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Allure
Inara has never felt the ethereal pleasure of a man’s allure, a manifestation of will that rewards submission. Casting aside the collar of her youth, she attends her long-awaited blossoming ceremony longing to partake in her overdue rite of womanhood. But when she experiences allure for the first time, the celebration spirals into a waking nightmare.
Sensing a need to end his string of flings and take a wife, Sir Cassian sets his sights on the kind and beautiful Inara. A knight reputed for his skills in combat as much as his charm, he will do whatever he must to ensure Inara picks him as her suitor. When she flees her blossoming, inexplicably terrified, he seizes the opportunity to help her – and claim her.
Unable to avoid the sinister effect allure has on her, Inara agrees to pose as Cassian’s new beau. At first hesitant to reveal the whole truth, she submits to his discipline, unleashing the bliss she’s always craved. However, divulging her dark discovery thrusts them into a conflict that will test their commitment to each other and their entire world.
When Inara learns there may be a way for her not to suffer from allure, Cassian vows to find the answer. Yet their search draws the attention of those intent on stifling the truth, no matter who they have to kill. Pursued by zealous assassins, Inara must choose: hide who she is to protect her love, or fight to expose the secret of allure...
For a dark romantic adventure you can’t put down, buy Allure today!
Publisher’s note: “Allure” is a dark, romantic thriller with erotic content, no cliffhangers, no cheating and a HEA. It contains material some may find disturbing. Reader discretion is advised.
Sensing a need to end his string of flings and take a wife, Sir Cassian sets his sights on the kind and beautiful Inara. A knight reputed for his skills in combat as much as his charm, he will do whatever he must to ensure Inara picks him as her suitor. When she flees her blossoming, inexplicably terrified, he seizes the opportunity to help her – and claim her.
Unable to avoid the sinister effect allure has on her, Inara agrees to pose as Cassian’s new beau. At first hesitant to reveal the whole truth, she submits to his discipline, unleashing the bliss she’s always craved. However, divulging her dark discovery thrusts them into a conflict that will test their commitment to each other and their entire world.
When Inara learns there may be a way for her not to suffer from allure, Cassian vows to find the answer. Yet their search draws the attention of those intent on stifling the truth, no matter who they have to kill. Pursued by zealous assassins, Inara must choose: hide who she is to protect her love, or fight to expose the secret of allure...
For a dark romantic adventure you can’t put down, buy Allure today!
Publisher’s note: “Allure” is a dark, romantic thriller with erotic content, no cliffhangers, no cheating and a HEA. It contains material some may find disturbing. Reader discretion is advised.
307 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2020
58 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
December 30, 2019
This was a really unexpected surprise. I didn't know what to expect.
I loved the characters, Inara and Cassian have a wonderful relationship, and are both such strong personalities.
It was hot and steamy, and wonderfully original.
I was gripped and found it incredibly thought provoking, I've spent alot of time after finishing reading it just pondering over it.
Another great book from Sansa Rayne.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I loved the characters, Inara and Cassian have a wonderful relationship, and are both such strong personalities.
It was hot and steamy, and wonderfully original.
I was gripped and found it incredibly thought provoking, I've spent alot of time after finishing reading it just pondering over it.
Another great book from Sansa Rayne.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 28, 2019
Thank you for the ARC and I am voluntarily leaving a review! Love this author and have read several of her books. This is the first for this kind of book for me. It was well written as all of her books are, lots of sexy time, and action because of allure! If you like book of kinda midevil then you will love this one!!!
February 11, 2020
Read 10 chapters, DNF. This is an interesting read if you are into BDSM. There is a lot of sadomasochism, bondage, sex slavery, orgasm denial, forced anal, whipping, humiliation, collar/choker, crawling, pet play fetishes. Guys send out an allure and the girls respond by submitting if the male allure is enticing enough. Girls are completely owned by their man, the girls are fettered from the moment they become "women".
December 24, 2019
No matter when Sasha’s story unfolds,no matter where Stella’s story takes place,one thing is for sure...it is a story you enjoy,a lot!
The heroes all have a kink,if he’s not a sadist,then he’s one that enjoys ropes,and they all love a good whip.
The heroines are all strong,know what they want,and go for the man that can give them exactly that.
This story is different than the others in the aspect that it’s a stand alone,taking place in a different era,with men that use something that’s called Allure to make their women do what they want.
Inara is different,she actually hears their thoughts,their attempts to “allure” her.
It upsets her,but it doesn’t make her want to obey them...
At her blossoming ceremony it upsets her só much, she flees.
Sir Cassian,a knight that enjoys his share of women for a night,is present at the ceremony,and follows her.
He is the man that stood out in the crowd for her,because he was the quiet one.
So,when he proposes she continues and choose him,she agrees.
If only the voices in her head,the attempts at alluring her,stopped.....
When she confesses to Cassian what her problem is,he promises to help her find out why and what can be done.
In the meantime,they find out his kink is hers too,and they enjoy exploring what they like as they grow closer.
He teaches her to hunt on their journey to the town that could hold all the answers.
When they get into trouble during their search,the Inquisitors get involved and things go from bad to worse quickly.
Because those Inquisitors want to stop their search,because those Inquisitors want to stop them,period.
How can Cassian keep Inara safe,how can he keep her as his?
The important question asked,it only needs an answer.
The trouble following them home,the Inquisitors on their tail.
What to do about them,how to solve that peacefully and stay alive?
A great story,one that drew me in from page one and kept me reading until the very satisfying end!
A wonderful tale of how respect is more effective than force.
(Combined with that delicious and generous splash of kink Sasha/Stella does so well.)
The heroes all have a kink,if he’s not a sadist,then he’s one that enjoys ropes,and they all love a good whip.
The heroines are all strong,know what they want,and go for the man that can give them exactly that.
This story is different than the others in the aspect that it’s a stand alone,taking place in a different era,with men that use something that’s called Allure to make their women do what they want.
Inara is different,she actually hears their thoughts,their attempts to “allure” her.
It upsets her,but it doesn’t make her want to obey them...
At her blossoming ceremony it upsets her só much, she flees.
Sir Cassian,a knight that enjoys his share of women for a night,is present at the ceremony,and follows her.
He is the man that stood out in the crowd for her,because he was the quiet one.
So,when he proposes she continues and choose him,she agrees.
If only the voices in her head,the attempts at alluring her,stopped.....
When she confesses to Cassian what her problem is,he promises to help her find out why and what can be done.
In the meantime,they find out his kink is hers too,and they enjoy exploring what they like as they grow closer.
He teaches her to hunt on their journey to the town that could hold all the answers.
When they get into trouble during their search,the Inquisitors get involved and things go from bad to worse quickly.
Because those Inquisitors want to stop their search,because those Inquisitors want to stop them,period.
How can Cassian keep Inara safe,how can he keep her as his?
The important question asked,it only needs an answer.
The trouble following them home,the Inquisitors on their tail.
What to do about them,how to solve that peacefully and stay alive?
A great story,one that drew me in from page one and kept me reading until the very satisfying end!
A wonderful tale of how respect is more effective than force.
(Combined with that delicious and generous splash of kink Sasha/Stella does so well.)
September 5, 2020
It's like if someone took a ripped off version of Fifty Shades, slapped some fantasy into it to make it different, inserted some gender inequalities stuff to make it interesting (like the gender games), and then TOOK OUT THE ENTIRE PLOT.
sad to say DNF at about chapter 8. however i am confident i can give it a one star rating.
sad to say DNF at about chapter 8. however i am confident i can give it a one star rating.
April 11, 2024
A very thought provoking story
This is a new-to-me author, but I'm glad that I took a chance on reading Allure. The setting is somewhat middle ages, possibly in a dystopian Earth future or based on some other planet. I found it difficult to place in a sub-genre or trope, though it felt more fantasy than paranormal.
I enjoyed the story, finding the plot easy to follow and liking the main characters. Whilst the idea of the heroine (or hero) being an 'outsider' is not new the world the author created, along with the detail of the heroine's resistance to allure and subsequent issues, made this feel quite an unusual read. The writing is good, the story entertaining and the relationship between Cassian and Inara ultimately being very believable.
It may have been me, but at the beginning the story did feel a little directionless. I appreciated that the author didn't do a huge information dump to world build, but I did find myself waiting for something to happen. Personally I would have liked this time to have been spent building the connection between Inara and Cassian. I'm not a fan of insta-anything, so the fact that their physical relationship went from 0 to 60 in the blink of an eye felt a little jarring.
I quite liked that the book didn't portray virginity as a feminine virtue BUT how this juxtaposed with women being very much the voiceless submissive in any relationship perhaps could have done with being elaborated on a little more. Some really innovative world building but it just needed developing/expanding on a little more to help me understand why sex was ok but then they had to be SO submissive.
There are some quite deep messages within this book around how we judge others and how it is easy to abuse power, and as a result abuse those who are weaker than us. Cassian and Inara are both very different to the norm, but it is easier for Cassian given the patriarchal nature of their society. I loved that he didn't want to change Inara in any way but that he wanted to forge a partnership with her, you could genuinely sense his respect for Inara.
This is a new-to-me author, but I'm glad that I took a chance on reading Allure. The setting is somewhat middle ages, possibly in a dystopian Earth future or based on some other planet. I found it difficult to place in a sub-genre or trope, though it felt more fantasy than paranormal.
I enjoyed the story, finding the plot easy to follow and liking the main characters. Whilst the idea of the heroine (or hero) being an 'outsider' is not new the world the author created, along with the detail of the heroine's resistance to allure and subsequent issues, made this feel quite an unusual read. The writing is good, the story entertaining and the relationship between Cassian and Inara ultimately being very believable.
It may have been me, but at the beginning the story did feel a little directionless. I appreciated that the author didn't do a huge information dump to world build, but I did find myself waiting for something to happen. Personally I would have liked this time to have been spent building the connection between Inara and Cassian. I'm not a fan of insta-anything, so the fact that their physical relationship went from 0 to 60 in the blink of an eye felt a little jarring.
I quite liked that the book didn't portray virginity as a feminine virtue BUT how this juxtaposed with women being very much the voiceless submissive in any relationship perhaps could have done with being elaborated on a little more. Some really innovative world building but it just needed developing/expanding on a little more to help me understand why sex was ok but then they had to be SO submissive.
There are some quite deep messages within this book around how we judge others and how it is easy to abuse power, and as a result abuse those who are weaker than us. Cassian and Inara are both very different to the norm, but it is easier for Cassian given the patriarchal nature of their society. I loved that he didn't want to change Inara in any way but that he wanted to forge a partnership with her, you could genuinely sense his respect for Inara.
January 7, 2020
Reviewed by PussnBooks.net
Review by Puss’n’Books. Reviewing the darkest, most erotic and taboo books we can find. Click HERE for your next disturbingly sexy read.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
First of all, let me say that I loved that this story was so unique. I haven’t read any other fantasy quite like it.
It’s a world where woman are more or less emotionally controlled by a man’s ALLURE - the ability to influence a woman’s emotions and free will, to a point. A mental kind of control that calms and soothes a woman but also manipulates her into feeling a certain way. Keeping her happy and obedient.
It’s a world I would very much enjoy jumping into and fucking things up in.
Let a man control how I feel and react to something? I don’t fucking think so!
Walk around with fetters on until I showed many years of obedience? I really don’t fucking think so!
Fetters definition: restrain with chains or manacles, typically around the ankles.
INARA
It’s her coming of age party, so to speak. She goes to the town centre and pretty much chooses who she wants to go home with...the catch? The men that have paid to be there all compete with each other by seeing who can influence her the most with their ALLURE.
However, Inara is different. Instead of being soothed by the ALLURE she can hear the men’s thoughts instead.
Things like “You want to suck my cock” and “Choose me, whore”. As you can imagine it scares the shit out of her and she freaks out and runs off.
When Cassian comes to her with an offer that she choose him and he won’t pressure her into anything with his allure, she jumps at the chance because (a) he’s hot AF and (b) she can’t hear his thoughts. Score!
But pretty soon she has to admit to him that *gasp* - SHE CAN DISOBEY A MAN! and that is a no-no for women in this world.
Instead of shunning her, he vows to help her figure out why she’s different.
CASSIAN
Cassian is a hot AF player (according to the women) , lol. He pretty much steals all of the women on their blossomings and then moves on to the next. Leaving both him and her satisfied. As you can imagine, this pisses off the other men in the village.
He thinks he ready to settle down now though and wants to do that with Inara. She seems a little different and he likes that. But he didn’t realise how different she was until he realises that she can go against a man’s will and allure.
Knowing that she could be in danger if anyone else finds out he offers to help her figure it out by travelling with her to the big library thingy in the city which is a few days travel away.
I liked Inara because she was all about the “fuck you!” to the man, ye ken? The way women are treated in this world is enough to piss me off good and proper, lol, so kudos to the author for that! My blood was boiling alright! And I was firmly cheering her on every time she did something “wrong”.
While I loved the world-building and the story was so unique, I didn’t feel any attraction to Cassian though. I mean he sounded hot but I didn’t feel the pull.
Sorry guys but I just didn’t connect with him.
SEX SCENES
There were some juicy scenes throughout the book with some BDSM and rope work but I just couldn’t get into them. You, of course, might disagree.
FINAL THOUGHTS on ALLURE by Sansa Rayne
So it’s like this. I enjoyed the story and the world that she created and I like how strong Inara was and the fight she had in her but I didn’t find it sexy. I couldn’t quite connect with Cassian and felt the sex scenes were missing something. If the book were just fantasy without the romance I think it would have been better.
So I’m going to give it 3.5 stars.
GET IT FROM AMAZON UK HERE
GET IT FROM AMAZON USA HERE
Review by Puss’n’Books. Reviewing the darkest, most erotic and taboo books we can find. Click HERE for your next disturbingly sexy read.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
First of all, let me say that I loved that this story was so unique. I haven’t read any other fantasy quite like it.
It’s a world where woman are more or less emotionally controlled by a man’s ALLURE - the ability to influence a woman’s emotions and free will, to a point. A mental kind of control that calms and soothes a woman but also manipulates her into feeling a certain way. Keeping her happy and obedient.
It’s a world I would very much enjoy jumping into and fucking things up in.
Let a man control how I feel and react to something? I don’t fucking think so!
Walk around with fetters on until I showed many years of obedience? I really don’t fucking think so!
Fetters definition: restrain with chains or manacles, typically around the ankles.
INARA
It’s her coming of age party, so to speak. She goes to the town centre and pretty much chooses who she wants to go home with...the catch? The men that have paid to be there all compete with each other by seeing who can influence her the most with their ALLURE.
However, Inara is different. Instead of being soothed by the ALLURE she can hear the men’s thoughts instead.
Things like “You want to suck my cock” and “Choose me, whore”. As you can imagine it scares the shit out of her and she freaks out and runs off.
When Cassian comes to her with an offer that she choose him and he won’t pressure her into anything with his allure, she jumps at the chance because (a) he’s hot AF and (b) she can’t hear his thoughts. Score!
But pretty soon she has to admit to him that *gasp* - SHE CAN DISOBEY A MAN! and that is a no-no for women in this world.
Instead of shunning her, he vows to help her figure out why she’s different.
CASSIAN
Cassian is a hot AF player (according to the women) , lol. He pretty much steals all of the women on their blossomings and then moves on to the next. Leaving both him and her satisfied. As you can imagine, this pisses off the other men in the village.
He thinks he ready to settle down now though and wants to do that with Inara. She seems a little different and he likes that. But he didn’t realise how different she was until he realises that she can go against a man’s will and allure.
Knowing that she could be in danger if anyone else finds out he offers to help her figure it out by travelling with her to the big library thingy in the city which is a few days travel away.
I liked Inara because she was all about the “fuck you!” to the man, ye ken? The way women are treated in this world is enough to piss me off good and proper, lol, so kudos to the author for that! My blood was boiling alright! And I was firmly cheering her on every time she did something “wrong”.
While I loved the world-building and the story was so unique, I didn’t feel any attraction to Cassian though. I mean he sounded hot but I didn’t feel the pull.
Sorry guys but I just didn’t connect with him.
SEX SCENES
There were some juicy scenes throughout the book with some BDSM and rope work but I just couldn’t get into them. You, of course, might disagree.
“Please, sir! I’m going…to come!”.“You’ve earned it…Inara. You have…permission.”“Oh, thank you!”I shout, letting my head fall backward. Carnal pleasure erupts with a force that robs my body of its strength. My arms and legs go limp, supported only by Cassian and the rope. Euphoria lifts me into a trance. I groan, helpless to resist. I can’t tell if my perception of time is changing or Cassian’s working his tongue faster, but every motion feels more and more intense. Hot blood pumps through me, amplifying every sensation until my orgasm reaches its peak. My wailing ceases, though my jaw still hangs open. Mind barely cognizant of reality, I don’t understand at first why Cassian isn’t lowering me to the ground. He adds more rope around my ankles, spreading my legs and pulling them up high until I’m hanging by all four limbs. “Ready for more, dove?” he asks, running his hand up my thigh. “Ancients…this is…insane!”Strained from holding my weight, my limbs immediately ache. “Then I guess you better make me come quickly,” says Cassian. He undresses slowly, allowing me to stare at his immaculate body, rather than think about my predicament. “Don’t look at me like that,” he says, stroking his mammoth cock. “You’re the amazing one. I could watch you hang there for hours.”
FINAL THOUGHTS on ALLURE by Sansa Rayne
So it’s like this. I enjoyed the story and the world that she created and I like how strong Inara was and the fight she had in her but I didn’t find it sexy. I couldn’t quite connect with Cassian and felt the sex scenes were missing something. If the book were just fantasy without the romance I think it would have been better.
So I’m going to give it 3.5 stars.
GET IT FROM AMAZON UK HERE
GET IT FROM AMAZON USA HERE
December 26, 2019
Very interesting, fantastical story set in 8919. Inara and Sir Cassian begin their journey after Inara's blossoming ceremony. But Inara is different and heard voices in her head from the men using allure in order to get her to choose them.
January 7, 2020
Far Far In The Future👽, Or Is The Past🔪?
Far far in the future.....9000 years ago the Ancients👽 came and since then the Venai have relied on the traditional connection of souls to select their mates.
The single men come to see the young women at her Blossoming ceremony. The men cast their "Allure" on the woman, their lascivious🍆⛲ thoughts are projected into her mind. She must choose one of of them, she cannot ignore the Allure💕.
Brides are bound, fettered, chained, even muzzled throughout her married life, as her husband displays his power over her.
The people live in a feudal🏰 society. There is no technology, they live as farmers and trades people. It seems everybody knows everybody else's business!
Only Inara💃💋, hears her suitors actual thoughts, and she is scared to death at their aggressive and suggestive thoughts. She is different from all the other women.
Only one man refuses to use his Allure. It is the Knight, Sir Cassian🐺🍆⛲👋🔪. He is huge, handsome to a fault, and a well known rake. He is different, too. He beds and binds the women who always choose him, but he is still unmarried........
ARC Received from Prolific Works 📚
I also got this ebook with KU.
What an amazing concept for a book. The fact that this is also an ADULT XXX Erotic BDSM👋👋 Romance added to the "Allure" of this futuristic novel.
Far far in the future.....9000 years ago the Ancients👽 came and since then the Venai have relied on the traditional connection of souls to select their mates.
The single men come to see the young women at her Blossoming ceremony. The men cast their "Allure" on the woman, their lascivious🍆⛲ thoughts are projected into her mind. She must choose one of of them, she cannot ignore the Allure💕.
Brides are bound, fettered, chained, even muzzled throughout her married life, as her husband displays his power over her.
The people live in a feudal🏰 society. There is no technology, they live as farmers and trades people. It seems everybody knows everybody else's business!
Only Inara💃💋, hears her suitors actual thoughts, and she is scared to death at their aggressive and suggestive thoughts. She is different from all the other women.
Only one man refuses to use his Allure. It is the Knight, Sir Cassian🐺🍆⛲👋🔪. He is huge, handsome to a fault, and a well known rake. He is different, too. He beds and binds the women who always choose him, but he is still unmarried........
ARC Received from Prolific Works 📚
I also got this ebook with KU.
What an amazing concept for a book. The fact that this is also an ADULT XXX Erotic BDSM👋👋 Romance added to the "Allure" of this futuristic novel.
January 7, 2020
I will start my review with a warning that this book will not be for everyone as it is on the darker side of romance. The women are dominated by the men and are subject to punishment for disobeying. The women are kept submissive by the men by the use of "allure". The book also contains some kinky sex scenes. If you have issues with these type books, I do not recommend this for you.
Inara has reached the age for her "blossoming" ceremony in which she will hopefully be able to find a husband. Inara's reaction to the males allure is not what she had been told to expect by her sisters. Inara doesn't feel their allure, she hears their voices in her head. Except for Cassian, she hears nothing from him. Cassian feels the need to finally take a wife, and he wants Inara, if she will have him.
When she flees her blossoming in terror, Cassian follows and offers his help, if she chooses him. Inara, desperate to escape the allure from the men that are there for her blossoming, accepts Cassian's offer. But Inara is afraid to tell Cassian why she reacted the way she did. She is sure her response to allure is not natural, but if she tells Cassian, what will he do?
When Cassian convinces Inara to tell him the truth of what happened, he decides they should take a journey to a nearby city to find out if there is anything regarding allure or Inara's reaction to it. And if they can't find information, perhaps they will be able to find a scholar who knows about allure and possibly anyone else who is like Inara. Their journey turns perilous but they manage to get away and head for home trailed by assassins. Will they ever discover the secret of allure or will Inara have to hide who she is to avoid discovery?
This is the first book I've read by Sansa Rayne and I thought the book was good. It started out kind of slow but wasn't long before it picked up. The chemistry between Cassian and Inara is off the charts, even though Cassian doesn't use his allure on Inara. This book is not a cliffhanger and our characters do get a HEA.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Inara has reached the age for her "blossoming" ceremony in which she will hopefully be able to find a husband. Inara's reaction to the males allure is not what she had been told to expect by her sisters. Inara doesn't feel their allure, she hears their voices in her head. Except for Cassian, she hears nothing from him. Cassian feels the need to finally take a wife, and he wants Inara, if she will have him.
When she flees her blossoming in terror, Cassian follows and offers his help, if she chooses him. Inara, desperate to escape the allure from the men that are there for her blossoming, accepts Cassian's offer. But Inara is afraid to tell Cassian why she reacted the way she did. She is sure her response to allure is not natural, but if she tells Cassian, what will he do?
When Cassian convinces Inara to tell him the truth of what happened, he decides they should take a journey to a nearby city to find out if there is anything regarding allure or Inara's reaction to it. And if they can't find information, perhaps they will be able to find a scholar who knows about allure and possibly anyone else who is like Inara. Their journey turns perilous but they manage to get away and head for home trailed by assassins. Will they ever discover the secret of allure or will Inara have to hide who she is to avoid discovery?
This is the first book I've read by Sansa Rayne and I thought the book was good. It started out kind of slow but wasn't long before it picked up. The chemistry between Cassian and Inara is off the charts, even though Cassian doesn't use his allure on Inara. This book is not a cliffhanger and our characters do get a HEA.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 7, 2020
I really enjoyed this because of its diverse storyline, very different from what I’ve read previously. Sansa Rayne and Stella Rising have successfully written a story that combines one than one genre and have made it into a page turner. When we meet Inara it’s the morning of her blossoming ceremony. We learn the traditions of their times and meet several key characters, including the infamous Cassian. There’s something quite different with Inara though and it becomes very apparent during her ceremony. Men have the ability to make women want them, obey them and submit, they call it allure. But in Inara’s case the allure has a completely different effect and this is where the story comes into itself. Cassian and Inara embark on a journey that will forever change their world and along the way we get fabulously steamy interactions between them.
December 28, 2019
3.5 stars
This story is unlike anything I have read. The storyline is unique, and the characters are well written. As for it being a dark romance I was not feeling that at all. Now don't get me wrong the archaic beliefs are from the dark ages, but I didn't feel the story as a whole was dark. Now I'm trying to figure out just what else to type without spoiling the story for anyone. Irana and Cassian's characters were believable. This wasn't a love at first sight book, but a one where they work for their love by getting to know one another. One of acceptance, and one that shows no matter how different you may be you can find your HEA.
This story is unlike anything I have read. The storyline is unique, and the characters are well written. As for it being a dark romance I was not feeling that at all. Now don't get me wrong the archaic beliefs are from the dark ages, but I didn't feel the story as a whole was dark. Now I'm trying to figure out just what else to type without spoiling the story for anyone. Irana and Cassian's characters were believable. This wasn't a love at first sight book, but a one where they work for their love by getting to know one another. One of acceptance, and one that shows no matter how different you may be you can find your HEA.
December 23, 2019
In 8919 post ancients, women are to be owned by men. Their “Allure” helps them choose their mate. Inara is ready for her blossoming ceremony (which is slightly like a coming of age party) to find a partner/owner. The knight, Sir Cassian, is a well known player but finally is ready to take a wife. He wants Inara, but is there another reason he craves her to be his? She is different than the other woman but does not know why. Can Cassian help her find out what makes her different? This is a fantasy, romantic suspense with bdsm and a slave/master atmosphere. If you like your alpha’s dominant and love a good fantasy book this is for you! It kept my interest throughout. Told in dual POV
December 23, 2019
I really enjoyed this book because it was very different, not like anything I’ve read before . Cassian & Inara were a wonderful couple. This man would do anything for her and understood her situation. I don’t want to give away any spoilers. They were perfect for each other considering the period they lived in and the way women were treated, very fascinating reading. I like strong women characters and She lived up to that and her man didn’t want to change her, he only wanted to help her. I definitely recommend Allure, it’s a very fast read.
January 6, 2020
This is a book you’ll want to read. It’s about one woman, Inara, who happens to be different from the rest. She can resist being controlled by men’s thoughts. She can hear them, but she’s not compelled to obey them. Fortunately she finds a man who doesn’t control her by thoughts, but by his actions alone. It’s risky to be different, but it’s a risk they are both willing to take. The consequences can be deadly.
December 23, 2019
Exciting, sexy, dangerous and romantic. Cassian and Inara had a hard road amd fight. It was I interesting to see how it turned out
December 22, 2019
Inara is very attracted to Cassian. An unknown male's voice taunts her relentlessly. Good book, well written.
I received a copy of the book from the author, and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received a copy of the book from the author, and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
December 23, 2019
This one kept me engaged. The characters were believable and well developed. The story was entertaining and enjoyable and just plain entertaining. A good and enjoyable read.
December 29, 2019
This was such an interesting story for me to read. What a wild concept that men send out an allure, a wave of sensual emotion and women respond to it. It is supposed to comfort and bring ease.
As with all things, it affects people differently and I really enjoyed this story. Inara and Sir Cassian take a different road and find themselves in all sorts of trials and tribulations. I hope there is more to their story and how they change the world.
I read and reviewed a copy of this book.
As with all things, it affects people differently and I really enjoyed this story. Inara and Sir Cassian take a different road and find themselves in all sorts of trials and tribulations. I hope there is more to their story and how they change the world.
I read and reviewed a copy of this book.
January 7, 2020
A world where women must submit to the men around them.
Ever imagine what it would be like to be compelled to please someone? In Navira all the men are capable of allure. Women are supposed to find it pleasurable and irresistible. The stronger the allure, the stronger the need to please. Women are regularly punished for stepping out of line. Flogging are not uncommon and if you do something unforgivable an inquisitor gets to decided your fate.
Inara is not like the other women though. When a man tries to use his allure it’s like she can hear his true intentions. What is supposed to be inviting becomes instead something repelling. On her Blossoming ceremony she’s overwhelmed and instead picks the one man she doesn’t feel the insane draw from. Cassian is also different. He doesn’t use his allure. He’s always been a playboy, taking advantage of the Blossoming ceremonies to hook-up without commitment to a wife. Image everyone surprise when he makes the offer to Inara. People were already talking about her, this just gets tongues waging even more.
This was my first time reading from this author. I was pleasantly surprised. An entire world was created and I could actually envision it. I’m used to dark romances featuring a couple or a small group, not entire villages or worlds. Every character screamed for its own attention and you will have opinions about most of them. I think if the readers didn’t get to hear/feel what Inara does and went only by what people said those opinions would be very different.
Inara and Cassian compliment each other quite well. Their interactions are very heavy on sex, but usually with some purpose (real or imagined). I enjoyed how they were both so different from others around them and how accepting they were in that. This story may make you question some things in society and take a deeper look at certain traditions or history.
I am leaving a voluntary honest review after receiving an advanced copy of this story from the author.
Ever imagine what it would be like to be compelled to please someone? In Navira all the men are capable of allure. Women are supposed to find it pleasurable and irresistible. The stronger the allure, the stronger the need to please. Women are regularly punished for stepping out of line. Flogging are not uncommon and if you do something unforgivable an inquisitor gets to decided your fate.
Inara is not like the other women though. When a man tries to use his allure it’s like she can hear his true intentions. What is supposed to be inviting becomes instead something repelling. On her Blossoming ceremony she’s overwhelmed and instead picks the one man she doesn’t feel the insane draw from. Cassian is also different. He doesn’t use his allure. He’s always been a playboy, taking advantage of the Blossoming ceremonies to hook-up without commitment to a wife. Image everyone surprise when he makes the offer to Inara. People were already talking about her, this just gets tongues waging even more.
This was my first time reading from this author. I was pleasantly surprised. An entire world was created and I could actually envision it. I’m used to dark romances featuring a couple or a small group, not entire villages or worlds. Every character screamed for its own attention and you will have opinions about most of them. I think if the readers didn’t get to hear/feel what Inara does and went only by what people said those opinions would be very different.
Inara and Cassian compliment each other quite well. Their interactions are very heavy on sex, but usually with some purpose (real or imagined). I enjoyed how they were both so different from others around them and how accepting they were in that. This story may make you question some things in society and take a deeper look at certain traditions or history.
I am leaving a voluntary honest review after receiving an advanced copy of this story from the author.
December 31, 2019
When I first started to read this book I was not sure I was going to like it. It took me a couple of chapters to really grab my attention. Once I started it I didn't want to put it down. The book is not a fast pace read it starts out slow but picks up.
Inara was coming into women hood and it was time for her blossoming. At her blossoming the men are suppose to be able to Allure the women but Inara was different she didn't feel things that the women of her race was suppose to feel instead she heard the words of the men. This frighten her as she knew it was not right but she freaked out and ran.
Cassian was always going to the blossoming and seem to leave with women but never agreed to marry them. So this time at Inara blossoming the men were not happy that he was there they wanted him gone. They wanted a change and thought that they might have a chance with Inara.
When it was time for Inara to get up on the stage and present herself she had a hard time. As she knew that the men were suppose to use their Allure on her and she was suppose to feel things but she did not. What she felt was nothing but she was able to hear everything that thought and that freaked her out. So when she ran from her blossoming the men started talking.
Cassian decided if he really wanted a chance with Inara that he would go after her and see if he could help her. Instead he ended up making a deal with her and her mother. What kind of deal did he make? He knew the town would be talking out her and how everyone would think she was shrike. So what happen did she really make a deal with Cassian and was it good for just him or for both of them.
This was a really good book even though I thought that it started out slow. I really like story line and where the story went.
I read this book as part of an ARC and received this book free for an honest review.
Inara was coming into women hood and it was time for her blossoming. At her blossoming the men are suppose to be able to Allure the women but Inara was different she didn't feel things that the women of her race was suppose to feel instead she heard the words of the men. This frighten her as she knew it was not right but she freaked out and ran.
Cassian was always going to the blossoming and seem to leave with women but never agreed to marry them. So this time at Inara blossoming the men were not happy that he was there they wanted him gone. They wanted a change and thought that they might have a chance with Inara.
When it was time for Inara to get up on the stage and present herself she had a hard time. As she knew that the men were suppose to use their Allure on her and she was suppose to feel things but she did not. What she felt was nothing but she was able to hear everything that thought and that freaked her out. So when she ran from her blossoming the men started talking.
Cassian decided if he really wanted a chance with Inara that he would go after her and see if he could help her. Instead he ended up making a deal with her and her mother. What kind of deal did he make? He knew the town would be talking out her and how everyone would think she was shrike. So what happen did she really make a deal with Cassian and was it good for just him or for both of them.
This was a really good book even though I thought that it started out slow. I really like story line and where the story went.
I read this book as part of an ARC and received this book free for an honest review.
January 7, 2020
I loved this book. It is different in the fact that the issues it presents are very similar to what's going on today. The issue of women's roles in society.
In this story men rule and women are virtually slaves to them. They have this power over women called "Allure" which makes them compliant to the males.
Inara is to have a ceremony called the Blossoming. She is presented to the men in hopes she'll pick one to wed. But something is wrong. She can hear their thoughts and doesn't like them. They are vile and it scares Inara. Cassian is a very handsome knight and never uses is "Allure". He never has to because of his great looks. Inara freaks out and runs from her Blossoming ceremony. Cassian follows and makes an agreement between them. Cassian knows something is going on with her. They start falling for each other. Cassian helps her along the way. You see, Cassian never uses his "Allure" to control her. They go on an adventure that can potentially get them killed. See how everyone pulls together for the sake of the place they live. Secrets also emerge. All I can say is read the book and you won't be disappointed. Also loved the ending.
In this story men rule and women are virtually slaves to them. They have this power over women called "Allure" which makes them compliant to the males.
Inara is to have a ceremony called the Blossoming. She is presented to the men in hopes she'll pick one to wed. But something is wrong. She can hear their thoughts and doesn't like them. They are vile and it scares Inara. Cassian is a very handsome knight and never uses is "Allure". He never has to because of his great looks. Inara freaks out and runs from her Blossoming ceremony. Cassian follows and makes an agreement between them. Cassian knows something is going on with her. They start falling for each other. Cassian helps her along the way. You see, Cassian never uses his "Allure" to control her. They go on an adventure that can potentially get them killed. See how everyone pulls together for the sake of the place they live. Secrets also emerge. All I can say is read the book and you won't be disappointed. Also loved the ending.
January 4, 2020
This is a compelling story set in the year 8919 Post Ancients, in a society where women obey without protest when willed to do so by dominant men. Inara is the exception though – for her, their allure is anything but heavenly. Feared to be seen as an abomination amongst the townsfolk she enlists the aid of Sir Cassian, a knight of some repute and a potential suitor. Will their quest for the truth behind allure produce the answers they seek, or endanger those they hold most dear?
I loved how Inara was always challenging the accepted roles within their society – ‘is it tradition or is it the law?’ I also loved the D/s relationship that evolved between Cassian and Inara. Her sassy, witty quips were very entertaining as she tried to reason her way out of Cassian’s discipline. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking tale concerning the treatment of women by a male-dominated society. The story is well written and the characters well-defined and intriguing. There’s plenty of humour, drama, angst, some violence, brutality, and suspense along with several seriously steamy encounters featuring BDSM. I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved how Inara was always challenging the accepted roles within their society – ‘is it tradition or is it the law?’ I also loved the D/s relationship that evolved between Cassian and Inara. Her sassy, witty quips were very entertaining as she tried to reason her way out of Cassian’s discipline. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking tale concerning the treatment of women by a male-dominated society. The story is well written and the characters well-defined and intriguing. There’s plenty of humour, drama, angst, some violence, brutality, and suspense along with several seriously steamy encounters featuring BDSM. I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 5, 2020
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "ALLURE" WOW!!!! What a unique storyline full of intrigue, suspense, assassin's, kink, twists that keep you turning the pages.
Inara goes through the Blossoming Ceremony she hears voices the men using the Allure for her to choose them she flees Cassian was there during the ceremony and follows her he's a knight known for his skills in combat he will do whatever to ensnare Inara as her suitor.
Inara tells Casian what the Allie does and she may not have suffer from the Allure Cassian says he will help her find answers.
The Inquisitors don't want the truth to come out so Inara and Cassian have assassin's after them she has choose to hide who she is to protect her love, or fight to expose the secret of the Allure.
I definitely recommend to get this book such a unique interesting very well written storyline by Sansa Rayne/Stella Rising I loved the chemistry between Inara and Cassian their two strong personalities that just work I so can't wait to read more.
Inara goes through the Blossoming Ceremony she hears voices the men using the Allure for her to choose them she flees Cassian was there during the ceremony and follows her he's a knight known for his skills in combat he will do whatever to ensnare Inara as her suitor.
Inara tells Casian what the Allie does and she may not have suffer from the Allure Cassian says he will help her find answers.
The Inquisitors don't want the truth to come out so Inara and Cassian have assassin's after them she has choose to hide who she is to protect her love, or fight to expose the secret of the Allure.
I definitely recommend to get this book such a unique interesting very well written storyline by Sansa Rayne/Stella Rising I loved the chemistry between Inara and Cassian their two strong personalities that just work I so can't wait to read more.
January 3, 2020
Inara didn’t know what to expect during her blossoming. All she knew was that she would be choosing her future husband. But it all came upon her, she didn’t know what to do but run. Cassian has been around a while and has finally realized that he needs to settle down. Inara is the one he plans to take has his bride but when she runs, he has to chase after her. He may have a reputation but he plans to teach Inara all she needs to know.
I have to say, I was really surprised that no one told Inara what to expect during her blossoming. I mean didn’t they think it would be a good idea to at least give her a heads up. But it was overpowering for Inara. I can understand her running. I do love Cassian. He is a rake for sure but his care for her is more than any other. She learns so much from him and they have a bond that is worth more than anything. I loved all the sex. Who wouldn’t? Love his kinky side and all the fun that they had. This book does take us on a journey about allure. That I can tell you. I can’t imagine the torment or joy that is has. I feel for Inara though.
I have to say, I was really surprised that no one told Inara what to expect during her blossoming. I mean didn’t they think it would be a good idea to at least give her a heads up. But it was overpowering for Inara. I can understand her running. I do love Cassian. He is a rake for sure but his care for her is more than any other. She learns so much from him and they have a bond that is worth more than anything. I loved all the sex. Who wouldn’t? Love his kinky side and all the fun that they had. This book does take us on a journey about allure. That I can tell you. I can’t imagine the torment or joy that is has. I feel for Inara though.
January 7, 2020
A truly wonderful read, but not what I was expecting at all! The first couple of chapters made me a little apprehensive about reading the entire story. Not that they weren’t really well written but I didn’t know if I wanted to go down that rabbit hole. I’m glad I stuck it out though because this truly is a fantastic story. Action packed and fast paced story I just couldn’t put down. Bravo ladies on an amazing story!!
December 30, 2019
Allure is something out of my normal read, a fantasy, with a lot of steam, kink and evil lurking. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and would recommend you pick up a copy. Our heroine is a strong willed women who most definitely is a pioneer for her cause.
What is Allure? It gains our attention, it’s how we are drawn towards something or someone.
How does Allure work? We are all different, it may be the sound of a voice, the way someone holds themselves or perhaps it’s the way they look.
Navira isn’t much more than a village, on the surface it seems normal but if you look a little closer it’s not. It’s normal for the women to be fettered and bound, public flogging is used as punishment and to absolve one from their crime.
Cassias is a knight and a lady killer, he has bedded many women only to move on to the next. He’s not even sure that he wants to find himself a wife. There is something about Inara that allures him, she’s different, unique and very easy on his eyes.
Inara is the youngest daughter and is coming of age. She has a ceremony to attend, however she finds it overwhelming and realises just how different she is from most women. This story is a journey of acceptance, love and revealing hidden secrets. Although she is alone she is not, she just needs to realise it. A saying comes to mind “It takes a village.”
What is Allure? It gains our attention, it’s how we are drawn towards something or someone.
How does Allure work? We are all different, it may be the sound of a voice, the way someone holds themselves or perhaps it’s the way they look.
Navira isn’t much more than a village, on the surface it seems normal but if you look a little closer it’s not. It’s normal for the women to be fettered and bound, public flogging is used as punishment and to absolve one from their crime.
Cassias is a knight and a lady killer, he has bedded many women only to move on to the next. He’s not even sure that he wants to find himself a wife. There is something about Inara that allures him, she’s different, unique and very easy on his eyes.
Inara is the youngest daughter and is coming of age. She has a ceremony to attend, however she finds it overwhelming and realises just how different she is from most women. This story is a journey of acceptance, love and revealing hidden secrets. Although she is alone she is not, she just needs to realise it. A saying comes to mind “It takes a village.”
January 1, 2020
This is an interesting book where men control women through their Allure and the women love it. Well most of them. Inara tries to figure out why she’s different with the help of Cassian who is intrigued by Inara. I don’t know if I’d call this a dark fantasy but I definitely enjoyed Cassian’s kinks almost as much as Inara. It’s a fast paced read with yummy scenes of pleasure and punishment.
* I received an ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily.
* I received an ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 4, 2020
Wow what an interesting book! Has everything and anything for all that goes on in the book. Romance, dark romance, action and Adventure. Plus both main female and male are very strong and bullheaded. The action was just as great as the adventure. The smexy romance is hot off the chains.
Inara is from a well off family. Her blossoming is coming up and she can't be more revolted then she already is. The voices are the biggest thing throwing her off. But the biggest question is why doesn't she feel compelled to do what any of them want?
Inara is from a well off family. Her blossoming is coming up and she can't be more revolted then she already is. The voices are the biggest thing throwing her off. But the biggest question is why doesn't she feel compelled to do what any of them want?
January 1, 2020
I voluntarily read and reviewed this as an ARC
To say this book took me somewhere totally unexpected would be an understatement. A different world/time period than our own...or is it? Inara sees her world crumbling around her and has no understanding as to why. The glaring difference between herself and the other women in her village both terrifies and lights a burning fire inside her. Cassian is cocky, arrogant and just as different in his own way. They come to an accord of sorts in trying to protect her from a danger that could end her life. The combined styles of Sansa Rayne and Stella Rising swept me into the life of this couple while keeping one foot firmly in this world as they struggle to find answers, keep the Inquisitors at bay, and fight against a secret a prominent group will do anything to keep hidden. This is a slightly darker romance so be prepared for an explicit passion between Inara and a VERY dominant Cassian but with the amount of heart that still delivers the core of their story.
To say this book took me somewhere totally unexpected would be an understatement. A different world/time period than our own...or is it? Inara sees her world crumbling around her and has no understanding as to why. The glaring difference between herself and the other women in her village both terrifies and lights a burning fire inside her. Cassian is cocky, arrogant and just as different in his own way. They come to an accord of sorts in trying to protect her from a danger that could end her life. The combined styles of Sansa Rayne and Stella Rising swept me into the life of this couple while keeping one foot firmly in this world as they struggle to find answers, keep the Inquisitors at bay, and fight against a secret a prominent group will do anything to keep hidden. This is a slightly darker romance so be prepared for an explicit passion between Inara and a VERY dominant Cassian but with the amount of heart that still delivers the core of their story.
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