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Refuge #3
Dark Strength
The Bigger They Are, The Harder They Fall.
Balvan, the Refuge’s Gatekeeper, is huge, green, and has a reputation for crushing skulls. He’s a modified humanoid, genetically designed to be the ultimate warrior. One of a kind and considered monstrous by many, he never expects to find his mate, the one female meant for him.
Elyce, snatched from her home half a solar cycle ago, has finally escaped her brutal captors. She arrives at the Refuge barely alive. Only a blood transfusion from the largest male she has ever seen will save her life. But it will also bind her to him forever. Staring up, up, up at him, she wonders why she wants to be free. His gentle touch revives yearnings she thought dead. His lips set her skin ablaze. His massive muscles make her feel safe.
That feeling could be an illusion. Elyce’s captors want their slave back and they won’t stop until they have her. To give his mate her freedom, Balvan might be forced to give up everything he has – his role as the Gatekeeper, Elyce’s love, and his life.
Dark Strength is a STANDALONE Alien SciFi Romance set in a gritty, dark world.
Balvan, the Refuge’s Gatekeeper, is huge, green, and has a reputation for crushing skulls. He’s a modified humanoid, genetically designed to be the ultimate warrior. One of a kind and considered monstrous by many, he never expects to find his mate, the one female meant for him.
Elyce, snatched from her home half a solar cycle ago, has finally escaped her brutal captors. She arrives at the Refuge barely alive. Only a blood transfusion from the largest male she has ever seen will save her life. But it will also bind her to him forever. Staring up, up, up at him, she wonders why she wants to be free. His gentle touch revives yearnings she thought dead. His lips set her skin ablaze. His massive muscles make her feel safe.
That feeling could be an illusion. Elyce’s captors want their slave back and they won’t stop until they have her. To give his mate her freedom, Balvan might be forced to give up everything he has – his role as the Gatekeeper, Elyce’s love, and his life.
Dark Strength is a STANDALONE Alien SciFi Romance set in a gritty, dark world.
176 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 2, 2018
145 people are currently reading
193 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 49 reviews
February 11, 2018
3.5 Stars
Good read but I wanted the story to be fleshed out more.
Good read but I wanted the story to be fleshed out more.
February 7, 2018
Balvin. green modified humanoid giant gatekeeper who guards the entrance to Refuge has no qualms crushing skulls, breaking bones, or using humanoids as throwing discus fills ins when warranted. All in service to his liege Kralj in protecting their desert sanctuary.
Elyce is a broken woman. Snatched off the street and subjected to repeated whippings, torture, and sexual abuse, she has little hope of surviving if she doesn't escape soon as the abuse has been getting increasingly violent in recent times. Her chance comes when she's able to escape though it's in the middle of a desert reputed to be under the jurisdiction of Kralj, an immensely dark immortal being not known for kindness of any sort.
One look at Elyce and Balvin knows she's his one and only fated mate. Unconscious and near death, he does what he needs to in order to save her life though it means bonding her to him without her permission. What will she do and what will she think when she gets her first look at him? Will she see the monster all others see or the gentle giant only his closest friends know him to be?
Elyce has a second chance at life with her new mate though her captor isn't far behind and wants her back regardless of the cost to the Refuge or it's inhabitants. She's his property and he makes it clear she, and others on the Humanoid Alliance most wanted, are to be surrendered or else.
Will Balvin sacrifice Elyce to save those who reside in the Refuge or more importantly how will Kralj respond to those who threaten his land and people?
* * * * *
This is one of the few times I'd ask you check out my review on Dark Flight (Refuge, #2) as it has bearing on this book/this review.
Key points requested/wanted to see:
✔ I wanted Balvin's story
✔ More Kralj & Dita
✔ Sparkles
✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ certain unidentified ass wipe character follow up
Hands down this story lived up to my hopes and expectations. I inhaled this book in one sitting, and by that I mean I stayed up into the wee hours of the morning not able to stop reading until the end.
The author has found a nitch in the fantasy SciFi paranormal genre that combines loveable antihero characters and at vulnerable risk females who compliment yet challenge their partners in different ways.
Balvin has been cameoed in previous installments. His role as gatekeeper have given him the persona of cold unfeeling guard who has no use for people in general. His loyalty lies wih Karlji & Orlo, which is absolute.
Elyce on the other hand was a normal girl with a future who was abducted and forced into sexual slavery to a sadistic master. That sort of thing takes a physical and emotional toll that is a whole 'nother can of worms.
How the author bridged these two characters was simplistic yet oh so meaningful in it's simplicity. I was a front row cheerleader rooting for these two and their future.
Enter story line twist.
As for the secondary cast of characters. I'm one who hates and detests when authors drop couples from previous installments never to return. Life goes on and that means characters should and do continue to interact as in real life. Happy that Oral & Rhea, Kralj & Dita, and others return. Also appreciate that the author is keeping it in the family with the next installment Dark Fire featuring Dare and his unknown mate. :)
The world building in this story is minimal as most of it has been created in earlier stories of the series. That would be the only reason I'd recommend starting from the beginning. This story itself COULD be read as a stand alone but seriously there are certain passage references that can't be appreciated as much as they could be if you haven't read the other stories.
My issues have to do with details and follow through. The author did a great job keeping the reader engaged. There were isolated incidences where I felt I wanted more but listing those examples would be spoiler info so .... The end result is that I'm nickpicking in this observation.
I also want to mention that the dark tag listed for this book is probably because of the dark theme world these anithero characters reside in. Fade to black for any obvious violent scenes though a reader can definitely picture the end result of the fade to black. Nonetheless, the story does count as a dark romance so any potential readers should be aware of that.
Some readers will like this story, some won't, while others like me will absolutely love it and be in withdrawals until the next story in the series. Let the countdown begin.
Elyce is a broken woman. Snatched off the street and subjected to repeated whippings, torture, and sexual abuse, she has little hope of surviving if she doesn't escape soon as the abuse has been getting increasingly violent in recent times. Her chance comes when she's able to escape though it's in the middle of a desert reputed to be under the jurisdiction of Kralj, an immensely dark immortal being not known for kindness of any sort.
One look at Elyce and Balvin knows she's his one and only fated mate. Unconscious and near death, he does what he needs to in order to save her life though it means bonding her to him without her permission. What will she do and what will she think when she gets her first look at him? Will she see the monster all others see or the gentle giant only his closest friends know him to be?
Elyce has a second chance at life with her new mate though her captor isn't far behind and wants her back regardless of the cost to the Refuge or it's inhabitants. She's his property and he makes it clear she, and others on the Humanoid Alliance most wanted, are to be surrendered or else.
Will Balvin sacrifice Elyce to save those who reside in the Refuge or more importantly how will Kralj respond to those who threaten his land and people?
* * * * *
This is one of the few times I'd ask you check out my review on Dark Flight (Refuge, #2) as it has bearing on this book/this review.
Key points requested/wanted to see:
✔ I wanted Balvin's story
✔ More Kralj & Dita
✔ Sparkles
✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ certain unidentified ass wipe character follow up
Hands down this story lived up to my hopes and expectations. I inhaled this book in one sitting, and by that I mean I stayed up into the wee hours of the morning not able to stop reading until the end.
The author has found a nitch in the fantasy SciFi paranormal genre that combines loveable antihero characters and at vulnerable risk females who compliment yet challenge their partners in different ways.
Balvin has been cameoed in previous installments. His role as gatekeeper have given him the persona of cold unfeeling guard who has no use for people in general. His loyalty lies wih Karlji & Orlo, which is absolute.
Elyce on the other hand was a normal girl with a future who was abducted and forced into sexual slavery to a sadistic master. That sort of thing takes a physical and emotional toll that is a whole 'nother can of worms.
How the author bridged these two characters was simplistic yet oh so meaningful in it's simplicity. I was a front row cheerleader rooting for these two and their future.
Enter story line twist.
As for the secondary cast of characters. I'm one who hates and detests when authors drop couples from previous installments never to return. Life goes on and that means characters should and do continue to interact as in real life. Happy that Oral & Rhea, Kralj & Dita, and others return. Also appreciate that the author is keeping it in the family with the next installment Dark Fire featuring Dare and his unknown mate. :)
The world building in this story is minimal as most of it has been created in earlier stories of the series. That would be the only reason I'd recommend starting from the beginning. This story itself COULD be read as a stand alone but seriously there are certain passage references that can't be appreciated as much as they could be if you haven't read the other stories.
My issues have to do with details and follow through. The author did a great job keeping the reader engaged. There were isolated incidences where I felt I wanted more but listing those examples would be spoiler info so .... The end result is that I'm nickpicking in this observation.
I also want to mention that the dark tag listed for this book is probably because of the dark theme world these anithero characters reside in. Fade to black for any obvious violent scenes though a reader can definitely picture the end result of the fade to black. Nonetheless, the story does count as a dark romance so any potential readers should be aware of that.
Some readers will like this story, some won't, while others like me will absolutely love it and be in withdrawals until the next story in the series. Let the countdown begin.
February 12, 2018
Red is My New Favorite Color
They call him a monster, a big green monster. But to Elyse, he is her safety. Horribly abused and tortured, she will find safety in the arms of a green monster. This book was very emotional. Two abused people, two people made for one another. But others are at risk too. The sands are about to run red. My new favorite color.
They call him a monster, a big green monster. But to Elyse, he is her safety. Horribly abused and tortured, she will find safety in the arms of a green monster. This book was very emotional. Two abused people, two people made for one another. But others are at risk too. The sands are about to run red. My new favorite color.
December 12, 2019
Good alien romance
I actually read this book first in the series...not sure why but I was able to follow the story just fine. I plan on going back to read the others so I can read all of their stories. Elyse is a woman who has been abused for so long and has lost her purpose in life. Meeting her mate and being saved by him gave her purpose and validation that she is worthy to be loved. Her behavior is expected given her abuse and as a reader, I can tell that she is desperate to feel loved, protected, and have meaning in her life. Her mate is the perfect match for her and gives her exactly what she needs to heal from her ordeal. Sweet romance that I highly recommend.
The author could have fleshed out the story a little more and it would have made it longer and more detailed. It wasn’t bad because of that, I just saw a lot of missed opportunities.
I actually read this book first in the series...not sure why but I was able to follow the story just fine. I plan on going back to read the others so I can read all of their stories. Elyse is a woman who has been abused for so long and has lost her purpose in life. Meeting her mate and being saved by him gave her purpose and validation that she is worthy to be loved. Her behavior is expected given her abuse and as a reader, I can tell that she is desperate to feel loved, protected, and have meaning in her life. Her mate is the perfect match for her and gives her exactly what she needs to heal from her ordeal. Sweet romance that I highly recommend.
The author could have fleshed out the story a little more and it would have made it longer and more detailed. It wasn’t bad because of that, I just saw a lot of missed opportunities.
February 19, 2018
I'm a sucker for a story about a big, scary guy who is actually a gentle marshmallow wrapped in a brutish looking package. And when that includes a heroine that has been through hell and has still managed to survive? Sold.
Balvan and Elyce are a great couple. Balvan gives Elyce the security she desperately needs and helps her find her own strength. Elyce sees Balvan for the honorable man he is. There are still ridiculous phrases in the series (ass coverings? Yeesh.), by now I know it's not going to change. Honestly, it doesn't bug me as much anymore.
Balvan and Elyce are a great couple. Balvan gives Elyce the security she desperately needs and helps her find her own strength. Elyce sees Balvan for the honorable man he is. There are still ridiculous phrases in the series (ass coverings? Yeesh.), by now I know it's not going to change. Honestly, it doesn't bug me as much anymore.
February 10, 2018
Balvan story is here a little early, (yay) so of course, I had to get it
I love Balvan, he is big, sweet, protective and love crushing skulls 😊 another hit by Ms. Sax.
I love Balvan, he is big, sweet, protective and love crushing skulls 😊 another hit by Ms. Sax.
March 3, 2018
It was... okay.
May 26, 2019
Balvan and Elyce
Like many of Cynthia Sax's novels there is much danger and violence. Our beautiful heroine has been brutalized beyond what anyone should have to suffer. Elyce is beautiful strong and fierce she escapes her tormentors and find healing in then arms of the biggest, strongest male on the planet. Balvan is a genetically modified human made to kill, but only hunts those who truly deserve to die. This made to kill giant is also the most caring and gentle being to those he cares for. One look at the strong but broken Elyce and all he wanted was to love and protect her. And when Elyce was him, his strength and how he used it to protect those he loved she slowly began to heal. And a great bond of trust and love was formed. And together with the help of other at the refuge kill the enemy and free Elyce and others from constantly living in fear. Great story. 💖
Like many of Cynthia Sax's novels there is much danger and violence. Our beautiful heroine has been brutalized beyond what anyone should have to suffer. Elyce is beautiful strong and fierce she escapes her tormentors and find healing in then arms of the biggest, strongest male on the planet. Balvan is a genetically modified human made to kill, but only hunts those who truly deserve to die. This made to kill giant is also the most caring and gentle being to those he cares for. One look at the strong but broken Elyce and all he wanted was to love and protect her. And when Elyce was him, his strength and how he used it to protect those he loved she slowly began to heal. And a great bond of trust and love was formed. And together with the help of other at the refuge kill the enemy and free Elyce and others from constantly living in fear. Great story. 💖
February 7, 2018
For more than six months, after she was kidnapped, Elyce was abused, tortured, debased by Marovit and his men, all from the Humanoid Alliance. Elyce escaped, and there was only one place where she would be safe on Carinae E: the Refuge. When she finally gets there, she is at death’s door and only Balvan’s blood can save her. Balvan is stunned when he senses that the little female is his true mate. The big, bad, green Balvan had despaired of finding his mate, but she has not seen him yet. Balvan knows she will cower in fear and run away, like everyone else. But she does not, because Balvan may not be pretty, but he is good and kind, and Elyce cannot remember a male who was.
Cynthia Sax’s Refuge series is unlike anything I have ever read, and it’s bloody fascinating – pun intended. DARK STRENGTH is human trafficking, viewed from a scifi point of view, and in spite of the trigger warnings, it is a book of hope; of finding one’s strength; of reclaiming one’s life and finding love and happiness. I loved that Balvan is not the pretty boy: the revolting Marovit is. I always appreciate it when an author is realistic about such things; appearances can be extremely deceiving; DARK STRENGTH is a bit of a take on the Beauty and the Beast, but much closer to the real thing. Poor, poor Elyce, how she has suffered, yet I did not pity her; I was willing her to succeed, to triumph. There is instalust, but it is logically explained; besides, Balvan is the most wonderful hero you can think of! In fact, every woman should be so lucky as to find her own Balvan, unless one is so shallow as to prefer a handsome and evil creep. But I digress.
I do not read graphic novels, the imagery in DARK STRENGTH is so vivid, I wonder why no one has thought of making this series in graphic novel form. I just love Cynthia Sax’s creative use of language and her innovations, such as the puffkers. DARK STRENGTH stands perfectly on its own, and even though characters from the two previous books are also featured, newcomers will not be lost. I was pleased the formidable Kralj again along with Ditta; Hulagu, the Warrior-in-training, who provides a bit of comic relief; and the fierce medic towards the end, who made such an impression on me, I would actually like to see more of her her character in upcoming instalments.
The world of Carinae E, of the Refuge series, is violent, dark, and it is amazing and utterly enthralling, but what is even more stunning is that the romance is incredibly tender; it is so very romantic! And what about this for sublime writing: “They would subdue the echoes of those experiences together”. Wow.
I give 4 ½ stars
Cynthia Sax’s Refuge series is unlike anything I have ever read, and it’s bloody fascinating – pun intended. DARK STRENGTH is human trafficking, viewed from a scifi point of view, and in spite of the trigger warnings, it is a book of hope; of finding one’s strength; of reclaiming one’s life and finding love and happiness. I loved that Balvan is not the pretty boy: the revolting Marovit is. I always appreciate it when an author is realistic about such things; appearances can be extremely deceiving; DARK STRENGTH is a bit of a take on the Beauty and the Beast, but much closer to the real thing. Poor, poor Elyce, how she has suffered, yet I did not pity her; I was willing her to succeed, to triumph. There is instalust, but it is logically explained; besides, Balvan is the most wonderful hero you can think of! In fact, every woman should be so lucky as to find her own Balvan, unless one is so shallow as to prefer a handsome and evil creep. But I digress.
I do not read graphic novels, the imagery in DARK STRENGTH is so vivid, I wonder why no one has thought of making this series in graphic novel form. I just love Cynthia Sax’s creative use of language and her innovations, such as the puffkers. DARK STRENGTH stands perfectly on its own, and even though characters from the two previous books are also featured, newcomers will not be lost. I was pleased the formidable Kralj again along with Ditta; Hulagu, the Warrior-in-training, who provides a bit of comic relief; and the fierce medic towards the end, who made such an impression on me, I would actually like to see more of her her character in upcoming instalments.
The world of Carinae E, of the Refuge series, is violent, dark, and it is amazing and utterly enthralling, but what is even more stunning is that the romance is incredibly tender; it is so very romantic! And what about this for sublime writing: “They would subdue the echoes of those experiences together”. Wow.
I give 4 ½ stars
February 19, 2018
Balvan the gentle giant.
Green is officially my favorite colour. Balvan is so far the sweetest leading male I’ve read this year hands down. I’d sign myself up for a jolly green giant any day, even if I looked like a midget beside him who cares cause being carried around everywhere by your man sounds great to me lol. Their was nothing about him not to like, he ticked all of my fantasy male qualities; sweet, caring, muscular, massive weaponry lol and especially the three p’s, protective, passionate and possessive. He was the perfect blend of alpha male and cuddly teddy bear, I absolutely adored him, could have eaten him up with a spoon. Balvan was perfection from the top of his bald head to the souls of his feet, from the way that truly matters his heart and soul. His soul mate Elyce was truly a very fortunate woman to have found a male like Balvan who was so understanding, compassionate and supportive to her. He was literally her rock, her strength after the trauma that she suffered for so long and oh boy did she suffer you wouldn’t wish any of that upon your worst enemy, the things that were done to her actually had me cringing. Elyce was the perfect counterpart to Balvan, they were made for each other, to halves finally made whole. I loved the fact that she felt drawn to him from the moment she heard his voice, that she knew deep down that he wouldn’t hurt her and that she wanted him from the moment she laid her eyes on him. She was a wonderful leading lady, so strong and courageous for enduring what had been done to her, and so loving and sweet the way she was with Balvan made me like her even more. The passion between them was undeniable, when they came together hot damn was it intense, he was BIG everywhere!!! She gave herself to him completely mind, body and soul, she adored him and he returned her love ten fold. I just fell in love with this story, a truly wonderful read that will leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside especially how the story ends with them getting everything they’d ever wanted and a delightfully sneak peek into Orol and Rhea’s triplets. With drama, suspense, action and passion by the bucket full this is a fantastic read I highly recommend.
Green is officially my favorite colour. Balvan is so far the sweetest leading male I’ve read this year hands down. I’d sign myself up for a jolly green giant any day, even if I looked like a midget beside him who cares cause being carried around everywhere by your man sounds great to me lol. Their was nothing about him not to like, he ticked all of my fantasy male qualities; sweet, caring, muscular, massive weaponry lol and especially the three p’s, protective, passionate and possessive. He was the perfect blend of alpha male and cuddly teddy bear, I absolutely adored him, could have eaten him up with a spoon. Balvan was perfection from the top of his bald head to the souls of his feet, from the way that truly matters his heart and soul. His soul mate Elyce was truly a very fortunate woman to have found a male like Balvan who was so understanding, compassionate and supportive to her. He was literally her rock, her strength after the trauma that she suffered for so long and oh boy did she suffer you wouldn’t wish any of that upon your worst enemy, the things that were done to her actually had me cringing. Elyce was the perfect counterpart to Balvan, they were made for each other, to halves finally made whole. I loved the fact that she felt drawn to him from the moment she heard his voice, that she knew deep down that he wouldn’t hurt her and that she wanted him from the moment she laid her eyes on him. She was a wonderful leading lady, so strong and courageous for enduring what had been done to her, and so loving and sweet the way she was with Balvan made me like her even more. The passion between them was undeniable, when they came together hot damn was it intense, he was BIG everywhere!!! She gave herself to him completely mind, body and soul, she adored him and he returned her love ten fold. I just fell in love with this story, a truly wonderful read that will leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside especially how the story ends with them getting everything they’d ever wanted and a delightfully sneak peek into Orol and Rhea’s triplets. With drama, suspense, action and passion by the bucket full this is a fantastic read I highly recommend.
February 7, 2018
If Cynthia Sax writes it, I'm going to read it. The equation is just that simple. Dark Strength just proves why that is true. Dark does fit this book. There are some very dark things that happen. And the heroine does need a lot of strength to handle them, so the book could not be titled any more appropriately than it is. It's an amazing book that takes us on an emotionally fraught journey.
Elyce has spent the last half solar cycle on a guided tour of every hell that has ever existed. A psychopath has kidnapped her because she looks like another woman and has done things that would make a grown man cry. Elyce may have cried too, but her spark never left her. That spark has kept her alive and gives her the energy to escape.
Balvan is the gatekeeper of the Refuge, that wretched hive of scum and villainy that is ruled by Kralj. Balvan, like Kralj, is a modified human. He's taller, stronger, and faster than humans. He's also green. He may look like a brute and vicious, but the truth is that Balvan is a very intelligent, very caring person. He takes care of small animals and helps them heal. That doesn't mean that he doesn't like to smash in skulls, though. When Kralj has Orol carry a small female who is nigh unto death to Balvan, he knows that she is his mate.
Elyce is an incredible character. What she has gone through would break a lot of people. The fact that she is able to get beyond all of that and connect with anyone is just amazing. Balvan is a rock. He's strong and stands between Elyce and everyone else. He's so incredibly careful and tender with her, doing things like carrying her everywhere so that no one can touch her, repeating over and over that he's Balvan and won't hurt her, and making sure that Elyce is able to have control over things. Having been a tortured prisoner himself, he knows what she needs in order to feel better. I love these two and I love their relationship. It's nice to see previous couples and see what they are up to and what's going on in their lives. I can't wait for the next one so that we can see how Elyce and Balvan are doing.
Elyce has spent the last half solar cycle on a guided tour of every hell that has ever existed. A psychopath has kidnapped her because she looks like another woman and has done things that would make a grown man cry. Elyce may have cried too, but her spark never left her. That spark has kept her alive and gives her the energy to escape.
Balvan is the gatekeeper of the Refuge, that wretched hive of scum and villainy that is ruled by Kralj. Balvan, like Kralj, is a modified human. He's taller, stronger, and faster than humans. He's also green. He may look like a brute and vicious, but the truth is that Balvan is a very intelligent, very caring person. He takes care of small animals and helps them heal. That doesn't mean that he doesn't like to smash in skulls, though. When Kralj has Orol carry a small female who is nigh unto death to Balvan, he knows that she is his mate.
Elyce is an incredible character. What she has gone through would break a lot of people. The fact that she is able to get beyond all of that and connect with anyone is just amazing. Balvan is a rock. He's strong and stands between Elyce and everyone else. He's so incredibly careful and tender with her, doing things like carrying her everywhere so that no one can touch her, repeating over and over that he's Balvan and won't hurt her, and making sure that Elyce is able to have control over things. Having been a tortured prisoner himself, he knows what she needs in order to feel better. I love these two and I love their relationship. It's nice to see previous couples and see what they are up to and what's going on in their lives. I can't wait for the next one so that we can see how Elyce and Balvan are doing.
February 7, 2018
Emotion-filled story held my rapt attention!
Enslaved by a sadistic male, Elyce’s story is dark. Balvan, a huge green male, changes that when she is rescued from the desert, near death. Elyce is sure Balvan is an illusion she created, but still, he is male and not to be trusted. As she interacts with him it is clear to see trust will be hard-won. Bit by bit, Balvan chips away at her barriers proving he is trustworthy, but the road to Trust, for Elyce, is long and hard.
I am in awe of Elyce! She show amazing inner strength to have endured for so long and still managed to escape across the desert. Her transformation as she begins to trust just one male is wonderful.
As for Balvan, for someone so large and dangerous, he can be incredibly gentle. His every moment is spent ensuring Elyce’s safety. He is “...the gatekeeper, the warrior, the guardian of her soul, the caretaker of her heart.”
I love seeing familiar faces from past stories in The Refuge. Ms. Sax’s surreptitious sense of humor slides in, in the most unexpected ways. I love it!
Enslaved by a sadistic male, Elyce’s story is dark. Balvan, a huge green male, changes that when she is rescued from the desert, near death. Elyce is sure Balvan is an illusion she created, but still, he is male and not to be trusted. As she interacts with him it is clear to see trust will be hard-won. Bit by bit, Balvan chips away at her barriers proving he is trustworthy, but the road to Trust, for Elyce, is long and hard.
I am in awe of Elyce! She show amazing inner strength to have endured for so long and still managed to escape across the desert. Her transformation as she begins to trust just one male is wonderful.
As for Balvan, for someone so large and dangerous, he can be incredibly gentle. His every moment is spent ensuring Elyce’s safety. He is “...the gatekeeper, the warrior, the guardian of her soul, the caretaker of her heart.”
I love seeing familiar faces from past stories in The Refuge. Ms. Sax’s surreptitious sense of humor slides in, in the most unexpected ways. I love it!
February 7, 2018
YEAH!!! I love it. Boy, the Refuge is tough but strong. Our Ruler has Dita; Orol has Rhea; and now Balvan finally has found his mate. Elyce suffered a great deal at the hands of Marowit. His obsession with Paloma (you meet her in "Dark Flight") is insane. He tortures Elyce in the worst ways. And she is a fighter. She makes her way to the Refuge and our big green guy is brought to his knees. But he also has to break through her defenses and gain her trust. These two are made for each just as our other couples. The strength that Balvan has balances out Elyce. You wouldn't think so with all the hurt and abuse she suffered but it does. They both suffered. Him from the HA and her from Marowit. Plus they have puffkers. So cute.
I love that all the women are strong and complement their lovers/mates. Yes, they all have suffered in one way of another but they pick themselves back up and fight. With Rhea due to have her triplets soon, I look forward to what is to come next. I am looking forward to "Dark Fire."
I love that all the women are strong and complement their lovers/mates. Yes, they all have suffered in one way of another but they pick themselves back up and fight. With Rhea due to have her triplets soon, I look forward to what is to come next. I am looking forward to "Dark Fire."
March 14, 2018
Let's be honest here for just one minute. If an author can make a huge green killing modified humanoid with a heart of gold look hot and sexy she has to be an excellent writer. That's exactly what Cynthia Sax does with the big green skull stomping bald headed Balvan. So of course he has to have a mate that is strong and a survivor. That brings us to Elyce. She was held captive and tortured. She found a way to escape that led her straight to the Refuge thus into the arms of her huge green mate, Belvan.
Trust me when I say you will not regret picking up one of Cynrhia's book. Unless hot sexy aliens is not your thing.
This is a stand alone but to fully enjoy this book I would suggest going back and reading Dark Thoughts Book 1 then Dark Flight Book 2 of The Refuge books.
Trust me when I say you will not regret picking up one of Cynrhia's book. Unless hot sexy aliens is not your thing.
This is a stand alone but to fully enjoy this book I would suggest going back and reading Dark Thoughts Book 1 then Dark Flight Book 2 of The Refuge books.
February 9, 2018
Of all the heroes in the Refuge (so far), Belvan is my favorite. His treatment of the puffker Sparkles in the 2nd book in the series gave us a hint of how he would be in his book.
Elyce suffered horribly and escaped to the Refuge. Her acceptance of Belvan and his of her is what true romance is. It was beautiful to read about the two of them supporting one another. The relationship really did show both their issues and their strengths.
Bad things happen in this series, so be aware of that. The Human Alliance is truly the worst of humanity writ large.
Elyce suffered horribly and escaped to the Refuge. Her acceptance of Belvan and his of her is what true romance is. It was beautiful to read about the two of them supporting one another. The relationship really did show both their issues and their strengths.
Bad things happen in this series, so be aware of that. The Human Alliance is truly the worst of humanity writ large.
February 12, 2018
Big green and awesome!
The third installment of the refuge series is Balvan's story and it rocks! The characters are strong and courageous, the love is deep and intense and the action is fastpaced and a little messy, for the bad guys anyway. I couldn't put it down! Great series, awesome heroes, look no further, this book has it all. Waiting impatiently for the next one. Seriously, love this book!!!
The third installment of the refuge series is Balvan's story and it rocks! The characters are strong and courageous, the love is deep and intense and the action is fastpaced and a little messy, for the bad guys anyway. I couldn't put it down! Great series, awesome heroes, look no further, this book has it all. Waiting impatiently for the next one. Seriously, love this book!!!
April 12, 2018
Love 💘 and Family
All Balvan wanted was a mate, family ,and some one to love. He got all three in this novel. This is the third book in the series but is a standalone novel. The character development is wonderful and the plot is intriguing and believable. Elyce has suffered so much at the hands of her abusers. When Elyce is with Balvan, she is loved and safe. This is a 👍 great addition to the series with a HEA.
All Balvan wanted was a mate, family ,and some one to love. He got all three in this novel. This is the third book in the series but is a standalone novel. The character development is wonderful and the plot is intriguing and believable. Elyce has suffered so much at the hands of her abusers. When Elyce is with Balvan, she is loved and safe. This is a 👍 great addition to the series with a HEA.
February 17, 2018
Absolutely one of the darkest but sweetest story. I'm in love with the big green giant and his skull crushing boots! I would've never thought yes even after reading Krahls story that these big strong "monsters" have the ultimate love of freedom and their mates. I have no doubt that anyone who tests that love will feel their wrath.
February 14, 2018
I find it a little hard to believe the first thing that Elyce wanted to do upon waking up , after being sexually abused for half a year.
February 11, 2018
Oh yeah...loving this series! Read in order.
So Balvan has been this awesome character for the last two books, who HAD to find love, and he did! Of course, it comes with more challenges than either Kralj or Orol could imagine. Elyce is seriously damaged, both physically and emotionally, from the arch enemy of the Refuge, but Balvan is the one and only being who can heal both parts of her. I love the idea that he 'knows' through sense, touch, taste, etc., that she is his. I also am a sucker for the Biggest, baddest being in the Refuge having the softest and biggest heart. Caveman with a brain type. But Cynthia also writes really smart and strong female leads, so all her heroines are not only capable of overcoming their horrible experiences, but find a way to take everyone along on their road to healing. And whatever they are...I need a Puffker.
So Balvan has been this awesome character for the last two books, who HAD to find love, and he did! Of course, it comes with more challenges than either Kralj or Orol could imagine. Elyce is seriously damaged, both physically and emotionally, from the arch enemy of the Refuge, but Balvan is the one and only being who can heal both parts of her. I love the idea that he 'knows' through sense, touch, taste, etc., that she is his. I also am a sucker for the Biggest, baddest being in the Refuge having the softest and biggest heart. Caveman with a brain type. But Cynthia also writes really smart and strong female leads, so all her heroines are not only capable of overcoming their horrible experiences, but find a way to take everyone along on their road to healing. And whatever they are...I need a Puffker.
January 1, 2019
I want Balvan!!
Balvan is amazing!! So strong, gentle, sweet, and sexy! I love the strong silent type. Balvan deserved love! And he got it!
Elyce was sadly taken and abused horribly. It was rough reading about the abuse but I’ve come to expect everything from Ms. Sax. It did add depth to the story but it can be hard to read.
Loved them together!
However, my only concern. After Elyce suffered she shouldn’t have been so quick to have sex. I don’t care how fiction this is. I don’t believe it!
Balvan is amazing!! So strong, gentle, sweet, and sexy! I love the strong silent type. Balvan deserved love! And he got it!
Elyce was sadly taken and abused horribly. It was rough reading about the abuse but I’ve come to expect everything from Ms. Sax. It did add depth to the story but it can be hard to read.
Loved them together!
However, my only concern. After Elyce suffered she shouldn’t have been so quick to have sex. I don’t care how fiction this is. I don’t believe it!
February 7, 2018
Stronger together
I love this series so hard. Yes this author has a great series about cyborgs but this series is dear to my heart. Elyce has been abused beyond what would be bearable but Balvan has patience and care to make Elyce feel in control of her decisions. His understanding and patience brings Elyce back to life. Neither character has had an easy life so I for one was so happy they found each other.
I love this series so hard. Yes this author has a great series about cyborgs but this series is dear to my heart. Elyce has been abused beyond what would be bearable but Balvan has patience and care to make Elyce feel in control of her decisions. His understanding and patience brings Elyce back to life. Neither character has had an easy life so I for one was so happy they found each other.
February 10, 2018
I love the strength of these characters, both physically and emotionally. Balvan is obviously the not so tame gentle giant and Elyce is broken in so many ways that it makes sense that she would only be able to love a non standard man...and you can't get more no standard than big and green, right? This is a beautiful story of love and justice and as always I look forward to more from Cynthia Sax as she makes dark look really romantic.
February 24, 2020
Three and a half stars
An emotionally and sexually abused woman escapes her captors and abusers. She crosses a harsh desert to seek refuge and finds safety in the arms of a gigantic, green-skinned male. Balvan is feared for his size and strength and regarded by many as a monster. Elyce however, has known real monsters and discovers a gentle giant who rescues and tends to abused animals.
An emotionally and sexually abused woman escapes her captors and abusers. She crosses a harsh desert to seek refuge and finds safety in the arms of a gigantic, green-skinned male. Balvan is feared for his size and strength and regarded by many as a monster. Elyce however, has known real monsters and discovers a gentle giant who rescues and tends to abused animals.
November 6, 2019
Dark Strength (Refuge book 3)by Cynthia Sax
Absolutely heartwarming and thourghly enjoyable reading this fantastic series brings to the reader!💖 This set of characters are going to absolutely make you want them to get their HEA! She does a wonderful storyline creating plenty of everything that you would want to read!I'm recommending this whole series Refuge is Fantastic!!!😍
Absolutely heartwarming and thourghly enjoyable reading this fantastic series brings to the reader!💖 This set of characters are going to absolutely make you want them to get their HEA! She does a wonderful storyline creating plenty of everything that you would want to read!I'm recommending this whole series Refuge is Fantastic!!!😍
August 8, 2022
Dark Strength
Elyce was determined to get away from her tormentors by crawling all the way to the Fruge, however that was not needed as she was rescued. Balvan was waiting to meet his female when Elyce was placed into his keeping. Now the tormentors wanted her back. Can Balvan keep her safe? Highly recommend this book and series.
Elyce was determined to get away from her tormentors by crawling all the way to the Fruge, however that was not needed as she was rescued. Balvan was waiting to meet his female when Elyce was placed into his keeping. Now the tormentors wanted her back. Can Balvan keep her safe? Highly recommend this book and series.
March 1, 2025
Dark Strength by Cynthia Sax
Another great example of adventure by Cynthia Sax! This book brings up past characters from previous books and introduced me some new ones. The story was a delightful story about overcoming past trauma to become a stronger person or monster. Please buy the series of books if you want to captive in to a new world and a new journey of love!
Another great example of adventure by Cynthia Sax! This book brings up past characters from previous books and introduced me some new ones. The story was a delightful story about overcoming past trauma to become a stronger person or monster. Please buy the series of books if you want to captive in to a new world and a new journey of love!
February 7, 2018
Absolutely Loved This!
I absolutely loved this story! The gentle green giant and his strong, courageous but traumatized mate, their 2 daughters and fluffy puffkins stole my heart. This series just keeps getting better! Highly recommended!
I absolutely loved this story! The gentle green giant and his strong, courageous but traumatized mate, their 2 daughters and fluffy puffkins stole my heart. This series just keeps getting better! Highly recommended!
February 10, 2018
Jolly Green Giant?
Jolly Green Giant? Hardly!! More like the ginormous thundering skull crusher. Watching Balvan go from hulking to gentle with Elyce was heartwarming. The story was entrancing, entertaining and emotional.
Jolly Green Giant? Hardly!! More like the ginormous thundering skull crusher. Watching Balvan go from hulking to gentle with Elyce was heartwarming. The story was entrancing, entertaining and emotional.
May 1, 2018
Love this series. Balvan is seen as a monster by most, but becomes a safe haven for those who have been brutalized. Elyce, brutalized by the humanoid alliance, finds safety in Green, and both find love in unexpected places. Loved Balvan's story.
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