What do you think?
Rate this book
Kings of Sorrows and Dreams #2
Nightmare Rising
DARK EROTIC PARANORMAL ROMANCE
It's the monster you invite into your bed that you should fear.
Zara has always hidden from danger, until the day she's possessed by the remnants of a woman known only as the Cucitrice.
Creatures that should have stayed in myth and legend have torn their way into our world.
They want to be inside us where they can bask in the immoralities of the flesh...which is exactly what Zara wants when she looks at Valor.
Valor Lacroix. Badass, gun-toting CIA agent, and man unlucky enough to have the Nightmare King inside him.
Two lovers with enemies inside them - if they can survive, maybe they can save us all.
The Bride Collector is a standalone romance.
Nightmare Rising is the first part of the romance between Val and Zara.
The third book will neatly tie everything together, and bring back Harrow, Ash, Viktoria, and Beez as side characters, while Zara and Val get their Happily Ever After—okay, not so neatly since it’s a slippery mess of tentacles, monsters, weirdness, and some mythological creatures that like doing despicably filthy things.
Book 3 is being written now.
It's the monster you invite into your bed that you should fear.
Zara has always hidden from danger, until the day she's possessed by the remnants of a woman known only as the Cucitrice.
Creatures that should have stayed in myth and legend have torn their way into our world.
They want to be inside us where they can bask in the immoralities of the flesh...which is exactly what Zara wants when she looks at Valor.
Valor Lacroix. Badass, gun-toting CIA agent, and man unlucky enough to have the Nightmare King inside him.
Two lovers with enemies inside them - if they can survive, maybe they can save us all.
The Bride Collector is a standalone romance.
Nightmare Rising is the first part of the romance between Val and Zara.
The third book will neatly tie everything together, and bring back Harrow, Ash, Viktoria, and Beez as side characters, while Zara and Val get their Happily Ever After—okay, not so neatly since it’s a slippery mess of tentacles, monsters, weirdness, and some mythological creatures that like doing despicably filthy things.
Book 3 is being written now.
ebook
First published September 14, 2017
73 people are currently reading
239 people want to read
About the author
Cari Silverwood
98 books1,221 followersCari Silverwood lives in Australia and is a New York Times bestselling writer of kinky darkness or sometimes dark kinkiness, depending on her moods and the amount of time she's spent staring into the night.
Check out this page to avoid falling into the wrong dark and shocking book, because she really does write some weird stories: www.carisilverwood.net/my-books-liste...
Sign up to get sales and new releases plus various odd stuff she puts into it (and a free welcome book) at www.carisilverwood.net/
You can reach Cari at carisilverwood1@gmail.com
or
on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cari.silverwood
Check out this page to avoid falling into the wrong dark and shocking book, because she really does write some weird stories: www.carisilverwood.net/my-books-liste...
Sign up to get sales and new releases plus various odd stuff she puts into it (and a free welcome book) at www.carisilverwood.net/
You can reach Cari at carisilverwood1@gmail.com
or
on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cari.silverwood
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 56 reviews
July 18, 2023
The Nightmare King is definitely not someone you want to be possessed by that's for sure that dude is bad news times infinite, pure evil and Val our hero here is currently housing that atrocity within himself the only thing keeping him at bay a leftover relic infecting this current shell and Val’s own totally stubborn nature and iron will, but it’s getting harder every day for Val to fight the compulsions caused by this entity residing inside him.
Zara is also housing a foreign hitchhiker the Cucitrice or at least all of her memories she’s the nightmare king's constant adversary and these two are usually on opposite sides of the fight but here Val and Zara partner up hoping that together they can attempt to navigate the situation whilst also hoping to save Val from the inevitability of his condition. Trust is low and suspicion a constant but the more time that they spend together the stronger their mutual agenda and tethered bond becomes.
Add into the mix an obsessed serial killer stalker that Zara has been evading for years and a host of otherworldly nightmare and dream creatures and this then made for an incredibly exciting adrenaline-filled ride.
The chemistry was totally on point and as usual red hot just how I like it and I also did love Val and Zara as a couple. I’m intrigued now to see how this will all eventually tie together and play out in the upcoming conclusion. So yes there’s still another piece of the story to come and this ended on a cliffhanger with the final book to also tie in with the first one bringing back characters from that.
This definitely had a much darker flavour than the recent prequel so be prepared for some delicious darkness. I found this highly imaginative and such an unusual and unique experience. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of Nightmare Rising.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
March 13, 2023
Great news!! Not only is Nightmare Rising being re-released,Cari’s going to finish Zara and Val’s story!!
Another fun fact is that our friends from The Bride Collector will be joining Zara and Val on their dark and messy journey towards a well deserved HEA,and i can’t wait to hear all the details!!
Damn! Just when you think you know what to expect from Cari,she teams up with Nicolette and delivers this dark gem!
If you're into dark,if you're into paranormal ánd dark....this is the one for you!
I loved Zara,a strong girl that deals with the darkness she's thrown into with all she's got and uses every scrap of knowledge that comes to her,however strange it may seem....
And Val,he's a badass all by himself,but the guest he carries with him?
That is some dark shit!
You really need to read this yourself,i can't tell you anything else,or i'll spoil the best bits....
I'll just say one thing,that cliffhanger?
It's a real killer!
Loved the ARC of this delicious dark gem the first time,and knowing the second part is coming, made me enjoy reading it again even more!!
Another fun fact is that our friends from The Bride Collector will be joining Zara and Val on their dark and messy journey towards a well deserved HEA,and i can’t wait to hear all the details!!
Damn! Just when you think you know what to expect from Cari,she teams up with Nicolette and delivers this dark gem!
If you're into dark,if you're into paranormal ánd dark....this is the one for you!
I loved Zara,a strong girl that deals with the darkness she's thrown into with all she's got and uses every scrap of knowledge that comes to her,however strange it may seem....
And Val,he's a badass all by himself,but the guest he carries with him?
That is some dark shit!
You really need to read this yourself,i can't tell you anything else,or i'll spoil the best bits....
I'll just say one thing,that cliffhanger?
It's a real killer!
Loved the ARC of this delicious dark gem the first time,and knowing the second part is coming, made me enjoy reading it again even more!!
September 5, 2017
Dark and thrilling, edgy and smart. With undertones of mythology and alchemy, a present-day tale is spun to make you shudder and capture the imagination.
The writing is beautifully and vividly crafted with lines like -
"...a pulse of dark, an army defined by the absence of light. Together they’d swallow the earth. :::: ...he’d learned hope never grew as strong or as fast as fear did."
And one of my favorites -
"She moved again, like fluid, a slow drag of lithe limbs to reach his feet. Behind her, she left art, a bloody trail of knee and handprints."
Nicolette Hugo is a new-to-me author, but I do know Cari Silverwood for her inability to be placed in a box and labeled any one thing. Nightmare Rising is a perfect example of this.
With its blending elements of horror, thriller, fantasy, erotica, and even a bit of romance?.. there's something in Nightmare Rising for everyone's diverse imaginations and interests.
March 13, 2023
Cari Silverwood has always been a fav author of mine. I've read two of genre's that she writes in and very talented in both.
I love how she stirred the magic into the real world. Such talent in the realm of the dark erotica. Cari puts detail after detail making the story come to life for you. I went from wide eyed did I just read that, to fanning my face and saying O.M.G.
Is evil really evil? is good really good or are they a muddied reality? maybe a warped balance of need.
Body possession, mystery, mind blowing erotica and danger. all in the first book! all you can say is bring on the next!!
I did read and review this book voluntarily.
I love how she stirred the magic into the real world. Such talent in the realm of the dark erotica. Cari puts detail after detail making the story come to life for you. I went from wide eyed did I just read that, to fanning my face and saying O.M.G.
Is evil really evil? is good really good or are they a muddied reality? maybe a warped balance of need.
Body possession, mystery, mind blowing erotica and danger. all in the first book! all you can say is bring on the next!!
I did read and review this book voluntarily.
September 10, 2017
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Just because I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review doesn't mean I won't be buying this book. Because let me tell you, when release day hits, I will be one clicking this mother fucker for sure!
I absolutely adore both Cari Silverwood and Nicolette Hugo and when I heard they were going to work together on a book series, I can't tell you how excited I was by this news and let me tell you, they did not disappoint me at all. Not only did they not disappoint, but I think I came up with a new item to add to my fetish list. I'm gonna let you all figure out what that is.
I love the weaving of the story and the characters. Everything about this book is magical. You will find yourself pulled into the story and not wanting to let go. When I came to the end, I was so pissed that I had reached the end and I do believe I may have threatened both authors. Which I believe you will probably do as well. You will find yourself drawn to the characters Zara and Valor and I loved seeing them interact(and I'm not gonna lie, the steaming, panty-melting sex between these two are AMAZING!)and how well the mesh and work together. And there are so many twists and turns, you will be kept on your toes during the entire book, never knowing what to expect next.
All I can say, where the hell is book two?
Just because I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review doesn't mean I won't be buying this book. Because let me tell you, when release day hits, I will be one clicking this mother fucker for sure!
I absolutely adore both Cari Silverwood and Nicolette Hugo and when I heard they were going to work together on a book series, I can't tell you how excited I was by this news and let me tell you, they did not disappoint me at all. Not only did they not disappoint, but I think I came up with a new item to add to my fetish list. I'm gonna let you all figure out what that is.
I love the weaving of the story and the characters. Everything about this book is magical. You will find yourself pulled into the story and not wanting to let go. When I came to the end, I was so pissed that I had reached the end and I do believe I may have threatened both authors. Which I believe you will probably do as well. You will find yourself drawn to the characters Zara and Valor and I loved seeing them interact(and I'm not gonna lie, the steaming, panty-melting sex between these two are AMAZING!)and how well the mesh and work together. And there are so many twists and turns, you will be kept on your toes during the entire book, never knowing what to expect next.
All I can say, where the hell is book two?
March 17, 2023
"...dreams and nightmares leaking into the human world. Like falling in love just a little. Magic was real."
Nightmare Rising thrusts readers into a world of unknowns, where the lines of good and evil are beyond blurred. What is right? What is true? Are the beliefs of centuries past fantasy or past? This story will stay with you and will become a favorite that will be read more than once as you search for your own clues.
The first of a trilogy and not all will be answered yet, or maybe it never will? I can't wait for more from Cari and Nicolette's universe of a strong heroine fighting for herself, the man she needs and loves and possibly the fate of the world. Nightmare Rising begins in darkness and lust and ends with the ultimate question is... "There always a way."
Nightmare Rising thrusts readers into a world of unknowns, where the lines of good and evil are beyond blurred. What is right? What is true? Are the beliefs of centuries past fantasy or past? This story will stay with you and will become a favorite that will be read more than once as you search for your own clues.
The first of a trilogy and not all will be answered yet, or maybe it never will? I can't wait for more from Cari and Nicolette's universe of a strong heroine fighting for herself, the man she needs and loves and possibly the fate of the world. Nightmare Rising begins in darkness and lust and ends with the ultimate question is... "There always a way."
Read
September 3, 2017Another I can't rate 'cos I edited but there's some compelling stuff happening with the world building, and some signature Silverwood scenes near the end that ... well ... you'll have to see for yourself. It's been interesting seeing how the authors' styles play off each other on this one.
September 17, 2017
Also on ƦOSEĦARƬ
Purchase: Amazon
Tags: Urban Fantasy | Erotica | PNR | Dark | Mythical | Horror
Recommended to: Fans of Adult PNR with dark elements & suspense
Content warning: Graphic violence/ sex
Note after the last page: Damnnn! It began with an intense scene, then finished with an equally dark, intense one too! The Nightmare King is one sadistic piece of work.
Thoughts First off, let me say that I love the cover, it really sets the tone, and what a hotty!🔥
There’s a tear in the rift, meaning dream and nightmare creatures have bled into the world of humans, and it’s not pretty. The story begins with the Prologue set in 1862 and we’re introduced to carnage straight away, in the form of a single being: The Nightmare King. He’s ruthless straight off the bat. My jaw would have hit the deck if it wasn’t for a certain act making my lips press tightly together!
Fast forward, and we’re introduced to the two MC’s, Val & Zara. At the wrong place at the wrong time, they take on hosts: The Cucitrice slips into Zara, and the Nightmare King haunts Val. While Zara has full control, Val’s begins to slip.
Figuring they’re best off sticking together for different reasons, they set off as partners even though those that possess them are enemies. It’s a given it’s not going to be all smooth sailing.
The characters are vivid, some terrifying, some courageous, some hot, some funny.
You’re rooting for the duo, Val the gun-toting Government agent, and Zara, the knife-wielding heroine. Not only do they have to contend with actual nightmares (a tentacled creature, a Jorōgumo, for example), Zara’s hunting her stalker serial killer! For those reasons, you know she has to have some balls, and she does. And you know there has to be suspense, and there is.
From the get-go you follow them from one bad situation to the next, the locations stuff of nightmares and well described. The main point for me that kept me gripped was wondering how it would end. You know the writing tip: Put your character in a situation impossible to get out of. Then get them out of it? Well, Nightmare Rising has the two leads up shit-creek without a paddle. There’s a constant nervous undertone of the chance that Val may lose control to the Nightmare King within him. Of Zara not being able to see the nightmare creatures constantly gunning for her. Of how the two mortals are going to resume normality and lose those that have possessed them.
Then there are the hot scenes. Damn, get a girl a straitjacket.😼
The chemistry and back & forth fight for control is as entertaining as ever, and puts this book on my ‘Best Alpha males’ shelf on Goodreads thanks to Val. As with all of Cari’s books, the sex isn’t slow, flowery or without its daring edge, so if reading about a knife near your girly parts makes you want to vomit in your mouth… don’t pick this up. Or pick it up and step out of your comfort zone & Tweet me so I can laugh along with your holy-shit moments.
The ending? Well, there’s a reason ‘Trilogy’ accompanies the description.
I enjoyed this and am looking forward to finding out what becomes of Val and Zara, plus the Cucitrice and bad-to-the-soul Nightmare King. It’s kick-started an exciting Urban Fantasy world that could be endless with the opportunity of different horrors.
I’m already a fan of Cari Silverwood’s books and will pick them up even without reading the Synopsis, knowing I’ll be taken on a wild ride. It is, however, the first time I have read anything by Nicolette Hugo, and it’s urged me to look at more of her titles.
Recommended for fans of Dark fantasy books that include elements of horror and throat-gripping sex.
ƦOSEĦARƬ
Purchase: Amazon
Tags: Urban Fantasy | Erotica | PNR | Dark | Mythical | Horror
Recommended to: Fans of Adult PNR with dark elements & suspense
Content warning: Graphic violence/ sex
Note after the last page: Damnnn! It began with an intense scene, then finished with an equally dark, intense one too! The Nightmare King is one sadistic piece of work.
Thoughts First off, let me say that I love the cover, it really sets the tone, and what a hotty!🔥
There’s a tear in the rift, meaning dream and nightmare creatures have bled into the world of humans, and it’s not pretty. The story begins with the Prologue set in 1862 and we’re introduced to carnage straight away, in the form of a single being: The Nightmare King. He’s ruthless straight off the bat. My jaw would have hit the deck if it wasn’t for a certain act making my lips press tightly together!
Fast forward, and we’re introduced to the two MC’s, Val & Zara. At the wrong place at the wrong time, they take on hosts: The Cucitrice slips into Zara, and the Nightmare King haunts Val. While Zara has full control, Val’s begins to slip.
Figuring they’re best off sticking together for different reasons, they set off as partners even though those that possess them are enemies. It’s a given it’s not going to be all smooth sailing.
The characters are vivid, some terrifying, some courageous, some hot, some funny.
You’re rooting for the duo, Val the gun-toting Government agent, and Zara, the knife-wielding heroine. Not only do they have to contend with actual nightmares (a tentacled creature, a Jorōgumo, for example), Zara’s hunting her stalker serial killer! For those reasons, you know she has to have some balls, and she does. And you know there has to be suspense, and there is.
From the get-go you follow them from one bad situation to the next, the locations stuff of nightmares and well described. The main point for me that kept me gripped was wondering how it would end. You know the writing tip: Put your character in a situation impossible to get out of. Then get them out of it? Well, Nightmare Rising has the two leads up shit-creek without a paddle. There’s a constant nervous undertone of the chance that Val may lose control to the Nightmare King within him. Of Zara not being able to see the nightmare creatures constantly gunning for her. Of how the two mortals are going to resume normality and lose those that have possessed them.
Then there are the hot scenes. Damn, get a girl a straitjacket.😼
The chemistry and back & forth fight for control is as entertaining as ever, and puts this book on my ‘Best Alpha males’ shelf on Goodreads thanks to Val. As with all of Cari’s books, the sex isn’t slow, flowery or without its daring edge, so if reading about a knife near your girly parts makes you want to vomit in your mouth… don’t pick this up. Or pick it up and step out of your comfort zone & Tweet me so I can laugh along with your holy-shit moments.
The ending? Well, there’s a reason ‘Trilogy’ accompanies the description.
I enjoyed this and am looking forward to finding out what becomes of Val and Zara, plus the Cucitrice and bad-to-the-soul Nightmare King. It’s kick-started an exciting Urban Fantasy world that could be endless with the opportunity of different horrors.
I’m already a fan of Cari Silverwood’s books and will pick them up even without reading the Synopsis, knowing I’ll be taken on a wild ride. It is, however, the first time I have read anything by Nicolette Hugo, and it’s urged me to look at more of her titles.
Recommended for fans of Dark fantasy books that include elements of horror and throat-gripping sex.
ƦOSEĦARƬ
September 25, 2017
Rating:
4 Stars
Main Genres:
MF Erotica, Dark Erotica, Dark, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy, Dark Fantasy, Horror
The Story:
The storyline sounds complicated & confusing, but I actually found it pretty easy to grasp and follow along. I think the authors did an excellent job explaining the world, and they did it without making it feel bogged down with too many details.
Some of the world building basics:
● There was some kind of rift that allowed dream & nightmare creatures to bleed over into our world, but most humans can not see or sense them.
● Takes place in the USA.
● Time period is current to our own.
Of course there's more to it than that, but I don't want to give too many details and spoil anyone's reading experience.
Overall:
The story was unique & well written. The erotica was smoking. Loved the darkness. Basically, everything was REALLY good.
However, even though there was nothing bad nor anything I disliked, it was not a five star for me. The sole reason being I just couldn't connect with the characters.
Warnings:
I think my tags hit most of them, but...
Currently Available:
Amazon.com ❥ Kindle Unlimited ✔
September 21, 2017
Awesome Start!
Cari & Nicolette don't disappoint! Zara and Val are some awesome characters to follow in this book. Thy apparently both have bodies to drool over, lol. This story has some intense spots in it and some hot sex scenes! Love to see the battles that Val and Zara are having within themselves. The ending is awesome and I can't wait to see how they play this out. Definitely a recommended read!
Cari & Nicolette don't disappoint! Zara and Val are some awesome characters to follow in this book. Thy apparently both have bodies to drool over, lol. This story has some intense spots in it and some hot sex scenes! Love to see the battles that Val and Zara are having within themselves. The ending is awesome and I can't wait to see how they play this out. Definitely a recommended read!
September 15, 2017
A collaboration between Cari Silverwood and Nicolette Hugo. This is a contemporary DARK erotic urban fantasy. If you are fan of the tv series Supernatural, then you will love this book. It has demons, angels, hunters, magic and all things that go bump in the night. And some steamy stuff as well.
There are a few different storylines woven together in this book. The ancient battle between good and evil is being fought. Zara and Valor become part of that battle, but as they are also attracted to each other not everything is black and white. Both struggle with their past and inner demons. Zara is on the run from a stalker while Val is being hunted by the loss of his family. There is a lot of action, it is fast paced, but there is also room for a more emotional depth.
Who will win and who will lose? I guess we have to wait until the next book to find that out.
There are a few different storylines woven together in this book. The ancient battle between good and evil is being fought. Zara and Valor become part of that battle, but as they are also attracted to each other not everything is black and white. Both struggle with their past and inner demons. Zara is on the run from a stalker while Val is being hunted by the loss of his family. There is a lot of action, it is fast paced, but there is also room for a more emotional depth.
Who will win and who will lose? I guess we have to wait until the next book to find that out.
October 23, 2017
Wickedly erotic paranormal read. The sadistic brutality and darkness surrounding the Nightmare King and Val leads to almost every page being sexually charged. Zara fell to the background, as I only wanted to know what Val was going to do next and how much of the darkness was really him. The paranormal touches every surface of this read and is unique and inventive.
April 3, 2023
Wow! I was hooked from beginning to end in this world of monsters and madness. Zara ends up in the wrong place at the wrong time and gains the memories of another. Valor is trying to protect the innocent as he unknowingly carries evil inside of him. They must work together to find out who is stalking Zara and to keep the Nightmare King from rising again. This is a fast-paced action packed read with drama, suspense and hot sex. Looking forward to more in the series! I loved it!
September 23, 2017
I have to say that I love dark erotic romances. And while this book didn’t have the soft and tender eroticism I would typically associate with a love story, it had passion and emotion and darkness in spades. It was mind bending and thought provoking and I found that once I began, I couldn’t put it down until I was through.
When I started reading, I will admit that I was a bit confused at what was taking place when the Cucitrice and the Nightmare King inhabited their hosts. But the storytelling and the intricacies and details had me hooked, and it soon all fell into place.
What happens when a rift in the fabric of dreams occurs, releasing the nightmares as well as the light? Apparently some really horrific stuff! This is the world that Zara now inhabits. As the successor to the Cucitrice, a supernatural being that stitches good and evil into people to enlist them as soldiers in the fight, Zara’s reality slowly changes as knowledge of the Cucitrice comes flooding back to her. Memories of past incarnations and ancient alchemy and an understanding of how to defeat the Nightmare King, an evil being who is bent on violence and pain.
Zara makes peace with the change in her reality, but what she doesn’t count on is the attraction between her and Val, the man who unwillingly plays host to the Nightmare King.
Partnering up with Val to hunt down a serial killer that has plagued her nightmares since childhood, Zara’s personal quest morphs into a journey into the darkness of dreams as her and Val encounter mythical monsters and evil creatures. Creatures that Val and Zara try to destroy while at the same time, the parasitic Nightmare King sharing Val’s body tries to recruit.
I found it fascinating to watch the conflict in both Val and Zara. The struggle of good versus evil and the gray area in between. They both sought to destroy a being that inhabited Val, but what is the risk of killing the Nightmare King? Are Zara’s feelings for Val worth the risk of letting the Nightmare King live? Or will that ultimately destroy Val in the end?
I love situations where I am conflicted on whether I like someone, whether they are good or evil or a bit of both, and that is certainly the situation here. Val is both the darkness and the light inhabiting one body. The Cucitrice is herself a savior and darkness to those she condemns to fight in this supernatural war. Cari Silverwood and Nicolette Hugo wrote a great story and making the reader wait to ultimately find out what happens…good and evil wrapped in one.
Nightmare Rising is truly more a dark paranormal tale than a dark romance, but it is one that will play with your mind and wonder if there is more going on beneath the surface of the world than the eyes can see.
When I started reading, I will admit that I was a bit confused at what was taking place when the Cucitrice and the Nightmare King inhabited their hosts. But the storytelling and the intricacies and details had me hooked, and it soon all fell into place.
What happens when a rift in the fabric of dreams occurs, releasing the nightmares as well as the light? Apparently some really horrific stuff! This is the world that Zara now inhabits. As the successor to the Cucitrice, a supernatural being that stitches good and evil into people to enlist them as soldiers in the fight, Zara’s reality slowly changes as knowledge of the Cucitrice comes flooding back to her. Memories of past incarnations and ancient alchemy and an understanding of how to defeat the Nightmare King, an evil being who is bent on violence and pain.
Zara makes peace with the change in her reality, but what she doesn’t count on is the attraction between her and Val, the man who unwillingly plays host to the Nightmare King.
Partnering up with Val to hunt down a serial killer that has plagued her nightmares since childhood, Zara’s personal quest morphs into a journey into the darkness of dreams as her and Val encounter mythical monsters and evil creatures. Creatures that Val and Zara try to destroy while at the same time, the parasitic Nightmare King sharing Val’s body tries to recruit.
I found it fascinating to watch the conflict in both Val and Zara. The struggle of good versus evil and the gray area in between. They both sought to destroy a being that inhabited Val, but what is the risk of killing the Nightmare King? Are Zara’s feelings for Val worth the risk of letting the Nightmare King live? Or will that ultimately destroy Val in the end?
I love situations where I am conflicted on whether I like someone, whether they are good or evil or a bit of both, and that is certainly the situation here. Val is both the darkness and the light inhabiting one body. The Cucitrice is herself a savior and darkness to those she condemns to fight in this supernatural war. Cari Silverwood and Nicolette Hugo wrote a great story and making the reader wait to ultimately find out what happens…good and evil wrapped in one.
Nightmare Rising is truly more a dark paranormal tale than a dark romance, but it is one that will play with your mind and wonder if there is more going on beneath the surface of the world than the eyes can see.
September 20, 2017
When two become four, and fantasy becomes reality. Who's going to win a centuries old battle?
Dayum!
Sugar and spice and all things nice, that's what dreams are made off. Except for Zara and Val it isn't. Their walking dream is now full of faeries, imps, alchemy and monsters and magic symbols that are stitched into unsuspecting skin that brings all things fantastical and beastly to life.
Nightmare Rising is a centuries old fight being fought in modern day, and is penned so well it's believable. The Cucitrice and the Nightmare King find themselves tagging a lift with Zara and Valor, but why them? Both become aware of what is inside them but neither know the extent of the possession and this we learn as we go through the book. It's not the monsters under the bed Zara needs to worry about, it's the one lying right next to her in the bed, yet one touch from Val lights her up in delicious ways, which is wrong in so many ways but she can't deny the carnal attraction and nor can he. But how do you eradicate a being that's living within him without killing him as well? A person she's becoming quite partial too. The host that wants, by any means, the knife she's carrying, a knife Zara had never known existed along with the Cucitrice, a knife that can kill or save you.
There's a breadcrumb trail all the way through, and I can't wait to find out the relevance of it all as the trilogy unfolds, this is what great page turners are made off.
Nightmare Rising is brutually graphic (what I've come to expect from Cari, I haven't read Nicolette Hugo before now), the plot is a great pace, nothing feels a waste, the forward momentum throughout NR is perfect, the learning and understanding of dreams and nightmares and the creatures that have gained access through a rift in 1862 is very well plotted. Action packed, lots of gore, debauched sex (right from the get go). Full of grown up fantasy and magic, melding with reality, and delivered in an intriguing manner I can't fault Nightmare Rising and would recommend to anyone who likes erotically dark stories with a twist of fantasy, that on the one hand could be classed as romance if romance comes with restraints, dark thoughts and lots of blood and creatures that you never knew existed and really do go bump in the night.
I received an ARC of Nightmare Rising in return for an honest review. My reviews are my own and 100% honest.
Dayum!
Sugar and spice and all things nice, that's what dreams are made off. Except for Zara and Val it isn't. Their walking dream is now full of faeries, imps, alchemy and monsters and magic symbols that are stitched into unsuspecting skin that brings all things fantastical and beastly to life.
Nightmare Rising is a centuries old fight being fought in modern day, and is penned so well it's believable. The Cucitrice and the Nightmare King find themselves tagging a lift with Zara and Valor, but why them? Both become aware of what is inside them but neither know the extent of the possession and this we learn as we go through the book. It's not the monsters under the bed Zara needs to worry about, it's the one lying right next to her in the bed, yet one touch from Val lights her up in delicious ways, which is wrong in so many ways but she can't deny the carnal attraction and nor can he. But how do you eradicate a being that's living within him without killing him as well? A person she's becoming quite partial too. The host that wants, by any means, the knife she's carrying, a knife Zara had never known existed along with the Cucitrice, a knife that can kill or save you.
There's a breadcrumb trail all the way through, and I can't wait to find out the relevance of it all as the trilogy unfolds, this is what great page turners are made off.
Nightmare Rising is brutually graphic (what I've come to expect from Cari, I haven't read Nicolette Hugo before now), the plot is a great pace, nothing feels a waste, the forward momentum throughout NR is perfect, the learning and understanding of dreams and nightmares and the creatures that have gained access through a rift in 1862 is very well plotted. Action packed, lots of gore, debauched sex (right from the get go). Full of grown up fantasy and magic, melding with reality, and delivered in an intriguing manner I can't fault Nightmare Rising and would recommend to anyone who likes erotically dark stories with a twist of fantasy, that on the one hand could be classed as romance if romance comes with restraints, dark thoughts and lots of blood and creatures that you never knew existed and really do go bump in the night.
I received an ARC of Nightmare Rising in return for an honest review. My reviews are my own and 100% honest.
September 22, 2017
Title:Nightmare Rising
Author:Cari Silverwood & Nicolette Hugo
Series: The Nightmare Trilogy #1
Paranormal/Erotic romance/Urban Fantasy
Nightmare Rising was a heck of a 5 star read.
Cari Silverwood and Nicolette Hugo have pulled me into a different world and had me thinking WTH did I just read. I was on the edge of my seat, wondering what was coming next.
You really need to open your mind to this story. There are so many paranormal creatures, things I have never heard of before. Welcome to your nightmare and get ready for some dark scenes.
Zara has always been told she is different and when her best friend vanished no one believed her, except for one person. And he has started sending her messages again. Now she has plans to be the hunter not the hunted. Fate steps in and brings Valor to Zara’s rescue. They quickly discover that they have some sort of connection. They don’t trust each other but they agree to work together.
Zara and Valor find themselves in the middle of a battle between The Nightmare King and Cucitrice, Can the good beat out the evil?
Don’t think what’s coming will help you. It’s not your kind. It’s with us.
I really liked both Valor and Zara. They are very strong characters.. And their chemistry was off the charts hot and the sex scenes were hot as heck. You will feel like your on a rollercoaster with all the twists and turns. And the ending, dang. I need more and now I have to wait for book 2 in the series. I can’t even begin to try and tell you what to expect with this book, you really need to 1-click and get started yourself.
Warning: this is a dark read that may contain triggers for some.
I voluntarily read and reviewed ARC copy of this book.
Author:Cari Silverwood & Nicolette Hugo
Series: The Nightmare Trilogy #1
Paranormal/Erotic romance/Urban Fantasy
Nightmare Rising was a heck of a 5 star read.
Cari Silverwood and Nicolette Hugo have pulled me into a different world and had me thinking WTH did I just read. I was on the edge of my seat, wondering what was coming next.
You really need to open your mind to this story. There are so many paranormal creatures, things I have never heard of before. Welcome to your nightmare and get ready for some dark scenes.
Zara has always been told she is different and when her best friend vanished no one believed her, except for one person. And he has started sending her messages again. Now she has plans to be the hunter not the hunted. Fate steps in and brings Valor to Zara’s rescue. They quickly discover that they have some sort of connection. They don’t trust each other but they agree to work together.
Zara and Valor find themselves in the middle of a battle between The Nightmare King and Cucitrice, Can the good beat out the evil?
Don’t think what’s coming will help you. It’s not your kind. It’s with us.
I really liked both Valor and Zara. They are very strong characters.. And their chemistry was off the charts hot and the sex scenes were hot as heck. You will feel like your on a rollercoaster with all the twists and turns. And the ending, dang. I need more and now I have to wait for book 2 in the series. I can’t even begin to try and tell you what to expect with this book, you really need to 1-click and get started yourself.
Warning: this is a dark read that may contain triggers for some.
I voluntarily read and reviewed ARC copy of this book.
September 14, 2017
This time Cari Silverwood and Nicolette Hugo collaborated to bring us a dark, erotic urban fantasy book. Their writing is seamless and you won’t be able to tell who wrote what part. Nightmare Rising is the first book in The Nightmare Trilogy and what a start in this series.
I have read most of Cari Silverwood’s books and Nicolette Hugo is new to me (I just bought one of her books after reading Nightmare Rising).
Nightmare Rising starts off with a warning and don’t think they are teasing you with the warning it is a true DARK book to read.
The Prologue starts out in the year of 1862. Then switches to modern times and the Nightmare King returns and takes over. Now if you love dark books you really need to pick this one up and read it. Because it is very, very good! Oh and did I say this book is HOT!
There is not a nice warm and fuzzy ending to this book. In fact, it is kind of messy with no HEA. That is okay because it has made me where I can’t wait for book 2! Is it bad that I am already wishing for the 2nd book when the 1st is just releasing? Oh well I can live with not having book 2 out yet but I sure hope it will be releasing soon!
I did receive an Advanced Copy to review but, I also bought this book!
I have read most of Cari Silverwood’s books and Nicolette Hugo is new to me (I just bought one of her books after reading Nightmare Rising).
Nightmare Rising starts off with a warning and don’t think they are teasing you with the warning it is a true DARK book to read.
The Prologue starts out in the year of 1862. Then switches to modern times and the Nightmare King returns and takes over. Now if you love dark books you really need to pick this one up and read it. Because it is very, very good! Oh and did I say this book is HOT!
There is not a nice warm and fuzzy ending to this book. In fact, it is kind of messy with no HEA. That is okay because it has made me where I can’t wait for book 2! Is it bad that I am already wishing for the 2nd book when the 1st is just releasing? Oh well I can live with not having book 2 out yet but I sure hope it will be releasing soon!
I did receive an Advanced Copy to review but, I also bought this book!
September 25, 2017
Nightmare Rising is a riveting blend of darkness, gore, tantalizing sex and an absolutely fascinating plot.
I know all books are different but it's hard to come across a plot that is wholly original. Cari and Nicolette delivers that with their new trilogy.
The opening alone will snag your attention, and keep it until the very end.
Nightmare and dream creatures. Torture and sex. While being a dark romance, you can't help but see the underlying emotions between Val and Zara.
They are absolutely wonderful characters. I was in love with Val from the start! Zara was a very strange and intriguing woman as well. I love how they pretty much embrace who they are becoming. Not totally but they worked with it instead of trying to deny everything that was going on.
The ending had me sitting up and gripping my phone is a weird excited, suspenseful whats-going-to-happen-next way. I wasn't ready for it to end!
Cari and Nicolette are wonderful writing duo, and I cannot wait to see what they have in store for us with book two!
*I received an ebook copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I know all books are different but it's hard to come across a plot that is wholly original. Cari and Nicolette delivers that with their new trilogy.
The opening alone will snag your attention, and keep it until the very end.
Nightmare and dream creatures. Torture and sex. While being a dark romance, you can't help but see the underlying emotions between Val and Zara.
They are absolutely wonderful characters. I was in love with Val from the start! Zara was a very strange and intriguing woman as well. I love how they pretty much embrace who they are becoming. Not totally but they worked with it instead of trying to deny everything that was going on.
The ending had me sitting up and gripping my phone is a weird excited, suspenseful whats-going-to-happen-next way. I wasn't ready for it to end!
Cari and Nicolette are wonderful writing duo, and I cannot wait to see what they have in store for us with book two!
*I received an ebook copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 6, 2017
Loved Nightmare Rising! Cari Silverwood and Nicolette Hugo came together to write a deliciously dark story. What if dream and nightmare creations actually came in to being? Would anyone be safe? Who would stop them, or Dan they even be stopped? This story isn't for everyone, while I enjoy this type of literature, it's not for those who dislike blood, gore or have a problem with dubious consensual sexual acts. I have never been let down or been I satisfied with a Cari Silverwood story. Be aware that this is a first book in a new series, and if you are looking for a happy ending, you will most likely be unsatisfied, but if you like some suspense and characters you can sink your teeth into this is a must read.
July 21, 2023
This was so good from the first page to that ending I was hooked on Zara & Val as they try to find a way of getting Val out of his predicament with the Nightmare King, because nobody wants to be under his control, and he's doing everything he can to not give in. The details of this world building where nightmares, dreams and creature's are brought into the real world was phenomenal by these two arthur's, so between the two of them as they work together they become closer and feeling's develope it's easy to forget and not slide down that slope of forgetting what they're supposed to be doing about the king, but not only do they have that to deal with Zara and Val team up to find a serial killer she's been trying to find for a long time.
October 13, 2018
This book holds twists and turns in a mind bending intensity that makes you hope and dream even as your darkest fears and terrors crawl along beside you. Each page turned leaves you reeling from what's hidden in this incredible world that Silverwood and Hugo have created together. From the bright light that lurks in the corner of your mind to the big bad standing right in front of you, we see the duality of the world around Zara and Val, as well as within them.
There's erotic heat, passion, and fire, but I definitely wouldn't call this a sweet romance. It's dirty, hard, and uncomfortable; like any really good thriller romance. Don't expect roses and chocolates between Val and Zara, but do expect a delicious dose of darkness and maybe a touch of violence.
While there were a few plot devices that I felt were entirely too easy to figure out, it doesn't really take away from the story of Val and Zara and the new world that's being revealed to them. Nightmare Rising is definitely worth the read, and I can't wait for the next installment!
There's erotic heat, passion, and fire, but I definitely wouldn't call this a sweet romance. It's dirty, hard, and uncomfortable; like any really good thriller romance. Don't expect roses and chocolates between Val and Zara, but do expect a delicious dose of darkness and maybe a touch of violence.
While there were a few plot devices that I felt were entirely too easy to figure out, it doesn't really take away from the story of Val and Zara and the new world that's being revealed to them. Nightmare Rising is definitely worth the read, and I can't wait for the next installment!
October 15, 2017
Amazing
I love this book. Its extremely dark with strong kink and dubcon/noncon. This is the way dark romance should be written.
I love this book. Its extremely dark with strong kink and dubcon/noncon. This is the way dark romance should be written.
0-wishlist
August 5, 2018Decisions, decisions...
Read this now or wait until at least a release date for next book??
Read this now or wait until at least a release date for next book??
November 20, 2018
Ends on a cliff hanger with no 2nd installment in sight
Considering this is titled as a trilogy I assumed there would be subsequent books but I have found none and received no replies to the inquiries about future books. It ended on a cliff hanger so beware if you are like me and cannot stand it when authors abandon stories leaving readers frustrated.
Considering this is titled as a trilogy I assumed there would be subsequent books but I have found none and received no replies to the inquiries about future books. It ended on a cliff hanger so beware if you are like me and cannot stand it when authors abandon stories leaving readers frustrated.
August 21, 2023
This was a fascinating story with truly frightening moments. As usual, the background is described in loving detail, especially the beginning scenes that set the story in motion. Anger, fear, lust and bravery mix for our two heros, not unlike a normal person confronting danger. Zara and Val were in the wrong place at the wrong time and now they fight for the lives of the world, as well as their own.
The plot is simultaneously complicated and simple. How? Because the two authors take so many details that occurred in the lives of these heroes, and bring them together to show Fate at work. This is a truly unique story that uses fantasy constructs to normalize a fight for the human race in today's society. It makes you question everything you know, even knowing its all fiction. Nightmares seem so real to the person having them. Can they push a person to do something unthinkable? Can they turn someone evil? Its a grown up fairy tale that can truly scare the most skeptical adult in all of us. It could be called "Where the Wild Things Are: Adult Edition."
What struck me is that there is nothing that differentiates the writing of the two authors, and that's a good thing. It's seamless. The story reveals bits and pieces throughout, avoiding the clichés of information dump at the end to explain things. And then towards the end, you see a glimpse of how Zara may have gotten on her true path a very long time ago. Val is a terrific character,but strong Zara is who steals the show. You see all her fears, yet she dives into her journey headfirst. I had a hard time wrapping my head around the circumstances around the second explosion. It was the only time I struggled through this magical horror ride through dreams and nightmares.
The plot is simultaneously complicated and simple. How? Because the two authors take so many details that occurred in the lives of these heroes, and bring them together to show Fate at work. This is a truly unique story that uses fantasy constructs to normalize a fight for the human race in today's society. It makes you question everything you know, even knowing its all fiction. Nightmares seem so real to the person having them. Can they push a person to do something unthinkable? Can they turn someone evil? Its a grown up fairy tale that can truly scare the most skeptical adult in all of us. It could be called "Where the Wild Things Are: Adult Edition."
What struck me is that there is nothing that differentiates the writing of the two authors, and that's a good thing. It's seamless. The story reveals bits and pieces throughout, avoiding the clichés of information dump at the end to explain things. And then towards the end, you see a glimpse of how Zara may have gotten on her true path a very long time ago. Val is a terrific character,but strong Zara is who steals the show. You see all her fears, yet she dives into her journey headfirst. I had a hard time wrapping my head around the circumstances around the second explosion. It was the only time I struggled through this magical horror ride through dreams and nightmares.
July 27, 2023
Imagine a world where dreams, nightmares, and all the creatures that are associated with them are real and have invaded out world without our knowledge. This is the world that the twisted, imaginative minds of Cari Silverwood and Nicolette Hugo have created. An ancient battle of good versus evil is being waged led by the Nightmare King who wants to swallow our world and the Cucitrice who is trying to prevent it. Drawn into this world are two humans, Zara and Valor. They are thrown together by a series of events. Both have pasts that haunt them and both have been "touched" by the Nightmare world. Loved, loved theses two. Zara is a strong, capable young woman and Valor is a sexy, dominant, government agent.
This is a fantastical, gritty, violent, sexy story. It is not for the squeamish or anyone looking for rainbows, unicorns and lollipops. There are some brutal, disturbing scenes. But if you like your stories a little darker, a little dirtier with amazing strong characters, a truly evil villain, and some hot, steamy, slightly disturbing sex then this is for you. I know it's a cliche to say you couldn't put it down but I really couldn't. I finished this in one sitting. I loved this world, I loved the characters. I didn't want it to end. I am very concerned about what may happen next and so am anxiously waiting for the next instalment. I am hooked. Definitely recommend.
This is a fantastical, gritty, violent, sexy story. It is not for the squeamish or anyone looking for rainbows, unicorns and lollipops. There are some brutal, disturbing scenes. But if you like your stories a little darker, a little dirtier with amazing strong characters, a truly evil villain, and some hot, steamy, slightly disturbing sex then this is for you. I know it's a cliche to say you couldn't put it down but I really couldn't. I finished this in one sitting. I loved this world, I loved the characters. I didn't want it to end. I am very concerned about what may happen next and so am anxiously waiting for the next instalment. I am hooked. Definitely recommend.
May 2, 2022
I don't really know how I feel about this book. On one hand I'm really mad at the FMC in this book. She is almost TSTL most of the time. She is to stubborn for her own good. Always thinking that she is right despite evidence to the contrary. I guessed who her stalker was before it was revealed and what does this girl do? Yeah she leads them right into his trap. The clues were all there if she had just looked at them but she was to busy burying her head in the sand and convincing herself of what a super hero she was. She just keeps on doing things without stopping to think of the consequences or if she even knows what she is doing or talking about.
On top of all that this is a book that ends in a cliffhanger. Its a heck of a cliffhanger and no clue as to when or even if the next book in this trilogy will be released. So no idea if this FMC will ever smarten up or if there is any hope and redemption for the MMC in this story.
The one thing I did like about this story was Val.. the MMC in this story. Yeah he had something bad inside him but he fought it tooth and nail to the very bitter end. I need closure for his story. I need to know what happens to him. I hate the very idea of him being stuck like that.
On top of all that this is a book that ends in a cliffhanger. Its a heck of a cliffhanger and no clue as to when or even if the next book in this trilogy will be released. So no idea if this FMC will ever smarten up or if there is any hope and redemption for the MMC in this story.
The one thing I did like about this story was Val.. the MMC in this story. Yeah he had something bad inside him but he fought it tooth and nail to the very bitter end. I need closure for his story. I need to know what happens to him. I hate the very idea of him being stuck like that.
April 4, 2023
I usually write a summary of the books I read/review then my opinion of the book but this book is just to hard to summarize without giving any spoilers so I'm going to jump right into my opinion of the book. This book was crazy! But in a good way. I always love seeing what Cari can come up with in terms of story building. It's always a new world with new rules and it's so fascinating! At first it was confusing because I couldn't understand what was happening then I thought I understood some things then I was confused again. I loved Val and Zara they were such an odd but well matched couple. I loved that both of them were trying to figure out their new "powers" I guess you could say and trying to understand the new world they now live in. I still don't understand all the characters and what their roles are but i'm sure I'll get more answers in the next book. The ending was so surprising! Wow what a way to go out with a bang! Totally love everything Cari Silverwood writes and I can't wait to read more.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 56 reviews