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Empathy #2.5
Vacant
This is a novella. To enjoy and understand this title you will have read Empathy and Desolate. This title comes with a warning please read and heed it. 18 only.
Ryan
When two dark souls connect the draw is too dominant to ignore and the obsession of owning the only color to brighten my dark world too unrelenting to not obey. I left her alone so she could live a normal life but I was weak, how can she live a normal life after so much sinister chaos invaded her world, summoning her own darkness to the surface?
The depraved devil that is me now had an anchor, someone to venture into the black abyss with.
Normal wasn’t a path ever set for Cereus.
She was her Father’s daughter but my soul mate, even if I disputed ever owning one.
She was struggling with out me in her life, the vacant ache inside her leaking out. I can’t not go to her, the need is too strong and like with all of my urges I embrace it.
Ryan
When two dark souls connect the draw is too dominant to ignore and the obsession of owning the only color to brighten my dark world too unrelenting to not obey. I left her alone so she could live a normal life but I was weak, how can she live a normal life after so much sinister chaos invaded her world, summoning her own darkness to the surface?
The depraved devil that is me now had an anchor, someone to venture into the black abyss with.
Normal wasn’t a path ever set for Cereus.
She was her Father’s daughter but my soul mate, even if I disputed ever owning one.
She was struggling with out me in her life, the vacant ache inside her leaking out. I can’t not go to her, the need is too strong and like with all of my urges I embrace it.
86 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 30, 2015
23 people are currently reading
1192 people want to read
About the author
Ker Dukey
74 books4,808 followersKer Dukey is an International bestselling author based in the United Kingdom.
Genres include:
Dark Romance, Psychological Thriller, New Adult Romance, Romantic Suspense, and Erotic Romance. Ker, is an international bestselling author, with over thirty titles published. Her titles have held multiple #1 bestseller banners and have had rights sold to numerous countries.
In addition to being an author, Ker is an annoying wife and a mother of three children + one dog (who thinks he's human.) She has a passion for reading and binge-watching crime documentaries.
Find her on social media, where she loves interacting with her readers.
My readers' group: http://bit.ly/darKERgroup
My newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/KerDukeyauthor
Website: http://kerdukeyauthor.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerdukey/
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2kuKWJl
Bookbub: https://tinyurl.com/y68uazav
PA: terriesin@gmail.com
REPRESENTATION:
lbla
lorella belli literary agency
54 Hartford House
35 Tavistock Crescent
Notting Hill
London W11 1AY
tel. + 44 (0) 20 7727 8547
fax. + 44 (0) 870 787 4194
info@lorellabelliagency.com
Genres include:
Dark Romance, Psychological Thriller, New Adult Romance, Romantic Suspense, and Erotic Romance. Ker, is an international bestselling author, with over thirty titles published. Her titles have held multiple #1 bestseller banners and have had rights sold to numerous countries.
In addition to being an author, Ker is an annoying wife and a mother of three children + one dog (who thinks he's human.) She has a passion for reading and binge-watching crime documentaries.
Find her on social media, where she loves interacting with her readers.
My readers' group: http://bit.ly/darKERgroup
My newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/KerDukeyauthor
Website: http://kerdukeyauthor.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerdukey/
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2kuKWJl
Bookbub: https://tinyurl.com/y68uazav
PA: terriesin@gmail.com
REPRESENTATION:
lbla
lorella belli literary agency
54 Hartford House
35 Tavistock Crescent
Notting Hill
London W11 1AY
tel. + 44 (0) 20 7727 8547
fax. + 44 (0) 870 787 4194
info@lorellabelliagency.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 258 reviews
February 6, 2017
Genre: Dark Suspense
Type: Book 2.5 from Empathy series
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
A year after she thought she lost the one person she could relate to, Cereus tried to live a normal life as an art student. But feeling normal was hard when she felt empty inside especially when her own darkness is desperate to come out.
Unknown to her, Ryan was never far behind. Quietly, he watched her struggled, never showing her full potential. There's only one way to make her happy and he was not going to let her slip away.
I love the dynamics of their relationship. It seemed wrong, bordering on taboo, but it worked. Their connection was unconventional and that what made it special.
Both of them were technically very similar, but practically different. Their minds worked differently but with common goal in sight. I like seeing how they individually cope with the situation they're in.
Vacant shows what Cereus is capable of without actually letting her be at her full potential. I'm looking forward to more depravity in the next book.
Books in the series:
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Type: Book 2.5 from Empathy series
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
A year after she thought she lost the one person she could relate to, Cereus tried to live a normal life as an art student. But feeling normal was hard when she felt empty inside especially when her own darkness is desperate to come out.
Unknown to her, Ryan was never far behind. Quietly, he watched her struggled, never showing her full potential. There's only one way to make her happy and he was not going to let her slip away.
She wove herself deep inside me, owning me. I’m hers and she’s mine. I need to go to her.
I love the dynamics of their relationship. It seemed wrong, bordering on taboo, but it worked. Their connection was unconventional and that what made it special.
We’re made from the same soul, fractured and forced into two bodies, and mine craves his presence, his love and his touch.
Both of them were technically very similar, but practically different. Their minds worked differently but with common goal in sight. I like seeing how they individually cope with the situation they're in.
Ryan turned the lights out and taught me to see in the darkness.
Vacant shows what Cereus is capable of without actually letting her be at her full potential. I'm looking forward to more depravity in the next book.
Books in the series:
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
April 20, 2015
** 4-4,5 “loving the sinner despite the sin” STARS **
“Ryan turned the lights out and taught me to see in the darkness. Nobody sees me in the darkness. Nobody sees me the way he does and I’m hopelessly pursuing the hunter in him. I want to be found or preyed on; if that’s what I am, HIS PREY.”
~ CEREUS
The f*cked-up-ness, the twisted beauty and the depth of the intensity in her stories are why I adore Ker Dukey and her incredible writing! She can depict a very dark, bloody, uncomfortable scene in a way so musical and silky-soft that you can't help but feel relaxed, almost like floating, and completely awed by what's happening. You want the vilest, the unthinkable and the taboo to happen, so that you can get to experience it in her words and lose yourself in the minds of her exceptional characters.
I am officially one of her biggest fans after this incredible journey with Ryan, Blake, Mel and Cereus.
Cereus is lonely. She feels disconnected and separate from all the people around her, uncomfortable in her own skin, like she is suffocating under the pressure of hiding her true self from the world around her.
“Come find me in the dark, Cereus.”
~ RYAN
Cereus misses HIM terribly, the other part of her, half of her heart and her soulmate. Knowing Ryan could still be out there, alive, but choosing to keep himself away from her, kills her. She dreams of him every night, hears his voice all day, feels his eyes on her skin peering at her from behind the shadows in the dark corners, draws his face, his eyes, the way he looked inside the flames that day, almost like a dark God, every time she gets her sketchbook in her hands. The ache from missing him is constantly clawing at her insides and burning her veins...
BUT WHERE IS HE?
“We’re made from the same soul, fractured and forced into two bodies, and mine craves his presence, his love and his touch.”
~ CEREUS
Ryan is lonely. Without HER, the darkness feels too desolate, even for him. He misses Cereus terribly, but watching her from afar, hiding in the shadows and letting her live a normal life, go to college and invest in her art is the right thing to do…isn’t it?
“If my heart beats and speeds up whenever she’s within reach, then she OWNS it, right?”
~ RYAN
But Ryan is starting to find it too difficult to stay away from her. They are bound by something stronger than just family blood, attraction or normal love. She is the second half of his soul…if he even has one. The craving to be near her is added to the craving for chaos, blood and death now, calling to him to go and take what’s HIS...
WHAT IF WHAT THEY BOTH NEED IS TO BE TOGETHER, TO DISCOVER THE JOY AND COMFORT IN THE DARKNESS, HAND-IN-HAND?
“She isn’t normal, she’s mine and I want to claim her back. She’s meant to live in my world, give it color and chase the shadows with me.”
~ RYAN
I know these two are niece and uncle, but they're just so entangled with and engrossed into each other, that I find myself rooting for them. Don't worry there's nothing sexual between them...at least not yet. But what they share is really LOVE and it's incredibly fascinating to watch, smell, feel what Cereus feels when she's with Ryan.
OVERALL: This series is definitely not for everyone, but if you're a book-wh*re hungry for the wrong, the taboo and the twisted like me...then it's perfect for you! ;)
“I’d rather live and strive amongst the SINNERS than fade and die amongst the SAINTS.”
~ CEREUS
February 7, 2017
3.5 STARS
The story starts with Cereus who’s away at college. She feels lonely and disconnected from the world knowing Ryan could still be alive. She’s suffocating under the weight of her own battle with who she is.
She knows she means something to Ryan, she knows they had a connection and she doesn’t know how she feels for him. She doesn’t care what he did in the past, he loves him even if she knows he’s a monster. She starts to have some dark thoughts about hurting some girl who tries to make her life miserable.
Ryan misses Cereus and it’s more and more difficult for him to stay away. Cereus is the only one who accepts him, the REAL him, a monster, a psychopath, a killer. She manages to give him what others didn’t, something other than the craving for death and blood. When Cereus gets in trouble Ryan is the first who’s there for her, trying to protect her from others and from herself.
Like the previous books in the series this was dark, twisted and I really enjoyed every minute of it! I really wish it was longer. The story is fast paced and the plot twists interesting. Ryan is a killer, a psycho, a sadistic motherf@cker but I I have to say that he is an gripping character. He doesn't care about anything, he is who he is. His soft side is interesting to read about and Cereus’s dark side was intriguing. I really wanted to know more about Cereus and about how she grows into who she’s always been.
Overall, a great read and great addition to the series!
“Even the tamer man holds a devil inside him, whispering and praying life will push the saint into a sinner.”
The story starts with Cereus who’s away at college. She feels lonely and disconnected from the world knowing Ryan could still be alive. She’s suffocating under the weight of her own battle with who she is.
“Ryan turned the lights out and taught me to see in the darkness. Nobody sees me the way he does and I’m hopelessly pursuing the hunter in him. I want to be found or preyed on; if that’s what I am, his prey.”
She knows she means something to Ryan, she knows they had a connection and she doesn’t know how she feels for him. She doesn’t care what he did in the past, he loves him even if she knows he’s a monster. She starts to have some dark thoughts about hurting some girl who tries to make her life miserable.
Ryan misses Cereus and it’s more and more difficult for him to stay away. Cereus is the only one who accepts him, the REAL him, a monster, a psychopath, a killer. She manages to give him what others didn’t, something other than the craving for death and blood. When Cereus gets in trouble Ryan is the first who’s there for her, trying to protect her from others and from herself.
“Everything in life is temporary, Cereus. Everything but us. I will always come for you.”
Like the previous books in the series this was dark, twisted and I really enjoyed every minute of it! I really wish it was longer. The story is fast paced and the plot twists interesting. Ryan is a killer, a psycho, a sadistic motherf@cker but I I have to say that he is an gripping character. He doesn't care about anything, he is who he is. His soft side is interesting to read about and Cereus’s dark side was intriguing. I really wanted to know more about Cereus and about how she grows into who she’s always been.
Overall, a great read and great addition to the series!
“I’d rather live and strive amongst the sinners than fade and die amongst the saints.”
March 29, 2015
HOLY FUCKING CUM BUCKET!!!
RYAN!!!! FUCK!!!!!
THIS woman is a fucking genius!!!!
Absolutely fucking spectacular!!!
Fuck my arse I LOVE IT!!
August 20, 2015
3.5 I don't like where this is heading STARS
March 30, 2015
★★★ 3.5 Stars ★★★
Now LIVE!
Amazon - http://amzn.to/1BhhHKo
Amazon UK - http://amzn.to/1wHWLR8
A year after Ryan has supposedly died in the fire and Cereus is at college trying to fit in with people that she doesn't connect with. She is getting some stick from a girl called Hannah and she is getting dark thoughts about hurting her and she is missing her uncle so desperately she feels like she is losing her mind. He was the only one who understood her and now that she has unleashed her darkness, she finally feels free.
Ryan has been watching over her from a distance and when he realises that Cereus might be in trouble, he is immediately there for her like he always said he would be.
_ _ _ _
This novella was as crazy as the first two books, and not only to we have the seriously fucked up psychopath that is Ryan, but we now have his little protégé Cereus. This ends on a bit of a cliffhanger so I am not sure if that is it, or there will be more? But I feel like if there is more then it should have been just one longer book rather than short novellas.
Still, if you were a fan of Empathy and Desolate you will probably enjoy the crazy train of Uncle Ryan and Cereus.
ARC gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest review
Now LIVE!
Amazon - http://amzn.to/1BhhHKo
Amazon UK - http://amzn.to/1wHWLR8
A year after Ryan has supposedly died in the fire and Cereus is at college trying to fit in with people that she doesn't connect with. She is getting some stick from a girl called Hannah and she is getting dark thoughts about hurting her and she is missing her uncle so desperately she feels like she is losing her mind. He was the only one who understood her and now that she has unleashed her darkness, she finally feels free.
"Ryan's words soothe me. I don't care that they aren't real. I can do whatever I want, think whatever I want.
In my mind no one has to know.
I can be free."
Ryan has been watching over her from a distance and when he realises that Cereus might be in trouble, he is immediately there for her like he always said he would be.
_ _ _ _
This novella was as crazy as the first two books, and not only to we have the seriously fucked up psychopath that is Ryan, but we now have his little protégé Cereus. This ends on a bit of a cliffhanger so I am not sure if that is it, or there will be more? But I feel like if there is more then it should have been just one longer book rather than short novellas.
Still, if you were a fan of Empathy and Desolate you will probably enjoy the crazy train of Uncle Ryan and Cereus.
ARC gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest review
August 24, 2015
Cereus knows Ryan is a monster. She knows what he’s capable of and she’s not afraid of him. On the contrary, she feels connected to him in the weirdest and darkest ways. Her rage and twisted mind slowly unleashe a monster. The horrors in her mind have unfolded, unleashing something far too sinister.
Cereus and Ryan find order in chaos, their minds find a connection.
The distance between them is trifling. Cereus is like having dark inner voices whispered by her uncle. Ryan’s craving for blood and death is as been accepted by a person similar to him, a killer like him! His sadistic and cruel nature is mirroring with Cereus’ aggressive and disturbing behavior, and she feels it, too.
When Cereus is in need, he goes to her, he stands by her and absorbs her insanity and pain by offering her the comfort she needs by relating to her dark soul’s vacancy.
This series is dark, brutal and terrifying. Totally messed up! I love a book that makes you think when you finish reading it and this one definitely does this.
Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Cereus and Ryan find order in chaos, their minds find a connection.
The distance between them is trifling. Cereus is like having dark inner voices whispered by her uncle. Ryan’s craving for blood and death is as been accepted by a person similar to him, a killer like him! His sadistic and cruel nature is mirroring with Cereus’ aggressive and disturbing behavior, and she feels it, too.
When Cereus is in need, he goes to her, he stands by her and absorbs her insanity and pain by offering her the comfort she needs by relating to her dark soul’s vacancy.
This series is dark, brutal and terrifying. Totally messed up! I love a book that makes you think when you finish reading it and this one definitely does this.
Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 27, 2016
4.25 Stars
Vacant begins with Cereus Braxton trying to pick up the pieces after Ryan walked out of her life. Knowing their bond is immeasurable, Ryan’s voice pervades her mind providing peace within her dark thoughts. With Cereus always knowing she was a different than most, her urges are starting to surface, and more than ever, Cereus wishes Ryan would return for her.
Meanwhile, Ryan is trying to keep himself pre-occupied with a diversion, but despite not having direct contact with his Cereus, he maintains a close eye on her. Seeing Cereus struggle with her desires amongst is challenging for Ryan and he badly wants to bring her into his world.
When a series of events occur on Cereus’ college campus, it starts to draw the wrong kind of attention alerting ever-watchful eyes to the scene. There are only two other people who know the truth but will either be successful in preventing the inevitable?
With the focus on how Cereus tries to reconcile her feelings, it gives us a glimpse into her inner turmoil. When she reaches the point where she no longer wants to be alone, she accepts what lies within, but there is still so much more that Cereus must learn to embrace. Existing on the periphery is no longer an option for her.
Learning more about Ryan and how he likes to play with his prey was quite intriguing. With Ryan, his absolute belief in his own superiority is part of his charm and also underscores the deep and disturbing level of his psychosis.
In this novella, we see how certain bonds can be truly magnetic, and while their union may not be a good one in the traditional sense, sometimes you don’t have to be alone in the darkness.
I recommend this book to readers who want to continue to delve into the debauched world of those who live in the shadows; a place where sinners are exceptional and normalcy are for the lesser.
Vacant begins with Cereus Braxton trying to pick up the pieces after Ryan walked out of her life. Knowing their bond is immeasurable, Ryan’s voice pervades her mind providing peace within her dark thoughts. With Cereus always knowing she was a different than most, her urges are starting to surface, and more than ever, Cereus wishes Ryan would return for her.
“I want to be found or preyed on; if that’s what I am, his prey.”
Meanwhile, Ryan is trying to keep himself pre-occupied with a diversion, but despite not having direct contact with his Cereus, he maintains a close eye on her. Seeing Cereus struggle with her desires amongst is challenging for Ryan and he badly wants to bring her into his world.
“She’s meant to live in my world, give it color and chase the shadows with me.”
When a series of events occur on Cereus’ college campus, it starts to draw the wrong kind of attention alerting ever-watchful eyes to the scene. There are only two other people who know the truth but will either be successful in preventing the inevitable?
“It’s unconventional and we’ll never be picture perfect but it’s our imperfections that make us worth the brushstrokes.”
With the focus on how Cereus tries to reconcile her feelings, it gives us a glimpse into her inner turmoil. When she reaches the point where she no longer wants to be alone, she accepts what lies within, but there is still so much more that Cereus must learn to embrace. Existing on the periphery is no longer an option for her.
Learning more about Ryan and how he likes to play with his prey was quite intriguing. With Ryan, his absolute belief in his own superiority is part of his charm and also underscores the deep and disturbing level of his psychosis.
In this novella, we see how certain bonds can be truly magnetic, and while their union may not be a good one in the traditional sense, sometimes you don’t have to be alone in the darkness.
I recommend this book to readers who want to continue to delve into the debauched world of those who live in the shadows; a place where sinners are exceptional and normalcy are for the lesser.
February 28, 2018
Lies. Imaginary friends. Untamed impulses. This short story was a great fix for my fictional sociopath craving!
March 22, 2015
"Would you rather be the person doing the cutting or the person apologizing for their blood staining your clothes while they bleed out?"
Oh Ryan…you sicken me yet I’m so fascinated by your character! I’m pretty sure the author could write ten books on him and his sadistic ways and I wouldn’t ever become bored! Vacant picks up a year after Desolate with Cereus desperately trying to blend in and be normal while Ryan bides his time before entering her life again.
Ryan sees the darkness blooming in Cereus as he watches over her. But it isn't time for him to make his presence known yet... she doesn't know he's alive and he isn't sure he'd be able to let her go again. The first 40% gives us a glimpse into Cereus’ life as she navigates her way through college, drama, and grief. She feels invisible, alone, and different. If only the person who made her feel complete was there for her.
Little does Cereus know, he is .
The last 60% started with a pivotal moment where Cereus is faced with a decision of life or death. I held my breath reading this intense scene. The next thing I know the book is over…- you won’t be able to put this down once starting! Vacant is filled with powerful scenes and is over before you’ve even taken a few deep breaths to calm down. The ending was not as I expected and consists of a semi cliffhanger- PLEASE PLEASE let there be more story!! *begs*
I should have been put off or at least shocked at the taboo feelings between Cereus and Ryan- but it seemed too natural I just couldn't! (I've been reading too many dark & taboo books) Argh Ker Dukey is my new guilty pleasure!
I can’t explain the author’s writing style… it’s lyrical and darkly poetic yet full of action and probably the most engaging style I’ve read. The characters could be taking a shower or doing something nominal and it’s still super exciting to me.
There’s not much more I can say that I haven’t expressed in the first two books…
Characters: 5 stars
Story: 5 stars
Writing: 5 stars
Everything: 5 stars
Top recommendation xx
***
Read my reviews of Empathy | Desolate
*Received an arc in exchange for an honest review*
Oh Ryan…you sicken me yet I’m so fascinated by your character! I’m pretty sure the author could write ten books on him and his sadistic ways and I wouldn’t ever become bored! Vacant picks up a year after Desolate with Cereus desperately trying to blend in and be normal while Ryan bides his time before entering her life again.
Ryan sees the darkness blooming in Cereus as he watches over her. But it isn't time for him to make his presence known yet... she doesn't know he's alive and he isn't sure he'd be able to let her go again. The first 40% gives us a glimpse into Cereus’ life as she navigates her way through college, drama, and grief. She feels invisible, alone, and different. If only the person who made her feel complete was there for her.
Little does Cereus know, he is .
The last 60% started with a pivotal moment where Cereus is faced with a decision of life or death. I held my breath reading this intense scene. The next thing I know the book is over…- you won’t be able to put this down once starting! Vacant is filled with powerful scenes and is over before you’ve even taken a few deep breaths to calm down. The ending was not as I expected and consists of a semi cliffhanger- PLEASE PLEASE let there be more story!! *begs*
I should have been put off or at least shocked at the taboo feelings between Cereus and Ryan- but it seemed too natural I just couldn't! (I've been reading too many dark & taboo books) Argh Ker Dukey is my new guilty pleasure!
I can’t explain the author’s writing style… it’s lyrical and darkly poetic yet full of action and probably the most engaging style I’ve read. The characters could be taking a shower or doing something nominal and it’s still super exciting to me.
There’s not much more I can say that I haven’t expressed in the first two books…
Characters: 5 stars
Story: 5 stars
Writing: 5 stars
Everything: 5 stars
Top recommendation xx
***
Read my reviews of Empathy | Desolate
*Received an arc in exchange for an honest review*
June 16, 2019
“You still mourn the loss of someone even if they could have lived; if they’re lost to you the pain is still as severe as if they died. When the wind whispers through the trees, I imagine it’s him calling to me but he never appears. He hides from me in the shadows of my dreams.”
- Cereus
* * *
“Pain is a presence constantly under my skin, scratching and burning in my veins.”
- Cereus
* * *
“The usual turbulence washes through me when I think about what I feel for her. We are bound by something other than family blood, attraction, or normal love. She made me something other than the monster and as much as I hate to admit it, I like that she gave me something other than the craving for death, torment and blood. Don’t get me wrong, I’m content with who I am and it’s euphoria to feed my compulsions but when I wash away the blood and come down from a kill I’m still alone in my darkness, and it’s a lonely place to be. I’m the ultimate sinner and she didn’t try to cleanse me, fix me or lock me away, she just loved the sinner in me. She loved me.”
- Ryan
* * *
“Soul mates are not supposed to tame each other, they’re meant to set you free to run wild in your nature, to be who you are together.”
- Ryan
- Cereus
* * *
“Pain is a presence constantly under my skin, scratching and burning in my veins.”
- Cereus
* * *
“The usual turbulence washes through me when I think about what I feel for her. We are bound by something other than family blood, attraction, or normal love. She made me something other than the monster and as much as I hate to admit it, I like that she gave me something other than the craving for death, torment and blood. Don’t get me wrong, I’m content with who I am and it’s euphoria to feed my compulsions but when I wash away the blood and come down from a kill I’m still alone in my darkness, and it’s a lonely place to be. I’m the ultimate sinner and she didn’t try to cleanse me, fix me or lock me away, she just loved the sinner in me. She loved me.”
- Ryan
* * *
“Soul mates are not supposed to tame each other, they’re meant to set you free to run wild in your nature, to be who you are together.”
- Ryan
April 3, 2015
6 Stars!
"Some people use a blade for evil, some people use their tongues which are sharper and make people bleed better than any knife can. Some people are born dark, others become it."
Ker Dukey does it again. I'm serious, does she even know what lengths I would go for another book in this series. I did message her like a feening drug addict. This series. Okay, this series is absolutely a top FAVORITE for me. I will get signed copies, I will sing Ker Dukey creepy songs, I might fly to the UK or wherever she lives just to hang out with her. That's not really stalking, right? Fan girl doesn't cover it.
Warning: Don't read if you like sunshine, flowers, and sweet HEA's. Now, if you like sociopaths, dark themes, and taboo twistedness, pick this up right now. Trust me.
On to the book. You should definitely read this series in order.
Empathy, Desolate, Vacant. No Spoilers, this will be vague. Vacant completes the series, but I really need another book. I really need more taboo. Because I'm sick like that.
Ryan isn't like any character I've ever read. I've said this so many times, I feel like a broken record, but it's the truth. He will either make you question your stability or make you run for the hills. I like my dark with a side of twisted. This one blew it all out the water. After reading Desolate, I wanted this non-conventional relationship to work. CALL me sick, call me whatever you want... I wanted it. I kept thinking, is she gonna go there, do I want her to go there, is this even a question, what is wrong with me? It's fiction, let's fucking go there. It wouldn't be a Dukey book without the twists, she stuck a stick of dynamite in and watched it explode, I was BLOWN away.
"Soul mates are not supposed to tame each other, they’re meant to set you free to run wild in your nature, to be who you are together."
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND for my dark friends. A MUST Read.
Ker Dukey, write me another and I will donate my kidneys or become your slave. Just say what you need.
"Some people use a blade for evil, some people use their tongues which are sharper and make people bleed better than any knife can. Some people are born dark, others become it."
Ker Dukey does it again. I'm serious, does she even know what lengths I would go for another book in this series. I did message her like a feening drug addict. This series. Okay, this series is absolutely a top FAVORITE for me. I will get signed copies, I will sing Ker Dukey creepy songs, I might fly to the UK or wherever she lives just to hang out with her. That's not really stalking, right? Fan girl doesn't cover it.
Warning: Don't read if you like sunshine, flowers, and sweet HEA's. Now, if you like sociopaths, dark themes, and taboo twistedness, pick this up right now. Trust me.
On to the book. You should definitely read this series in order.
Empathy, Desolate, Vacant. No Spoilers, this will be vague. Vacant completes the series, but I really need another book. I really need more taboo. Because I'm sick like that.
Ryan isn't like any character I've ever read. I've said this so many times, I feel like a broken record, but it's the truth. He will either make you question your stability or make you run for the hills. I like my dark with a side of twisted. This one blew it all out the water. After reading Desolate, I wanted this non-conventional relationship to work. CALL me sick, call me whatever you want... I wanted it. I kept thinking, is she gonna go there, do I want her to go there, is this even a question, what is wrong with me? It's fiction, let's fucking go there. It wouldn't be a Dukey book without the twists, she stuck a stick of dynamite in and watched it explode, I was BLOWN away.
"Soul mates are not supposed to tame each other, they’re meant to set you free to run wild in your nature, to be who you are together."
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND for my dark friends. A MUST Read.
Ker Dukey, write me another and I will donate my kidneys or become your slave. Just say what you need.
September 2, 2015
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Ahhh...Ker Dukey has me addicted!!!! Vacant picks off where it last left off in Desolate with Cereus away at college and trying to continue living but the darkness inside her becomes to take over. Dark twisted thoughts begins to consumes her. Blood. Death. Revenge. And so begins Cereus turmoil of darkness and sinner. Does the killer gene live within Cereus as she begins and craves blood? Can she finally be free and embrace the sinner with the help of Ryan?
Vacant was sinfully wicked. I loved that we got a taste of what is to come with Cereus as she embraces this calling and yearning that Ryan ignites. Can two sinners who know are related by blood be truly fated to be soulmates? I seriously can't wait to read Deadly and to see what is in store for these two. So if you found Ryans's dark and twisted thoughts consuming, then prepared to get consumed with the deadly darkness that lies in Cereus.
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Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Ker Dukey
Ahhh...Ker Dukey has me addicted!!!! Vacant picks off where it last left off in Desolate with Cereus away at college and trying to continue living but the darkness inside her becomes to take over. Dark twisted thoughts begins to consumes her. Blood. Death. Revenge. And so begins Cereus turmoil of darkness and sinner. Does the killer gene live within Cereus as she begins and craves blood? Can she finally be free and embrace the sinner with the help of Ryan?
Vacant was sinfully wicked. I loved that we got a taste of what is to come with Cereus as she embraces this calling and yearning that Ryan ignites. Can two sinners who know are related by blood be truly fated to be soulmates? I seriously can't wait to read Deadly and to see what is in store for these two. So if you found Ryans's dark and twisted thoughts consuming, then prepared to get consumed with the deadly darkness that lies in Cereus.
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Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Ker Dukey
April 9, 2021
This novella is short but definitely doesn’t lack in dark twists. However, this boo does have one of those twists/tropes that tend to bother me in books, but in this case it works--to a degree. That said, this book delivers on the dark and disturbing content we readers loved from the first two instalments in this series, and I enjoyed reading about more of Ryan’s twisted shenanigans. This is a quick read, but definitely worth picking up if you enjoyed the first two Empathy books.
March 25, 2015
Perfection! The queen of twists is at it again!
Vacant is the perfect ending to one of the best twistedly dark series of 2015
You must read Empathy & Desolate first and if you haven't yet, well...I'm a little sad for you! They are a must! You will discover why everyone is buzzing about the amazing talent that author Ker Dukey displays in each and every book.
Vacant catches us up on how Cereus is doing in college. After meeting, then losing the one thing that started to make sense in her life. Cereus's world hasn't been the same...
Her soul is craving something... Someone
She's present, but Vacant ...
Ryan has a few new toys ... (I'll just leave that there *insert wicked laugh)
This 5 star conclusion will leave you craving more from the wicked wicked mind of Ker Dukey
Vacant is the perfect ending to one of the best twistedly dark series of 2015
You must read Empathy & Desolate first and if you haven't yet, well...I'm a little sad for you! They are a must! You will discover why everyone is buzzing about the amazing talent that author Ker Dukey displays in each and every book.
Vacant catches us up on how Cereus is doing in college. After meeting, then losing the one thing that started to make sense in her life. Cereus's world hasn't been the same...
Her soul is craving something... Someone
She's present, but Vacant ...
Ryan has a few new toys ... (I'll just leave that there *insert wicked laugh)
This 5 star conclusion will leave you craving more from the wicked wicked mind of Ker Dukey
Read
March 31, 2015Amazing!
Wait? What just happened?!?! This was the best book yet however it left me wanting more!! I must know what happens with Ryan and Cereus. I've been sucked in to the dark side!!
Wait? What just happened?!?! This was the best book yet however it left me wanting more!! I must know what happens with Ryan and Cereus. I've been sucked in to the dark side!!
February 6, 2016
Senhor amado!!!! Quando a gente acha que já viu de tudo nessa história... Vem a autora e te passa uma rasteira!!!! Foda! Foda! Fooooooooda!!!!
Ryan sendo Ryan!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ryan sendo Ryan!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
May 15, 2023
Hmm....what to say about this one. I feel like nothing really happened in this one except all the same stuff. Ryan is still crazy. Cereus wants to be with Ryan. Well, maybe something happens...Cereus clearly has a mental break. But it still feels like the same thing I've read in the other two books.
Of course, I'll have to read the last one because I'm committed at this point. So we shall see where this all goes.
Of course, I'll have to read the last one because I'm committed at this point. So we shall see where this all goes.
August 23, 2015
I was given this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
I love Ker's special brand of depravity. Fucked Up is her specialty and she rocked again.
Or is it???
"I'd rather live and strive amongst the sinners than fade and die amongst the saints."
Check your mouth,
if your ass can't cash it.
"Don't drift through life fighting to be normal when you're exceptional."
Randal was a great addition to this story. Loved him. =)
READING ORDER
Empathy (Empathy Series book 1)
Desolate (Empathy Series book 2)
Vacant (Empathy Series book 2.5)
Deadly (Empathy Series book 3)
I love Ker's special brand of depravity. Fucked Up is her specialty and she rocked again.
Or is it???
"I'd rather live and strive amongst the sinners than fade and die amongst the saints."
Check your mouth,
if your ass can't cash it.
"Don't drift through life fighting to be normal when you're exceptional."
Randal was a great addition to this story. Loved him. =)
READING ORDER
Empathy (Empathy Series book 1)
Desolate (Empathy Series book 2)
Vacant (Empathy Series book 2.5)
Deadly (Empathy Series book 3)
February 13, 2018
*** 5 dark crazy sicko stars!***
CRAZY SICK BOOK, WRITTEN BY A CRAZY AUTHOR, READ BY CRAZY READER, AND WE'RE FUCKING LOVED IT!!!
I think I'm a little split in my head, this book fulfill my sadistic mind.
Ryan and Cereus are obviously made for each other. I dunno if there's any sex between them and make this one incest story.
But one thing for sure is, if I'm cross over them on the street somewhere, I would be scare as shit!
Recommended! You're gonna love it!
CRAZY SICK BOOK, WRITTEN BY A CRAZY AUTHOR, READ BY CRAZY READER, AND WE'RE FUCKING LOVED IT!!!
I think I'm a little split in my head, this book fulfill my sadistic mind.
Ryan and Cereus are obviously made for each other. I dunno if there's any sex between them and make this one incest story.
But one thing for sure is, if I'm cross over them on the street somewhere, I would be scare as shit!
"Nobody sees me the way he does and I’m hopelessly pursuing the hunter in him. I want to be found or preyed on; if that’s what I am, his prey."
"I know a monster lives within him but the man who protected me, the man who I spent time with lives inside him also."
"I’m the ultimate sinner and she didn’t try to cleanse me, fix me or lock me away, she just loved the sinner in me. She loved me."
"I picture myself transparent like the water, fading more with every passing day until I become nothing. I let myself drop to the bottom of the pool, knowing how easy it would be to stay there, to leave the world I don’t fit into."
"He has dark urges and acts upon them but just because he acts out his thoughts doesn’t make me not love him or feel an ache inside at how lonely and difficult the world must be to him. He didn’t ask to be this way."
"“Surrender to who you are, let go of what they want you to be,”"
"“Evil is like beauty; it’s in the eye of the beholder.” He grins and then grabs my hand. “Some people use a blade for evil, some people use their tongues which are sharper and make people bleed better than any knife can. Some people are born dark, others become it.”"
"Soul mates are not supposed to tame each other, they’re meant to set you free to run wild in your nature, to be who you are together"
Recommended! You're gonna love it!
April 27, 2015
Ker Dukey....you deserve this.......
☆☆☆☆☆5 I am Devoted To Our Darkness Stars ☆☆☆☆☆
" I didn't realize how detached I really was from the world around me until he entered and abruptly left mine, leaving me floating through life but not feeling a part of it."
This novella in the Empathy series is short, sweet and just as awesone as it's mind blowing predecessors. Miss Dukey has created a masterpiece of raw evil with love infused.
This story is all about Cereus' inner demons. The turmoil her mind and soul are battling to remain "normal" are spinning out of control. Her love for her uncle Ryan is wrong in the eyes of her family, the world, but she needs his love to save her from herself.
As Ryan battles his own fight against being with Cereus, he knows their souls will never survive being apart. The blood that is left creates ultimate lies for this family that if ever revealed....Happiness would never survive.
"She wove herself deep inside me, owning me. I'm hers and she's mine. "
The sequence of horrific events that occur make this love between two deeply broken souls perfectly wrong but unstoppable to read about.
I am not going to lie. ......I need more of this series. Cereus and Ryan....completely addicted to this one. My fingers are crossed for more!!!!
☆☆☆☆☆5 I am Devoted To Our Darkness Stars ☆☆☆☆☆
" I didn't realize how detached I really was from the world around me until he entered and abruptly left mine, leaving me floating through life but not feeling a part of it."
This novella in the Empathy series is short, sweet and just as awesone as it's mind blowing predecessors. Miss Dukey has created a masterpiece of raw evil with love infused.
This story is all about Cereus' inner demons. The turmoil her mind and soul are battling to remain "normal" are spinning out of control. Her love for her uncle Ryan is wrong in the eyes of her family, the world, but she needs his love to save her from herself.
As Ryan battles his own fight against being with Cereus, he knows their souls will never survive being apart. The blood that is left creates ultimate lies for this family that if ever revealed....Happiness would never survive.
"She wove herself deep inside me, owning me. I'm hers and she's mine. "
The sequence of horrific events that occur make this love between two deeply broken souls perfectly wrong but unstoppable to read about.
I am not going to lie. ......I need more of this series. Cereus and Ryan....completely addicted to this one. My fingers are crossed for more!!!!
March 30, 2015
Ker Dukey was the author that really gave me a love for dark reads. Her amazing words for Ryan in Empathy will always stay with me. I could never imagine how they were thought up but they were beautifully brilliant. Desolate was the same in my reaction. With that being said, I was left wanting a lot more from Vacant.
We get both Ryan and Cereus' POV in this novella. Ryan is convinced that Cereus (his niece) is his soul mate; not in a sexual way, but in mind and spirit. Two dark souls that were meant to be together, to feed off of eachothers depravity. Ryan was believed to be killed in Desolate but he lived through the fire to meet his half brother and his wife. That's a whole other side to his crazy mind.
“Soul mates are not supposed to tame eachother, they’re meant to set you free to run wild in your nature, to be who you are together.”
Cereus is trying to live through her first year in college. Her peers don't like her. She's closed-off and has only one friend, Randal. Cereus finds herself thinking darker and darker because of her distain for Hannah, the school "mean girl" and finally gets her revenge in the only way she knows how, seducing Hannah's boyfriend.
“I know a monster lives within him but the man who protected me, the man who I spent time with lives inside him also.”
After shit goes down at the college with Hannah's disappearance, Ryan finds himself there and trying to take Cereus away from it all. They need to be together to live their life with eachother and have no one to tell them what they want is wrong.
I finished this novella wanting more. I feel that we could have greatly benefited from a novel from Ker. More on Cereus' new "friends" and even Blake and Melody since they played a larger part in Desolate. Ker is still one of my top "one click" authors, her dark imagination knows no bounds.
We get both Ryan and Cereus' POV in this novella. Ryan is convinced that Cereus (his niece) is his soul mate; not in a sexual way, but in mind and spirit. Two dark souls that were meant to be together, to feed off of eachothers depravity. Ryan was believed to be killed in Desolate but he lived through the fire to meet his half brother and his wife. That's a whole other side to his crazy mind.
“Soul mates are not supposed to tame eachother, they’re meant to set you free to run wild in your nature, to be who you are together.”
Cereus is trying to live through her first year in college. Her peers don't like her. She's closed-off and has only one friend, Randal. Cereus finds herself thinking darker and darker because of her distain for Hannah, the school "mean girl" and finally gets her revenge in the only way she knows how, seducing Hannah's boyfriend.
“I know a monster lives within him but the man who protected me, the man who I spent time with lives inside him also.”
After shit goes down at the college with Hannah's disappearance, Ryan finds himself there and trying to take Cereus away from it all. They need to be together to live their life with eachother and have no one to tell them what they want is wrong.
I finished this novella wanting more. I feel that we could have greatly benefited from a novel from Ker. More on Cereus' new "friends" and even Blake and Melody since they played a larger part in Desolate. Ker is still one of my top "one click" authors, her dark imagination knows no bounds.
June 16, 2016
Finally! I love Ryan. I've loved Ryan from the first book but I felt sort of let down by his book. That was not the case with this one. This book was amazingly awesome.
...but if my heart beats and speeds up whenever she's within reach then she owns it, right?It was pretty much equal parts Cereus and Ryan and they were so perfectly complimentary. I was bummed they spent so much of this one apart but everything I'd hoped for when reading Desolate was realized in some fashion in this book.
Some people use a blade for evil, some people use their tongues which are sharper and make people bleed better than any knife can. Some people are born dark, others become it.Their depravity is mesmerizing. There was a point in this book when I started to realize what was really happening and it just made me love Ryan and Cereus more. (I'm going to use the word "love" a couple times here, even though it's not quite the correct word choice) They seem to love one another despite, if not because of their imperfections.
We're made from the same soul, fractured and forced into two bodies, and mine craves his presence, his love and his touch.Sometimes I would listen to Ryan wax poetic and thought it was over the top and cheesy but then something else would happen and I would realize how perfect his words were. How all-encompassing and transcendent their love is.
She's the other part of me. Unique and exceptional.This was an awesome continuation of the series and I can’t wait to read the last piece of the puzzle, I’m a bit afraid for what’s to come for Cereus and Ryan but I’m hoping it all pans out okay :)
March 20, 2015
Another amazing 5 stars
I was so lucky to be able to read an ARC
I really don't know what to say Ker has done it again I love all her books; I am pretty sure if she gave me her shopping list I would read it. But seriously I totally Love this Empathy series Ryan is one messed up guy and I am sick in the head because I just fall for him every time this is a great Novella where Cereus is off to collage trying to live her life. But can she ever just have a normal Life with Ryan still in the background and is always watching out for her? You have to read to find out. If you have been reading this amazing Series from Ker you don't want to miss this Novella.
Just pick it up if you haven't read the other books in this series do it now you won't be disappointed if you like dark, twisted ,mind f*ck books this is for you enjoy
Just can't get enough of Ker's books!
I was so lucky to be able to read an ARC
I really don't know what to say Ker has done it again I love all her books; I am pretty sure if she gave me her shopping list I would read it. But seriously I totally Love this Empathy series Ryan is one messed up guy and I am sick in the head because I just fall for him every time this is a great Novella where Cereus is off to collage trying to live her life. But can she ever just have a normal Life with Ryan still in the background and is always watching out for her? You have to read to find out. If you have been reading this amazing Series from Ker you don't want to miss this Novella.
Just pick it up if you haven't read the other books in this series do it now you won't be disappointed if you like dark, twisted ,mind f*ck books this is for you enjoy
Just can't get enough of Ker's books!
December 17, 2016
Woah. This is taking a very dark turn. Cereus may be more dark than Ryan.
January 25, 2020
*Buddy read with my girl A. Girl!
I’m intrigued with this one. Such complex characters, but I figured out what was going to happen. Is that terrible?? I’m on the fence with that actually.
This is a novella so different rules do apply I guess, but I feel like Cereus’ character could have been fed a little more. Ryan’s character has been fully developed and is being developed further beautifully, but Cereus’ character is not fully developed just yet. I’m hoping the next and last book in the series will complete her character but at this point I’m at a point of being on the fence of me liking or disliking her character.
For a novella, this was written well. A plot was established and everything, but like I said Cereus’ psych could have been developed a little bit more even if it’s a novella or not.
*Buddy read with my girl A. Girl! She’s literally a queen cause she reads books just as quickly as I do! And she’s passionate as I am as well. Are you ready girl for the final book??? Idk if I’m ready, but I am also ready lol
4.0 star rating
I’m intrigued with this one. Such complex characters, but I figured out what was going to happen. Is that terrible?? I’m on the fence with that actually.
This is a novella so different rules do apply I guess, but I feel like Cereus’ character could have been fed a little more. Ryan’s character has been fully developed and is being developed further beautifully, but Cereus’ character is not fully developed just yet. I’m hoping the next and last book in the series will complete her character but at this point I’m at a point of being on the fence of me liking or disliking her character.
For a novella, this was written well. A plot was established and everything, but like I said Cereus’ psych could have been developed a little bit more even if it’s a novella or not.
*Buddy read with my girl A. Girl! She’s literally a queen cause she reads books just as quickly as I do! And she’s passionate as I am as well. Are you ready girl for the final book??? Idk if I’m ready, but I am also ready lol
4.0 star rating
May 16, 2019
More Ryan, doing his thing. You know...killing people, fantasizing about killing people, degrading, tormenting everyone, and what a treat that is. Hot damn he makes psychopathy sexy AF. Love the direction this went with Cereus too.
August 15, 2020
Wow just wow... if you want dark, twisted, crazy then yeah this is the book. You must read the first book before this one so you will know whats going on. We get to see inside Ryan's mind this time and my goodness ... I can't put into words how messed up he is. His new obsession is his niece Cereus and the ride they go on. Hold on while you read this one..
November 6, 2018
VACANT
Dark perfection! This is an incredible, raw, mind bending series. I love how this novella wrapped everything up in a pitch black bow. I have been fretting over how this series would end from the very first few chapters of the first book. I could have never have anticipated all the twists and turns and the way this series would end. I loved every minute of it.
Dark perfection! This is an incredible, raw, mind bending series. I love how this novella wrapped everything up in a pitch black bow. I have been fretting over how this series would end from the very first few chapters of the first book. I could have never have anticipated all the twists and turns and the way this series would end. I loved every minute of it.
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