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Refuge #1
Dark Thoughts
Can love redeem a monster?
The Refuge is home to some of the most violent beings in the universe. Kralj, its leader, reigns over the remote outpost with terrifying ease, ruthlessly squashing any rumors of rebellion, killing anyone who breaks his rules. Primitive, deadly, powerful, he’s a monster, scarred both on his face and his soul. He has never met a being he couldn’t control.
Until he meets her.
Dita has one mission—to kill the three targets claiming sanctuary within the Refuge. Or so she claims. For the first time in his long lifespan, Kralj isn’t certain of another being’s intentions. The tiny assassin is immune to his powers, her thoughts unreadable. He can’t predict her movements, can’t control her, can’t stop wanting her.
Dita is rare, as unique as he is, and, to keep the residents of the Refuge safe, Kralj will have to kill her. But first, he’ll touch her, taste her, show her how passionate the beast inside him can be.
Dark Thoughts is a STAND-ALONE SciFi Romance. The hero might be tall, dark, and scarred but don’t be fooled by his appearance. He’s truly a monster. This story is not for readers with delicate sensibilities.
The Refuge is home to some of the most violent beings in the universe. Kralj, its leader, reigns over the remote outpost with terrifying ease, ruthlessly squashing any rumors of rebellion, killing anyone who breaks his rules. Primitive, deadly, powerful, he’s a monster, scarred both on his face and his soul. He has never met a being he couldn’t control.
Until he meets her.
Dita has one mission—to kill the three targets claiming sanctuary within the Refuge. Or so she claims. For the first time in his long lifespan, Kralj isn’t certain of another being’s intentions. The tiny assassin is immune to his powers, her thoughts unreadable. He can’t predict her movements, can’t control her, can’t stop wanting her.
Dita is rare, as unique as he is, and, to keep the residents of the Refuge safe, Kralj will have to kill her. But first, he’ll touch her, taste her, show her how passionate the beast inside him can be.
Dark Thoughts is a STAND-ALONE SciFi Romance. The hero might be tall, dark, and scarred but don’t be fooled by his appearance. He’s truly a monster. This story is not for readers with delicate sensibilities.
232 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 14, 2017
973 people are currently reading
1001 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Sax
169 books1,512 followersUSA Today bestselling author Cynthia Sax writes steamy cyborg and alien romances. Her stories have been featured in Star Magazine, on TV, and numerous romance top ten lists.
When she isn't writing, she's traveling the world with her Dear Wonderful Hubby, meeting new people, visiting new places.
When she isn't writing, she's traveling the world with her Dear Wonderful Hubby, meeting new people, visiting new places.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
June 2, 2017
One thing can be said about this book: it's made me excited to read the next one.
*cough* COME HERE OROL I WANT TO MAKE ALL THE SEX WITH YOU BECAUSE YOU ARE A DRAGON *cough*
Sorry where was I?
Oh yes, this book!
Look. It was alright. Kralj was an idiot for most of the story and I never quite understood why Dita was so attracted to him. But he has So I guess I CAN understand what she sees in him >:D
Aside from his magic peen, the sex in this was a little off-putting at times... Dita always seemed to be screaming and I was never sure if it was from pleasure or pain. She also had to be healed afterwards a lot... So I guess it was pain? She loved it, so good for her, but it made me sideye the sexytimes.
After reading this book I hope I never read the word domicile EVER again. It seemed to be everywhere and I found it very annoying. Also, can we please have some clarification on what the fuck "ass coverings" are? Are they pants? Are they a loin cloth? Is he wearing a nappy? THIS BURNING QUESTION MUST BE ADDRESSED.
There was a heck of a lot of weird sci-fi stuff that was introduced without any qualifying information so sometimes I was picturing things but I have no point of reference so I really don't know if what I have conjured up in my mind is what the author intended. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Oh! And there was no Raahoshing in this. VERY DISAPPOINTING.
I've certainly read better alien lurrrrve stories but I enjoyed this nonetheless.
BRING ON OROL. MAYBE HE WILL RAAHOSH FOR ME?
3 Stars!!
Thanks for studying alien love for science with me you crazy Machalo Weirdos!
*cough* COME HERE OROL I WANT TO MAKE ALL THE SEX WITH YOU BECAUSE YOU ARE A DRAGON *cough*
Sorry where was I?
Oh yes, this book!
Look. It was alright. Kralj was an idiot for most of the story and I never quite understood why Dita was so attracted to him. But he has So I guess I CAN understand what she sees in him >:D
Aside from his magic peen, the sex in this was a little off-putting at times... Dita always seemed to be screaming and I was never sure if it was from pleasure or pain. She also had to be healed afterwards a lot... So I guess it was pain? She loved it, so good for her, but it made me sideye the sexytimes.
After reading this book I hope I never read the word domicile EVER again. It seemed to be everywhere and I found it very annoying. Also, can we please have some clarification on what the fuck "ass coverings" are? Are they pants? Are they a loin cloth? Is he wearing a nappy? THIS BURNING QUESTION MUST BE ADDRESSED.
There was a heck of a lot of weird sci-fi stuff that was introduced without any qualifying information so sometimes I was picturing things but I have no point of reference so I really don't know if what I have conjured up in my mind is what the author intended. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Oh! And there was no Raahoshing in this. VERY DISAPPOINTING.
I've certainly read better alien lurrrrve stories but I enjoyed this nonetheless.
BRING ON OROL. MAYBE HE WILL RAAHOSH FOR ME?
3 Stars!!
Thanks for studying alien love for science with me you crazy Machalo Weirdos!
March 12, 2018
Soooo, I really liked that the female mc was a super bloodthirsty assassin who's clearly not right in the head. That was great and she was always wanting to kill everyone off. Yay.
The male mc was a one thought machine of "I'm a monster, must protect the Refuge, must never leave." Blah, blah, blah. But since he can kill people with his thoughts, I guess it fits. I guess. Kinda boring.
The bad: the language of this book kept trying to be all sci-fi-y, like "ass coverings" vs pants is going to make me think how cool and alien this book is. It's not, it just makes me wonder if they need a dictionary because they forgot the word for pants/trousers/leggings/slacks/jeans/leathers, etc. And since these "ass coverings" also cover the groin, shouldn't they be called "ass and groin coverings", otherwise I'm imagining just a flap in the back and the guy's junk hanging out in the breeze. Bet that's frosty in winter.
The sex scenes in this book were as rough as possible, like part MMA match, part bdsm. That was off putting, even if the couple were all into it.
If the words ass-coverings, domicile, sleep support, and whatever other way too repeated words in this were replaced, I would've liked this more.
The male mc was a one thought machine of "I'm a monster, must protect the Refuge, must never leave." Blah, blah, blah. But since he can kill people with his thoughts, I guess it fits. I guess. Kinda boring.
The bad: the language of this book kept trying to be all sci-fi-y, like "ass coverings" vs pants is going to make me think how cool and alien this book is. It's not, it just makes me wonder if they need a dictionary because they forgot the word for pants/trousers/leggings/slacks/jeans/leathers, etc. And since these "ass coverings" also cover the groin, shouldn't they be called "ass and groin coverings", otherwise I'm imagining just a flap in the back and the guy's junk hanging out in the breeze. Bet that's frosty in winter.
The sex scenes in this book were as rough as possible, like part MMA match, part bdsm. That was off putting, even if the couple were all into it.
If the words ass-coverings, domicile, sleep support, and whatever other way too repeated words in this were replaced, I would've liked this more.
June 5, 2019
Yep, these books all run into each other, in terms of being repetitive and same-ole, same-ole. Not advised to read a bunch close together, bc you won't be able to tell them apart.
This one is slightly diff bc of the heroine being a badass assassin. The dynamic between the H/h was a little all over the place and jarring at times (he wanted to shut her out, then she was his "prey", then he punished her by making her his "slave", etc.) but at least consistent in terms of emotions.
Sex was hot as usual, but again, really repetitive. A little dom and sub and ass spanking. It's like I keep reading about the same characters recycled over and over in these books.
But. Wasn't bad. Might read another short story if the mood strikes.
This one is slightly diff bc of the heroine being a badass assassin. The dynamic between the H/h was a little all over the place and jarring at times (he wanted to shut her out, then she was his "prey", then he punished her by making her his "slave", etc.) but at least consistent in terms of emotions.
Sex was hot as usual, but again, really repetitive. A little dom and sub and ass spanking. It's like I keep reading about the same characters recycled over and over in these books.
But. Wasn't bad. Might read another short story if the mood strikes.
March 20, 2017
Kill or be killed is Dita's credo though it's accepted that assassins don't die from normal causes nor have long life spans. As the premier Dark Veil assassin she's outlived her life expectancy though it's always her personal preference to live to see another day which is why her latest assignment is so concerning.
Her mission: kill three targets currently residing in a remote Refuge Sanctuary. Shouldn't be much of a problem except that the stronghold's leader Kralj is known far and wide as the deadliest bloodthirsty ruthless being known to mankind. He rules his domain with eerie supernatural powers that discourage all but the most ignorant of breaking his laws. The only rule of importance for Dani is the one that allows for maiming but killing within the walls of the Refuge ends in the immediate gruesome bloody death of the perpetrator.
Dita's always been one for challenges so let the games begin.
* * * * *
Bottom line of this review: READ THIS BOOK !!!!!!!
This is a spin off series that definitely can be read as a stand alone. For Cyborg Sizzle series fans there are a few Easter eggs included but otherwise it's all about Kralj, who had minor cameos in Chasing Mayhem & Hers To Command as the ultimate powerful evil bogeyman of the universe.
At first I didn't realize Kralj was the same minor character portrayed in other stories, but once I did, HOT DAMN. Kralj getting his own story!!!! Seriously, who could be a mate to someone who is for all practical purposes a reincarnation of the devil.
I guess this is a good time to mention that this is a SciFi dark romance that features two antihero main characters so expect there to be blood, gore, maiming, killing, domination, snark, rough sex, and a whole lot of angst and assassin motivated action scenes. This isn't a Beauty & The Beast or Cinderella sort of story so consider yourself warned. For fans who are comfortable and enjoy dark/horror quality reads, I'm predicting you'll be laughing at my warning after reading this book as the 'dark' scenes are more heart racing vs fear factor in quality.
The story opens with Kralj surveying his kingdom (Refuge) reflecting on how things stand. This includes his back story (which I always wondered about) that included when it was realized how REALLY dangerous & deadly he was, his creators attempted to terminate him and guess who won. Kralj now resides in this remote portion of the universe by choice for his own safety but also for the universe's safety. Enter Dami. Human assassin. She dares to enter his domain without his permission and the shit hits the fan. I'm so thrilled that her character was able to stand up to Kralj though she lacked physical and mental strength. Chalk one up for my home girl as she runs circles around Kralj, in more ways than one. lol.
Secondary characters do add depth to the story. Not going to list my favorite and least fav characters as the author did the old bait and switch thing. By that I mean certain characters who initially presented as good guy/girl characters changed through the course of the story and vice versa. I don't want to possibly spoil the reading experience by including names for that reason. "Some" did make an impression on me which resulted in tissue breaks. I totally hate authors who do that to me. Getting so vested in characters that I end up crying when bad things happen to them. So not cool Ms. Author but bravo...
Regarding the adult content scenes. Definitely toe curling, five alarm, assure battery operated devices are fully charged, and have ice freely available as our two main characters have a whole lot of chemistry and years of abstinence to make up for. Passionate D/s lovers who liked it down and dirty and weren't afraid in holding back to make sure their needs were met, time and time again. Hot diggity damn. I'm still smoking my mythical cigarette sipping on my adult beverage in afterglow.
Lastly, there are tags for paranormal for which I'm on the fence about myself. Being an alien does not make one paranormal if they have skills, anatomy, or attributes that are different than us humans. Thus I'm on the fence if those differences should be tagged with SciFi or paranormal. Personally, leaving off that tag though I know others will differ in opinion.
IMHO, this is the best SciFi book I've read so far this year. Loved LOVED L-O-V-E-D the characters and overall story line. I can't wait for the next installment Dark Sky (Orol's story) which has no release date of yet.
Her mission: kill three targets currently residing in a remote Refuge Sanctuary. Shouldn't be much of a problem except that the stronghold's leader Kralj is known far and wide as the deadliest bloodthirsty ruthless being known to mankind. He rules his domain with eerie supernatural powers that discourage all but the most ignorant of breaking his laws. The only rule of importance for Dani is the one that allows for maiming but killing within the walls of the Refuge ends in the immediate gruesome bloody death of the perpetrator.
Dita's always been one for challenges so let the games begin.
* * * * *
Bottom line of this review: READ THIS BOOK !!!!!!!
This is a spin off series that definitely can be read as a stand alone. For Cyborg Sizzle series fans there are a few Easter eggs included but otherwise it's all about Kralj, who had minor cameos in Chasing Mayhem & Hers To Command as the ultimate powerful evil bogeyman of the universe.
At first I didn't realize Kralj was the same minor character portrayed in other stories, but once I did, HOT DAMN. Kralj getting his own story!!!! Seriously, who could be a mate to someone who is for all practical purposes a reincarnation of the devil.
I guess this is a good time to mention that this is a SciFi dark romance that features two antihero main characters so expect there to be blood, gore, maiming, killing, domination, snark, rough sex, and a whole lot of angst and assassin motivated action scenes. This isn't a Beauty & The Beast or Cinderella sort of story so consider yourself warned. For fans who are comfortable and enjoy dark/horror quality reads, I'm predicting you'll be laughing at my warning after reading this book as the 'dark' scenes are more heart racing vs fear factor in quality.
The story opens with Kralj surveying his kingdom (Refuge) reflecting on how things stand. This includes his back story (which I always wondered about) that included when it was realized how REALLY dangerous & deadly he was, his creators attempted to terminate him and guess who won. Kralj now resides in this remote portion of the universe by choice for his own safety but also for the universe's safety. Enter Dami. Human assassin. She dares to enter his domain without his permission and the shit hits the fan. I'm so thrilled that her character was able to stand up to Kralj though she lacked physical and mental strength. Chalk one up for my home girl as she runs circles around Kralj, in more ways than one. lol.
Secondary characters do add depth to the story. Not going to list my favorite and least fav characters as the author did the old bait and switch thing. By that I mean certain characters who initially presented as good guy/girl characters changed through the course of the story and vice versa. I don't want to possibly spoil the reading experience by including names for that reason. "Some" did make an impression on me which resulted in tissue breaks. I totally hate authors who do that to me. Getting so vested in characters that I end up crying when bad things happen to them. So not cool Ms. Author but bravo...
Regarding the adult content scenes. Definitely toe curling, five alarm, assure battery operated devices are fully charged, and have ice freely available as our two main characters have a whole lot of chemistry and years of abstinence to make up for. Passionate D/s lovers who liked it down and dirty and weren't afraid in holding back to make sure their needs were met, time and time again. Hot diggity damn. I'm still smoking my mythical cigarette sipping on my adult beverage in afterglow.
Lastly, there are tags for paranormal for which I'm on the fence about myself. Being an alien does not make one paranormal if they have skills, anatomy, or attributes that are different than us humans. Thus I'm on the fence if those differences should be tagged with SciFi or paranormal. Personally, leaving off that tag though I know others will differ in opinion.
IMHO, this is the best SciFi book I've read so far this year. Loved LOVED L-O-V-E-D the characters and overall story line. I can't wait for the next installment Dark Sky (Orol's story) which has no release date of yet.
October 12, 2018
10/12/18 Ammy freebie
Book was more than I thought it would be. There was dark humor (a plus) but there was also some character depth & love.
Book was more than I thought it would be. There was dark humor (a plus) but there was also some character depth & love.
March 1, 2023
Purch. Amazon Oct. 28, 2018
Dark Thoughts by Cynthia Sax
Genres: Adult, Erotica, Romance, Sci-fi
3 Solid Stars
An interesting world and characters. The world build could have been better without a few of the odd terms that were used. Such as;
Ass Coverings = Pants
Body Covering = Some kind of full bodysuit
Solar Rotation = Day
Planet Rotation = Year
They just annoyed me.
I really liked both mc's. They were intriguing and fun to read about. Their interactions with each other often amusing and their intimate scenes were scorching hot. Definitely adult and often erotic.
Some of the dialogue was cheesy. The flow was off on occasion. Sometimes the story came off a bit to juvenile in actions and words. There are very few editing errors.
It could have been a great read if the writing had been a bit more mature throughout. There were just a lot of areas that came of like a child's fantasy. This was one of the problems with the flow of the story. Sometimes it read like an adult story, sometimes like a child's wild imagination.
At this point I don't think I will continue with the series. It was cute and I liked it, but it just had to many other elements that didn't work for me.
Dark Thoughts by Cynthia Sax
Genres: Adult, Erotica, Romance, Sci-fi
3 Solid Stars
An interesting world and characters. The world build could have been better without a few of the odd terms that were used. Such as;
Ass Coverings = Pants
Body Covering = Some kind of full bodysuit
Solar Rotation = Day
Planet Rotation = Year
They just annoyed me.
I really liked both mc's. They were intriguing and fun to read about. Their interactions with each other often amusing and their intimate scenes were scorching hot. Definitely adult and often erotic.
Some of the dialogue was cheesy. The flow was off on occasion. Sometimes the story came off a bit to juvenile in actions and words. There are very few editing errors.
It could have been a great read if the writing had been a bit more mature throughout. There were just a lot of areas that came of like a child's fantasy. This was one of the problems with the flow of the story. Sometimes it read like an adult story, sometimes like a child's wild imagination.
At this point I don't think I will continue with the series. It was cute and I liked it, but it just had to many other elements that didn't work for me.
March 23, 2017
It takes a special kind of person to love a monster and that's exactly what this author has given her readers. Dita may be small but she's an assassin and right now her every thought is consumed by the need to put three violent, sadistic Clones in the ground. Slight problem though as they are hiding out at The Refuge, a place controlled by Kralj, part beast, definitely the thing of nightmares and curiously someone who Dita finds herself desperate to play with! Hmm maybe that's not a good idea but Dita is very, very persistent.
Two people who have both experienced atrocities and yet survived . This couple are surely made for each other but the real joy is seeing Dita constantly challenge Kralj. Dita just won't back down, her sense of honour empowers her and yes even though it's a violent, dark story her playfulness and ability to love life made her a truly vibrant character.
Now Dita might have accepted that life is for living and death just a heartbeat away but Kralj has a very different outlook. He lives totally unaffected by those around him, feared perhaps reviled but above all a man apart. Watching his armour get pierced by Dita was such fun but never forget that Kralj is used to being in control although with everything that happens he just might have to break his own rules! Yes this hero and heroine consider themselves less than human but this story showcases that were there's life there's hope and even monsters deserve love . Just a warning though as Kralj has quite particular appetites that won't suit everyone !
Two people who have both experienced atrocities and yet survived . This couple are surely made for each other but the real joy is seeing Dita constantly challenge Kralj. Dita just won't back down, her sense of honour empowers her and yes even though it's a violent, dark story her playfulness and ability to love life made her a truly vibrant character.
Now Dita might have accepted that life is for living and death just a heartbeat away but Kralj has a very different outlook. He lives totally unaffected by those around him, feared perhaps reviled but above all a man apart. Watching his armour get pierced by Dita was such fun but never forget that Kralj is used to being in control although with everything that happens he just might have to break his own rules! Yes this hero and heroine consider themselves less than human but this story showcases that were there's life there's hope and even monsters deserve love . Just a warning though as Kralj has quite particular appetites that won't suit everyone !
June 20, 2017
4 stars
July 19, 2017
Y'all. This was SO GOOD.
Dark Thoughts is the first in the Refuge series. I seriously love good Science fiction romance, and Cynthia Sax delivered!
Dita is a bad ass woman! She's a great heroine. She's strong, loyal, and loving! Her and Kralj's chemistry is off the charts!
Kralji is considered a beast, monster, protector of the Refuge. His whole life is turned upside down when he catches Dita, the assassin, sneaking into his city.
This story was seriously good! It focuses more on romance than action, which was okay with me!
Dark Thoughts is the first in the Refuge series. I seriously love good Science fiction romance, and Cynthia Sax delivered!
Dita is a bad ass woman! She's a great heroine. She's strong, loyal, and loving! Her and Kralj's chemistry is off the charts!
Kralji is considered a beast, monster, protector of the Refuge. His whole life is turned upside down when he catches Dita, the assassin, sneaking into his city.
This story was seriously good! It focuses more on romance than action, which was okay with me!
March 25, 2017
This is a very entertaining story. Sort of Beauty and the Beast, except Beauty is a killer sprite with nothing to lose.
In this universe, gene-mods are common, and the biggest baddest most-modded of them all rules over the Island of Lost Toys, where anything goes except you can't kill anyone. Enter the sprite who has pledged her honor to kill 3 clones who are hiding in this Refuge. So they start to negotiate with each other to see if the rules can be bent. And of course, the sprite ain't scared of no big ugly guy. It is delightful to watch them flirt at the point of a dagger. And of course, the sex is rough and tumble - reference the movie "Mr and Mrs Smith" but X-rated.
But while these two are teasing each other, people are dying around them, and they need to adjust their relationship to find a new balance. They make some bad choices, and they pay for them.
The book is listed at 200pp, but it felt longer. The only sign of the novella length is the resolution is a bit condensed. I look forward to the next book.
In this universe, gene-mods are common, and the biggest baddest most-modded of them all rules over the Island of Lost Toys, where anything goes except you can't kill anyone. Enter the sprite who has pledged her honor to kill 3 clones who are hiding in this Refuge. So they start to negotiate with each other to see if the rules can be bent. And of course, the sprite ain't scared of no big ugly guy. It is delightful to watch them flirt at the point of a dagger. And of course, the sex is rough and tumble - reference the movie "Mr and Mrs Smith" but X-rated.
But while these two are teasing each other, people are dying around them, and they need to adjust their relationship to find a new balance. They make some bad choices, and they pay for them.
The book is listed at 200pp, but it felt longer. The only sign of the novella length is the resolution is a bit condensed. I look forward to the next book.
November 30, 2018
I loved Dita - deadly assassin with a moral code. Kralj was a bit more clueless than I like in an alpha-male, but he got better as the book went on.
November 20, 2017
Good. Darkish. Different. Enjoyed! Looking forward to the next book.
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March 16, 2017
Hot damn!!!
Um Cynthia, we have a problem.... Your Cyborgs now have some serious and I mean serious competition. Stunned, in awe and maybe a slight drooling issue are only some ways to describe how awesome Dark Thoughts is. Dark, slightly twisted and so freakin hot, I think I may have given my fingertips third degree burns as I swiped through the pages. Umm did I mention awesome...
Um Cynthia, we have a problem.... Your Cyborgs now have some serious and I mean serious competition. Stunned, in awe and maybe a slight drooling issue are only some ways to describe how awesome Dark Thoughts is. Dark, slightly twisted and so freakin hot, I think I may have given my fingertips third degree burns as I swiped through the pages. Umm did I mention awesome...
October 28, 2024
This was such a great read! It was darker than I'm used to from this author, but I loved every moment I spent with Kralj and Dita.
Kralj was a unique being, possibly the most deadly being in the universe, and he thought he was destined to live his long life alone, protecting those in his refuge with a code of honor and deadly intent. Then Dita makes her presence known, constantly crawling up the wall of his oasis, a human assassin determined to keep her word and take revenge against three men who reside in the refuge. She's immune to his most lethal power and suddenly his life doesn't seem so lonely.
I enjoyed both the dark and light elements of their relationship. The author did a wonderful job of capturing their lethal beauty and their vulnerabilities. My only real complaint was that I wanted to spend more time with these two.
Kralj was a unique being, possibly the most deadly being in the universe, and he thought he was destined to live his long life alone, protecting those in his refuge with a code of honor and deadly intent. Then Dita makes her presence known, constantly crawling up the wall of his oasis, a human assassin determined to keep her word and take revenge against three men who reside in the refuge. She's immune to his most lethal power and suddenly his life doesn't seem so lonely.
I enjoyed both the dark and light elements of their relationship. The author did a wonderful job of capturing their lethal beauty and their vulnerabilities. My only real complaint was that I wanted to spend more time with these two.
June 17, 2019
Kickass assassin Dita meets genetically altered killer Kralj when she tries to kill three people in his settlement under his protection. She’s captured. He makes her call him ‘Sir’. She loves it. I loved this book. I loved its ferocity. Both characters are killers. They like killing. They are trained monsters. Alone. Then they find each other! HEA. Great. I loved both characters. I liked how they became friends. It was pretty hot. It’s quite violent. There are a lot of horrid slaughterings of people you don’t want to think about being slaughtered but you never actually see this, it’s just mentioned.
I liked the idea that Kralj is a telepath who can hear all thoughts bar hers. I liked that he had created the Refuge. It had some nice world building.
I liked the idea that Kralj is a telepath who can hear all thoughts bar hers. I liked that he had created the Refuge. It had some nice world building.
December 7, 2019
I asked the author about the reading order that follow events since this world involves four series and this is what she told me.
Yes, publication date is the best way to determine the order of events.
Here is the order thus far...
Releasing Rage- Cyborg Sizzle 1
Breathing Vapor- Cyborg Sizzle 2
Crash And Burn - Cyborg Sizzle 3
Defying Death - Cyborg Sizzle 4
Being Green - Cyborg Sizzle 1.5
Chasing Mayhem - Cyborg Sizzle 5
Jumping Barrel - Cyborg Sizzle 3.5
Hers To Command - Cyborg Sizzle 6
Dark Thoughts - Refuge 1
Ghost Of A Machine - Cyborg Sizzle 7
Dark Flight - Refuge 2
Seeking Vector - Cyborg Sizzle 8
Knowing Zip - Cyborg Sizzle 8.5
Dark Strength - Refuge 3
Taking Vengeance - Cyborg Sizzle 9
Dark Fire - Refuge 4
Dark Warlord - Refuge 2.5
The Cyborg’s Secret Baby - 9.6
Dark Cure - Refuge 5
Dark Arsenal - Cyborg Sizzle 9.5
Warlord Sky - Chamele Barbarian Warlords 1
Choosing Chuckles - Cyborg Space Exploration 1
Warlord’s Bounty - Chamele Barbarian Warlords 2
Doc’s Orders - Cyborg Space Exploration 2
Warlord Unarmed - Chamele Barbarian Warlords 3
Dominance and Dissent (Cyborg Space Exploration #3)
Passion Surge Cyborg Space Exploration 4
Cyborg Sizzle Series
Refuge Series
Cyborg Space Exploration Series
Chamele Barbarian Warlords/Barbarian Claims Series
the Tau Cetian series (which will start after the Chamele Barbarian Warlords series is completed).
Safety
Yes, publication date is the best way to determine the order of events.
Here is the order thus far...
Releasing Rage- Cyborg Sizzle 1
Breathing Vapor- Cyborg Sizzle 2
Crash And Burn - Cyborg Sizzle 3
Defying Death - Cyborg Sizzle 4
Being Green - Cyborg Sizzle 1.5
Chasing Mayhem - Cyborg Sizzle 5
Jumping Barrel - Cyborg Sizzle 3.5
Hers To Command - Cyborg Sizzle 6
Dark Thoughts - Refuge 1
Ghost Of A Machine - Cyborg Sizzle 7
Dark Flight - Refuge 2
Seeking Vector - Cyborg Sizzle 8
Knowing Zip - Cyborg Sizzle 8.5
Dark Strength - Refuge 3
Taking Vengeance - Cyborg Sizzle 9
Dark Fire - Refuge 4
Dark Warlord - Refuge 2.5
The Cyborg’s Secret Baby - 9.6
Dark Cure - Refuge 5
Dark Arsenal - Cyborg Sizzle 9.5
Warlord Sky - Chamele Barbarian Warlords 1
Choosing Chuckles - Cyborg Space Exploration 1
Warlord’s Bounty - Chamele Barbarian Warlords 2
Doc’s Orders - Cyborg Space Exploration 2
Warlord Unarmed - Chamele Barbarian Warlords 3
Dominance and Dissent (Cyborg Space Exploration #3)
Passion Surge Cyborg Space Exploration 4
Cyborg Sizzle Series
Refuge Series
Cyborg Space Exploration Series
Chamele Barbarian Warlords/Barbarian Claims Series
the Tau Cetian series (which will start after the Chamele Barbarian Warlords series is completed).
Safety
May 7, 2017
Soooo Good!!!
Wow- Such an Amazing Disaster
This is a fast paced, well written wonderfully crazy ride. These two are absolutely nuts and I love it. The premise itself is something new and a highly enjoyable. I was a little wary at first because I didn't quite know what to think from the description and had to wait until I was in the mood for a "darker" read. Yes, monstrous things happen but nothing about this book took me to a dark, fearful or overly introspective place on the page. The characters are so brazen, explosive and full of life despite their horrific pasts that even though I should have felt appalled most of the time, it's just too good- enthralling, magnetic and funny even, to be horrified.
Kralj is an indestructible being with immense power. A dangerous predatator who feeds on his victims. He has created a city that protects other monstrous beings from their pasts and themselves. Although he protects them, he's still in a self-imposed exile, a prison of his own making. His tortuous past gives way to a loneliness so deep that he never expected to find a mate in the many lifetimes of his existence. "Since the planet rotation he was engineered. He’d been conceived in a laboratory, had never known a family, a mother, a father, had never experienced love, companionship."
Dita is an anomaly who is naturally resistant to telepathic abilities. “You’re more than an assassin, little one.” He told her softly. “I’m a monster.” Dita smiled at him. She was a miracle, her soul serene, her thoughts unreadable, her acceptance of the bloodier side of his personality just as much of an anomaly."
Everything about their connection should be catastrophic but somehow they neutralize each other. Honestly, I don't remember a book where two people are so perfectly matched for one another. They each have honor in their own way; Kralj giving refuge to the unwanted, other disparate monsters, Dita avenging the helpless.
Wow- Such an Amazing Disaster
This is a fast paced, well written wonderfully crazy ride. These two are absolutely nuts and I love it. The premise itself is something new and a highly enjoyable. I was a little wary at first because I didn't quite know what to think from the description and had to wait until I was in the mood for a "darker" read. Yes, monstrous things happen but nothing about this book took me to a dark, fearful or overly introspective place on the page. The characters are so brazen, explosive and full of life despite their horrific pasts that even though I should have felt appalled most of the time, it's just too good- enthralling, magnetic and funny even, to be horrified.
Kralj is an indestructible being with immense power. A dangerous predatator who feeds on his victims. He has created a city that protects other monstrous beings from their pasts and themselves. Although he protects them, he's still in a self-imposed exile, a prison of his own making. His tortuous past gives way to a loneliness so deep that he never expected to find a mate in the many lifetimes of his existence. "Since the planet rotation he was engineered. He’d been conceived in a laboratory, had never known a family, a mother, a father, had never experienced love, companionship."
Dita is an anomaly who is naturally resistant to telepathic abilities. “You’re more than an assassin, little one.” He told her softly. “I’m a monster.” Dita smiled at him. She was a miracle, her soul serene, her thoughts unreadable, her acceptance of the bloodier side of his personality just as much of an anomaly."
Everything about their connection should be catastrophic but somehow they neutralize each other. Honestly, I don't remember a book where two people are so perfectly matched for one another. They each have honor in their own way; Kralj giving refuge to the unwanted, other disparate monsters, Dita avenging the helpless.
May 1, 2017
I really adored both the hero and heroine in this read. I am a sucker for a strong willed/ tough heroine and this book certainly had that. The assassin and monster both pulled me into their worlds. Amazing character depth. The story had a great balance of suspense and the plot was never dull at any time. I'll definitely check out more of this writers work.
August 7, 2018
Telepathic intensity
The big H was scary, even to himself. That must have been what drove him to be so regimented. Which of course, is why his mate had to be the unrestrained test to his control.
It was a cute romance in that the h was kind of perky in a sense. A perky assassin sounds like a contradiction but it’s what she was.
I didn’t cry at the climax by sheer force of will. But it was touch and go.
Fun villain romance.
The big H was scary, even to himself. That must have been what drove him to be so regimented. Which of course, is why his mate had to be the unrestrained test to his control.
It was a cute romance in that the h was kind of perky in a sense. A perky assassin sounds like a contradiction but it’s what she was.
I didn’t cry at the climax by sheer force of will. But it was touch and go.
Fun villain romance.
May 20, 2017
For a truly wicked couple to find their happily ever after requires a skilled storyteller, and they found theirs in Ms. Sax. Thoroughly enjoyed this tale!
March 31, 2019
2 stars. Not very good, and some elements were annoyingly repetitive. But it did keep my attention to the end...the eyeroll-inducing end, lol.
February 24, 2020
I really enjoyed this book!
So why not a 4 or even 5* rating?. almost towards the end of the book I felt that Dita lost her edge, she was supposed to be this unique badass assassin but I did not feel it when she was acting out of emotion to save her friend Sari. While we are on the topic of her friend Sari, Dita had like 3 encounters with the female and bam all of a sudden they are besties. Something was missing for the story.
Now Kralj I liked as I do like my anti heroes. Also when he confronted the mob I was expecting a little more physical encounters but sadly he used his mind mojo to eliminate them. That was a bit of a let down.
I wanted to see more fighting and action as to what made theses two such bad asses. A little bit of an encounter with the Humanoid Alliance that was wanting to take over his Refuge would have been awesome but alas nothing........
Also this whole monsters thing that they kept going on & on about was really getting to me as Dita was human so what monster is she talking about?. Also the sex between them was really icky, Dita seemed to be in pain and she always needed to be healed, I just could not understand it and she wanted to take in his monster, still do not know what that was all about. Oh and before I forget what is an "ass covering", is it pants or a loin cloth?. The descriptions on some of the things in this story although inconsequential left me with an incomplete picture of this world in my mind.
This was a well written book that I will be seeking out more books in the series. It has a very interesting story and the world building is interesting.
So why not a 4 or even 5* rating?. almost towards the end of the book I felt that Dita lost her edge, she was supposed to be this unique badass assassin but I did not feel it when she was acting out of emotion to save her friend Sari. While we are on the topic of her friend Sari, Dita had like 3 encounters with the female and bam all of a sudden they are besties. Something was missing for the story.
Now Kralj I liked as I do like my anti heroes. Also when he confronted the mob I was expecting a little more physical encounters but sadly he used his mind mojo to eliminate them. That was a bit of a let down.
I wanted to see more fighting and action as to what made theses two such bad asses. A little bit of an encounter with the Humanoid Alliance that was wanting to take over his Refuge would have been awesome but alas nothing........
Also this whole monsters thing that they kept going on & on about was really getting to me as Dita was human so what monster is she talking about?. Also the sex between them was really icky, Dita seemed to be in pain and she always needed to be healed, I just could not understand it and she wanted to take in his monster, still do not know what that was all about. Oh and before I forget what is an "ass covering", is it pants or a loin cloth?. The descriptions on some of the things in this story although inconsequential left me with an incomplete picture of this world in my mind.
This was a well written book that I will be seeking out more books in the series. It has a very interesting story and the world building is interesting.
October 11, 2020
I won this ebook from an Amazon giveaway back when they still had them. I was excited because it has the same title as my blog. I thought it was fitting to get this one for that reason and to read it this month since it's Halloween month and this seemed like it would be a very dark romance from the description.
Kralj is such a weird character. I wanted to refer to him as the hero but I can't think of him as that, the lead male character, yes but hero...no. He eats people. He. Eats. People. That fact should have stopped me from reading this but that just made this book have enough of a crazy edge to it that made me want to read this and I'm glad that I did. Kralj is part beast, and part human so it's really no wonder that his appetite calls for something a little different. His human half had been enhanced and now he was practically unstoppable and vicious.
He had made the refuge that he lived in and saw to it that the residents that also lived there were safe. His beast half was a Beta Taurian Shadow Beast and they mated for life. He didn't think he would ever have a mate but when his beast smelled the woman who was hiding just outside the walls of his refuge, he knew she might be his mate. He found her and she didn't seem scared of him which was strange since most everyone was.
Dita was an assassin and not afraid of Kralj, in fact she found him attractive. Their first meeting knocked him off balance but he knew he couldn't lose control or people would die. So he sent her away but she didn't stay away for long. He knows she's his mate so when she shows back up, he allows her to stay for a while. They get to know one another and it turns out she is as crazy as he is. She's a killer and so is he but both of them have hearts neither of them knew they had. They end up caring for one another and for others.
I was worried this was going to be all about his crazy killer beast side and while that did make an appearance more than once, it was also nice to see the softer side of both of them. This book surprised me quite a bit because I ended up really liking this story. There's a lot more to both of them than being killers.
Kralj is such a weird character. I wanted to refer to him as the hero but I can't think of him as that, the lead male character, yes but hero...no. He eats people. He. Eats. People. That fact should have stopped me from reading this but that just made this book have enough of a crazy edge to it that made me want to read this and I'm glad that I did. Kralj is part beast, and part human so it's really no wonder that his appetite calls for something a little different. His human half had been enhanced and now he was practically unstoppable and vicious.
He had made the refuge that he lived in and saw to it that the residents that also lived there were safe. His beast half was a Beta Taurian Shadow Beast and they mated for life. He didn't think he would ever have a mate but when his beast smelled the woman who was hiding just outside the walls of his refuge, he knew she might be his mate. He found her and she didn't seem scared of him which was strange since most everyone was.
Dita was an assassin and not afraid of Kralj, in fact she found him attractive. Their first meeting knocked him off balance but he knew he couldn't lose control or people would die. So he sent her away but she didn't stay away for long. He knows she's his mate so when she shows back up, he allows her to stay for a while. They get to know one another and it turns out she is as crazy as he is. She's a killer and so is he but both of them have hearts neither of them knew they had. They end up caring for one another and for others.
I was worried this was going to be all about his crazy killer beast side and while that did make an appearance more than once, it was also nice to see the softer side of both of them. This book surprised me quite a bit because I ended up really liking this story. There's a lot more to both of them than being killers.
January 22, 2021
Series: Refuge #1
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
The Refuge is home to the most dangerous beings in the universe. Kralj, their leader, ruthlessly reigns over the outpost by destroying anyone who breaks the rules or sites rebellion. He is a scared, genetically modified alien, with unknown abilities that everyone fears, until he meets Dita.
This book was a lot better than I remembered it being. Kralj and Dita’s relationship was bloody, filled with death, and very steamy. I really loved Dita. She was a bloodthirsty assassin who doesn’t know how to play nice or work with others but she tries for Kralj. She also had a soft side that she only shows to a few people. I liked the duality of this very strong and deadly woman who also wasn’t afraid to be emotional or caring.
Kralj may be an extremely deadly being who can hear everyone’s thoughts and plans but he was also surprisingly caring. He may not be friendly with anyone but he is protective and loyal to the people who follow the rules in the refuge. He also kind of adopts those who need it most, which I find adorable. Kralj was just a terrifying leader who also has a little bit of a gooey inside.
I really enjoyed the Refuge. It was filled with very unique and deadly aliens, especially Kralj’s team. I can’t wait to learn more about them and their genetic modifications
You can also find my reviews at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
The Refuge is home to the most dangerous beings in the universe. Kralj, their leader, ruthlessly reigns over the outpost by destroying anyone who breaks the rules or sites rebellion. He is a scared, genetically modified alien, with unknown abilities that everyone fears, until he meets Dita.
This book was a lot better than I remembered it being. Kralj and Dita’s relationship was bloody, filled with death, and very steamy. I really loved Dita. She was a bloodthirsty assassin who doesn’t know how to play nice or work with others but she tries for Kralj. She also had a soft side that she only shows to a few people. I liked the duality of this very strong and deadly woman who also wasn’t afraid to be emotional or caring.
Kralj may be an extremely deadly being who can hear everyone’s thoughts and plans but he was also surprisingly caring. He may not be friendly with anyone but he is protective and loyal to the people who follow the rules in the refuge. He also kind of adopts those who need it most, which I find adorable. Kralj was just a terrifying leader who also has a little bit of a gooey inside.
I really enjoyed the Refuge. It was filled with very unique and deadly aliens, especially Kralj’s team. I can’t wait to learn more about them and their genetic modifications
You can also find my reviews at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
January 6, 2020
Deliciously disturbing with a golden heart buried down deep.
Kralj and Dita believe themselves to be monsters...and that might be true. But their love overcomes all.
I wish Kralj's
Kralj and Dita believe themselves to be monsters...and that might be true. But their love overcomes all.
I wish Kralj's
November 27, 2020
I thought I already reviewed this, but I guess not. I read this a little while ago & although I don’t remember all that much, I do remember enjoying it.
April 10, 2023
NOOOOOOO I WISH I COULD HACK INTO KINDLE UNLIMITED AND DELETE THIS!
August 21, 2019
Don't know, kind of liked it, Dita is a kick ass assassin, Kralj' character is just okay.
March 16, 2017
Wow. I had really been looking forward to Kralj's book, the first in the Refuge series by Cynthia Sax.
I was expecting him to be brutal, feral, and, well... cannibalistic. She'd certainly provided enough warning about the kind of creature he is.
What I wasn't expecting, but had been part of the anticipation, was what kind of female could possibly attract him, be attracted *to* him, and manage to survive him. Dita is probably one of the most broken and outright crazy heroines I have ever read, and she still manages to be not only likeable, but believable within the context of the story. I have read Sax's full series of the cyborg books, so I know there is, at times, some fairly graphic violence, heavy emotions, and explicit (sometimes kinky) sex. However, if you are familiar with the storylines, none of it is ubiquitous or gratuitous. It fits the characters, and the scenarios. In some cases, it can feel, while reading, hair-raising and over-the-top... and then, there comes the understanding of it.
So if you are interested in a roller coaster of a read, exotic locales, dark romance with science fiction underpinnings, then this is definitely the book (and the author) for you to try. It might be a difficult read for the squeamish; though there is a HEA, it's hard-won, and let's be honest... though we have a Hero and heroine, and they do act with honor, they are both self-admitted monsters. So read at your own risk... there isn't a lifeguard on duty in the Refuge.
I was expecting him to be brutal, feral, and, well... cannibalistic. She'd certainly provided enough warning about the kind of creature he is.
What I wasn't expecting, but had been part of the anticipation, was what kind of female could possibly attract him, be attracted *to* him, and manage to survive him. Dita is probably one of the most broken and outright crazy heroines I have ever read, and she still manages to be not only likeable, but believable within the context of the story. I have read Sax's full series of the cyborg books, so I know there is, at times, some fairly graphic violence, heavy emotions, and explicit (sometimes kinky) sex. However, if you are familiar with the storylines, none of it is ubiquitous or gratuitous. It fits the characters, and the scenarios. In some cases, it can feel, while reading, hair-raising and over-the-top... and then, there comes the understanding of it.
So if you are interested in a roller coaster of a read, exotic locales, dark romance with science fiction underpinnings, then this is definitely the book (and the author) for you to try. It might be a difficult read for the squeamish; though there is a HEA, it's hard-won, and let's be honest... though we have a Hero and heroine, and they do act with honor, they are both self-admitted monsters. So read at your own risk... there isn't a lifeguard on duty in the Refuge.
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