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Pulse Rising
Some monsters are born. Others are made. Zora is about to learn the difference.
Zora Haynar flips burgers, trades bruises at a Muay Thai gym, and keeps company with a crow named George. She sees ghosts, heals too fast, and asks no questions about any of it—because surviving is easier when you don’t.
Then a night out ends in blood. A man with fangs tears through a Budapest club, her best friend takes a bite no one is meant to survive—and the only person with answers is Kálmán Fekete: the club’s owner, the city’s most dangerous secret, and the silver-eyed stranger who was watching Zora before the killing ever started.
Now Sofia is dying of a toxin no hospital can name. Detective Maya Kovács is hunting a killer the evidence insists can’t exist. And Zora—whose wounds close overnight, whose blood does what no one’s should—is running out of time to learn what she’s willing to trade for the truth.
Because Kálmán will help her. For a price. And every answer cracks the world open wider: a drug called Pulse turning predators feral, a hidden society of vampires, shifters, and shadow-wielders beneath the city’s nightlife—and a prophecy that seems to know Zora’s name.
Some doors, once opened, never close.
Pulse Rising is the first book in The Hollós Legacy, a completed dark urban fantasy romance trilogy. Expect a supernatural mystery that cracks open into mythic fantasy, and an enemies-to-lovers alliance with a multi-book slow burn where the tension smolders long before the physical heat ignites in Book 2. Perfect for fans of vast world-building, high-stakes mystery, and a story that grows darker, spicier, and more mythic with every book.
This book contains mature themes and dark content that may not be suitable for all readers. Please check the content warnings at the beginning of the book.
Zora Haynar flips burgers, trades bruises at a Muay Thai gym, and keeps company with a crow named George. She sees ghosts, heals too fast, and asks no questions about any of it—because surviving is easier when you don’t.
Then a night out ends in blood. A man with fangs tears through a Budapest club, her best friend takes a bite no one is meant to survive—and the only person with answers is Kálmán Fekete: the club’s owner, the city’s most dangerous secret, and the silver-eyed stranger who was watching Zora before the killing ever started.
Now Sofia is dying of a toxin no hospital can name. Detective Maya Kovács is hunting a killer the evidence insists can’t exist. And Zora—whose wounds close overnight, whose blood does what no one’s should—is running out of time to learn what she’s willing to trade for the truth.
Because Kálmán will help her. For a price. And every answer cracks the world open wider: a drug called Pulse turning predators feral, a hidden society of vampires, shifters, and shadow-wielders beneath the city’s nightlife—and a prophecy that seems to know Zora’s name.
Some doors, once opened, never close.
Pulse Rising is the first book in The Hollós Legacy, a completed dark urban fantasy romance trilogy. Expect a supernatural mystery that cracks open into mythic fantasy, and an enemies-to-lovers alliance with a multi-book slow burn where the tension smolders long before the physical heat ignites in Book 2. Perfect for fans of vast world-building, high-stakes mystery, and a story that grows darker, spicier, and more mythic with every book.
This book contains mature themes and dark content that may not be suitable for all readers. Please check the content warnings at the beginning of the book.
535 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 10, 2025
About the author
Xen B. Corvin
11 books21 followersXen B. Corvin is an author and reluctant human who was raised on horror books, rooftop climbs, and more imaginary monsters than friends. She writes because it gives her power—and because stories are the only place where fear bows to will. Demons written are demons beaten.
Her books blend urban fantasy with dark romance, shadow-wielders, and other monsters we love to hate—and hate to love.
Despite what it may seem, Xen’s books aren’t about darkness; they’re about finding light in spite of it.
As the Hollós Queen once said:
“You see... there would be no life without death. No light without darkness. How would you ever learn to appreciate anything, if the fear of it being taken away from you didn’t exist?”
Her books blend urban fantasy with dark romance, shadow-wielders, and other monsters we love to hate—and hate to love.
Despite what it may seem, Xen’s books aren’t about darkness; they’re about finding light in spite of it.
As the Hollós Queen once said:
“You see... there would be no life without death. No light without darkness. How would you ever learn to appreciate anything, if the fear of it being taken away from you didn’t exist?”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
July 2, 2025
“Some monsters are born. Others are made.” From the very first line, Pulse Rising grabs your attention and trust me it doesn’t let go. Xen B. Corvin creates a world where danger lurks in every corner and the monsters are more than just make-believe. Zora, the fierce but hesitant heroine, is thrust into a city ruled by supernatural power struggles, ancient prophecies, and a scary new drug that doesn’t only mess with your mind, it warps your very soul.
Zora’s journey from an ignorant outsider to a force to be reckoned with is so intriguing and makes me want to be her when I grow up!! Xen blends dark magic, high stakes, and a clever dialogue into a story that pulses with adrenaline. The banter is chef’s kiss!!!
For fans of Karen Marie Moning and Ilona Andrews, you guys will feel right at home in this bold, seductive world of shadow-wielders and deadly alliances. However, what sets Pulse Rising apart, is Zora herself who is a heroine who must decide what she’s willing to sacrifice not just to save others, but to survive the truth of who she really is!! I can’t wait to find out. This ends in a huge cliffy and I can’t wait for the next book!!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟I couldn’t put it down. Zora is the antihero we’ve been waiting for and I’m guessing female rage will be in the books!
June 24, 2025
Couldn't put it down.
The chemistry and tension between the main characters is electric.
Bring on book 2
The chemistry and tension between the main characters is electric.
Bring on book 2
June 22, 2025
really enjoyed. ends on a real cliffhanger
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! Especially the characters - chefs kiss 👌
Also, it was really well written, you can feel the hours put in to it to make it perfect.
Now, the POV from Maya didn’t really fly with me. I think it’s because I don’t really like the whole police/crime angle. But that’s just my personal preference and does not reflect the majority of the book.
I’m hoping for more romance between the Zoya and Kálmán in the next book - which means, YES I’m now invested and I’m sooo looking forward to book 2 👏
Also, it was really well written, you can feel the hours put in to it to make it perfect.
Now, the POV from Maya didn’t really fly with me. I think it’s because I don’t really like the whole police/crime angle. But that’s just my personal preference and does not reflect the majority of the book.
I’m hoping for more romance between the Zoya and Kálmán in the next book - which means, YES I’m now invested and I’m sooo looking forward to book 2 👏
August 17, 2025
OH MY GOD!!!!
The beautiful cover did it for me, when I saw it I knew I had to have the book. I didn’t even read the blurb. Once I started reading I couldn’t put it down. Zora is my kind of woman, with her ups and downs and with a dark side I think we all could relate to. And Kálmán *sighs* we all should have a Kálmán in our lives. I can’t wait to see how this relationship develops… It’s really nicely written, grabbing you from page one and making you feel a part of the story, as if you were right there with them, running around Budapest. I do love the different POVs. The secondary characters are greatly written too, I love Maya the detective and the few glimpses we have of others, I want to know more about them all. Oh my, Danae the Queen, I truly love her, I do love bad bi..es. Really, this book is a must for those who love dark fantasy
The beautiful cover did it for me, when I saw it I knew I had to have the book. I didn’t even read the blurb. Once I started reading I couldn’t put it down. Zora is my kind of woman, with her ups and downs and with a dark side I think we all could relate to. And Kálmán *sighs* we all should have a Kálmán in our lives. I can’t wait to see how this relationship develops… It’s really nicely written, grabbing you from page one and making you feel a part of the story, as if you were right there with them, running around Budapest. I do love the different POVs. The secondary characters are greatly written too, I love Maya the detective and the few glimpses we have of others, I want to know more about them all. Oh my, Danae the Queen, I truly love her, I do love bad bi..es. Really, this book is a must for those who love dark fantasy
May 28, 2026
Just great
Well, I was looking for something a bit different.
I went through about 200 pages across 4 other books, which didn't catch my interest, then I found Pulse Rising.
Well before my 50 page cut off, the main character had already snook beneath my skin, she has a great personality which is strengthened by an innocence,which she covers up quite nicely with that mouth of hers. Her love interest, the vamp, is extremely well written, and likeable. Their little adventures will keep anyone reading the book, very interested untill the very end.... And through the follow up books.... Where I am off to now.
Well done Xen, loved it. A different blend of urban fantasy than I am used to but great, thanks 😜
Well, I was looking for something a bit different.
I went through about 200 pages across 4 other books, which didn't catch my interest, then I found Pulse Rising.
Well before my 50 page cut off, the main character had already snook beneath my skin, she has a great personality which is strengthened by an innocence,which she covers up quite nicely with that mouth of hers. Her love interest, the vamp, is extremely well written, and likeable. Their little adventures will keep anyone reading the book, very interested untill the very end.... And through the follow up books.... Where I am off to now.
Well done Xen, loved it. A different blend of urban fantasy than I am used to but great, thanks 😜
January 22, 2026
It is a really a good book!
I gave this 4 stars, but 3.5 stars when it comes to the experience right now. Let me explain..
For me it was a little slower in the beginning than I prefer, and it gets extra traction because of the language, for me who is not used to reading English, was somewhat challenging. That's why it got 3.5/4 stars. If I had read it in a year, I'm sure this would be a strong 4 star, maybe even 5!
More twists that I didn't see coming, and I love the developments on fmc and mmc <3 will definitely buy the rest of the series! Definitely worth reading and I really looking forward "to see" them again!
I gave this 4 stars, but 3.5 stars when it comes to the experience right now. Let me explain..
For me it was a little slower in the beginning than I prefer, and it gets extra traction because of the language, for me who is not used to reading English, was somewhat challenging. That's why it got 3.5/4 stars. If I had read it in a year, I'm sure this would be a strong 4 star, maybe even 5!
More twists that I didn't see coming, and I love the developments on fmc and mmc <3 will definitely buy the rest of the series! Definitely worth reading and I really looking forward "to see" them again!
February 28, 2026
Wow, now this was good. Dark, gritty vampire/shifter book but with enough of a twist on the usual books of this genre to bring something new. The Budapest setting and Hungarian names edge the narrative out of the usual comfort zone. Suspect this may have been translated or written as a second language, but only from very occasional non-standard phrasing, and this doesn’t detract from the writing which is smooth with worshiping that is detailed and descriptive but not overdone.
The FMC is a tough survivor, but has enough kindness and insecurities to make her likeable and invest you in her. The MMC is brooding and ruthless, but would tear the works apart for her.
Can’t wait to see where the next book takes us… heading on to it now!!
The FMC is a tough survivor, but has enough kindness and insecurities to make her likeable and invest you in her. The MMC is brooding and ruthless, but would tear the works apart for her.
Can’t wait to see where the next book takes us… heading on to it now!!
August 25, 2025
Although I connected instantly to the writing style, this book took me a couple of chapters to get into, as I felt I wasn’t connecting to the main character. I’m so pleased I stuck with it. My first ARC read (this book) was so worth it, even if my review has come so late. Although it took me a while to connect to the main character - Zora - I loved the story and I was on the edge of my seat with that ending. An absolute must read for anyone who loves this genre.
June 29, 2025
Obsessed. Zora’s story pulled me in, but Kálmán kept me hooked. I adored the gritty world, emotional depth, and the delicious slow reveals, especially the threads of prophecy woven through it all. And with that ending? I can’t wait for book two! I’m already dying to see the fanart for this book and its characters—it’s going to be stunning.
July 14, 2025
Loved it!!
I could not put it down once I started, right from the beginning it sucked you in ;)
The main characters are amazing I love Zora, her attitude and her all round love for those she sees as family.
Cannot wait for book 2 and I hope we see more of Sophia and what becomes of her.
I could not put it down once I started, right from the beginning it sucked you in ;)
The main characters are amazing I love Zora, her attitude and her all round love for those she sees as family.
Cannot wait for book 2 and I hope we see more of Sophia and what becomes of her.
February 13, 2026
Wow! I'm speechless!
My heart is still thumping! I can't say enough about this novel. The characters have reach into my heart and taken up residence. What a wonderfully brutal love story. Needs more sex, though. This movie would knock Edward' s twi-LIT d*ck in the dirt!
My heart is still thumping! I can't say enough about this novel. The characters have reach into my heart and taken up residence. What a wonderfully brutal love story. Needs more sex, though. This movie would knock Edward' s twi-LIT d*ck in the dirt!
May 3, 2026
Fun to read
I love it when a book grips you from the beginning. This book surely did and I couldn’t wait to read it every night before bed. Had to be strict with myself because I would have finished it in one night and be tired at work. Starting next one.
I love it when a book grips you from the beginning. This book surely did and I couldn’t wait to read it every night before bed. Had to be strict with myself because I would have finished it in one night and be tired at work. Starting next one.
May 7, 2026
No skipping parts
Came across this book accidentally ...soooo glad I did
Very well written and very interesting story ..not at any point in this book did I feel like skipping through anything (do it all the time ) just really enjoyed it 🙂
Came across this book accidentally ...soooo glad I did
Very well written and very interesting story ..not at any point in this book did I feel like skipping through anything (do it all the time ) just really enjoyed it 🙂
June 25, 2025
Ohmy… what a good book! I couldn’t put it down and now I can’t wait for book 2!!
June 27, 2025
I got the ARC for this book the concept is good and it has a great story unfortunately not for me but anyone who is into the genre gives it a read
July 1, 2025
Really enjoyed this book and cannot wait for the second one.
Would 100% recommend.
Would 100% recommend.
June 29, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. It was well written, had great characters and the FMC was badass. The plot and world building was also good. Can’t wait for the next one in the series!
October 13, 2025
‘Some monsters are born, others are made’ first one the main characters chemistry is off the charts. This book hooks you in from start to finish.
December 20, 2025
Must read for dark romantasy readers
Starts off slow but hang in there! Great story and chemistry between FMC and MMC. Plot twists were wild. Great read
Starts off slow but hang in there! Great story and chemistry between FMC and MMC. Plot twists were wild. Great read
July 10, 2025
Oh my… I went into this book completely blind — which I actually prefer, as long as it's fantasy with a love interest, I'm in. But this book had me hooked from the very first pages. It kept me guessing, craving more, and it absolutely did not disappoint.
The wonder, the fire, the fierce determination Zora brings — the strength this character holds is incredible. And the different species, the way they're written? I loved every bit of it.
I binged this book as fast as I could, juggling being a mum, a wife, and working a lot. But who needs sleep when all you can think about is getting answers to the questions this story throws at you? What? Who? How?!
And the slow burn between Zora and Kalman? Oh my… Nothing's even happened yet, and I’m already obsessed. I can not wait for book 2 — I’ll be waiting very impatiently. Honestly, my only complaint is having to wait!
The wonder, the fire, the fierce determination Zora brings — the strength this character holds is incredible. And the different species, the way they're written? I loved every bit of it.
I binged this book as fast as I could, juggling being a mum, a wife, and working a lot. But who needs sleep when all you can think about is getting answers to the questions this story throws at you? What? Who? How?!
And the slow burn between Zora and Kalman? Oh my… Nothing's even happened yet, and I’m already obsessed. I can not wait for book 2 — I’ll be waiting very impatiently. Honestly, my only complaint is having to wait!
July 10, 2025
Fantastic, addictive, love it!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 10 July 2025
Absolutely loved this book!!! Couldn't put it down! If u like dark urban fantasy give this one a try! Really recommend.
I cant wait to read book 2!
10/10 chemistry and such a page turner!!!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 10 July 2025
Absolutely loved this book!!! Couldn't put it down! If u like dark urban fantasy give this one a try! Really recommend.
I cant wait to read book 2!
10/10 chemistry and such a page turner!!!
July 6, 2025
Wow, what can I say other than I’m so lucky to have been an ARC reader for this book!
This book I couldn’t put down! It’s well written, has great plot, and great characters. And now I need book 2 I need to know what happens next.
This book I couldn’t put down! It’s well written, has great plot, and great characters. And now I need book 2 I need to know what happens next.
April 20, 2026
Excellent
This is a; sit down with your preferred drink, I’d suggest Bourbon, and allow the world you are about to enter wash over you kind of book.
I’ve been itching for a good read, starting books, leaving them mid-chapter as they weren’t connecting. This, however, this grabs you and draws you in.
As the review title says, this is an EXCELLENT read.
This is a; sit down with your preferred drink, I’d suggest Bourbon, and allow the world you are about to enter wash over you kind of book.
I’ve been itching for a good read, starting books, leaving them mid-chapter as they weren’t connecting. This, however, this grabs you and draws you in.
As the review title says, this is an EXCELLENT read.
August 26, 2025
Absolutely blown away by this book! Fantastic storyline, brilliant characters. Loved every page. I am counting down the days until book 2 is released. I can’t wait ❤️
January 16, 2026
I loved this book!! Zora is kick ass!! Can’t wait to read the 2nd book!!
July 13, 2025
Thank you for my ARC. I loved this book.
First things first I already NEED the next book. I haven’t felt this invested in a story for a while, it rekindled my love of fantasy.
From the start of the book I was drawn to Zora (the FMC) her quirky nature and interesting back story. She has a strong sense of self that is very much needed in a badass FMC. But if one badass FMC wasn’t enough we also have Maya a relentless detective. The chapters in the book flip between both of their stories which keeps you constantly on your toes.
For me I wouldn’t class this as romance even though there is a slow burn romance element which I hope develops further in the next book. It ticks all the boxes you want and love in a fantasy novel. Full of supernaturals, action with some twists and turns in the story.
First things first I already NEED the next book. I haven’t felt this invested in a story for a while, it rekindled my love of fantasy.
From the start of the book I was drawn to Zora (the FMC) her quirky nature and interesting back story. She has a strong sense of self that is very much needed in a badass FMC. But if one badass FMC wasn’t enough we also have Maya a relentless detective. The chapters in the book flip between both of their stories which keeps you constantly on your toes.
For me I wouldn’t class this as romance even though there is a slow burn romance element which I hope develops further in the next book. It ticks all the boxes you want and love in a fantasy novel. Full of supernaturals, action with some twists and turns in the story.
July 25, 2025
Luring me in from page one. Finished in 2 days..
The electric attraction between the main characters, which are profoundly complete and enticing... Emotionally deep and rich...
Supernatural species, politics, crime, ancient profecy.. it all comes together in a fast moving, action packed whirlwind of plot twists and want for more...
I hunger for book 2 since this is not finished, not even close...
The electric attraction between the main characters, which are profoundly complete and enticing... Emotionally deep and rich...
Supernatural species, politics, crime, ancient profecy.. it all comes together in a fast moving, action packed whirlwind of plot twists and want for more...
I hunger for book 2 since this is not finished, not even close...
July 28, 2025
Just read it and thank me later for convincing you.
I devoured this book in 24 hours.
☆ It has plot and storyline
☆ It has action and a kick ass heroine and a drool-worthy hero
☆It has some insane villans
☆It had emotion and chuckle worthy moments
☆ It had a side of romance, which is my favourite kind
Very much need book two like yesterday
I devoured this book in 24 hours.
☆ It has plot and storyline
☆ It has action and a kick ass heroine and a drool-worthy hero
☆It has some insane villans
☆It had emotion and chuckle worthy moments
☆ It had a side of romance, which is my favourite kind
Very much need book two like yesterday
July 7, 2025
Amazing plot that made me go through so many emotions.
Good characters and one more book boyfriend for my dreams. A steamy connection between MMC and FMC made me jealous and extremely happy at the same time.
Perfectly written to keep you interested.
I loved it🩷
Good characters and one more book boyfriend for my dreams. A steamy connection between MMC and FMC made me jealous and extremely happy at the same time.
Perfectly written to keep you interested.
I loved it🩷
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews