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A Star So Dark and Peculiar
It’s time to embrace the night and show the true might of the stars so bright…
My name is Gage Odysseus Declan.
You could say I’m a complicated man with uncomplicated needs. I’m Alpha Wolf for the City, charged with protecting my kind. I enjoy law and order, sexy times at Circus, and being left alone.
Step too close, and I’ll cut you down.
But I’ve stumbled upon a kitty cat that smells like a raging storm, a dark and peculiar chaos that I want to dominate and cuddle.
His name is Ethan Odin Vinci.
I suspect he’s the Blade to Crown Lion. The cat lives in the Castle, is crazier than anyone I’ve ever met, and is way too devious for that vain head of his.
And he’s just as alpha as me.
That’s…a problem.
The Lady Moons connected two men together, an utter blindsiding Bond. This has never happened before—it’s not our way.
Yet here I am. Here he is.
Here we are under the sky and the stars and the night, circling each other like we’re moonslit prey…
While bloodthirsty vampires take root in the City, and our people continue to die from TEARS.
But I’ve got this under control.
I am that good.
Get ready to twinkle twinkle, bitches.
The night is going to shine.
*This novel is approx. 150,000 words. This world does not contain MPreg.
* Violence.
My name is Gage Odysseus Declan.
You could say I’m a complicated man with uncomplicated needs. I’m Alpha Wolf for the City, charged with protecting my kind. I enjoy law and order, sexy times at Circus, and being left alone.
Step too close, and I’ll cut you down.
But I’ve stumbled upon a kitty cat that smells like a raging storm, a dark and peculiar chaos that I want to dominate and cuddle.
His name is Ethan Odin Vinci.
I suspect he’s the Blade to Crown Lion. The cat lives in the Castle, is crazier than anyone I’ve ever met, and is way too devious for that vain head of his.
And he’s just as alpha as me.
That’s…a problem.
The Lady Moons connected two men together, an utter blindsiding Bond. This has never happened before—it’s not our way.
Yet here I am. Here he is.
Here we are under the sky and the stars and the night, circling each other like we’re moonslit prey…
While bloodthirsty vampires take root in the City, and our people continue to die from TEARS.
But I’ve got this under control.
I am that good.
Get ready to twinkle twinkle, bitches.
The night is going to shine.
*This novel is approx. 150,000 words. This world does not contain MPreg.
* Violence.
542 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 27, 2023
75 people are currently reading
269 people want to read
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November 25, 2023
4.5 stars ☆
He cleared his throat and readjusted himself on my favorite chair, showing his unease. "Your essence is steel that burns into the deadliest sword this world has ever seen. From the blade, my enemy's blood drips into my mouth."
Alpha Vinci sucked in a slow breath, as if he could physically taste his bloody words. "Your scent is hope, devotion, and unyielding strength to me. I wanted to shift and soak up all the blood in my fur."
[...] "Rain," I spoke clearly, not intimidated—at least I wouldn't show it if I were. "Rain that floods and becomes the blackest, warmest ocean. The water swallowed me whole. It kept me safe within its depths. Your scent is peace, fidelity, and dark power to me."
~ the way they described the other's scent was SO poetic, i was in love. 😭
i LOVED this. i was invested with the whole story line of a world where two ALPHA males were destined to be mates but same sex relationships, or even just sexual contact, are prohibited and you'll have to pay a fine and get sent to jail if you're caught and, on top of that, they're both important figures in their city rather than just regular civilians (and the concept of TEARS and ? heartbreaking). the fight for dominance between them was something i've always wanted to see in an alpha/alpha pairing and curious to see how that dynamic would play out and this didn't disappoint. i loved the intensity and angst between the mcs and how it was developed. i also loved the side characters and most of the ones introduced played such important roles to the story (i'm especially curious about Romeo and Shawn and wouldn't mind if they have their own stories 👀).
He cleared his throat and readjusted himself on my favorite chair, showing his unease. "Your essence is steel that burns into the deadliest sword this world has ever seen. From the blade, my enemy's blood drips into my mouth."
Alpha Vinci sucked in a slow breath, as if he could physically taste his bloody words. "Your scent is hope, devotion, and unyielding strength to me. I wanted to shift and soak up all the blood in my fur."
[...] "Rain," I spoke clearly, not intimidated—at least I wouldn't show it if I were. "Rain that floods and becomes the blackest, warmest ocean. The water swallowed me whole. It kept me safe within its depths. Your scent is peace, fidelity, and dark power to me."
~ the way they described the other's scent was SO poetic, i was in love. 😭
i LOVED this. i was invested with the whole story line of a world where two ALPHA males were destined to be mates but same sex relationships, or even just sexual contact, are prohibited and you'll have to pay a fine and get sent to jail if you're caught and, on top of that, they're both important figures in their city rather than just regular civilians (and the concept of TEARS and ? heartbreaking). the fight for dominance between them was something i've always wanted to see in an alpha/alpha pairing and curious to see how that dynamic would play out and this didn't disappoint. i loved the intensity and angst between the mcs and how it was developed. i also loved the side characters and most of the ones introduced played such important roles to the story (i'm especially curious about Romeo and Shawn and wouldn't mind if they have their own stories 👀).
January 2, 2025
* ☘︎ :･ﾟTOP 10 READ 2023 :･ﾟ☘︎ *
4**** stars
romance: 5 stars
story idea: 5 stars
execution: 4 stars
world building: 2 stars
Last week I put in the following request in the M/M Book Rec fb group: “Looking for an entertaining and steamy read with two equally strong and confident MCs. (preferably vers) Extra points for witty banter and seriously hot dirty talk. TIA” —and hell, THIS was it..
I LOVED IT. Cyan Crowe is a pen name for author Scarlett Dawn and her first dabble in MM romance. With well over 500 pages this book is on the longer side but hell, time and story just flew by it was that good. Didn’t mind the length one bit (and I usually start to cringe at books with over three hundred pages *lol).
Romance-wise this book was an absolut blast and I think I haven’t read anything yet I could compare it to in the way the author developed the relationship between Alpha Wolf Gage Declan and Alpha Lion (and Blade to the Lion Crown) Ethan Vinci. I also think that I have never read an intimate scene like the extended one in the middle of the book, that was full of so much struggle, irresistible pull and intense emotions that was also more about them and their relationship than the getting off.
Omg, when they first used their first names toward each other I turned into a puddle of goo!
Already in the first chapter we learn what the stakes are in this fantastical world—with sexual relations between the same gender being prohibited and therefore a criminal offense. So you know our two main characters are going to be in serious trouble. What were The Moons thinking? (when pairing them, two males, up as mates. It had never happened before.) I wouldn’t flat-out peg them as enemies but they sure as shit fight each other tooth and nail for the entire book.
Their dynamic was glorious. The main weaknesses of this book tho are imo the world-building as well as the story build-up. It is a really good story, but I was way too often confused as shit with certain terms, the role of various characters and a whole lot of the inner workings of this world.
But honestly, I’m so thrilled by this story that I will just flat-out ignore it and roll with it further down the (story)line. I CAN’T WAIT FOR THE SECOND BOOK and hope for more clarity then.
Really, as heartbreaking and distressing their situation is to watch, it also really really has me on the edge of my seat.
And shout-out to the author for the beautiful dedication:
***************
Tears From The Sky Trilogy
Book 1 - A Star So Dark and Peculiar - 4.0 stars
4**** stars
romance: 5 stars
story idea: 5 stars
execution: 4 stars
world building: 2 stars
Last week I put in the following request in the M/M Book Rec fb group: “Looking for an entertaining and steamy read with two equally strong and confident MCs. (preferably vers) Extra points for witty banter and seriously hot dirty talk. TIA” —and hell, THIS was it..
I LOVED IT. Cyan Crowe is a pen name for author Scarlett Dawn and her first dabble in MM romance. With well over 500 pages this book is on the longer side but hell, time and story just flew by it was that good. Didn’t mind the length one bit (and I usually start to cringe at books with over three hundred pages *lol).
Romance-wise this book was an absolut blast and I think I haven’t read anything yet I could compare it to in the way the author developed the relationship between Alpha Wolf Gage Declan and Alpha Lion (and Blade to the Lion Crown) Ethan Vinci. I also think that I have never read an intimate scene like the extended one in the middle of the book, that was full of so much struggle, irresistible pull and intense emotions that was also more about them and their relationship than the getting off.
The cat clawed at my arm to keep me close, freaking needy and wild, snarling against my lips, “Gage…” I nipped at his bottom lip, tugging on the perfect flesh. “I’m right here.”
Omg, when they first used their first names toward each other I turned into a puddle of goo!
Already in the first chapter we learn what the stakes are in this fantastical world—with sexual relations between the same gender being prohibited and therefore a criminal offense. So you know our two main characters are going to be in serious trouble. What were The Moons thinking? (when pairing them, two males, up as mates. It had never happened before.) I wouldn’t flat-out peg them as enemies but they sure as shit fight each other tooth and nail for the entire book.
Their dynamic was glorious. The main weaknesses of this book tho are imo the world-building as well as the story build-up. It is a really good story, but I was way too often confused as shit with certain terms, the role of various characters and a whole lot of the inner workings of this world.
But honestly, I’m so thrilled by this story that I will just flat-out ignore it and roll with it further down the (story)line. I CAN’T WAIT FOR THE SECOND BOOK and hope for more clarity then.
“I need a real answer from you.”
“All right.” I waited quietly. His appraising eyes flicked between mine. “Would you ever be able to submit to me?”
I breathed with him. “[…] with what I think you’re referring to, I don’t think I could.”
Really, as heartbreaking and distressing their situation is to watch, it also really really has me on the edge of my seat.
And shout-out to the author for the beautiful dedication:
This is for those who have hid in the dark, loved in the dark, and died in the dark, when all you wanted was to stand in that motherfucking light.
***************
Tears From The Sky Trilogy
Book 1 - A Star So Dark and Peculiar - 4.0 stars
February 22, 2024
I just love two alpha males together 🥀 I don’t remember the rest of the plot
September 1, 2023
Read this book!!! ❤️❤️❤️
So… I was completely enthralled with this story, I did not want it to end. I can’t remember the last time that I fell so hard in love with a book. I’m sad that I can’t reread it for the first time again.
Gage and Ethan are two Alpha male shifters that are morally gray, possessive, obsessive, crazy, stalking, poor confused men. This story goes into mates and bonds, moon blessings and Vampires. There is so much to this story, passion, aggression, complexity, it’s insane! And… it’s an in going series, so we get more!! GIMME!!!
So… I was completely enthralled with this story, I did not want it to end. I can’t remember the last time that I fell so hard in love with a book. I’m sad that I can’t reread it for the first time again.
Gage and Ethan are two Alpha male shifters that are morally gray, possessive, obsessive, crazy, stalking, poor confused men. This story goes into mates and bonds, moon blessings and Vampires. There is so much to this story, passion, aggression, complexity, it’s insane! And… it’s an in going series, so we get more!! GIMME!!!
August 23, 2024
Alpha x Alpha pairing in a world where even just two men together is unheard of? Really liked.
Them both being grumps also worked for me because they just kept baiting each other and like.....if you hate each other so much why do you end up cuddling every night?
The angst over the bi-awakening was also well written. Hilariously too, because at some point one MC thought the gods were leading him to the other's ass and he COULD NOT for the life of him figure out why—or what to do with it.
'What could all this mean?' lol it's very clear what this means, my good man. But hey. Maybe more religious people can advise on whether there's a deeper spiritual meaning buried beneath the intense desire to rim your rival.
Loved the unexpected plot twist. You know how you think you have the MCs and their motivations and capabilities figured out, and it turns out you're just really fucking delusional in general? Yeah. Loved that for me💀
What I DID NOT love?
The cover. Nasty business. I had such high hopes for Ethan's hair.
The IDEA of Gage's mohawk.
The fact that some variation of the word snarl/snarled was used 317 times (yes, I counted. I needed to be sure I wasn't imagining how often it kept showing up.) This was my first ick for this book, and I got it about 3 chapters in, so imagine.
THERE HAVE GOT TO BE OTHER WORDS. We know they're shifters, we don't need 317 reminders of the animal behavior.
The fact that the other stuff going on took up almost as much time as the romance. I had to go through lots of boring political intrigue subplot to get to the juicy romance bits, and that's why it took me so long to finish.
Did I like it enough overall to be excited for the next book?
Absolutely.
Them both being grumps also worked for me because they just kept baiting each other and like.....if you hate each other so much why do you end up cuddling every night?
The angst over the bi-awakening was also well written. Hilariously too, because at some point one MC thought the gods were leading him to the other's ass and he COULD NOT for the life of him figure out why—or what to do with it.
'What could all this mean?' lol it's very clear what this means, my good man. But hey. Maybe more religious people can advise on whether there's a deeper spiritual meaning buried beneath the intense desire to rim your rival.
Loved the unexpected plot twist. You know how you think you have the MCs and their motivations and capabilities figured out, and it turns out you're just really fucking delusional in general? Yeah. Loved that for me💀
What I DID NOT love?
The cover. Nasty business. I had such high hopes for Ethan's hair.
The IDEA of Gage's mohawk.
The fact that some variation of the word snarl/snarled was used 317 times (yes, I counted. I needed to be sure I wasn't imagining how often it kept showing up.) This was my first ick for this book, and I got it about 3 chapters in, so imagine.
THERE HAVE GOT TO BE OTHER WORDS. We know they're shifters, we don't need 317 reminders of the animal behavior.
The fact that the other stuff going on took up almost as much time as the romance. I had to go through lots of boring political intrigue subplot to get to the juicy romance bits, and that's why it took me so long to finish.
Did I like it enough overall to be excited for the next book?
Absolutely.
August 29, 2023
holy hell what a ride !!!
This is easily one of the best books I’ve read this year ! I never wanted it to end !! Round of applause cyan Crowe because that was absolutely epic !! Enemies to lover to enemies to lovers again ?!? Paranormal , fast paced , action packed so much world building and story telling I fell in absolute love with every aspect of this book from the characters to the plots lines I didn’t want it to end and I didn’t want to put it down and even after this review I’m gonna go back and reread it !!
This is the 1st book in a series this it does not end in a cliffhanger IMO I think this book ended right where it needed too
This is not a happy go lucky romance this is a double bi if not gay awakening when same sex interaction are illegal in this world and guys are completely clueless as what that means even physically for them since they’ve never seen or heard of it and add that two main characters are both major alpha badasses swoon that was hot and dark and just dangerous feeling but also parts made me laugh out loud
I truly don’t have the correct words to describe this book perfectly read it and see for yourself it’s fucking epic and awesome and just amazing
This is easily one of the best books I’ve read this year ! I never wanted it to end !! Round of applause cyan Crowe because that was absolutely epic !! Enemies to lover to enemies to lovers again ?!? Paranormal , fast paced , action packed so much world building and story telling I fell in absolute love with every aspect of this book from the characters to the plots lines I didn’t want it to end and I didn’t want to put it down and even after this review I’m gonna go back and reread it !!
This is the 1st book in a series this it does not end in a cliffhanger IMO I think this book ended right where it needed too
This is not a happy go lucky romance this is a double bi if not gay awakening when same sex interaction are illegal in this world and guys are completely clueless as what that means even physically for them since they’ve never seen or heard of it and add that two main characters are both major alpha badasses swoon that was hot and dark and just dangerous feeling but also parts made me laugh out loud
I truly don’t have the correct words to describe this book perfectly read it and see for yourself it’s fucking epic and awesome and just amazing
September 13, 2023
Do you want to play a game😈( in my jigsaw voice).. Never have I ever read a mm book & forgot it was a mm book because I forgot I’m not actually in the mix 🙈! Story written so well, I’m ready to 🏴☠️ a vampire, mate an alpha wolf, & brush a shifter lions hair! I really wish I had that magical type writer✍️ R.L. Stein uses in the goosebumps film so I could write myself into this book as a potential fated mate.. like “ Hello Alphas, I’m here.. I’m the new dragon alpha, I think I’m your mate loves”,turn this into a mmf series real quick 😉. I’m talking book so good, plot even better, I couldn’t remember the last book I read that made me so Getty🤗. You guys have to meet all the fantastical characters in this new series. It has spice, plot, humor( funny as hell), and violence! Oh & it’s on ku.. happy reading yall😘
September 8, 2023
I couldn’t put it down
This is a new to me author, and I have to be honest, I was very skeptical. This book was suggest in a Facebook group and it sounded so good, I thought to take the risk. My god I am so glad I did. It was SO well written. The world building and character development was incredible! And don’t get me started on that tension. I felt it in my belly. When the…ahm…happened, I FELT it. My goodness, I have not read such a good book in a long time! I cannot wait to see what happens with Ethan and Gage, but I do know it’s probably going to be good…and a whole lot of dirty too.
This is a new to me author, and I have to be honest, I was very skeptical. This book was suggest in a Facebook group and it sounded so good, I thought to take the risk. My god I am so glad I did. It was SO well written. The world building and character development was incredible! And don’t get me started on that tension. I felt it in my belly. When the…ahm…happened, I FELT it. My goodness, I have not read such a good book in a long time! I cannot wait to see what happens with Ethan and Gage, but I do know it’s probably going to be good…and a whole lot of dirty too.
September 16, 2023
lots of bubble wrap
Finished another book by one of my favorite authors, and I honestly loved it so much that I’m officially scared. I’ve seen characters I’ve loved get absolutely put through the ringer with this author, so I want to wrap those boys up in bubble wrap and hide them in a cabinet so she can’t touch them.
That being said, I cannot wait to get to know these boys even better. I just love the vulnerable, sarcastic bada$$, and Cyan is a pro at writing them.
Hurry up book 2 (and 3)!
Finished another book by one of my favorite authors, and I honestly loved it so much that I’m officially scared. I’ve seen characters I’ve loved get absolutely put through the ringer with this author, so I want to wrap those boys up in bubble wrap and hide them in a cabinet so she can’t touch them.
That being said, I cannot wait to get to know these boys even better. I just love the vulnerable, sarcastic bada$$, and Cyan is a pro at writing them.
Hurry up book 2 (and 3)!
February 11, 2024
Twists, turns and passion!
The characters and the plot are complex and you will be completely immersed in this tale.
Shifters, hierarchy and unexpected turns. Incredible, can't wait for the next one!
The characters and the plot are complex and you will be completely immersed in this tale.
Shifters, hierarchy and unexpected turns. Incredible, can't wait for the next one!
September 15, 2023
WOW
This book. Where to start. The world building is pure fantasy (pun intended). The characters are well developed and super interesting. The huffing and growling was so well placed I practically heard the cat purr.
While it deals with shifters the premise is new and fresh. The plot flows smoothly and 500 plus pages fly in a flash. I’m now obsessed and can’t wait for book 2!
Cyan, whoever you are, thank you! It was a blast.
This book. Where to start. The world building is pure fantasy (pun intended). The characters are well developed and super interesting. The huffing and growling was so well placed I practically heard the cat purr.
While it deals with shifters the premise is new and fresh. The plot flows smoothly and 500 plus pages fly in a flash. I’m now obsessed and can’t wait for book 2!
Cyan, whoever you are, thank you! It was a blast.
September 9, 2023
Wow!
This is an intricate book that really sets the stage for this story. It moves fast while the romance is very push/pull.
There’s some nuances that took a bit to get used to -using the a/b/o designations as titles, both formal and informal.
I really like where this ended -no quite at a cliffy but close enough that I really want book 2 as fast as possible.
This is an intricate book that really sets the stage for this story. It moves fast while the romance is very push/pull.
There’s some nuances that took a bit to get used to -using the a/b/o designations as titles, both formal and informal.
I really like where this ended -no quite at a cliffy but close enough that I really want book 2 as fast as possible.
July 25, 2025
3.5? 3.75? Who knows. I'm giving it 4 stars because chaos won, and I had a good time.
It honestly took me a hot minute to figure out how to rate this book.
On one hand, I loved the premise: a dark, brutal, futuristic world with unhinged alphas, casual violence, and zero tolerance for weakness. Throw in a tormented queer awakening in a society where gay basically doesn’t exist? Yes. Give me more.
The dynamic between the main characters? Glorious. The angst, the push and pull - Chef’s kiss.
The author captured that feeling of internal struggle, bi-awakening, and the absolute cluelessness of what it all means and how to move forward.
Lady Moons said, “Let’s pair two hardcore alphas with zero emotional intelligence,” and I said, “Yes ma’am.” Watching these two fight their feelings while threatening to murder each other was honestly peak entertainment.
But, but, but… the writing.
I tried blaming my confusion on the fact that English isn't my first language, but no. It’s just confusing. The writing is clunky as hell. I had to reread entire pages trying to piece together what was going on. I finished the whole damn book and still don’t fully understand the prologue. I think it was important? Maybe?
You know how readers always get mad when writers tell rather than show? Well, here, the opposite is true. There’s almost no real world-building. The author scattered tiny crumbs of information throughout, which left me profoundly confused for maybe half the book.
The beginning was torturous. I didn’t understand anything. There were all these terms and concepts being thrown around with no explanation, and I was just lost. This was actually my second attempt at reading it. The first time, I gave up at 10% because it required way too much brainpower.
And yet… I’m obsessed.
It was messy. It was chaotic. It was frustrating.
But it also slayed in a weird, unhinged way. This wasn’t soft or fluffy. It was raw, angry, and queer in a way that felt real. I ate it up.
So yeah. Is it a literary masterpiece? Nah.
Will I be thinking about it for weeks? Absolutely.
Bring on book two. I'm ready for more madness.
It honestly took me a hot minute to figure out how to rate this book.
On one hand, I loved the premise: a dark, brutal, futuristic world with unhinged alphas, casual violence, and zero tolerance for weakness. Throw in a tormented queer awakening in a society where gay basically doesn’t exist? Yes. Give me more.
The dynamic between the main characters? Glorious. The angst, the push and pull - Chef’s kiss.
The author captured that feeling of internal struggle, bi-awakening, and the absolute cluelessness of what it all means and how to move forward.
Lady Moons said, “Let’s pair two hardcore alphas with zero emotional intelligence,” and I said, “Yes ma’am.” Watching these two fight their feelings while threatening to murder each other was honestly peak entertainment.
But, but, but… the writing.
I tried blaming my confusion on the fact that English isn't my first language, but no. It’s just confusing. The writing is clunky as hell. I had to reread entire pages trying to piece together what was going on. I finished the whole damn book and still don’t fully understand the prologue. I think it was important? Maybe?
You know how readers always get mad when writers tell rather than show? Well, here, the opposite is true. There’s almost no real world-building. The author scattered tiny crumbs of information throughout, which left me profoundly confused for maybe half the book.
The beginning was torturous. I didn’t understand anything. There were all these terms and concepts being thrown around with no explanation, and I was just lost. This was actually my second attempt at reading it. The first time, I gave up at 10% because it required way too much brainpower.
And yet… I’m obsessed.
It was messy. It was chaotic. It was frustrating.
But it also slayed in a weird, unhinged way. This wasn’t soft or fluffy. It was raw, angry, and queer in a way that felt real. I ate it up.
So yeah. Is it a literary masterpiece? Nah.
Will I be thinking about it for weeks? Absolutely.
Bring on book two. I'm ready for more madness.
October 9, 2023
Unique
I’m so torn about this book. I almost stopped reading this book early on because the prologue was a confusing mess that I still really don’t understand. Once I got past it the story got better though it occasionally still veers into self-indulgent writing.
Something that doesn’t get explained in a lot of depth are the alpha/beta/omega dynamics in this world. The story is exclusively told from Gage Declan’s POV and he doesn’t explain much. I suppose it’s very in-character because he’s the type of person to not have a lot of patience most of the time.
I was a bit irritated by all the italicized animal mannerisms. Like I get they’re all shifters but pretty much every page has a character growling, snarling, huffing, etc.
Despite everything, I found Gage and Ethan’s extremely dysfunctional relationship weirdly fascinating and I liked the book. Right up until it’s revealed that they both murdered people in fits of jealousy even though they kept pushing each other away. Completely pointless murder. The people who died didn’t even deserve it, really. No remorse from either of the men either. My opinion on the characters and the book in general dived so sharply in that moment that I’m not sure if I’ll read the second book.
I’m so torn about this book. I almost stopped reading this book early on because the prologue was a confusing mess that I still really don’t understand. Once I got past it the story got better though it occasionally still veers into self-indulgent writing.
Something that doesn’t get explained in a lot of depth are the alpha/beta/omega dynamics in this world. The story is exclusively told from Gage Declan’s POV and he doesn’t explain much. I suppose it’s very in-character because he’s the type of person to not have a lot of patience most of the time.
I was a bit irritated by all the italicized animal mannerisms. Like I get they’re all shifters but pretty much every page has a character growling, snarling, huffing, etc.
Despite everything, I found Gage and Ethan’s extremely dysfunctional relationship weirdly fascinating and I liked the book. Right up until it’s revealed that they both murdered people in fits of jealousy even though they kept pushing each other away. Completely pointless murder. The people who died didn’t even deserve it, really. No remorse from either of the men either. My opinion on the characters and the book in general dived so sharply in that moment that I’m not sure if I’ll read the second book.
March 15, 2024
4.5!
Loved this so much but had to take off half a star for the authors repetitive tendency to follow a verb with an adverb.
Some examples from the same page:
“Rumbling smoothly”
“Growled aggressively”
“Snarled cruelly”
As isolated quotations these seem fairly harmless but when it’s almost every other page it gets annoying. A mere “I rumbled/snarled” would have sufficed. There’s no need to emphasise an emotion in relation to snarling…
Some other examples of repetition I noticed
“My black brows” was used 8 times. Like, is it a normal thing to refer to the colour of your eyebrows everytime they furrow? Didn’t feel natural
Anyway aside from this very Virgo critique - I loved this and it gave me all the tropes I needed! Eagerly anticipating the second instalment.
Loved this so much but had to take off half a star for the authors repetitive tendency to follow a verb with an adverb.
Some examples from the same page:
“Rumbling smoothly”
“Growled aggressively”
“Snarled cruelly”
As isolated quotations these seem fairly harmless but when it’s almost every other page it gets annoying. A mere “I rumbled/snarled” would have sufficed. There’s no need to emphasise an emotion in relation to snarling…
Some other examples of repetition I noticed
“My black brows” was used 8 times. Like, is it a normal thing to refer to the colour of your eyebrows everytime they furrow? Didn’t feel natural
Anyway aside from this very Virgo critique - I loved this and it gave me all the tropes I needed! Eagerly anticipating the second instalment.
November 26, 2023
"your scent is hope, devotion, and unyielding strength to me. i wanted to shift and soak up all the blood in my fur."
a star so dark and peculiar shined the brightest when it focused on our two very complicated and morally grey heroes, ethan (alpha lion) and gage (alpha wolf). their scenes together were electric, and i cannot wait to see the moment ethan actually realizes
my only negative(s) against a star so dark … is the lack of explanation on how things run in this world. from the mating procedures, to the apparent off-page death of sasha, or the about changes of scenery that would randomly happen. like, from one chapter to the next gage is randomly saving children from a compound, i think???
also the whole juliette and sasha stuff. it felt very … idk, hypocritical, icky, abrupt, and a bit against character on gage's part.
oh and i can't help but mention how badly i hate the cover … there is not way gage's 'hawk is that tall. i refuse to believe it.
that being said, there's a reason i stayed up till - deadass - four am reading this five hundred+ paged book. the moments when gage and ethan were together made up for everything i mentioned in the above paragraph. crowe leaves things off on a firm hfn and i'm curious to see how the boys are going to handle further exploring their relationship … we shall see …
September 21, 2023
an awesome beginning
I’m in love with these 2 alphas. They are stubborn and both think they are the only ones knowing what’s going on. Did I mention stubborn? I’m totally here for the ride.
I’m in love with these 2 alphas. They are stubborn and both think they are the only ones knowing what’s going on. Did I mention stubborn? I’m totally here for the ride.
September 21, 2023
Awesome
One of my favorite reads- looking forward to more books- wished the lady friends didn't die though - great characters
One of my favorite reads- looking forward to more books- wished the lady friends didn't die though - great characters
September 17, 2023
A star so dark and peculiar
This story is so so so good!!!!! I didn't think it would be my cup of tea, but it is, and I need more. I love the characters. I have my suspicions on who the crowns are and I am pent up with giddiness for them to eventually be revealed.
This story is so so so good!!!!! I didn't think it would be my cup of tea, but it is, and I need more. I love the characters. I have my suspicions on who the crowns are and I am pent up with giddiness for them to eventually be revealed.
Read
September 17, 2023DNF at 55%. I can´t . I like fantasy, omegaverse, enemies to lovers... but the book don´t.
September 12, 2023
Holy Kitty Cat
This first book in Cyan's new series is absolutely fantastic. I will probably reread it very soon even though I just finished it.
This first book in Cyan's new series is absolutely fantastic. I will probably reread it very soon even though I just finished it.
September 2, 2023
wow! super! unlike anything else!!!!
Firstly let me state that I’m not known for submitting reviews, unless it’s an amazing read and I need everyone to read it to.
I’m not one usually for M/M. It’s usually boring with the same plot line but given that I love the authors other books, I had to try it out. And wow!!
It didn’t disappoint. You had drama, fantasy, romance and steam 🥵
I would say it’s a mild spicy book and I’m hoping the next book brings more spice to us spicy lovers.
Firstly let me state that I’m not known for submitting reviews, unless it’s an amazing read and I need everyone to read it to.
I’m not one usually for M/M. It’s usually boring with the same plot line but given that I love the authors other books, I had to try it out. And wow!!
It didn’t disappoint. You had drama, fantasy, romance and steam 🥵
I would say it’s a mild spicy book and I’m hoping the next book brings more spice to us spicy lovers.
August 29, 2023
4.5/5 stars - I thoroughly enjoyed this read! There was some seriously funny banter and a few really wonderful side characters. It was close to a five star for me, but on principle, I really loathe when the main characters hook up with other people after getting together. I will say it was well done in this book. They weren’t together anymore so my heart wasn’t breaking feeling like it was cheating and it actually made sense in the character and story development. (It also made a lot more sense once you read the ending.) I personally just prefer no OW drama. I also don’t like when women suffer because of the actions of men. (Not trying to soap box here - really just explaining why I didn’t fully give it 5 stars.) The story was very creative though and I stayed up all night reading it. This is a pen name for Scarlett Dawn and I think it might be my favorite book of hers yet!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2023
Omg. As usual the author does NOT disappoint. Great story with writing that has you feeling every emotion the characters go through. If you love M/M action and love, I highly recommend this book you will not be disappointed.
September 5, 2023
A MUST READ!!!
Read it in one sitting and Loved it so much I immediately started again. Definitely an addition to the favourites and I already can’t wait for the rest of the series😩
MORE PLEASE!
Read it in one sitting and Loved it so much I immediately started again. Definitely an addition to the favourites and I already can’t wait for the rest of the series😩
MORE PLEASE!
August 29, 2023
This story was very well written and I was unable to stop until the last page. There are two very macho alphas Gage and Ethan that felt Lady Moon was messing with them. They find themselves attracted to each other when it is against the law to have a relationship with the same sex. It was interesting reading their emotions and reactions while they work through them while keeping it hidden from everyone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 9, 2025
Edit 09.12.2025 - it’s been over a year and I have read this book 5 times and I stalk the author social media in hopes of news every month. Therefore I decided to up rating to 5 starts because if u have read any book more than 2 times then it has done its job and deserves more. Even so, my original review still stands and when I read it is almost only for the main couple interactions. Anyway, I do recommend it if you are an MM fan for sure
Edit 12.01.2025 - after discovering that the author is very very busy with life and that we will not have a second book for a while I decided to reread for fun and I’m afraid I ate it all up again and I am now, once again, in a slump.
I want more. Help. I am a terrible waiter.
4.5 because
- Couldn’t care less about the subplot
- Romance was very enjoyable
- The way the view women actually almost made me drop this book but i persevered
- Smut 10/10
- This slow burn is burning me but i don’t care just pls release book 2
Edit 12.01.2025 - after discovering that the author is very very busy with life and that we will not have a second book for a while I decided to reread for fun and I’m afraid I ate it all up again and I am now, once again, in a slump.
I want more. Help. I am a terrible waiter.
4.5 because
- Couldn’t care less about the subplot
- Romance was very enjoyable
- The way the view women actually almost made me drop this book but i persevered
- Smut 10/10
- This slow burn is burning me but i don’t care just pls release book 2
December 7, 2023
Dark and dangerous
I had a hard time understanding the first 15-20% of the book. The world building and magic building was convoluted and confusing. Once the main characters were introduced, the story leveled out and was much more easily understood.
The power give and take between the two MC'S is dark and dangerous. But when they get along it's still quite a struggle.
There is a common goal everyone is fighting against and certain prejudices they have to guard themselves from.
I like how this book ended. It is not a cliffhanger but leaves you anticipating the next book. Hopefully that comes soon.
4/5 stars
I had a hard time understanding the first 15-20% of the book. The world building and magic building was convoluted and confusing. Once the main characters were introduced, the story leveled out and was much more easily understood.
The power give and take between the two MC'S is dark and dangerous. But when they get along it's still quite a struggle.
There is a common goal everyone is fighting against and certain prejudices they have to guard themselves from.
I like how this book ended. It is not a cliffhanger but leaves you anticipating the next book. Hopefully that comes soon.
4/5 stars
September 17, 2023
Wow. A lot happened in this book. Some of it confusing. There were certain parts of the book where I felt like I was dropped into it and should have known something previously read. I even went back and reread certain parts bcs I thought I had missed something but I didn’t. Despite some confusion I really enjoyed this book. Gage and Ethan could be brutal to each other and to others. Jealousy from these two had pretty tragic results for others. There was a lot of UST between these two which was fabulous. I enjoyed the Crowns, the Blades, and the other detectives that worked with Gage. I’m definitely going to continue this series.
September 28, 2023
a fantastic read. It’s exciting, full of new multidimensional characters, and imaginative storytelling
Rating: 4.5🌈
A Star So Dark and Peculiar , the first in the Tears from the Sky series by Cyan Crowe, is also a first novel by the author for me. I’m all about storytelling that involves multiple types of shifters, mating bonds, paranormal species , and exploring the mythology that will build on their past in the series arc.
Crowe is giving the reader all that and more here. The series is dark fiction and characters that feel engaging and real are often treated as expendable, meeting their Final Death unexpectedly. One at least I wasn’t prepared for. But it’s in keeping with the characterizations and relationship dynamics Crowe is developing.
Cyan Crowe does several things that are notable, most fantastic and one not so great.
First is the fact that our introduction into the world is a confusing one. That window into the past with the Crown Lords and Oracle didn’t work, at least for me. I felt that any information gleaned from those scenes could have been imparted in other ways throughout the storyline. In fact the entire book only really came together one we got into the present day.
That’s where everything starts to gel. The characters are strong, exceedingly well written, and while the reader doesn’t yet have a solid understanding of the world building, it’s parts are added as the characters interact and the narrative becomes more complex to give a larger perspective on the mystery and universe surrounding them.
It’s a brutal world overlaid with an air of civility, animalistic with a skin of humanity. Cell phone technology with fang and claw death in tandem. The author realistically portrays a divided paranormal society, literally separated by fortified walls and gates, each ruled by a different species with a similar structure and name. The immortal Crown Lion, Crown Wolf, and Crown Gryfalcon, each at the head of their respective species, then they have their Blades of the Crown. A unknown person who is close to the Crown, carries out their orders/duties as they see fit, an assassin if need be. The Blades are old and said to have some of the immortal blood in them.
This is just part of the intriguing mystery and information that the reader gathers from the narrative as we meet Gage Declan, Alpha Wolf of the City (wolf territory although other species live there). He’s considered young for the job position he’s holding but powerful in his role to easily manage his team. Gage’s character and history is a complex one, and becomes even stronger and fascinating as the book progresses. He starts off strong but the author builds on layer after layer, giving Gage remarkable depth and high intelligence while not diminishing his raw brutality .
To balance such a compelling being the author had to craft an equally complicated, magnetic personality. Crowe gives us Alpha Ethan Odin Vinci, new Alpha Lion of the Fort (Lion shifter section with other species residing). But Ethan is ancient, mysterious, and perhaps more. So they begin at a combative level to sort out a mystery plaguing both their sections and separate species.
Additionally, same sex relationships or activities are illegal and considered unnatural by law and the cultures. So events that occur are fundamentally shocking to both.
This is a great element and the way it’s handled on both sides makes sense for the two men involved from both personal and political perspectives. This is a core sea change that can, given both Alphas status and power, fundamentally change society.
Given this fact and the type of being each person is, Crowe stays true to the heart of the narrative and world the author is still rolling out in showing the reader the complex, often contradictory, intense, sometimes feral or savage behavior that resides within them, often after seemingly being pleasantly civil.
This is exciting stuff. We have a whole vampire element here that’s probably not what it appears to be. Right now they are the very big bad though.
Plus there’s things like the TEARs, a fatal illness no one knows how or why it occurs but that there’s no cure or antidote. The scenes involving people in the final stages are moving and heartbreaking.
Crowe has also assembled an excellent cast of characters surrounding the main personalities, and that seems to be expanding as well to meet the needs of the revelations of the storylines. The plot lines, many that they are, flow so fluidly through the story, picking up speed as it arrives at the main climatic battle and the jumping off point towards the next book.
Which honestly can’t come soon enough.
Except for that stumbled start, A Star So Dark and Peculiar (Tears from the Sky Book 1) by Cyan Crowe is a fantastic read. It’s exciting, full of new multidimensional characters, and imaginative storytelling. I can’t wait for it to continue.
I’m highly recommending it for all lovers of paranormal fiction and dark romance.
Tears from the Sky:
- [ ] A Star So Dark and Peculiar #1
Rating: 4.5🌈
A Star So Dark and Peculiar , the first in the Tears from the Sky series by Cyan Crowe, is also a first novel by the author for me. I’m all about storytelling that involves multiple types of shifters, mating bonds, paranormal species , and exploring the mythology that will build on their past in the series arc.
Crowe is giving the reader all that and more here. The series is dark fiction and characters that feel engaging and real are often treated as expendable, meeting their Final Death unexpectedly. One at least I wasn’t prepared for. But it’s in keeping with the characterizations and relationship dynamics Crowe is developing.
Cyan Crowe does several things that are notable, most fantastic and one not so great.
First is the fact that our introduction into the world is a confusing one. That window into the past with the Crown Lords and Oracle didn’t work, at least for me. I felt that any information gleaned from those scenes could have been imparted in other ways throughout the storyline. In fact the entire book only really came together one we got into the present day.
That’s where everything starts to gel. The characters are strong, exceedingly well written, and while the reader doesn’t yet have a solid understanding of the world building, it’s parts are added as the characters interact and the narrative becomes more complex to give a larger perspective on the mystery and universe surrounding them.
It’s a brutal world overlaid with an air of civility, animalistic with a skin of humanity. Cell phone technology with fang and claw death in tandem. The author realistically portrays a divided paranormal society, literally separated by fortified walls and gates, each ruled by a different species with a similar structure and name. The immortal Crown Lion, Crown Wolf, and Crown Gryfalcon, each at the head of their respective species, then they have their Blades of the Crown. A unknown person who is close to the Crown, carries out their orders/duties as they see fit, an assassin if need be. The Blades are old and said to have some of the immortal blood in them.
This is just part of the intriguing mystery and information that the reader gathers from the narrative as we meet Gage Declan, Alpha Wolf of the City (wolf territory although other species live there). He’s considered young for the job position he’s holding but powerful in his role to easily manage his team. Gage’s character and history is a complex one, and becomes even stronger and fascinating as the book progresses. He starts off strong but the author builds on layer after layer, giving Gage remarkable depth and high intelligence while not diminishing his raw brutality .
To balance such a compelling being the author had to craft an equally complicated, magnetic personality. Crowe gives us Alpha Ethan Odin Vinci, new Alpha Lion of the Fort (Lion shifter section with other species residing). But Ethan is ancient, mysterious, and perhaps more. So they begin at a combative level to sort out a mystery plaguing both their sections and separate species.
Additionally, same sex relationships or activities are illegal and considered unnatural by law and the cultures. So events that occur are fundamentally shocking to both.
This is a great element and the way it’s handled on both sides makes sense for the two men involved from both personal and political perspectives. This is a core sea change that can, given both Alphas status and power, fundamentally change society.
Given this fact and the type of being each person is, Crowe stays true to the heart of the narrative and world the author is still rolling out in showing the reader the complex, often contradictory, intense, sometimes feral or savage behavior that resides within them, often after seemingly being pleasantly civil.
This is exciting stuff. We have a whole vampire element here that’s probably not what it appears to be. Right now they are the very big bad though.
Plus there’s things like the TEARs, a fatal illness no one knows how or why it occurs but that there’s no cure or antidote. The scenes involving people in the final stages are moving and heartbreaking.
Crowe has also assembled an excellent cast of characters surrounding the main personalities, and that seems to be expanding as well to meet the needs of the revelations of the storylines. The plot lines, many that they are, flow so fluidly through the story, picking up speed as it arrives at the main climatic battle and the jumping off point towards the next book.
Which honestly can’t come soon enough.
Except for that stumbled start, A Star So Dark and Peculiar (Tears from the Sky Book 1) by Cyan Crowe is a fantastic read. It’s exciting, full of new multidimensional characters, and imaginative storytelling. I can’t wait for it to continue.
I’m highly recommending it for all lovers of paranormal fiction and dark romance.
Tears from the Sky:
- [ ] A Star So Dark and Peculiar #1
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