I am just going to tell you why you need pick up every volume of this series and not wait a damn minute longer.
"It’s simply the best, better than all the rest".
Yeh it's a song but it works. This volume was a little different from the first two, because it has three stories instead of two. That means triple the power in overall pants losing.
In Dark Lady, we have the very sexy Silvio still hell bent on making the Russians pay for his hurting his boss and potential lover Stefano (read vol.2). And as the blurb says, he goes in all-hardcore as a woman. Silvio is sex on legs in a suit, biker gear, so just imagine the walking wet dream he is as a woman.
"If it’s worth it, let me work it. I put my thing down flip and reverse it. It doesn't matter if I have a penis"
Not actual words from the song, but you get my point. He rocks the Russian's world and then proceeds to take them out of it. Like a boss!
Dark Lady II, Silvio and Stefano get up close and personal. The men share a sexy erotic interlude, that had my iPad overheating and my pants doing the "bye bye bye" dance.
Now the third story was a total surprise, and it brought the heart failure. Dark Brother introduces us to Silvio's brother Franco, which had me thinking 'oh hell naw' I can't possibly handle two Spadaro brothers. No need to worry because Silvio is like a fingerprint, there's only one of him. This story manages to push the series in another direction, and it's a direction I like. Dark Brother brought the brotherly love, and I don't mean the baseball playing kind.
Just when I think I have cracked the code that is the Dark Soul series, Mr Voinov karate chops me in the face with a 'you don't know shit'. I feel like I am right on the edge of knowing, but somehow it isn't enough. If that isn't superb writing, then point me in the direction of what is.
This series might be about the mob, and crime and violence and all that, but it's driving force is Silvio. This phantom of sex on legs, and an insatiable appetite for fucking. Yet, I found myself sad for him, because I feel there is more to him than 'he is what he is'. Silvio just isn't that easy. He might be this sexual carnivore, but sometimes I felt like I was reading about a lost little boy (I could just be cracked in the head).
Overall, it's great! If you're a reader, that likes the darker side of things and enjoys a story that pushes the boundaries. Then this series is for you. I cannot rave about it enough.
More of my reviews and ramblings at PANTS OFF REVIEWS
I don't think I want to make an attempt at writing an intelligent review, because I doubt it would express my serious feelings for this book. If you remember, I gushed about Vol.1, Vol.2, and I doubt I managed to express the awesomeness that is this series. I am just going to tell you why you need pick up every volume of this series and not wait a damn minute longer.
"It’s simply the best, better than all the rest".
Yeh it's a song but it works. This volume was a little different from the first two, because it has three stories instead of two. That means triple the power in overall pants losing.
In Dark Lady, we have the very sexy Silvio still hell bent on making the Russians pay for his hurting his boss and potential lover Stefano (read vol.2). And as the blurb says, he goes in all-hardcore as a woman. Silvio is sex on legs in a suit, biker gear, so just imagine the walking wet dream he is as a woman.
"If it’s worth it, let me work it. I put my thing down flip and reverse it. It doesn't matter if I have a penis"
Not actual words from the song, but you get my point. He rocks the Russian's world and then proceeds to take them out of it. Like a boss!
Dark Lady II, Silvio and Stefano get up close and personal. The men share a sexy erotic interlude, that had my iPad overheating and my pants doing the "bye bye bye" dance.
Now the third story was a total surprise, and it brought the heart failure. Dark Brother introduces us to Silvio's brother Franco, which had me thinking 'oh hell naw' I can't possibly handle two Spadaro brothers. No need to worry because Silvio is like a fingerprint, there's only one of him. This story manages to push the series in another direction, and it's a direction I like. Dark Brother brought the brotherly love, and I don't mean the baseball playing kind.
Just when I think I have cracked the code that is the Dark Soul series, Mr Voinov karate chops me in the face with a 'you don't know shit'. I feel like I am right on the edge of knowing, but somehow it isn't enough. If that isn't superb writing, then point me in the direction of what is.
This series might be about the mob, and crime and violence and all that, but it's driving force is Silvio. This phantom of sex on legs, and an insatiable appetite for fucking. Yet, I found myself sad for him, because I feel there is more to him than 'he is what he is'. Silvio just isn't that easy. He might be this sexual carnivore, but sometimes I felt like I was reading about a lost little boy (I could just be cracked in the head).
Overall, it's great! If you're a reader, that likes the darker side of things and enjoys a story that pushes the boundaries. Then this series is for you. I cannot rave about it enough.
More of my reviews and ramblings at PANTS OFF REVIEWS
January 16, 2013
~~~
"What am I to you now?" the hooker asked.
Dark Soul.
Who's? Silvio's?
Or mine?
This book reached a new level in an already gripping series. Parts of the story are so surprisingly sexy and beguiling that I couldn't look away.
Other scenes were so dark and disturbing and forbidden that I couldn't look away.
Quick, fast and surgically precise writing makes reading this a pleasure. My favorite of the series so far.
In fact, a very short review here so that I can get right on to #4.
~~~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
http://www.attentionisarbitrary.blogspot.com
"What am I to you now?" the hooker asked.
Dark Soul.
Who's? Silvio's?
Or mine?
This book reached a new level in an already gripping series. Parts of the story are so surprisingly sexy and beguiling that I couldn't look away.
Other scenes were so dark and disturbing and forbidden that I couldn't look away.
Quick, fast and surgically precise writing makes reading this a pleasure. My favorite of the series so far.
In fact, a very short review here so that I can get right on to #4.
~~~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
http://www.attentionisarbitrary.blogspot.com
December 13, 2012
This was easily my favorite book in the series so far! Sit back and enjoy the ride.
May 10, 2013
Ok holy wow doesn't even come close in this book. Silvio you are killing me. This series is amazing so far. But this book has me all over the place.
March 20, 2022
“I’d say Silvio is the kind of man who can take care of himself. Took on four Russian ex-soldiers with nothing but high heels and a lust for pain. Survived a gut shot and sepsis, came back and still claimed nothing could hurt him. Nothing but rejection by a lover, that is.”
The Barracuda is lethal beauty in action. And Stefano is just as vulnerable to his wiles as any of his targets.
The Barracuda is lethal beauty in action. And Stefano is just as vulnerable to his wiles as any of his targets.
December 18, 2011
At the end of this installment it's like Silvio is slipping away. In the first two books the point of views of Silvio and Stefano alternated, but here instead of hearing Silvio's side of the story, we see him from the outside. He's always been distant, but in this way he becomes almost unreachable. We get a little bit closer to him when he is in Stefano's arms, and that scene was incredibly heartbreaking.
I think the common thread of this installment is that we have the impression that Silvio gives bits and pieces of himself away, because there are those seconds in which we catch a glimpse of his truth.
In the first part, Dark Lady I, Silvio impersonates a female hooker to get close to the Russians who have just kidnapped and hurt Stefano. Silvio uses his body as a weapon of seduction and destruction. It was unsettling but also oddly compelling to watch him let himself be used by the Russians, deceiving them with his looks and his false weakness. It was something that made me suffer, because as Sergei observed, it was something just a step away from rape, but knowing how deadly Silvio is, I knew Silvio was in control. I also appreciated that we caught the human side of the narrator, because it highlighted Silvio's coldness and deadliness. It's not a coldness that comes from the incapacity of feeling something, it's the inherent quality of steel.
The second part, Dark Lady II, is in Stefano's point of view. Stefano is told his kidnapping has been vindicated and he realizes Silvio's plot. When he confronts Silvio about it, the sicario asks him if he wants to see him dressed as a woman. Silvio suggests this almost offhandedly, with a hint of bragging and some playfulness, but when he is in Stefano's arms, it's as if the mask falls down, and it's just him and Stefano. I wish we were in Silvio's head, to see how affected he was by what was happening, because it couldn't be clearer than this that Stefano is not only sexually attracted by Silvio, but he's enraptured by the other man. I think it's when Stefano wonders if he can "ever hope to claim him? Ever, really, have him?" that he really comes closer to grab him.
The third part, Dark Brother, introduces Franco, Silvio's brother. The close relationship between the two brothers unravels before our eyes and it's disturbing and touching at the same time. Franco and Silvio appears as the victims of a heartless and cruel father and we slowly begin to realize why they got so close. Franco and Silvio are very different. Silvio has been able to claim his sexuality, while Franco hasn't been able or willing to express it, so his brother is the only one who can offer him understanding and a physical connection. It's as if Silvio has regressed to a younger age when he is with his brother. What he wants from his brother, his outrageous proposal, seems the wild dream of a child, the secret and liberating fantasy he built for himself to escape a difficult situation, a monster. Even if he is older, Franco seems another victim of Silvio's determination, another man who is not able to oppose him.
This series is making me short circuit. I have no idea where it's headed, I wish it could last forever, and I honestly can't see a satisfying resolution in the future, and I can't imagine the well of hurt we just began to tap into, but I want to read it.
I think the common thread of this installment is that we have the impression that Silvio gives bits and pieces of himself away, because there are those seconds in which we catch a glimpse of his truth.
In the first part, Dark Lady I, Silvio impersonates a female hooker to get close to the Russians who have just kidnapped and hurt Stefano. Silvio uses his body as a weapon of seduction and destruction. It was unsettling but also oddly compelling to watch him let himself be used by the Russians, deceiving them with his looks and his false weakness. It was something that made me suffer, because as Sergei observed, it was something just a step away from rape, but knowing how deadly Silvio is, I knew Silvio was in control. I also appreciated that we caught the human side of the narrator, because it highlighted Silvio's coldness and deadliness. It's not a coldness that comes from the incapacity of feeling something, it's the inherent quality of steel.
The second part, Dark Lady II, is in Stefano's point of view. Stefano is told his kidnapping has been vindicated and he realizes Silvio's plot. When he confronts Silvio about it, the sicario asks him if he wants to see him dressed as a woman. Silvio suggests this almost offhandedly, with a hint of bragging and some playfulness, but when he is in Stefano's arms, it's as if the mask falls down, and it's just him and Stefano. I wish we were in Silvio's head, to see how affected he was by what was happening, because it couldn't be clearer than this that Stefano is not only sexually attracted by Silvio, but he's enraptured by the other man. I think it's when Stefano wonders if he can "ever hope to claim him? Ever, really, have him?" that he really comes closer to grab him.
The third part, Dark Brother, introduces Franco, Silvio's brother. The close relationship between the two brothers unravels before our eyes and it's disturbing and touching at the same time. Franco and Silvio appears as the victims of a heartless and cruel father and we slowly begin to realize why they got so close. Franco and Silvio are very different. Silvio has been able to claim his sexuality, while Franco hasn't been able or willing to express it, so his brother is the only one who can offer him understanding and a physical connection. It's as if Silvio has regressed to a younger age when he is with his brother. What he wants from his brother, his outrageous proposal, seems the wild dream of a child, the secret and liberating fantasy he built for himself to escape a difficult situation, a monster. Even if he is older, Franco seems another victim of Silvio's determination, another man who is not able to oppose him.
This series is making me short circuit. I have no idea where it's headed, I wish it could last forever, and I honestly can't see a satisfying resolution in the future, and I can't imagine the well of hurt we just began to tap into, but I want to read it.
![Profile Image for Michelle [Helen Geek].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1448463806i%2F5557851._CR0%2C13%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
August 11, 2012
I plan to post my review for the complete Dark Soul collection [volumes 1 through 5] after I finish all five [5] novella's. I have the ARC for all volumes in one "book".
This is volume three [3].
What can I say about this one? Silvio is a very complicated character. You want to know what makes him tick. He is a chock full of contrasts; hard / soft, gentle / abrasive, loving / callous, etc. He intrigues me. And he seems to find people who care deeply about him and you wonder at this. He has this inner drive and charisma. Really interesting.
This volume wrecked me. Not expected, but then I have to ask myself why didn't I expect it? Nothing up to and including this point really should be surprising. Silvio is an enigma. Stefano wasn't huge in this volume.
More to come so stay tuned. Onto volume four [4].
Happy Reading.
This is volume three [3].
What can I say about this one? Silvio is a very complicated character. You want to know what makes him tick. He is a chock full of contrasts; hard / soft, gentle / abrasive, loving / callous, etc. He intrigues me. And he seems to find people who care deeply about him and you wonder at this. He has this inner drive and charisma. Really interesting.
This volume wrecked me. Not expected, but then I have to ask myself why didn't I expect it? Nothing up to and including this point really should be surprising. Silvio is an enigma. Stefano wasn't huge in this volume.
More to come so stay tuned. Onto volume four [4].
Happy Reading.
September 15, 2012
Oh Good Lord!!!
I am loving this series. Totally original, shocking, wonderful characters! Just AWESOME
Review when I'm finished them all!!!
I am loving this series. Totally original, shocking, wonderful characters! Just AWESOME
Review when I'm finished them all!!!
June 12, 2016
*** Review for the whole Dark Soul Series ***
So, I slept over it, and I still have no clue how to review this series. So bear with me, please, while I try to figure it out…
For me, at the centre of this series, stands Silvio:
Silvio’s searching for something. He always has been,” Franco murmured under his breath. “Something I could never give him.”
"What is that?” Marino leaned forward.
”A place to be himself. Somebody who accepts him as he is, darkness and all.” Franco emptied his wineglass. “Somebody who holds him and anchors him.”
So, if you want to find out if Silvio is able to find this, you should read Dark Souls, but prepare for a rough ride, please.
I’ve always been too scared for my own good and had decided some time ago that this series, this author, was something to avoid. How wrong I’ve been. Maybe I wasn’t ready, but I should have read this ages ago.
Dark Soul is the most intriguing, erotic, and suspenseful journey into the life of two men that were made by circumstance but find a way to be free and themselves.
I’m going more into detail now, so there might be mild spoilers or something you might want to avoid reading if you haven’t read the book yet. I’m adding trigger warnings at the end of my review, too.
Intriguing
I’m a sucker for unique and well-developed characters, and Silvio really stands out in this series but also beyond it. There is so much to him on the outside and the inside that it’s just fascinating to read about him or even be in his head. And since DS is written in alternating point of views, we get the full experience.
Silvio’s appearance, his sexuality, his emotions are all so far away from what is considered normal, and I personally am drawn to such people. He reminds me a bit of Alexis Hall’s Milord in Prosperity, and I think they have a lot in common. The difficult upbringing, their own code of honour, their own way of thinking, and their difficulty to forge bonds with other human beings
I admire Stefano with all his struggles, with all the risks he takes, and how he finally accepts his sexuality and love for a man. I am so thrilled that he not just ditches his wife, either, but that he tries to find a way for all of them. I admire that he overcomes all obstacles, that his pride doesn’t stand in the way of his happiness.
I am also intrigued by dubious situations, when there is no clear black and white. I mean, that’s how the world works, in my opinion. There is no easy truth and false, no right answer to everything. And we have quite a lot of greyness here: . The reasons for everything, the motivations, the circumstances, fate do not allow to easily judge, though.
Erotic
Let’s just say: OMGOMGOMGSOOOOHOOOOOOT
You seriously need to figure out what one can do
- with a rope and a gun
- at the pool
- with a phone and a glass dildo
- in the shower
- on a killing spree, being a transvestite
- with a brother
- a week holed up in a hotel room
- as a woman and two men
Disclaimer: You shouldn’t read DS on public transport. I did. It’s torture.
Also, this was my first erotica where I didn't think there was too much sex... The mixture was just right :-D
Suspenseful
For the most parts of DS, the Mafia suspense plot takes the backseat. Only the most, though ;-) It is brutal, there are killings and violence on page, but nothing I couldn’t handle, fortunately
And let’s just say, the last part of the series nearly made me have a heart attack and die a little. But not only the Mafia plot took its toll, the relationship developments had me sitting on the edge of my seat, too. I had no idea where this all was going until the last few pages. The last 5% were absolutely horrific and amazing and just the best ending ever, which is the reason I am giving 5 stars and not 4.5!
***
So, I promised you trigger warnings, right? I think some things have already become clear through my text, but here they are: .
I loved this book, everything about it, actually. I highly recommended it!
***
ETA: Re-Read, 2 months later already...
This is one of those books that, when you read them the second time around, have a very different feel to it, because you already know what is gonna happen, how it all ends. The reading experience is just not the same, but it was not less, not at all. I had time to savour, to watch out for hints. This second read felt like coming home. I'll never get the experience of the first read back, but I know I'm gonna visit again and again, and dive into something amazing, something that will comfort me, but also never get boring.
I love this series. I love everything I've told you above, still, and I'm happy.
***
This book counts for my following reading challenges 2015:
- 100 books in total
- 20 books about a marginalised group
- 8 books out of my comfort zone
So, I slept over it, and I still have no clue how to review this series. So bear with me, please, while I try to figure it out…
For me, at the centre of this series, stands Silvio:
Silvio’s searching for something. He always has been,” Franco murmured under his breath. “Something I could never give him.”
"What is that?” Marino leaned forward.
”A place to be himself. Somebody who accepts him as he is, darkness and all.” Franco emptied his wineglass. “Somebody who holds him and anchors him.”
So, if you want to find out if Silvio is able to find this, you should read Dark Souls, but prepare for a rough ride, please.
I’ve always been too scared for my own good and had decided some time ago that this series, this author, was something to avoid. How wrong I’ve been. Maybe I wasn’t ready, but I should have read this ages ago.
Dark Soul is the most intriguing, erotic, and suspenseful journey into the life of two men that were made by circumstance but find a way to be free and themselves.
I’m going more into detail now, so there might be mild spoilers or something you might want to avoid reading if you haven’t read the book yet. I’m adding trigger warnings at the end of my review, too.
Intriguing
I’m a sucker for unique and well-developed characters, and Silvio really stands out in this series but also beyond it. There is so much to him on the outside and the inside that it’s just fascinating to read about him or even be in his head. And since DS is written in alternating point of views, we get the full experience.
Silvio’s appearance, his sexuality, his emotions are all so far away from what is considered normal, and I personally am drawn to such people. He reminds me a bit of Alexis Hall’s Milord in Prosperity, and I think they have a lot in common. The difficult upbringing, their own code of honour, their own way of thinking, and their difficulty to forge bonds with other human beings
I admire Stefano with all his struggles, with all the risks he takes, and how he finally accepts his sexuality and love for a man. I am so thrilled that he not just ditches his wife, either, but that he tries to find a way for all of them. I admire that he overcomes all obstacles, that his pride doesn’t stand in the way of his happiness.
I am also intrigued by dubious situations, when there is no clear black and white. I mean, that’s how the world works, in my opinion. There is no easy truth and false, no right answer to everything. And we have quite a lot of greyness here: . The reasons for everything, the motivations, the circumstances, fate do not allow to easily judge, though.
Erotic
Let’s just say: OMGOMGOMGSOOOOHOOOOOOT
You seriously need to figure out what one can do
- with a rope and a gun
- at the pool
- with a phone and a glass dildo
- in the shower
- on a killing spree, being a transvestite
- with a brother
- a week holed up in a hotel room
- as a woman and two men
Disclaimer: You shouldn’t read DS on public transport. I did. It’s torture.
Also, this was my first erotica where I didn't think there was too much sex... The mixture was just right :-D
Suspenseful
For the most parts of DS, the Mafia suspense plot takes the backseat. Only the most, though ;-) It is brutal, there are killings and violence on page, but nothing I couldn’t handle, fortunately
And let’s just say, the last part of the series nearly made me have a heart attack and die a little. But not only the Mafia plot took its toll, the relationship developments had me sitting on the edge of my seat, too. I had no idea where this all was going until the last few pages. The last 5% were absolutely horrific and amazing and just the best ending ever, which is the reason I am giving 5 stars and not 4.5!
***
So, I promised you trigger warnings, right? I think some things have already become clear through my text, but here they are: .
I loved this book, everything about it, actually. I highly recommended it!
***
ETA: Re-Read, 2 months later already...
This is one of those books that, when you read them the second time around, have a very different feel to it, because you already know what is gonna happen, how it all ends. The reading experience is just not the same, but it was not less, not at all. I had time to savour, to watch out for hints. This second read felt like coming home. I'll never get the experience of the first read back, but I know I'm gonna visit again and again, and dive into something amazing, something that will comfort me, but also never get boring.
I love this series. I love everything I've told you above, still, and I'm happy.
***
This book counts for my following reading challenges 2015:
- 100 books in total
- 20 books about a marginalised group
- 8 books out of my comfort zone
June 15, 2015
☆☆☆☆☆ 5 Holy Wowza Stars ☆☆☆☆☆
Each page left me speechless. Aleksandr Voinov is a mastermind of fawked upness.
As Silvio puts Stefano's plan into action, you will not believe the links he goes thru to take down the Russian enemy.
Silvio is beyond crazy and gets the job done.
This book opens us up to a very dark past Silvio has. You will NOT see any of this coming.
We meet Franco, Silvio's brother. They share a closeness that you will never be expecting.
Silvio needs both Franco and Stefano in ways he can't explain. No words can justify the darkness inside him.
Stefano's plan is in full effect and Silvio's next step requires the help of Franco, and his sniper excellence. Blood will be shed and feelings are going to crossed between 3 men....I don't think any of then will see what is coming!!
I am not going to lie.....this story has me on fire and there is no stopping the heat now.
A cold shower is not enough to cool this story down or myself.
Brilliant storyline!!!!
Each page left me speechless. Aleksandr Voinov is a mastermind of fawked upness.
As Silvio puts Stefano's plan into action, you will not believe the links he goes thru to take down the Russian enemy.
Silvio is beyond crazy and gets the job done.
This book opens us up to a very dark past Silvio has. You will NOT see any of this coming.
We meet Franco, Silvio's brother. They share a closeness that you will never be expecting.
Silvio needs both Franco and Stefano in ways he can't explain. No words can justify the darkness inside him.
Stefano's plan is in full effect and Silvio's next step requires the help of Franco, and his sniper excellence. Blood will be shed and feelings are going to crossed between 3 men....I don't think any of then will see what is coming!!
I am not going to lie.....this story has me on fire and there is no stopping the heat now.
A cold shower is not enough to cool this story down or myself.
Brilliant storyline!!!!
March 5, 2012
Volume three in the Dark Soul series is broken up into three tales each with their own brand of violence, raw intensity, brutality, tenderness, and emotional power. The twists, turns, and revelations will haunt you long after the last page.
I adore Stefano and Silvio’s chemistry, tension, teasing, and voices—spoken and heartbreaking inner voices. Their time together can cause my heart to stutter and make a grin slash across my face with such surprise and force.
But the Dark Brother story introduces a new force into the mix—Franco Spadaro. And I thought Silvio was intense! Readers meet another dark souled Spadaro filled with such pain and sadness. The energy between Stefano and Franco was so immediate, intense, and intimate:
“Marino placed two fingers under the bottom of the wineglass to steady it for the pouring—the gesture not unlike that of a man lifting a woman’s chin to kiss her. Franco’s mouth was suddenly dry, and why was that affecting him so?”
When all three men shared the same space on the page it was electric and breathtaking! Once again—breathing became a problem for me. Hehe…
This installment in the Dark Soul world was filled with darkness and pain that broke my heart. Such pain, loneliness, and longing vibrated and pulsed under the spoken and unspoken words, stares, and touches between the men. The tension and suspense is killing me!
What could part four possibly hold or do to top this? I’m off to find out!
I adore Stefano and Silvio’s chemistry, tension, teasing, and voices—spoken and heartbreaking inner voices. Their time together can cause my heart to stutter and make a grin slash across my face with such surprise and force.
But the Dark Brother story introduces a new force into the mix—Franco Spadaro. And I thought Silvio was intense! Readers meet another dark souled Spadaro filled with such pain and sadness. The energy between Stefano and Franco was so immediate, intense, and intimate:
“Marino placed two fingers under the bottom of the wineglass to steady it for the pouring—the gesture not unlike that of a man lifting a woman’s chin to kiss her. Franco’s mouth was suddenly dry, and why was that affecting him so?”
When all three men shared the same space on the page it was electric and breathtaking! Once again—breathing became a problem for me. Hehe…
This installment in the Dark Soul world was filled with darkness and pain that broke my heart. Such pain, loneliness, and longing vibrated and pulsed under the spoken and unspoken words, stares, and touches between the men. The tension and suspense is killing me!
What could part four possibly hold or do to top this? I’m off to find out!
December 21, 2011
Oh Silvio, Silvio, Silvio... How can you be so reckless and focused at the same time? So violent and tender? So divine and so very human? I just can't figure you out... At times you come across as a magical, fairylike being to whom everything is possible, but the next moment you make me want to hold you and pet you to make it all better. You are so adorable, too unpredictable, ridiculously sexy, surprisingly wise, delightfully shocking... intense. A wild child. And damn, you make me worry a lot because of all the hazard things you do!
And Aleks... Please, pleeease, don't you hurt him in the end!!! Whatever it is that he is looking for - please let him have it.
And Aleks... Please, pleeease, don't you hurt him in the end!!! Whatever it is that he is looking for - please let him have it.
January 2, 2013
The Rosebreeder
Dark Soul Vol. 3 was a bit of a shocker. There was one scene in the story which was particularly hard to digest. I was both disgusted by what Silvio did and felt sorry for him. I couldn't believe that he actually went there. He truly has no boundaries and no shame. I guess that is what makes him such a fascinating character.
I wanted to know more about Silvio's brother. The conversations that they had left me with a lot of questions. I'm hoping to hear more about him in the next installment.
This wasn't a night read for sure. A little darker than the Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 and more disturbing, but just as interesting and hard to put it down.
Dark Soul Vol. 3 was a bit of a shocker. There was one scene in the story which was particularly hard to digest. I was both disgusted by what Silvio did and felt sorry for him. I couldn't believe that he actually went there. He truly has no boundaries and no shame. I guess that is what makes him such a fascinating character.
I wanted to know more about Silvio's brother. The conversations that they had left me with a lot of questions. I'm hoping to hear more about him in the next installment.
This wasn't a night read for sure. A little darker than the Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 and more disturbing, but just as interesting and hard to put it down.
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