Surrender

Lily of the Valley #0.5

by Evie Kent

In the twilight hours of summer, he claims me.

Always.

SURRENDER is a standalone dark paranormal romance novelette set in the Lily of the Valley series.

Genres: Fantasy, Mythology, Romance, Dark, Dark Romance, Novella, Paranormal

34 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 17, 2020

About the author

Evie Kent is a dark paranormal romance author who loves a possessive anti-hero and a strong-willed heroine. She has been #teamvillain for as long as she can remember, and thinks the dark side definitely has more fun.

Her work errs toward soft dark, and features soulmate-level romances with dubious beginnings, along with a dash of angst and a dollop of kink.

Reviews

[Monique · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 'confused but intrigued' stars

This short freebie was very interesting but also all over the place. It was kind of Hades and Persephone retelling but instead of Greek gods, we had one seelie princess (?) and one modern warlock (?). I was also confused about the relationship between Silas and Riona. It seemed they knew each other but we never really found out for sure. The setting was... a little bit of everything - ancient magic, forbidden dark rituals, and... smartphones? Well, why not, lol. It was also way less dark than it appeared to be at first. We can say it hinted at dub-con but let's be honest and admit she definitely wanted it and enjoyed every single moment. And I don't consider things dark just because she stabbed him a little, hahaha. Sex was on the steamy side - some exhibitionism, some spankings, overall, a decent amount of heath.

Anyway, this was a nice, short read (kind of wordy for a novella, just saying) but I'm intrigued to continue with the series, especially because the next book To Love a God is about Loki and everyone knows I'm not able to resist him 😊

[Jessica {Litnoob} · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wish this was longer because it was an intriguing peek into this world that I want more of. It was dark, and for people who are not ok with blood, violence, very public sex this is not for you. But if you aren’t triggered by such things then this reads like the grimmest of Grimm fairytales. It’s this mix of mythology and dark magic that’s gonna be super compelling in a full length novel.

[Cécile Smits · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding this on bookfunnel,i was intrigued,and i decided to find out more.
Reading it,i soon discovered i made the right choice.
This is the story of light versus dark,of spring/summer versus autumn/winter.
Loosely based on the story of Hades and Persephone,this little beauty was something i truelly enjoyed.

[Lorellie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Come away with me, Goddess," Silas whispered. Romantic words - tainted by that smirk. Spoiled by arrogance, by darkness".

I do love the tale of Persephone's abduction! This version, using it as the framework for a dark ritual, is quick and completely enrapturing, if not at all for a more squeamish reader.

I'm totally psyched that Evie's next work is going to be a Loki romance!

[Kate V · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not going to lie...I didn't really understand this novella. I guess its loosely based off Hades and Persephone but I guess I didn't understand the context of what was going on. When I got to the end, I was like what?! no! I need more! So while I honestly didn't understand what was going on, Evie Kent has a gift. Kent can write a beautiful and vivid story. And this story was sexy, entertaining and suspenseful. I just wanted more backstory, more character development and more from the HFN ending. I will be watching for more books from Evie Kent.

[Anne Z. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very short and to the point.
It is dark and steamy and holds great promise to what the author has in store for the future.
Like most novellas you are left wanting for more and feeling like you missed a lot. I wanted to know their past, I felt like I was missing something important the whole time.
That being said, it was creative, dark, sexy, and I truly can't wait to see this author's writing flourish on a whole book. I have a feeling it will be epic.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve always adored the Greek myth of the abduction of Persephone by Hades, the god of the underworld. That’s why I was so happy to find this novella. I feel the author has composed the most enchanting version of this myth I've ever encountered (at least as an adult, reading an adult version of it!). Hades is portrayed as Silas, an evil Warlock King. Persephone is depicted as Riona, Woodland Fairy, Goddess of Summer. Silas will do almost anything to capture her. Riona will do anything to escape, including violence, even though she knows her surrender is inevitable. This story is called a ‘novella,’ but the author states it is slightly longer than a typical short story. I think it is just long enough to be quite satisfying. It’s also perfect for the change of season, from summer to fall, with chilling temperatures and dying leaves that bring the perfect ambience for the reader to enjoy this enchanting, lightly dark, but somehow also sweetly romantic tale. I think it is a 5-star read!

[(the.darkandmoody.reader) · Rating 5 out of 5]

{ARC} 5/5 - Quick, dark, and steamy dubcon novelette — featuring a unique retelling of Persephone and Hades.

This is a teaser for what’s to come next year from Ms. Evie Kent. I’m looking forward to all the dark and dubious stories she’s cooking up.

For a short story it packed full of world building and rounded character development. Silas, a warlock, and Riona, a Fae, have a dubious relationship that collides once a year... in a very steamy and ritual encounter.

Evie Kent weaves an enchanting tale full of mystery, sex, and dark romance. By the end of he story I was panting for more about the dark warlock and spring princess.

* this is a short story available through either the authors newsletter sign-up or BookFunnel.

FYI:

Oral, manual, penetrative sex. Dubious consent. Voyeurism, humiliation, spanking, biting.


I received this arc from the author in an exchange for an hones review ♥️

[Nicola Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hot, hot, HOT!! Absolutely loved this! The author writes under several pen names and I can't get enough of alllll her words! Beautifully written, steamy, seductive, dark... a deliciously sexy clash of good vs evil. This makes my 'anti-heroes and enemies to lovers' heart happy! What a great introduction to this world, can't wait to see what comes next.

[Chani · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this! I'm really excited to see more of this world and more from this author! The characters were fantastic, the plot moved at a perfect pace, and I highly recommend you all check it out! This is a seriously short review because I honestly have nothing bad to say.

[Natalie H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Second novella that isn't what it seems. Has Hades/Persephone vibes and one long questionable sex/sacrifice scene. Short and no so sweet.

[ReadingInPyjamas · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sensual retelling!

Surrender is the perfect introduction to the Lily Of the Valley world. A retelling of the Hades and Persephone myth, this story enthralled me. It was short and steamy, with a touch of darkness, enough to spark my interest in this series. What gripped me from the first page was the writing style. Evie Kent did a wonderful job in putting in words the character's emotions, it was poetic. Riona and Silas's interactions were suspenseful and angsty. The push and pull between them and the dark ambience of the book gave the story a thrilling note. Overall it was a gripping novella and I can't wait to see what comes next in this series.

I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily reviewed it.

[Christy Hall · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted a quick read this morning. I do enjoy short stories and retellings of my favorite myths. Surrender is a retelling of Hades and Persephone. It’s a tough one to make romantic because it is such a brutal act against a young woman. Kent doesn’t do enough to make it romantic. It’s still upsetting in the nature of violence but I imagine from her biography that she likes writing this way. She is talented - great description of scenery, characters and action. It’s hard to develop a fantasy world and characterization in 34 pages but she does a pretty good job. The scene of Silas taking Riona back to his village was a little too much for me so I can’t give this three stars but Kent’s writing is good enough that I couldn’t give it one star. So I’ll safely put it at two and call it a day.

[Lit · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hot & quick read

"For a man with a dagger in his side, he did remarkably well keeping pace…"

Fancy a chase through the woods, adrenaline rushing through your veins and your heart about to thump right out of your chest? Do you want to be caught by a beast of a man and thrown onto an altar as a sexual sacrifice against your will?


You do, eh? This steamy short is just what you’re looking for. Perfectly suitable for a read in public if you have an excellent poker face. Otherwise, save it for a nighttime read. 😉

[TheQDB · Rating 5 out of 5]

Overall: 4.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
Steam: 3/5 ⭐⭐⭐
Feels: 🌿😥💀🤭🔥🖤

~REVIEW🖋~
The Quick and Dirty: An amuse bouche that whets the appetite for Evie Kent's main course: her debut dark paranormal romance series, The Lily of the Valley, releasing in 2020. 🔥🔥🔥

A retelling of the Hades/Persephone tale, but with a twist. It's a novella but beautifully written; one wherein you realize that the narrative is indeed a retelling, but the story also has its own unique identity. I frequently feel unsatisfied by novellas, either due to the lack of character development, world building or rushed pacing, but was pleasantly surprised at the end of this one. I was intrigued by the relationship between the Riona and Silas, and loved how  Riona's conflicted feelings (angst and distress vs. lust and desire) were woven together seamlessly. I can't wait to see how far Evie Kent pushes the envelope with this series!

Grab a copy of this novella for yourself by signing up for her newsletter! (Link below).



~QD STORY DETAILS~ 
Tear jerker: No
Paranormal/Fantasy: Yes
Location: Harper's Grove
Character age range: immortal
Lead: Riona
Love interest(s): Silas
HEA: HFN

~QD BOOK INFO~
Kindle Unlimited: No - newsletter freebie
Audible:No
Series: Yes - Novella part of The Lily of the Valley series
0.5 - Surrender - released 10/01/19 (via newsletter)

~QD 🔥~
Sex/kink type: manual, oral, penetrative, voyeurism, dubious consent
Possible triggers: violence, dubious consent




~CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA~

[Juliette Shelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝑺𝒖𝒓𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓 — 𝑬𝒗𝒊𝒆 𝑲𝒆𝒏𝒕
🌹🌹🌹🌹4/5
Bookstagram



Esta novella fue una absoluta sorpresa para mi.
Nos encontramos con un retelling de la historia de Hades y Persephone.

Y debo decir que me gusto bastante mucho!!!
Estoy muy molesta y triste con la autora por haberlo hecho tan corto!!!!! Necesito más!!!! Me encanto!!!! (Imagínense a mi llorando en este momento desesperada porque no hay más, no hay más libros aun ni nada a lo que aferrarme)

La pluma de Evie Kent es increíble! No te cuesta nada meterte en la historia y es muy muy muy interesante.
Para ser honesta nunca habia leído el mito de Persephone, pero cuando me entere que este estaria basado en el, me decidí y me intrigó mucho más. Esta novela tenia un potencial GIGANTE de ser un libro completo!!!!! Aun tengo la esperanza de que Kent se despierte un dia con ganas de un libro de unas merecidas 300 paginas...

No puedo decir mucho porque es muy corto en realidad. Alrededor de 50 páginas, pero de alguna forma logras conectar con todo inmediatamente.

Si debo decir que es Romance Oscuro Paranormal. Muy oscuro. Así qué entra sabiendo eso...el libro se puede descargar gratuito desde la página de la autora!!!

[Gsmitty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evie Kent's 'Surrender' was everything I could have hoped for from her debut! Dark, tantalizing, teasing, tormenting, devious, and yet delightful, this collision of opposing forces, good and evil, light and dark, was epic!
Ríona and Silas were beautiful. I adore the myth that was explored here, and think that Evie offered an amazing interpretation, with a lot of personality and style injected into it! The chase, the battle of minds and of bodies, the ceremony, the ritual, the passion, and so much more just blew me away and had me craving more! His brooding yet playful nature, her effervescent yet sharp retaliation, everything combining to leave the reader with a combustible story that feeds the imagination! I can't wait to read this again.
I happily surrendered to the reading of this book and enjoyed it tremendously! I now cannot wait to see what the rest of the Lily of the Valley series brings; bring on the next book!

[Momma Says: To Read or Not to Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book! I loved everything about this book! From that absolutely terrific cover to every last word, I loved this book. Surrender is an introduction to Evie Kent, just a taste of what we can expect, and let me tell you, this one blew me away. It's a touch dark, deliciously so, and absolutely beautifully written. The story comes together in only about an hour's read time, but there's a lot of story packed in those pages. The story takes off at high speed and doesn't let up. At one point, I was a little worried about just how dark this one was going to get, what was going to happen with these characters, but Kent pulls it back with perfect timing and gives us a fantastic twist. If you like the fae, magic, and a bit of kink, I highly recommend Surrender. This glimpse into the world of the Lily of the Valley series has left me not so patiently waiting for more.

[thehotmesslibrary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, this is an amazingly hot novella written by Evie Kent. It starts with a bang and just flows until the end. Set in the time of Gods, Goddesses and others the story takes you on a mythical journey of one woman’s sacrifice against the man who holds her body in passionate limbo but who also holds darkness against her light.

This is a very sexy, quick read. The scenes are unbelievably hot between the two characters with a sense of foreboding, forbidden desire and a dark paranormal romance. A must read for dark romance fans everywhere and I am excited to read more by this author.
ARC received for a fair and honest review.

More of my reviews can be found on my blog: https://thehotmesslibrary.blogspot.com

[Gin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quite entrancing! A quick, thrilling read with the enchanting faerie Riona, bride of spring, Queen of summer and a sexy dark warlock, Silas. She makes a deal with the sexy devil but always resist when it’s time to keep her bargain. The writing pulled me into the fast-paced story and keep me guessing until the dramatic ending. It built to a maddening level between our adversaries until the final crescendo of explosive release. I can’t wait to read more from this author!

[Charlotte · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short story/Novella to kick start off the Lily of the Valley series and im hoping these two characters get their own longer book? Mainly because this book is very steamy considering its length im interested to know what happens to them? Two polar opposites in character Riona (FMC and Goddess of Spring) all goodness and light. Whereas Silas is all dark, dangerous and brooding. A dark book for some but not for me i liked it. Just wished it was longer

[Carol 27 · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sexy, seductive, and well written, mesmerizing tale; an intense encounter richly portrayed between compelling participants. Although I wanted more, this is a fabulous introduction to a new series!

I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this novella from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Brenda Moser · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a dark,sexy paranormal romance. The author does a fantastic job bringing the story to life with her descriptive writing and vividly painted scenes. She brings suspense and the forbidden in this short,sexy story. I loved and would recommend this book.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.

[Morgan (youarethelibrarian) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wish the story was longer! But it’s got me intrigued for this world where supernaturals control some places, and there are fae and demons and regular old humans with modern technology and who knows what else! It’s just a taste of what is to come with this series of standalones, and I couldn’t be more excited because I love this author’s writing! It’s so atmospheric and perfect for a fall read!

[Michalle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great debut short story for this author. The story was dark, intense and steamy. This was a modern day re-telling of Hades and Persephone where Silas was a dark high Priest and Riona was a forest Fae. The tale was intriguing and I want more of it.

I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily reviewed it.

[Greyland Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

credit to aurora-strix on Tumblr
This little novel gave me MAJOR Hades and Persephone vibes and, being the hoe I am for Lore Olympus I enjoyed this a lot. Can't wait to see more from this author.

[Romaine Heart · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author takes us on a seductive journey of the retelling of Hades (Silas) and Persephone (Riona). Evil vs good, dark vs light. Dark, twisted, steamy, voyeurism.
Riona, bride of spring, queen of summer, a fae who tries to resist the charms of the dark, sexy warlock, Silas.
A great quick read for what's coming next!!

[Bo0kSLoth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though this is mirely a snippet of what is to come in this new Dark and deliciously wicked retelling, you won't be left down. New gods and goddesses are twisted to fit into the old tales of Olympus in order to maintain the magical balance on the unique world. I can't wait for more

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Veronica Eden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark and sexy with gorgeous prose that teases and enthralls you as much as the characters do! A perfect taste that leaves you eager for more of what's to come in the series. I have a fond love of Greek mythology and loved what Evie did with this retelling!

[Monikat · Rating 5 out of 5]

This seductive tale is almost poetic. Beautifully written and promises intriguing things to come.
I loved her pov, and glimpses of him. Just enough information to pull you in wondering what will happen next. Loved it.