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Dark Soul #4
Dark Soul Vol. 4
In “Dark Rival I,” the noose tightens around Stefano Marino’s neck. While Silvio and Franco are off taking care of the Russian problem, mutiny brews in Stefano’s crime family. It soon becomes clear he can trust only one man in his life, but whether he can hold on to Silvio—and what it might cost his marriage—are questions for which he has no answers.
In “Dark Rival II,” Silvio returns from his mission. Job done, threat gone, Stefano knows Silvio has no reason to stay. Or so he thought, anyway, until Silvio makes his move. It seems Silvio wants only sex, but Stefano is well aware there’s much, much more on the line. Including Donata, whose suspicions of a mistress in Stefano’s life are uncomfortably close to an even more uncomfortable truth.
Hopeless and helpless as his life crumbles down around his head, Stefano gives in to his desires in “Dark Temptation.” He isn’t any closer to understanding Silvio—and he’s farther from Donata than he’s ever been—but at least he’s come to understand his own needs. Now if only he could figure out how to be himself without hurting the ones he loves the most.
In “Dark Rival II,” Silvio returns from his mission. Job done, threat gone, Stefano knows Silvio has no reason to stay. Or so he thought, anyway, until Silvio makes his move. It seems Silvio wants only sex, but Stefano is well aware there’s much, much more on the line. Including Donata, whose suspicions of a mistress in Stefano’s life are uncomfortably close to an even more uncomfortable truth.
Hopeless and helpless as his life crumbles down around his head, Stefano gives in to his desires in “Dark Temptation.” He isn’t any closer to understanding Silvio—and he’s farther from Donata than he’s ever been—but at least he’s come to understand his own needs. Now if only he could figure out how to be himself without hurting the ones he loves the most.
68 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 25, 2012
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700 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 196 reviews
November 25, 2013
BEST VOLUME SO FAR!
Vol 4 was just what I needed.
Dark
Addictive
Raw
Keen
Seductive
Outstanding
Unique
Lascivious
Donata, I like you. I am not sure what you’re going to do in Vol.5 but I think you did the right thing.
Silvio, I love you! You’re lost and you think you don’t deserve anything good but you do.
Stefano, I know you’re in a complicated situation but you know this means something. No risk, no reward. And you deserve that reward, you know you do.
I am DYING to read Vol. 5. Fingers crossed it will be as good as this one!
December 16, 2012
I KNOW I START ALL THE ALEKSANDR VOINOV BOOK REVIEWS BY SAYING THIS BUT OMFG THAT WAS AMAZING!!
I want to go straight onto the next book. That last sex scene Oh My Life HOT is not the word!! in fact I cannot think of a word to give it justice!
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Aleksandr Voinov wirtes the hottest sex scenes
COLD SHOWERS DO NOTHING TO RELIEVE THE HEAT!!!
This describes how this book made me feel
THE WHOLE WAY THROUGH!!
Silvio and Stefano create heat and fire enough to burn my inner core
LOVING THIS SERIES SO MUCH I NEVER WANT IT TO END
I want to go straight onto the next book. That last sex scene Oh My Life HOT is not the word!! in fact I cannot think of a word to give it justice!
[image error]
Aleksandr Voinov wirtes the hottest sex scenes
COLD SHOWERS DO NOTHING TO RELIEVE THE HEAT!!!
This describes how this book made me feel
THE WHOLE WAY THROUGH!!
Silvio and Stefano create heat and fire enough to burn my inner core
LOVING THIS SERIES SO MUCH I NEVER WANT IT TO END
March 24, 2013
This series is Amazing! I can't predict what's coming next!!
The war with the Russian mob has taken a whole new turn. Silvio and Franco are just.. BADASS and EXTREME yet efficient. I am in awe of them. This war just went nuclear! (not literally)
Stefano's emotions have reached a boiling point! And his feelings for Silvio have climaxed to "I'm claiming you as mine, and no one else should ever touch you again!"
Unfortunatley there is trouble brewing on the home front for Stefano. I am beyond curious as to how he will "handle his business". I am hoping for quick and decisive action on his part,.
Action, Drama, Love, Murder! This series has it all and I love it! On to the finale.
The war with the Russian mob has taken a whole new turn. Silvio and Franco are just.. BADASS and EXTREME yet efficient. I am in awe of them. This war just went nuclear! (not literally)
Stefano's emotions have reached a boiling point! And his feelings for Silvio have climaxed to "I'm claiming you as mine, and no one else should ever touch you again!"
Unfortunatley there is trouble brewing on the home front for Stefano. I am beyond curious as to how he will "handle his business". I am hoping for quick and decisive action on his part,.
Action, Drama, Love, Murder! This series has it all and I love it! On to the finale.
September 22, 2012
WHOA....that will bloody well teach me to READ THE WARNINGS.
My over exuberance for this series led me to instant one click without checking the synopsis or warnings. YIKES!!! I wasn't expecting THAT!
Silvio you are indeed a very Dark Soul, like black dark. No you are black hole of Calcutta dark!! Dude..you need some flipping therapy.
But then you might just be a boring masochistic killing machine instead, and I couldn't have that.
Again...another shocking, compelling addition by the author with the sexiest name ever. I want to roll my R's around my mouth Aleksandrrrrrr. Rwoarrrr...oh and growl a bit too.
And onward book 5!!!
My over exuberance for this series led me to instant one click without checking the synopsis or warnings. YIKES!!! I wasn't expecting THAT!
Silvio you are indeed a very Dark Soul, like black dark. No you are black hole of Calcutta dark!! Dude..you need some flipping therapy.
But then you might just be a boring masochistic killing machine instead, and I couldn't have that.
Again...another shocking, compelling addition by the author with the sexiest name ever. I want to roll my R's around my mouth Aleksandrrrrrr. Rwoarrrr...oh and growl a bit too.
And onward book 5!!!
March 31, 2013
I just realized I accidentally read these out of order.....and now I want to cry because I already know the ending, so it's ruined for me now:((((. I did not want this series to end.......EVER!!!!!!!!!! .
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.
February 27, 2012
*****Review Contains Spoilers******
Another phenomenal Dark Soul installment! There's so much going on in these 3 short stories, I don't know where to begin. I loved every minute of it. Aleksandr Voinov has such a beautiful way with words which leaves me utterly captivated and always wanting more.
In Dark Soul 4, each story is told from Stefano's POV. Stefano is a complete mess. He's struggling with his feelings and doesn't know how to deal with any of them.
In Dark Rival I, we see the beginning of Stefano's world crumbling. His capos are questioning him and his decision to have Silvio "help" with the Russians. Stefano not only has to deal with his men but Silvio and Franco are away and all he can think about is his need for Silvio. His fantasies aren't ending with just Silvio though. Nope, now Stefano is thinking about both Spadaro brothers. HA, he can't even come to terms with how he feels for Silvio, how the hell can he deal with wanting both of them?
In Dark Rival II, Silvio and Franco return from having successfully gotten rid of the Russians. Stefano finally gives in to Silvio's advances and Stefano realizes how much he enjoys being the one to fulfill Slivio's needs. Stefano, however once again finds himself in trouble. This time with his wife Donata. She suspects Stefano is having an affair and confronts him. Stefano denies it but in the end he admits he doesn't want to lose her, thereby telling Donata all she needs to know.
An important part of this story is a conversation that Stefano and Franco have. Franco is preparing to leave and he knows he can't give Silvio what he wants. He tells Stefano exactly what Silvio needs and makes it known that Stefano is in deep with Silvio. Franco gets right to the point with Stefano by telling him: "Silvio wants to belong. Make him". God I love this line. It just give me chills. Franco leaving sets up an emotional collision between Silvio and Stefano. Silvio deals with it the only way he knows how, by looking for sex and Stefano isn't liking it one bit.
In Dark Temptation, Stefano faces the repercussions of Franco leaving head on. Stefano makes his decision to go after Silvio. I love Stefano's possessiveness and raw emotions. He wants Silvio and no one is standing in his way. When he sees Silvio at the bar picking up 2 cops, I could feel the tension and jealously pouring out from him. This leads to a hot hotel scene and now there's no turning back for Stefano.
I loved the ending but now I'm left with a ton of questions. Stefano knows what Silvio needs and of course Stefano wants to be the one to give it to him but can he without his entire world falling apart? Uggg, only one more book left with all these unresolved issues. This makes me very nervous.
I can't wait until Dark Soul 5!
Another phenomenal Dark Soul installment! There's so much going on in these 3 short stories, I don't know where to begin. I loved every minute of it. Aleksandr Voinov has such a beautiful way with words which leaves me utterly captivated and always wanting more.
In Dark Soul 4, each story is told from Stefano's POV. Stefano is a complete mess. He's struggling with his feelings and doesn't know how to deal with any of them.
In Dark Rival I, we see the beginning of Stefano's world crumbling. His capos are questioning him and his decision to have Silvio "help" with the Russians. Stefano not only has to deal with his men but Silvio and Franco are away and all he can think about is his need for Silvio. His fantasies aren't ending with just Silvio though. Nope, now Stefano is thinking about both Spadaro brothers. HA, he can't even come to terms with how he feels for Silvio, how the hell can he deal with wanting both of them?
In Dark Rival II, Silvio and Franco return from having successfully gotten rid of the Russians. Stefano finally gives in to Silvio's advances and Stefano realizes how much he enjoys being the one to fulfill Slivio's needs. Stefano, however once again finds himself in trouble. This time with his wife Donata. She suspects Stefano is having an affair and confronts him. Stefano denies it but in the end he admits he doesn't want to lose her, thereby telling Donata all she needs to know.
An important part of this story is a conversation that Stefano and Franco have. Franco is preparing to leave and he knows he can't give Silvio what he wants. He tells Stefano exactly what Silvio needs and makes it known that Stefano is in deep with Silvio. Franco gets right to the point with Stefano by telling him: "Silvio wants to belong. Make him". God I love this line. It just give me chills. Franco leaving sets up an emotional collision between Silvio and Stefano. Silvio deals with it the only way he knows how, by looking for sex and Stefano isn't liking it one bit.
In Dark Temptation, Stefano faces the repercussions of Franco leaving head on. Stefano makes his decision to go after Silvio. I love Stefano's possessiveness and raw emotions. He wants Silvio and no one is standing in his way. When he sees Silvio at the bar picking up 2 cops, I could feel the tension and jealously pouring out from him. This leads to a hot hotel scene and now there's no turning back for Stefano.
I loved the ending but now I'm left with a ton of questions. Stefano knows what Silvio needs and of course Stefano wants to be the one to give it to him but can he without his entire world falling apart? Uggg, only one more book left with all these unresolved issues. This makes me very nervous.
I can't wait until Dark Soul 5!
February 25, 2012
I was very confused at the end of this installment, and that's probably the way it's got to be, since the next will be the last. I had the impression this was transitional, but at the same time I didn't feel completely satisfied with how things ended, because there's nothing not even remotely resolved in Stefano's life. I kept wondering: why did the author created - or even removed - conflicts, but I didn't really feel the story going somewhere?
While I was pondering this deep - I was going to say profound, but that's a bit extreme - feeling of dissatisfaction, I looked at it from a different angle. All the three parts of this installment are written in Stefano's point-of-view and it's Stefano who's not really confronting what's going on.
There are two important parts of Stefano's life which are slowly crumbling because of Silvio and because Stefano has no idea what to do with him: his clan is questioning his leadership; his wife his questioning his faithfulness. Stefano doesn't really take the situation into his hands, because up to that point he hasn't cleared his mind about his feelings for Silvio, his attraction for him, what it could cost, what it could mean.
Silvio doesn't really push Stefano because, really, Silvio doesn't need to push anything, things move around him just because he is there, because, as Franco says, "Silvio can't touch anything without changing it." Moreover I don't think Silvio changed Stefano, he just made the dissolution of Stefano's life faster. I am almost convinced now that it would have happened nonetheless, maybe in different way, but Stefano is clearly not mafia-boss material, even if there is a dominant streak in him that Silvio brings out.
There is a moment that I read and re-read because it kept me suspended.
Silvio blinked. Once, then lowered his gaze. "All I want from you is..."
This moment was so smartly played and showed much more in the omissions than in what was being said. Stefano knows Silvio needs something profound, but he suggests sex, and Silvio never gets to really complete his request, he just breathes a "Yeah." What's unsaid is so powerful and heartbreaking and it remains between the lines.
This is the reason why I love this series.
What will happen? Will they make it work? What price will they pay? All I know is that, whatever will happen, I won't be ready to part with them.
While I was pondering this deep - I was going to say profound, but that's a bit extreme - feeling of dissatisfaction, I looked at it from a different angle. All the three parts of this installment are written in Stefano's point-of-view and it's Stefano who's not really confronting what's going on.
There are two important parts of Stefano's life which are slowly crumbling because of Silvio and because Stefano has no idea what to do with him: his clan is questioning his leadership; his wife his questioning his faithfulness. Stefano doesn't really take the situation into his hands, because up to that point he hasn't cleared his mind about his feelings for Silvio, his attraction for him, what it could cost, what it could mean.
Silvio doesn't really push Stefano because, really, Silvio doesn't need to push anything, things move around him just because he is there, because, as Franco says, "Silvio can't touch anything without changing it." Moreover I don't think Silvio changed Stefano, he just made the dissolution of Stefano's life faster. I am almost convinced now that it would have happened nonetheless, maybe in different way, but Stefano is clearly not mafia-boss material, even if there is a dominant streak in him that Silvio brings out.
There is a moment that I read and re-read because it kept me suspended.
Silvio blinked. Once, then lowered his gaze. "All I want from you is..."
This moment was so smartly played and showed much more in the omissions than in what was being said. Stefano knows Silvio needs something profound, but he suggests sex, and Silvio never gets to really complete his request, he just breathes a "Yeah." What's unsaid is so powerful and heartbreaking and it remains between the lines.
This is the reason why I love this series.
What will happen? Will they make it work? What price will they pay? All I know is that, whatever will happen, I won't be ready to part with them.
September 10, 2013
4,8 stars
Love it...Simply love it...
It was for me like a five-course meal in a starred restaurant.
With a star cuisine Aleksandr Voinov.
A first-class flavor experience.
Exquisite.
Love it...Simply love it...
It was for me like a five-course meal in a starred restaurant.
With a star cuisine Aleksandr Voinov.
A first-class flavor experience.
Exquisite.
Read
February 27, 2017The new edition has been published (new covers, newly edited, also 3 parts rather than 5).
February 26, 2012
WARNING: THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS!
I just finished reading Dark Soul Vol. 4 and I'm still enjoying the euphoria the book left me with. I truly, sincerely loved it. Aleksandr Voinov's writing is wonderful to read: the way he uses his words beautifully and the way he leaves just enough of the story to be found between the lines. It all makes me so happy - even when the things happening in the story are cruel. Weird, huh?!
It was fascinating to witness Stefano's struggle with his feelings towards his wife, Silvio and even Franco - not to mention his mixed feelings about himself and his regret about the things he had done or left undone. I was touched with the scene with Stefano and Franco talking in the kitchen after Silvio had stormed out. Franco's character still remains kind of a mystery to me, but it seems that there is a beautiful person beneath that troubled, stoic man. It was moving how he advised Stefano "always let Silvio go when he's like that" and how he told Stefano about Silvio's birthday. It's strange, how just a few simple words can be so haunting: "Silvio wants to belong. Make him." And after that, how devastating it was to see how lost and miserable Silvio felt, when Franco left him.
But you gotta love the extreme "oh shit" feeling that makes your stomach in knots, when it's followed by such a strong "oh yes!" feeling! I loved the way Stefano went after Silvio to fetch him from the bar and how he acted like a jealous boyfriend in front of those cops! And the final scene at the hotel - dear God! Talking about strong emotions - shared with both men and yours truly. It was so interesting to try to figure out which one of the men were playing mind games with other.
And when I say mind games, it doesn't come out quite right, because at the same time both Stefano and Silvio are raw with emotions. No doubt that there is some manipulation and fury going on in that hotel room, but there are also extremely vulnerable, sweet moments between them in the Dark Temptation. Moments that make you ponder over them afterwards. Moments that make you think what are the words that were left unsaid. Moments that make your heart swell, and remind you why you actually love words and stories and reading so much. One of the best parts about Aleksandr Voinov's stories is that they are never ever two-dimensional! Scenes like this make Dark Soul books such great rereads!
Despite all the disturbing and disconcerting stuff going on in Stefano's life, it was important to me that the book ended the way it did with a feeling of hope. Aleksandr can torture me any time with his words as long as he leaves me with a hint of hope - and an image of naked Silvio sprawled on the bed like a kitten! What more can a reader ask, really? Thank you for making me happy, Aleksandr. I can't wait for the final Dark Soul!
Er... did I already mention that I highly recommend this series?! ;)
I just finished reading Dark Soul Vol. 4 and I'm still enjoying the euphoria the book left me with. I truly, sincerely loved it. Aleksandr Voinov's writing is wonderful to read: the way he uses his words beautifully and the way he leaves just enough of the story to be found between the lines. It all makes me so happy - even when the things happening in the story are cruel. Weird, huh?!
It was fascinating to witness Stefano's struggle with his feelings towards his wife, Silvio and even Franco - not to mention his mixed feelings about himself and his regret about the things he had done or left undone. I was touched with the scene with Stefano and Franco talking in the kitchen after Silvio had stormed out. Franco's character still remains kind of a mystery to me, but it seems that there is a beautiful person beneath that troubled, stoic man. It was moving how he advised Stefano "always let Silvio go when he's like that" and how he told Stefano about Silvio's birthday. It's strange, how just a few simple words can be so haunting: "Silvio wants to belong. Make him." And after that, how devastating it was to see how lost and miserable Silvio felt, when Franco left him.
But you gotta love the extreme "oh shit" feeling that makes your stomach in knots, when it's followed by such a strong "oh yes!" feeling! I loved the way Stefano went after Silvio to fetch him from the bar and how he acted like a jealous boyfriend in front of those cops! And the final scene at the hotel - dear God! Talking about strong emotions - shared with both men and yours truly. It was so interesting to try to figure out which one of the men were playing mind games with other.
And when I say mind games, it doesn't come out quite right, because at the same time both Stefano and Silvio are raw with emotions. No doubt that there is some manipulation and fury going on in that hotel room, but there are also extremely vulnerable, sweet moments between them in the Dark Temptation. Moments that make you ponder over them afterwards. Moments that make you think what are the words that were left unsaid. Moments that make your heart swell, and remind you why you actually love words and stories and reading so much. One of the best parts about Aleksandr Voinov's stories is that they are never ever two-dimensional! Scenes like this make Dark Soul books such great rereads!
Despite all the disturbing and disconcerting stuff going on in Stefano's life, it was important to me that the book ended the way it did with a feeling of hope. Aleksandr can torture me any time with his words as long as he leaves me with a hint of hope - and an image of naked Silvio sprawled on the bed like a kitten! What more can a reader ask, really? Thank you for making me happy, Aleksandr. I can't wait for the final Dark Soul!
Er... did I already mention that I highly recommend this series?! ;)
February 25, 2012
This successfully have me reduced to a blabbering mess of gush.
I was somewhat apprehensive to where this story would take us after I read vol.3 and the story Dark Brother. But my limits that I so reluctantly stepped over when reading that, was nowhere in sight when it came to Franco and Silvio's interactions in this one. I ached for the brothers.
These short pages is loaded with sentences, and even single words, that is so beautifully put together that they have the impact of punches or the thrilling high of an adrenaline-rush. Sometimes poetic and sometimes so brutal that you have to stop just to catch your breath.
I honestly didn't think this series could get any better, but Aleks did what he does best, and proved me terribly wrong.
Now I just have to find a way to pass the time until I get my hands on vol.5...
I was somewhat apprehensive to where this story would take us after I read vol.3 and the story Dark Brother. But my limits that I so reluctantly stepped over when reading that, was nowhere in sight when it came to Franco and Silvio's interactions in this one. I ached for the brothers.
These short pages is loaded with sentences, and even single words, that is so beautifully put together that they have the impact of punches or the thrilling high of an adrenaline-rush. Sometimes poetic and sometimes so brutal that you have to stop just to catch your breath.
I honestly didn't think this series could get any better, but Aleks did what he does best, and proved me terribly wrong.
Now I just have to find a way to pass the time until I get my hands on vol.5...
December 16, 2012
He kissed down to the "anima nera" tattooed across Silvio's chest...
Silvio seemed way too precious now to leave him to any stranger, let alone two or four, or anybody else. If he'd been able to, he'd have washed the traces of every touch away. Carved all hurt, pain, resentment, disappointment, and failure out of his soul and burned it.
-This is why I'm reading. This is the emotion I want in a book.
Silvio seemed way too precious now to leave him to any stranger, let alone two or four, or anybody else. If he'd been able to, he'd have washed the traces of every touch away. Carved all hurt, pain, resentment, disappointment, and failure out of his soul and burned it.
-This is why I'm reading. This is the emotion I want in a book.
December 15, 2021
3.5 🌟 "The reason why she thinks I’m cheating is that I am cheating.”......well!! who thought mob bosses could be so smart.🤔🤔🤔
August 31, 2012
Comments on Vol 4, not a review:
I need someone to hold me and tell me everything's gonna be ok.
I feel a little like Alice in Wonderland or Dorothy in Oz...I've woken up in a completely foreign WORLD and I don't know what to make of it all.
I'm tired of using the word "twisted", because I feel less and less that it's negative and more just...not w/in my realm of understanding. Silvio. Stefano. Franco. WTF-o?
*sigh*. I'm trying to prepare myself for the inevitable disappointment that not all stories end with a HEA. How naive of me to wish, hope, be willing to beg for one here.
"He's got no limits, no rules. Silvio does what he will."
"(Stefano) tried not to imagine Silvio fucking or being fucked by a stranger. It turned his stomach, and amidst the nausea was something like anger, resentment, worry, and other emotions he couldn't even name."
Oh, Silvio...*sigh*
March 15, 2016
So the shit really hits the fan in Volume 4 and I have to say I was grateful that Silvio and Franco were off page together. What I would of liked though is Silvio's POV for the jobs that he and Franco carried out. Seems I like mindless violence. See Aleksandr Voinov is helping me learn all sorts of interesting things about myself.
Really starting to get a better understanding of Silvio in this and I've got to say I'm lost for Stefano now, he does not make excuses and knows his weaknesses and he does not blame Silvio for how he makes him feel which so often happens. I feel really badly for Donata, would of been so much easier if Voinov had of written her as a bitch but I know it would of been easier to dismiss her then and that's not what he was going for.
“Men kill you, but women eviscerate you first.”
It's all a bit of a mess at the end but we do get what we have been ever so patiently waiting for. NOOKY!! Most satisfying it was too!!
Really starting to get a better understanding of Silvio in this and I've got to say I'm lost for Stefano now, he does not make excuses and knows his weaknesses and he does not blame Silvio for how he makes him feel which so often happens. I feel really badly for Donata, would of been so much easier if Voinov had of written her as a bitch but I know it would of been easier to dismiss her then and that's not what he was going for.
“Men kill you, but women eviscerate you first.”
It's all a bit of a mess at the end but we do get what we have been ever so patiently waiting for. NOOKY!! Most satisfying it was too!!
January 16, 2013
~~~
No Spoilers - just quotes
All this was too bizarre for words.
In this penultimate book in the series things are really coming to a head. Literally, Stephano is pushed to the brink from so many directions that you feel he is about to lose it at any moment. Voinov keeps an edge of discomfort running through this story and that tension is thrilling.
"Tell me to leave."
The barracuda's closing in for the kill.
"I wouldn't mean it."
No one and nothing is pushing Stephano harder or further than himself. I like the dichotomy of these "power men" who are so confused by basic instinct and emotion. And, although I find myself nearly shouting at the characters what the right choice is there is, even in me, an underlying doubt about who's pulling strings and moving pawns.
Who'd give him the wisdon to handle Silvio without losing his mind in addition to his heart?
I was surprised and delighted to find levity mixed into a climactic portion of the story. Again and even more glaringly, Stephano's self-doubt and humanness shows through allowing me to identify (as ridiculous as that seems) with him.
..."you leave...an absence when you're not there. Unlike other people, who leave nothing." He sounded like an idiot, didn't he. Yep, he did.
Although I missed having more of Silvio's perspective in this book, he was clearly central to the story. His angst and pain permeated everywhere and his unique sexual attractiveness makes him an undeniably unforgettable character.
I am looking forward to the conclusion even as I have my concerns that there is likely not going to be a happy ending.
~~~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
http://www.attentionisarbitrary.blogspot.com
No Spoilers - just quotes
All this was too bizarre for words.
In this penultimate book in the series things are really coming to a head. Literally, Stephano is pushed to the brink from so many directions that you feel he is about to lose it at any moment. Voinov keeps an edge of discomfort running through this story and that tension is thrilling.
"Tell me to leave."
The barracuda's closing in for the kill.
"I wouldn't mean it."
No one and nothing is pushing Stephano harder or further than himself. I like the dichotomy of these "power men" who are so confused by basic instinct and emotion. And, although I find myself nearly shouting at the characters what the right choice is there is, even in me, an underlying doubt about who's pulling strings and moving pawns.
Who'd give him the wisdon to handle Silvio without losing his mind in addition to his heart?
I was surprised and delighted to find levity mixed into a climactic portion of the story. Again and even more glaringly, Stephano's self-doubt and humanness shows through allowing me to identify (as ridiculous as that seems) with him.
..."you leave...an absence when you're not there. Unlike other people, who leave nothing." He sounded like an idiot, didn't he. Yep, he did.
Although I missed having more of Silvio's perspective in this book, he was clearly central to the story. His angst and pain permeated everywhere and his unique sexual attractiveness makes him an undeniably unforgettable character.
I am looking forward to the conclusion even as I have my concerns that there is likely not going to be a happy ending.
~~~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
http://www.attentionisarbitrary.blogspot.com
February 26, 2012
In Dark Soul 4
While the story unfolds, what captured my attention the most are obviously the strong characters that populate this world. Franco, the silent brother, the one that . Donata, who more and more reveals herself as a strong and confident woman. Silvio ("Silvio had that quality about him, like a ghost, or a demon- a revenant moving through space and time") with his intense focus, his complexity, his strenght and his hidden weaknesses (that finally Stefano starts to see and decipher). The more I read about him, the more I like him. He is incredibly real. The three stories are all from the point of view of Stefano, and he is starting to become more confident in his skin to recognise and accept what he really wants, and this to me seems very promising. Although this read is satisfiyng in itself, I can't wait to read the next chapter in this story, and read about all of them some more.
While the story unfolds, what captured my attention the most are obviously the strong characters that populate this world. Franco, the silent brother, the one that . Donata, who more and more reveals herself as a strong and confident woman. Silvio ("Silvio had that quality about him, like a ghost, or a demon- a revenant moving through space and time") with his intense focus, his complexity, his strenght and his hidden weaknesses (that finally Stefano starts to see and decipher). The more I read about him, the more I like him. He is incredibly real. The three stories are all from the point of view of Stefano, and he is starting to become more confident in his skin to recognise and accept what he really wants, and this to me seems very promising. Although this read is satisfiyng in itself, I can't wait to read the next chapter in this story, and read about all of them some more.
January 23, 2014
This might be my favourite so far.
So many things I loved about it.
I hate that poor Donata is being hurt now. She hasn't done anything wrong, but she's losing her husband regardless :(
I am glad that Franco is gone. I feel so sorry for him, but being around Silvio (physically) is not good for him. He needs to find another way to heal.
Finally seeing Stefano succumb to Silvio was amazing. He's been trying so damn hard to hold it together, but his life is falling apart.
He needs Silvio. Needs to explore what is happening to him.
I am so sad that the next volume is the last, but I am excited to see how this all ends :)
So many things I loved about it.
I hate that poor Donata is being hurt now. She hasn't done anything wrong, but she's losing her husband regardless :(
I am glad that Franco is gone. I feel so sorry for him, but being around Silvio (physically) is not good for him. He needs to find another way to heal.
Finally seeing Stefano succumb to Silvio was amazing. He's been trying so damn hard to hold it together, but his life is falling apart.
He needs Silvio. Needs to explore what is happening to him.
I am so sad that the next volume is the last, but I am excited to see how this all ends :)
February 26, 2012
Shit. I just noticed the cover. Does anyone die? That thing looks too much like a casket. Plus why would someone hold a rose like that?
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26 February 2012
Franco behind the lines. Donata starting a frontal attack. Silvio and Stefano holding their fragile ground, even making some progress, but at what cost?
I have a feeling of impending doom.
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26 February 2012
Franco behind the lines. Donata starting a frontal attack. Silvio and Stefano holding their fragile ground, even making some progress, but at what cost?
I have a feeling of impending doom.
June 29, 2013
Ok apparently I like dark and twisted characters! I love this series! OMG!
June 16, 2015
☆☆☆☆ 4.5 Conflicted with Love and Desire Stars ☆☆☆☆
Stefano is battling himself and the balance his life once had. He loves his wife but can't help the possessive need and want he has for Silvio.
The undeniable attraction Stefano and Silvio have is beyond what either of them can fight off.
They don't fight their feelings for each very well. Why stop what feels so right.
But Stefano is not doing well hiding his feelings any longer. His wife has picked up all the clues Stefano didn't know he was leaving behind.
How can he tell the woman he loves, he is obsessed with desire for a man....one she trusts.....Silvio.
Donata gives Stefano the chance to come clean, she needs the truth, but he can't hurt her.
Stefano finds Silvio, needing the man's touch, finally setting free the desire he has. The men give in to the attraction and make love. Trying to keep the feelings pushed aside, Stefano knows he can't any longer.
What if it does mean something?
Then we are both fucked.
Hearts are going to get broken.....but who's?
Stefano is battling himself and the balance his life once had. He loves his wife but can't help the possessive need and want he has for Silvio.
The undeniable attraction Stefano and Silvio have is beyond what either of them can fight off.
They don't fight their feelings for each very well. Why stop what feels so right.
But Stefano is not doing well hiding his feelings any longer. His wife has picked up all the clues Stefano didn't know he was leaving behind.
How can he tell the woman he loves, he is obsessed with desire for a man....one she trusts.....Silvio.
Donata gives Stefano the chance to come clean, she needs the truth, but he can't hurt her.
Stefano finds Silvio, needing the man's touch, finally setting free the desire he has. The men give in to the attraction and make love. Trying to keep the feelings pushed aside, Stefano knows he can't any longer.
What if it does mean something?
Then we are both fucked.
Hearts are going to get broken.....but who's?
March 29, 2013
Another Dark Soul, another 4.5 stars....this series is really hotting up
I don't like you Augusto, and I don't care who knows it!!
So what if you get 'taken care of'
, you're a nasty piece of work. Unfortunately, I fear we may not have heard the last of you.Franco and Silvio deal with the remaining Russians at the funeral
of the ones they'd previously 'taken out'. Franco decides he doesn't like relying so much on other people and gets out of Dodge
(but obviously not on a horse), so things are left simmering between Silvio and Signore Stefano. Donata returns, but is under the impression that Stefano has acquired a 'bit on the side'....if only she knew!! The books finishes with Silvio and Stefano finally getting it together, and methinks there's a phrase...'Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned
....Watch out you two guys....I've a feeling she'll be out to get you!
December 12, 2012
This installment is on the sweet side. Silvio and Stefano seemed to be more in love than in lust.
August 21, 2013
OMG!!! I don't want this series to end...
March 20, 2022
“Silvio shook his head. You’ve got no obligation to me.”
“I want that obligation. That’s what commitment’s about. You… cast your lot with another person, you care about them, you suffer when they suffer…”
Different layers of the enigmatic assassin are gradually revealed as Silvio’s and Stefano’s relationship deepens. Stefano’s world is turned upside down as he’s torn between his obsession and undeniable feelings for Silvio, and his love for his wife.
January 22, 2015
4.5 Stars ***Review for Complete Series***
WOW this was REALLY good.
Stefano is a mafia boss who is having a turf war with the Russians. He needs help and Silvio Spadaro is a hired hitman sent to him to help him with that problem. Stefano finds himself desiring Silvio even though he is happily married and loves his wife Donata. But going against his urges becomes too difficult and he doesn't want to let Silvio or Donata go.
Once I started I seriously couldn't put it down. I found myself utterly intrigued by the attraction between Stefano and Silvio as well as them as individuals. Silvio was a hired assassin who was freaking scary for sure but also pulled at my heart strings for his vulnerability, sometimes his childlike behaviour (e.g. puppy *melts*), his lack of emotion and wanting to belong.
I enjoyed watching Stefano change throughout the book. I found he felt real to me in the way he questioned his sexuality and not being ready to act on it. I also loved how loving a person he was and how he handled the situation with his wife. I loved Donata, she was a great character as well. Stefano's acceptance of Silvio was REALLY heart warming.
This story was dark and there were some disturbing parts (e.g. incest) that is definitely not for everyone. But I have to say it was written in such a way that even though what was happening was wrong it never overwhelmed me. Everything that occured was written in a respectful way.
The ending was just PERFECT by staying true to the characters and not making it sappy. Aleksandr Voinov did a wonderful job writing this story. I LOVED IT!! I wish there was more!
WOW this was REALLY good.
Stefano is a mafia boss who is having a turf war with the Russians. He needs help and Silvio Spadaro is a hired hitman sent to him to help him with that problem. Stefano finds himself desiring Silvio even though he is happily married and loves his wife Donata. But going against his urges becomes too difficult and he doesn't want to let Silvio or Donata go.
Once I started I seriously couldn't put it down. I found myself utterly intrigued by the attraction between Stefano and Silvio as well as them as individuals. Silvio was a hired assassin who was freaking scary for sure but also pulled at my heart strings for his vulnerability, sometimes his childlike behaviour (e.g. puppy *melts*), his lack of emotion and wanting to belong.
I enjoyed watching Stefano change throughout the book. I found he felt real to me in the way he questioned his sexuality and not being ready to act on it. I also loved how loving a person he was and how he handled the situation with his wife. I loved Donata, she was a great character as well. Stefano's acceptance of Silvio was REALLY heart warming.
This story was dark and there were some disturbing parts (e.g. incest) that is definitely not for everyone. But I have to say it was written in such a way that even though what was happening was wrong it never overwhelmed me. Everything that occured was written in a respectful way.
The ending was just PERFECT by staying true to the characters and not making it sappy. Aleksandr Voinov did a wonderful job writing this story. I LOVED IT!! I wish there was more!
July 29, 2013
~SWEET BABY JESUS ~ITS ABOUT DAMN TIME!!!!!! Yup, that's all you need to know about book 4 ;-)
K
K
December 16, 2012
I can't believe there is only one book left to go, I need at least a few more and can't see how things are going to get resolved in just one more book?
'What if it does mean something' Oooh please let it mean something!
Is it unrealistic wanting a HEA for Silvio and Stefano!
'What if it does mean something' Oooh please let it mean something!
Is it unrealistic wanting a HEA for Silvio and Stefano!
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