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Danni: Mortal

I remember nothing of my abduction two years ago. Sounds and scents trigger horrific flashes, but it’s all a blur except for one man with brilliant green eyes. When the tatted six foot two Adonis shows up at my door, my knowledge of the world is shattered.

Bound to the immortal Scar by an ancient spell, we are on the run. Because Balen is the hunted.

And if he dies, so do I.

Balen: Scar Tracker

My code of honor was respected without question … until I consumed the blood of a vampire in exchange for a mortal woman’s freedom.

The Scars want me imprisoned. The Wraiths want me dead.

But the woman I can’t forget needs me. And I’ll risk everything to protect her.

Even if it means killing her.

Because in order for her to live—first she must die.


Full-length novel. Come meet the Scars.

Scars: Immortal warriors with capabilities derived from the senses: Trackers, Sounders, Healers, Tasters, Visionaries, and the rare Reflectors. They each have what is known as an Ink, a tattoo that can be called to life.


*Stygian was originally titled JUMP.

276 pages, Paperback

First published March 19, 2015

384 people are currently reading
3221 people want to read

About the author

Nashoda Rose

26 books4,164 followers
New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Nashoda Rose lives outside of Toronto, where she enjoys hiking with her dogs and spending time with her Gyspy Vanner horse. Nash has a passion for fierce, over-protective men, damaged characters, and unbridled love stories. Her work is published in multiple languages across the world.

For rights please contact my agent Mark Gottlieb at Trident Media Group
mgottlieb@tridentmediagroup.com

New Release: Five Second Rainbird
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 288 reviews
Profile Image for Lo Bookfrantic.
837 reviews596 followers
August 11, 2017
In anticipation for book two of these amazing series book one is NOW FREE (for a limited time.) Stygian (Scars of the Wraith, Book 1)
Have you met Balen? Have you met the Scars? Now is the time.
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description
description

ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
Release Date March 30, 2015
Genre: Paranormal/Romance
My Rating: 5 amazing Stars
Do I recommend this?: Hell YES
Would I be re reading this again?: Most definitely YES!
POV: Multiple Characters POV

If you like paranormal, suspense, HOT steamy sex?! Well, then this book is for you. Everything about this book was amazing. I can't wait to read the next book in the series. I honestly recommend reading TAKE prior to reading this series because you will be able to understand & enjoy this book better. TAKE is not part of this series though is a standalone but is based on the history of the Scars on of this book.

This book had me hooked from page one. We met Balen and Danni and the evil Vampire. I don't want to give away much details because this is not released yet. However I do want you to know why I loved this book so much.

The author makes you fall in love with every character in this book. This first book is about Balen and Danni but we meet other characters and I can't help but want to know their stories too. I felt so much while reading this book. I was scared, excited, sad, had anxiety, felt pretty HOT and bothered LOL but loved every single feeling. But mostly I was HOT a lot Lol
description

Balen made a sacrifice to save Danni from the evil Vampire even if that meant to break his own kind's rules and trust. Balen is a Scar (Scars are supposed to protect the human kind). Danni is a human and as a human she would of become the Vampire's slave if Balen wouldn't have made the deal with the devil .

My Balen
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Danni was recueded with no memory of what had happened but she wanted to remember what had happened. She wanted to know the guy she keeps on dreaming and drawing about. Hot sexy m*fucker with beautiful green eyes. (Heck I wanted him too lol)

My Danni
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The chemistry between these two was freaking HOT, like seriously I needed a fan to cool off. LOL
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There was so much action on this story I freaking LOVED it. Balen returned to see Danni after he had been hiding out. He knew he had betrayed his kind and he had to pay for his betrayal but he couldn't stay away from her. Danni wanted to love Balen but was too scared to lose him. The Scars and Wrath wanted to protect Balen so shit got real pretty fast.
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Delara is a freaking HOT female Scar that I LOVED so much. I love a strong female who can speak their mind and bitch slap people haha. We met the Icy powerful Wrath "Waleron". Him and Delara have history and I can't wait to know what is in store for them.
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We meet the HOT boys team of the Scars they all have stories as well but I am sure their stories will be coming too.
I pictured them all something like this..hmmm... yeah all big, hot and dangerous!!
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But we definitely got to know the asshole Kilter. I mean freaking annoying cold asshole I couldn't help liking him of course. He helped Danni snap out of her meltdown when Balen was taken by the wraths. (I had a mini meltdown with her lol) So I guess he helped Danni and me snap out of our misery and get strong to fight for Balen's freedom. I cried and I freaked out and I got so excited for all the events that I was totally not expecting. Overall the ending was fantastic, absolutely perfect. I loved it.
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Omg did I said I loved it?!!! YES, the epilogue at the end?! Seriously?! Eekkk...I need the next book NOW lol
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Profile Image for Pam.
1,093 reviews1,069 followers
April 1, 2015
5 hopeful torment stars
“I feel you all the fuckin’ time, Danni. I can’t get you out of me. But what I feel for you will destroy us both.”



Danni may have survived her abduction without her memories, but the fear she feels everyday is real. Her mind is fighting against her own will to forget, and brings her eyes with such haunted anguish, she becomes obsessed. While she is free, she is very much still a prisoner of her own mind.



For two years Balen has tried to stay away, but the pull he feels for Danni is too strong to deny. He knew he had to see her one last time, to ease her pain before he is put to Rest. She was his main source of strength, motivation and life; Without this woman, I was nothing. Tired of running, from everyone and everything, he is finally ready to face the fate he chose for himself. He gives in to his need to be near her once again, to smell her sweet scent, look into her beautiful eyes and just be near the one who is worth dying for. Danni knows he would never hurt her, she may not remember him but deep down in her soul she knows this man; after all he is her salvation.
"We need this. If this is all we have then it’s everything. I want to feel all of you, Balen.”



The laws of old, was able to buy them time together, but it never allowed them to relax into each others arms. Fighting an unbeatable battle, Balen's main focus is to find away to protect Danni when he no longer can...no matter what happens to him, he wants her to survive, to be the woman he knows her to be.



Stygian is the first of the three part prequel to the Scars of the Wraiths series, originally titled "JUMP" (Senses Series), this story has been revamped and re-written to be this bad-ass tale. I didn't a chance to read Jump, so I can't speak as to the differences between the two, however I can tell you about my experience while reading this tale. What I have come to expect from the author is to be able to deliver a heartbreaking story that is both dark and full of beauty. While I read Take first, this prequel can be read at any time, I was able to relate to some characters I have previously met and get introduced to new ones; all piquing my interest into wanting and needing more.

Balen and Danni, had a powerful connection from the very first moment they met, what they felt for each other was as sure and true. The entire time I spent rooting them on, wishing and looking for ways for it to all work out. I was equally pissed at the Deconry and the CWO, they are supposed to be the difference between good and evil, however the lines are blurred where the Wraiths are concerned.

What intrigued me the most was the bond, the drive and the sense of family amongst the Scars. Balen I loved, he was such a tormented-anguished-soul, but as sweet and loving as well. Danni, I felt for, her loss and confusion, but I have to admit that there were times that she pissed me off with her fear, willing her to fight just as much as Balen was for hope. This multi POV read was both sexy and thrilling, inviting us to live in their world. Recommended for dark paranormal lovers out there.

I can not wait for the next one, something tells me it's gonna be oh so good!

ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.

***Quotes above are taken from the ARC version of the book and may differ upon publication.



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Profile Image for Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾.
2,313 reviews13.7k followers
July 15, 2015
4.25 Stars

I'd fight for you, Danni. Right to the fuckin' end. I'd never stop. No matter what shit was put up against us, I'd keep fighting.


This book was everything I love about PNR. Having read and loved Take, I was super excited to get my hands on more of the Scars. But where Take read more like a standalone and had the romance be the predominant element, Stygian had a lot more PNR elements that I couldn't get enough of. Having read Take first, I couldn't help thinking that I was missing a lot of the backbone of the story behind the Scars. Don't get me wrong, there was plenty of back story and world building in that book. But it still took me a while to wrap my mind around everything. There was even a glossary of terms in the beginning. I really think that Nashoda should have began this series with this book, because it managed to do what Take couldn't. It totally and completely sucked you into the world building element of the story. It truly fed you every bit of detail piece by piece where you'll never feel lost (no glossary required). If anything, I'd recommend starting with this book first before you read Take, for no other reason than this book will absolutely hook you on this series.

Danni spent horrific days in captivity at the hands of a sadistic monster that got off on her pain, but she doesn't remember it. Bits and pieces will randomly slam into her mind, but she can't put them together. All she knows is that she was taken, and then she wasn't. The nightmarish flashbacks torture her even more because she doesn't know if they're real or not.

But nothing haunts her more than a pair of captivating green eyes and the ruthlessly handsome face that's attached to it. So much so, that she's been obsessively painting the man for the two years after her captivity not knowing if he's a memory or just a figment of her imagination.
Inside, I was a tornado of emotions- tearing, pushing and pulling in every direction. I couldn't figure out what the hell was wrong with me.


Balen is a Scar that sold his soul to the devil in order to stop Danni's pain. Having to watch her torture day in and day out while being completely powerless to help her ate away at him until finally he made a decision that would very well cost him his life. If the vampire blood he consumed won't kill him, the Deaconry and The Wraiths will since it goes against their every rule. But he'd do it again if he had the choice. What he can't seem to do now, is get the woman out of his mind. Inexplicably drawn to her, he gravitates to her like a magnet even though his presence is dangerous to them both.

I loved getting more history on The Scars here. You truly get a grasp for their world, especially with additional POVs with a few integral secondary characters. Adding additional POVs to a story on top of the MCs can be tricky, since sometimes they may just complicate things. Fortunately, Nashoda Rose pulls this off seamlessly. I really felt like the secondary POVs only added to the story without ever being confusing.

I absolutely LOVED Danni and Balen not only together but as individual characters. Danni has this tough shell, but inside there's this incredibly endearing vulnerability to her. It was also such a refreshing change to get a hero like Balen. While he manages to have this air of ruthlessness to him, he's so soft and caring with Danni. You can truly feel the connection between them, and not just on the sexual level. Though let me tell you, that sexual level was hot as hell!

I was completely enraptured with this story. It sucked me in from the very beginning and I couldn't seem to put it down until the end. Between the romance for Danni and Balen, there was so much else going on.

My only quibble is that I couldn't help but feel there was supposed to be a book before them, one for Anstice and Keir. There was a lot of reference to what happened between them, as well as what happened between Anstice and Balen. Now while it does get explained in more detail towards the end, I feel like maybe it should have been addressed earlier in the book.

Aside from that, there was really nothing else that I didn't love. I was practically salivating for any and all additional details between Waleron and Delara. Man oh man does their story sound like it's bound to be a juicy one. I was already captivated by them in this book and they were just secondary characters.

Stygian was action packed, steamy, and filled with intricate world building. Not many authors can pull of switching between contemporary and PNR, but Nashoda definitely pulls it off and pulls it off well. PNR is my first love, and to say that I'm picky about it would definitely be a gross understatement. While I wasn't quite sold on the series after Take (I just loved that story as a whole), this one absolutely sealed the deal for me.

Then of course there was the teaser for Kilter's book. Now if there's anything that this author does extremely well, that's write one hell of a sexy asshole. Kilter? Sweet baby jebus, I'm not even sure if my ovaries will survive him. But what a way to go! The set up for his book sounds absolutely amazing!

Nashoda is incapable of writing a book that I don't completely devour, and this was no exception. If you're a fan of steamy PNR, then you definitely don't want to miss this book. I'd suggest starting with Stygian first and then reading Take. You'd enjoy it a heck of a lot more ;)


ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review

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Profile Image for Sabrina.
4,284 reviews2,388 followers
April 9, 2019
Currently FREE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK

5 'Little One' Stars

Two years ago Danni was abducted and kept as a slave for a vampire. Being fed off of and kept in a cage next to a tortured man. He became her savior when he sacrificed himself to get her free, and she can't remember any of it. Now, all she remembers are the mesmerizing eyes of the man kept with her, and it haunts her every moment.

Balen is a Scar, put on this earth to protect humans, and to follow the laws of his kind. But he broke those laws when he drank the blood of a vampire to save a human woman. Now, he's on the run from those he once fought with that want him either dead or imprisoned. But he can't get Danni out of his mind, and before he accepts his death he needs to be with her one more time.



Take was the first book by Nashoda Rose that I read, and it's what started my fascination with her, aka my stalker-crazy-fagirling. I just love this whole new world she creates with the Wraiths and Scars, and somehow makes it completely believable. I don't know why I waited so long to finally read Stygian, the first in the prequels to Take, but I deserve to be slapped for it. From the first sentence I was dragged into this book and I couldn't put it down until I got to the end. Even then, all I wanted to do was go back and re-read it over again.
"I don't do relationships."
"You do now."

Balen and Danni had this intense connection that was evident from when we first saw them in their captivity. Balen was so protective of her, and my heart hurt when he actually sacrificed himself to save her and give her a chance at living a normal life. From that moment on, I was in love with him and ready to swoon at his feet. He wasn't this in-your-face type of Alpha Hero but when he got all fierce protector, there was no denying that there was an Alpha hiding under all his patience and sweetness. I really liked that hidden depth to his character and it made him all the more sexy.



Danni was thrown into this world that she knew nothing about and was expected to survive. I admired that she was able to do that without freaking out every second of everyday. Her character was intriguing and the more I learned about her, the more I adored her. She was a strong heroine, that fought the whole book, and that's what made me like her so much.



Bottom line, this was an outstanding book that I will recommend for any paranormal readers. It's a unique story that will suck you in and bring you to this whole different world, and make you fall in love. Next up is Kilter's book and I can't wait to get his story! I'm definitely not waiting again.
Profile Image for ren ♡ .
401 reviews1,002 followers
November 12, 2021
Confusingly enough, Stygian didn’t feel like the first book in the series. Throughout the entire book, I felt like I was missing a huge piece of the puzzle. I had a look around but Book 0.5, Ardent, was nowhere to be found. It would’ve made a lot more sense if Book 0.5 had been Book 1, and this book had been Book 2, and so on. It just seems illogical not to have opened up with Keir and Anstice’s story, as they were the pivotal characters that resulted in this book. Very weird...

If you're familiar with paranormal romances, you probably won't find the plot all that unique, and unfortunately, the world building was very flimsy which was kind of a disappointment because the whole idea of inked up immortal warriors sounded so badass! Sadly, it was one of those situations where the more you thought about the world-building, the more it didn’t make any sense.

I personally felt like the multi-POV did this story a great disservice. Don’t get me wrong, there’s a great cast of characters, but there were just WAAAY too many things going on at the same time. I was trying to figure out what the plot was, who the characters were and why they were constantly running around. To make matters worse, the heroine had amnesia, and she was kept in the dark for a frustrating amount of time.

The romance was okay. I understand why it had to be insta-lovey but quite frankly, I don’t think the hero and heroine were as interesting as the side characters and their romances. Waleron and Delara definitely outshone them by a mile… the tension between them was scorching.

Overall, Stygian was not necessarily a bad read... it’s definitely got an interesting premise, but it was lacking in its execution and cohesiveness.

Rating: 2.75/5
Profile Image for S.M. West.
Author 38 books1,241 followers
March 6, 2016
5 "Little One" STARS

Holy shit! I'm seriously in love with these male Scars, first there was Jax in Take and now Balen with the promise of Kilter! Seriously...



I might have to start a PNR Book Boyfriend shelf just for them!

I'm so-so on PNR and but love Nashoda Rose. And when I read Take, I was hooked into the world of Scars and Wraiths. This was a really great story with lots of action, great characters and loved getting the different POVs. But what I loved the most was the visceral connection between Danni and Balen. Holy it was like a live wire just crackling through this story!

Onto Tyrant for Kilter's story! Now he's one SOB that I want to know more about.
Profile Image for Michelle.
944 reviews219 followers
February 27, 2016
4 Stars!
Reread 2/26
Loved it just as much as I did the first time I read it!
Danni and Balen are in cages. Both being held by a vampire. The vampire wants something from Balen and won't stop hurting Danni until he gets it.

Two years later Danni is back home painting and trying to get on with her life. She's perfectly fine being alone. She's closed herself off to her friends. She doesn't remember hardly anything about what happened to her. She dreams about a man. She paints a lot portraits of this man. She doesn't know who he is or why she feels so connected to him. Until one night this man shows up in her loft.
Balen broke the scars law when he saved Danni from the vampire. He's been on the run for two years. He's been fighting with himself to stay away from Danni. She's a human and he's a scar. But the bond between them is thick.
When the punishment has been decided for Balen something is made known about him and Danni. If they are separated Danni will die.
Will the council realize that Balen did what he did to protect Danni or will they send him to rest? Will Danni survive if Balen is put to rest or exiled from his race?
Other scars play an important part in this book. I loved how they all were fighting for Balen.
When tragedy strikes again the scars come together to fight to get back one of their own.
What happens after they return home? When it's time for Balen to accept his punishment will he do as he's told?

I loved Balen! He was a sexy alpha male that loved his woman and would die protecting her. I loved Danni mostly but she grated my nerves at times with her feelings toward Balen.

This book doesn't really leave you hanging but leaves you wanting more. It's a perfect setup for the next book about Kilter and Rayne! Now I'm off to read Tyrant!!

Awesome job NR!! Love your books!
Profile Image for Jen.
1,655 reviews1,161 followers
March 6, 2016
I am so glad that I listened to a bunch of my GR buddies and took a chance on this book! I thoroughly enjoyed it, and it also reminded me why I have always loved paranormal romances. There is something wonderful about the intense love that is shared between the couple that the story is focused on. In this case, Balen and Danni have developed an unbreakable bond while they were both held captive and tortured. They were locked in separate cages; but were able to witness one anothers torture while in the hands of a madman. Balen sacrifices a ton for Danni and him to be saved, unfortunately when they are out of captivity Danni has no recollection of what happened....but that doesn't stop her from having terrible nightmares, and more questions. Eventually, strange things start to happen, and life as Danni knows it will never be the same.

There is so much to this story, and the details are very important; but ones that you have to discover as the story unfolds. I thought it was a great concept, and a unique world. It is refreshing to come across a paranormal story that is different than all of the others out there! There is a bonus glossary in the beginning of the book that helps with the definitions of this intriguing world and the people in it. There are loads of secondary characters as well, and I can't wait to read more about this world that I have come to know.

If paranormal is something you are interested in as a reader, then I highly recommend this original story!!
Profile Image for Snow.
2,323 reviews728 followers
June 27, 2016

First of all, Nashoda, my feelings after reading this book...



No, wait let me try again...



and again...



so you see, I am stunned and overwhelmed...

I had fun reading this book, most of all, I was captivated by the story, by the action and by the characters...and there are a lot of characters to follow:
Balen and Danielle/Danni; Waleron and Delara; Keir and Anstice; Jedrik, Damien, Hack...Ryker, and Kilter (well, I have some special words for him LOL)

So the plot...
"I have to remember, damn it."

i can totally understand what Danni is going through while she's trying to come together with her memories or more better the lack of...
She's been kidnapped two years ago by some vile men/creatures and tortured for information, she met a man there who took course of the events in her favor by saving her and sacrificing himself...
Two years after, Danni is haunted by the images of black hair/green eyed man that she constantly paints...
I had to get this guy out of my head before he ruined my life. All I did was think about him, dream about him, and wonder if he existed.

and her memory flashbacks don't make it any easier either...
until, they meet again...

Balen is a Scar, a very special ancient kind that is sworn to protect humans by all means. So when he did just that, he never thought he'd be tormented to the very core...because of her.
I'd broken my loyalty. Betrayed my own blood for... HER.

that very pull between them
Jesus Christ, I loved the feel of her lips on mine.... She was a part of me, the goodness I lacked.... I was too selfish to let her go. The only word that roared through my head was MINE.

sets the two worlds into chaos as the things Danni never imagined of happening or existing take a sudden path of destuction, death, chase, fight, acknowledging along the way - that things are not what they seem, that she fell for Balen in the worst way possible as their realtionship is forbidden and impossible
I'm terrified that when they finally take you away, I won't be able to go on. I'll fall so hard that I won't be able to get back up again.

and a lingering promise that Balen swore
"You'll never lose me. No matter what happens, i'll always be here, whether as I am now or as a breeze in the fuckin' wind. I won't ever leave you."

but their future is questionable as Balen is wanted for treason because of the means he used in order to save Danni's life that violated the Scar laws and is sentenced to Rest (a state of induced coma, somewhat like a limbo where you re-live all the bad things that ever happend in your long ancient life)
It was everything in that kiss, warmth, a promise, and even a goodbye.


I leaned over and grabed her hair, pulling her head back so I could reach her mouth. Then I kissed her, slow and hard, taking what she was giving me - all of her.



by nearly end Danni's very own existence will be tested in the matter of life and death, literally.

and it doesn't END there...either



off to read the second book...

p.s.
i need to emphisize that i especially liked Waleron and Delara, estranged lovers that held a huge grudge and were torn between the feelings and the fucking duty and obligations that made them do things none can forgive and forget and the anticipation and lingering charge of unexpressed emotions were so palpable that they became a nuisance to their being together...
unbelieveble complicated relationship those two hold...
I hope they get their own book...*fingers crossed*




Profile Image for Eda**.
721 reviews435 followers
April 1, 2015

** 4 “tiger” STARS **

“You’ll never lose me. No matter what happens, I’ll always be here, whether as I am now or as a breeze in the f*ckin’ wind. I won’t ever leave you.”



I am in Paranormal bliss...

Can't wait for the rest of the stories!!!
Profile Image for ✰ Liz ✰ .
1,410 reviews1,339 followers
May 17, 2015
“No more pain, little one. Never again. I swear to you. Never again.”-Balen

description

Stygian is book one in the Scars of the Wraiths Prequel set. Nashoda Rose has created a fantastical world of Scars, Wraiths, Witches, and a whole glossary of characters and terms to keep you engrossed and amazed!

As the book begins, we meet Balen and Danni. They are being held captive. They are being tortured by an evil vampire. Balen gives himself to the vampire in order to spare Danni.

description

Fast forward two years....

Danni doesn't remember anything except that she has experienced some kind of pain. She is an artist and she spends hours painting the same man over and over again. Although she isn't clear why this man is important to her, she is unable to let his face be erased.

"I had to know who he was like my lungs needed their next breath. But it was tearing me apart. Every time I looked at him, another piece of me broke off."-Danni

Dannie has detached herself from her friends. She cares for nothing but the solace of being alone!

"Space and solitude had become my two best friends."

Suddenly everything shifts for Danni when Balen reappears in her life. She doesn't quite know who he is and yet she knows exactly what he means to her.

"This man. It was him. He was the key and, yes, the lock. Because he could lock me to him just with his eyes."-Danni

Balen is madly in love with Danni. He gave up his life and betrayed his race in order to protect her. He returns to see her one last time before he is to turn himself in for the crimes that he has committed. In addition to his sins, Danni is human. Therefore, they have no future together. Still he cannot help but come to her one more time.

description

"I’d denied it for two horrible years, but having her in my arms . . . Jesus, the need to have her was like an inferno that was impossible to extinguish. It was so overpowering that it was unnatural. It wasn’t normal, and yet, at this moment, nothing mattered except kissing her."-Balen

Danni recognizes Balen as the man that helped protect her. She feels safe when they are together. They share a night of passion and everything slams into her like a mack truck!

"We’d both suffered. I knew this like I knew my own name. He’d protected me. That was how I felt whenever I looked at his picture— protected, sheltered in his embrace as if he’d done something to end the suffering."-Danni

As Dannie struggles to remember, Balen's fate is being decided by the council. Will he be sent to death? Will he be exiled? Will he ever see Danni again?

“Don’t be jealous, little one. Even if I can’t have you, I’ll always be yours.”-Balen

As the story continues to develop, the supporting characters stake their claim on Balen's fate. As the truth is revealed, Danni struggles to accept the magic and power that exists in this world. Danni and Balen are connected. As he is pulled apart, Danni suffers.

"Holding me. Connected to me. She was part of me. And I knew I couldn’t leave. Not yet. I needed to hold her."-Balen

description

Stygian is a tender and passionate read and yet full of action and suspense. Although it is a bit daunting to sort out the individual character's role and how they contribute to the plot, the story is so inviting that you are willing and able to just "enjoy the ride". The connection between Bale and Danni is so strong and beautiful that you are on the edge of your seat rooting for them to get their HEA! Balen is your typical Alpha Male who is intense about his protection of his "little one". At times, Danni gave me a bit of a headache with her insecurities and overall inability to give herself over to Balen completely. The journey wasn't always easy but the end result was full of satisfaction!

"Love me like I know you can. If you love me, I can survive what I have done. Just tell me, my love."-Balen

Overall, Stygian is an excellent read. Nashoda Rose is such a gifted author. She has created a mystical world that you cannot help but want to explore. Not only does Stygian leave you breathless, the promise of what is to come evokes the best kind of anticipation. Ms. Rose will continue to write and I will undoubtedly continue to load my kindle with her work. I will be anxiously waiting for what is to come!

“You’re safe from everything in my arms. And I want your happy place to include me.”-Balen

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Profile Image for Aisling Zena.
634 reviews521 followers
March 20, 2016
4 stars

I was contemplating writing a proper review of this but I just can't be arsed to be honest.

It was a good PNR with some original elements I enjoyed, though I constantly felt like I had missed the first book even when I got explanations further down the line.

description

And here's Tom Hiddleston and his snake hips to make up for my non-review.
description
Profile Image for warhawke.
1,548 reviews2,234 followers
April 18, 2015
Type: Book 1 of Scars of Wraiths Prequal
POV: First Person - Multiple
Rating:


Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review



Danni was a human still haunted by her abduction two years before. She couldn’t remember anything of it except for a man with a brilliant green eyes that she immortalized in numerous paintings.


Balen was a Scar; an immortal warrior whose job was to protect humans from their enemies. He held the key to unlock Danni’s past and it became complicated when their future was bound to each other.





I read very little of paranormal books but when I do, I want them to be full of actions on and off the bed. Stygian successfully satisfied both of my needs.


When I first read Take (the first book in Scars of Wraiths series), I felt it was very little on the paranormal side and there were confusion with the world and the purposed of the different species. Stygian answered all of the questions I had.


The four Elemental Wraiths remained in the realm of, what I referred to as, a fantasy land. Because what you saw was not always what it was. The Wraiths were creative when it came to their home.



The readers were introduced to the different realms and the different species including their background origins and their purposes. There were a lot to take it but I enjoyed learning about it all. My only complain of this matter is, I wish there were more physical descriptions of the location especially on the other realms because I’d love to be immersed in the new unfamiliar environment.


I absolutely love the premise of a human and an immortal. When people come from two different worlds (in this case literally) things are bound to get intriguing. And I love how we got to learn about the worlds through their eyes.




Balen was definitely something. From the beginning he was such an enigma. He made me all hot and needy hahah! There’s just something about his persona that’s very attractive. Maybe it was what he did and his resistance. But also his “roughness” in the beginning. He softened towards the end but I still love him.




I like Danni too. I thought she was really brave getting into a world she didn’t understand. I love seeing how she learned and embraced the new world even when it was too hard to handle.


I love that there were so many characters in the books and love the multiple POV. I always like when a story focuses on broader subject other than the two main characters. In this book we also got the side story of Waleron and Delara.


“Who are you? What do you want with me?”
He grunted. “I want you not to be so fuckin’ stupid next time. And the name’s Kilter.”



One of my favorite character in Stygian is hands down the off-kilter, Kilter. I fell in love with him the moment he uttered his first word. I could feel there’s so much more to him than his abrasive personality.

My favorite scene in the whole book was the transformation scene. That was crazy and pretty intense. Love it. That’s all I’m going to say about that part.


Overall, I really enjoyed the world of the Scars and the Wraiths, and really looking forward to the next book Tyrant which will be about my new favorite asshole, Kilter.


Note #1: Special thanks to Nashoda Rose for putting up with my Kindle-less situation (thus ARC-less) and provided me with the copy upon released. Thank you for being so understanding. You rock!

Note #2:My private note for this book is so long, barely half fit in the box!



For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:

Profile Image for Dee Montoya.
943 reviews597 followers
April 27, 2015
*****5 Thrilling Stars*****

(BR with Melissa and Kelli)

What Can I say about this book?
That it's F-A-N-T-A-S-T-I-C!!!!!!


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If you read Take you are probably already a fan of this unique series where Vampires are evil and the Scars are always hard at work fighting the evil creatures and protecting the human race.

Danni was kidnapped two years ago and even though she really doesn't remember anything about the incident her life hasn't been the same ever since. She's not the happy and outgoing girl she once was; now she's always by herself, hiding behind her work and avoiding all contact with the outside world. The only thing that is familiar to her anymore is the image of a beautiful and mysterious man that is always present in her paintings and in her dreams. His deep green eyes is the only thing that makes her feel safe in a world where she feels out of place.

Balen was there to suffer right next to Danni, he fought as much as he could but his powers were stripped from him and the only thing he was able to do in order to save her was to sacrifice everything he is and represents as a Scar. He paid the ultimate price to protect her from the evil Vampire and now he has no choice but to run and hide from her and his people.

The bond that was formed between Danni and Balen was simply unbreakable and it doesn't matter the distance or how much time passes by they just can't be away from each other, but the consequences to pay if they want to be together are too extreme and seem almost impossible to handle. Do they have what it takes to accept their harsh reality and fight everyone and even themselves in the name of love?

I already had a deep fascination for this series but this book just took my obsession to another level. I loved the multiple POV's and every character was even better and more interesting than the next. As the story progressed I kept craving for every character to have their own book, I simply couldn't get enough. I love Nashoda Rose's writing style and world building, this story is brilliant. I highly recommend it!!!
Profile Image for Bindi Boo .
578 reviews130 followers
October 7, 2016
5 stars

Say whaaaaaaaaaaat!! HOW DID I MISS THIS GEM!!? Wow.. i cannot believe i've only just found this series. I absolutely devoured it in one sitting! THIS is exactly why i read- to escape to a whole different world and meet characters your own mind could never conjure. Fantastic job, author!

AWESOME paranormal series with fantastic characters. Story revolves around a group of paranormal beings called the Scars who fight the bad guys(vampires, monsters etc etc) Headed by Waleron who can read minds and dissipate into air, there are 5 other Scars who each have their own special powers. Built around action & suspense, there is SO MUCH sweetness and sexy times.

This book revolves around Balen and Danii who meet when they are both captured and tortured by an evil vampire. Balen starts feeling emotions for a human and does things which he knows he will need to pay for later. 2 years pass and although her memory was wiped off, Danii still reels from the event and gets flashes of Balen. Awaiting punishment from higher levels, Balen tries his best to stay away from Danii however true love prevails. There was so much to learn about this couple AND the side characters which will each have their own book. I loved how the other characters never stole their thunder.

I am super, super excited because the book i'm looking forward to releases this month.. SO CANNOT WAIT for Waleron and Delara's book..the angst level between them is unbelievable!

These are not standalones, you will have to read the books in order to understand the dynamics. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!
Profile Image for Mariℓina.
624 reviews202 followers
March 29, 2015
4,5 Stars!
It's official, Scars of the Wraiths is one of my favorite paranormal series ever. Their compeling and meticulously developed world, along with the amazing, likeable and sassy characters and of course Nashoda's writing, have me hooked for good.


This is a great book, i have to admit i was playing the little detective at first, trying to compare what i knew from Take, with all the new informations in Stygian, and that was definitely fun -mostly when a name of a character i knew, came up in even in passing- but after a while the story captivated me completely and i lost track of everything else.


Stygian is filled with twists and secrets. Big ones, dangerous and lethal. The moment you think you came to the end, a new storyline sprungs out of nowhere, with even more complications than the last one. Seriously Scars can't catch a break.


Balen and Danni, have a sweet story, tragic and in the end liberating. They go through some unimaginable hardships, at some point i couldn't believe what they had to do in order to have a chance to survive. Their bond was something special and beautiful.


They may be the heroes in this instalment, but Waleron and Delara, surely steal the show as we get to know them and their shared past more and more, also Kilter towards the end demands his own share of attention.


I liked this story a lot, but it was more of an intro than anything else. An intro to amazing stories that i can't wait to dive into..




THOUGHTS ABOUT THE BOOK

- Multi POV. Balen and Danni of course have the lion share, it's their story after all.
- There is a very handy lexicon in the beginning of the book, helping the reader to understand the origins of the story.
- My heart broke for Hannah and Ryker. I liked them so much.
- I love the tiger tattoos..
- I thought Damien was an ass, but Kilter is beyond anyone else, ever.
- Waleron carries with him a duck PEZ dispenser? He is adorable, cold-hearted and tactical but still, i loved that tiny detail. Even if he had pills in it and not candy.
- Genevieve is unbelievable, maybe somewhat meddling but she has a good heart, i liked her and Tor so much.


ARC provided by the author, in exchange of an honest review. Thank you so much!
Profile Image for Kelli C .
1,053 reviews362 followers
April 21, 2015
4.5 Scar Addicted Stars

I admit to falling for Nashoda Rose's Scars with her book Take even though I was a bit in the dark on the whole concept and the story as a whole. I loved the dark fantasy and immortal beings. I loved the strong fighting man and the woman who owned him. There was action, passion, heat, and a whole lotta tale to tell. The release of Stygian was an automatic one click and I am even more in love with the Scars now!

This book starts the series of prequels to Take...it starts the history of the scars...it brings about important key facts to the system...it introduces some of the best immortals I have read! Stygian introduces the fiercely hot and tortured Balen and his reason for fighting, Danni

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Captured, thrown in cages, drained by a vicious vampire, Danni finds solace only in the soothing voice of a beautiful captive who pushes her to stay strong. When the fight is all but gone from her, so is she. Years pass and this human
woman knows nothing of her time held captive. She lives in constant fear and is haunted nightly by a pair of green eyes that she is desperate to see again. But who is behind those eyes? Is this beautiful stranger the reason for her pain? Does he hold the answers to her past? It does not take long for those eyes to pierce back into her soul

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Balen is not what he seems. Dangerous? Perhaps...or maybe misjudged and stronger than his kind thinks. His return home was not without struggle or consequence. But how can he stay away from the human he risked everything for...the woman whose torture he took...

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If you love a great steamy Romance with that deep, cannot live without you feel, then Balen and Danni's story will deliver. It is a world of spells...bonding love...survival...protection. Stygian is just the beginning of my love-fest! This book is even more fabulous than Take! I am officially Team Scar! With each chapter and introduction of new characters I wanted another book. While I found Balen to be simply amazing...I cannot wait to see what the rest of the Scar clan will do!

***Thanks to Dee and MELISSA for the fabulous buddy read ~ you girls are the best!***
Profile Image for Elle aka Leftie aka Shoebelle.
707 reviews124 followers
July 25, 2015
*Complimentary ARC received from author*

4.5 ★

This was me when Nashoda was gracious enough to give me an ARC...



... and guess what, that's still me after reading this. Oh yeah...

Danni and Balen's story started from a very bad place that came with a lot of sacrifice and from this sacrifice, a connection was born. Not as natural, to a degree, as it turns out, but no less real regardless.

I love Danni's journey from her horrific experience to being who she became. Her pain and her strength felt genuine. And as she became this "new person" and having to deal with the new world she finds herself in, I was feeling everything she's feeling, the confusion and all. I love her caustic humor and her feisty spirit throughout the story.

Balen, now if you're enamored with Nashoda's H's as much as I am, then I think you won't be disappointed with Balen, not at all. Sigh... I think it's safe to say that whatever it is you're looking for a H, Balen can meet it, just sayin...

I love the connection b/w Danni and Balen. Heart this couple, for sure!

Seeing that this is a prequel, I felt it was a good introduction to this new world that Nashoda built, or at least I took this to be a better one than how it was with Take. There were multiple POVs so you just don't get Danni's and Balen's POV. I didn't understand why at first, then I got it, this is a prequel after all. And these POVs definitely sucked me in some more to their world but it did take away a bit of time from Danni and Balen's story, just my personal take...

Lastly, if my first Nashoda read reminded me of KA with a Nicholas Spark feel to it, now with her PNR world, I'm getting a Nalini Singh feel as well. And I'm definitely ok with that.

Who's next Nashoda? Kilter? Or go back to Keir and Anstice? Then Waleron? Jedrik? Ryker? Hack? I can keep going, you know... Pretty please with icing on top:)
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews129 followers
Want to read
April 9, 2019
🎁 FREE on iBooks today (4/9/2019)! 🎁

Blurb:
Danni: Mortal

I remember nothing of my abduction two years ago. Sounds and scents trigger horrific flashes, but it’s all a blur except for one man with brilliant green eyes. When the tatted six foot two Adonis shows up at my door, my knowledge of the world is shattered.

Bound to the immortal Scar by an ancient spell, we are on the run. Because Balen is the hunted.

And if he dies, so do I.

Balen: Scar Tracker

My code of honor was respected without question … until I consumed the blood of a vampire in exchange for a mortal woman’s freedom.

The Scars want me imprisoned. The Wraiths want me dead.

But the woman I can’t forget needs me. And I’ll risk everything to protect her.

Even if it means killing her.

Because in order for her to live—first she must die.
Profile Image for Stacie.
2,550 reviews274 followers
March 10, 2016
**Updated Re-read Review March 10, 2016**

Re-read to prep for Tyrant. I liked Danni and Balen more the second time around! Excited to get to (Off)Kilter Happy reading!

**Original Review May 13, 2015**

4 1/2 Stars!

I loved it, but not as much as Take. I didn't connect with Danni and Balen as much as I did Jasper and Max, but still the book is very good. I love all the Scars, even jerk of the year Kilter. I wish Jasper had been more present in this one. I can't wait to read the next book. Happy reading!
Profile Image for Jenene.
58 reviews1 follower
April 7, 2015
I am in awe of how this woman can write such amazing books. I would love to be in that brain of yours nashoda, I think it's a wonderful place.
Profile Image for Sarit.
Author 3 books23 followers
March 21, 2015
If you love Nashoda Rose's books (Tear Assander Series, Unyielding Series) you will LOVE this one.
If you love an amazing love story you will LOVE this one.

This book has all the ingredients:
A damsel in distress, an alpha male who will sacrifice himself for her, a love that cannot be broken no matter what, and a hot sexy love scenes. Oops, almost forgot, and super powers (as this is a paranormal book).

This story is about Danni, that was kidnapped by an evil vampire, and about Balen, who broke an oath in order to save her.
I promise you this: you will laugh, bite your nails, cry and pray for a HEA while reading this book.
And the best part? you will get to know another alpha male, Waleron. Can't wait to read his story. He is HOT !


Just so you know, Nashoda is my favourite author, I would read ANYTHING she will write as each story captures my heart and the heroes will forever have a place in my heart.

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