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Demon's Mark #1
Demon's Mark
He is everything she fears - She is everything he needs.
On the run from the demon hell-bent on possessing her, Selma Lehmann finds herself in the hands of a far more dangerous enemy.
Lord Protector Kain is ruthlessly handsome, brutally savage—and exactly the fate she’s feared since the day she learned what kind of creatures hunt her from the shadows. They call her a Breeder, and there’s only one thing a demon Lord could want from her… But if she’s ever going to reclaim her freedom, she will have to trust the monster who swears to protect her from his own kind.
Kain never wanted a mate—only pain awaits a demon foolish enough to give his heart to a human.
When tantalizing Selma lands in his lap, he knows his duty is to put her to auction and return his focus to the war threatening to bring his entire race to its knees.
Yet every instinct in his body roars to make her his, and he’ll have to choose. His heart—or her soul?
On the run from the demon hell-bent on possessing her, Selma Lehmann finds herself in the hands of a far more dangerous enemy.
Lord Protector Kain is ruthlessly handsome, brutally savage—and exactly the fate she’s feared since the day she learned what kind of creatures hunt her from the shadows. They call her a Breeder, and there’s only one thing a demon Lord could want from her… But if she’s ever going to reclaim her freedom, she will have to trust the monster who swears to protect her from his own kind.
Kain never wanted a mate—only pain awaits a demon foolish enough to give his heart to a human.
When tantalizing Selma lands in his lap, he knows his duty is to put her to auction and return his focus to the war threatening to bring his entire race to its knees.
Yet every instinct in his body roars to make her his, and he’ll have to choose. His heart—or her soul?
Make sure you read the prequel BRANDED to get Selma's full story!
For fans of Kresley Cole’s Immortals After Dark series and Gena Showalter’s Gods of War comes this smoking hot Demon Romance from bestselling author Nora Ash.
Steamy Paranormal Romance at its best!
Please note: this book has previously been released as a 6-part serial under the same name.
496 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 4, 2015
About the author
Nora Ash
45 books1,307 followersI am Nora Ash, and I write a plethora of different romance books. Some of them are really dirty, some of them are only kinda-dirty, some are paranormal, some are contemporary… Basically, I have a rampant imagination and no way of controlling it, except from just writing down whichever idea pops into my head at the time.
The one thing my books always have in common, though? A great story and a guaranteed HEA.
If you’re ever in doubt about what you’re about to read, have a look at my book page. It has a flame rating for each series, so you know what you’re getting yourself into!
I’m originally from the cold North (AKA Scandinavia) but these days I live in rainy England with my amazing fiancé and our two pesty cats. When I’m not writing, I’m probably reading, watching Real Housewives of Wherever (reality tv it’s my shameful addiction) or hiking in whatever bit of woodland I can find.
Three fun facts about me
I once ran away with a traveling circus
I’m bilingual. Almost-kinda trilingual, but my Spanish is terri-bad these days.
I’m a decent rider (English style only, though)
You can (and definitely should!) keep in touch with me via my newsletter or by joining my Facebook group.
The one thing my books always have in common, though? A great story and a guaranteed HEA.
If you’re ever in doubt about what you’re about to read, have a look at my book page. It has a flame rating for each series, so you know what you’re getting yourself into!
I’m originally from the cold North (AKA Scandinavia) but these days I live in rainy England with my amazing fiancé and our two pesty cats. When I’m not writing, I’m probably reading, watching Real Housewives of Wherever (reality tv it’s my shameful addiction) or hiking in whatever bit of woodland I can find.
Three fun facts about me
I once ran away with a traveling circus
I’m bilingual. Almost-kinda trilingual, but my Spanish is terri-bad these days.
I’m a decent rider (English style only, though)
You can (and definitely should!) keep in touch with me via my newsletter or by joining my Facebook group.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 240 reviews
March 12, 2023
Demons need love too!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙💚💜❤️🖤
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌎🌍🌏🌎🌏
Character development: 😤😠🙃😍😘
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Dual Narration
The heroine: Selma - she has been able see monsters her entire life. They hide behind human skins so nobody else saw them and when she was a child, she was taken to a multitude of doctors because of it. She knew that she shouldn’t be out after dark because that is when they were out in force. However, when her boss made her work late one night and she saw three monsters drag a woman into an alley, and when she went to help, she was attacked and woke up at a mental hospital.
The Story: Selma had known that some monsters hid in plain sight, as teachers, bankers, and many other professions. However, she had never before had one as a psychiatrist where she was supposed to talk about her issues. When she tried to lie about what happened, Dr. Hershey knew she was lying and would have none of it. So she explained what happened in that alley until she passed out.
Selma trusts her new psychiatrist despite the fact that he is a handsome demon with horns and pointed ears. Dr. Marathin Hershey is also chief psychiatrist at Ravenswood House. He prescribes an unorthodox treatment for her psychiatric disorder. However, Selma soon finds out he has nefarious plans for her. So she runs away.
The Hero: Lord Protector Kain - after Selmas escapes from the mental hospital. Something about her had him on edge. He was the Lord of the Minnesota territory and was in charge of finding a group of female demons that were rumored to have settled in his territory and might be a precursor for the queen to try to break through from the North, in Canada. He sees that she is a breeder in need of protection.
This was an odd romance, since Selma is attracted to and hooks up with her doctor before the Hero is ever introduced into the story. Kain was a demon, but he was a much better man than Marathin Hershey who wanted to dominate and control every aspect of Selma’s life. I liked Kain, but didn’t like parts of this story, such as the auction and public claiming. Plus the fact that as a breeder Selma was seen as an object to be owned. Though overall I really did enjoy the story and the narration was great.
This book was told in dual points of view via dual narration and was narrated by Stella Hunter and Jason Clarke. These are two of my favorite narrators. Stella has an soft feminine voice and does a decent man’s voice as well. Jason has a deep gravelly voice and shows a lot of emotion through his voice and I just love his narration.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙💚💜❤️🖤
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌎🌍🌏🌎🌏
Character development: 😤😠🙃😍😘
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Dual Narration
The heroine: Selma - she has been able see monsters her entire life. They hide behind human skins so nobody else saw them and when she was a child, she was taken to a multitude of doctors because of it. She knew that she shouldn’t be out after dark because that is when they were out in force. However, when her boss made her work late one night and she saw three monsters drag a woman into an alley, and when she went to help, she was attacked and woke up at a mental hospital.
The Story: Selma had known that some monsters hid in plain sight, as teachers, bankers, and many other professions. However, she had never before had one as a psychiatrist where she was supposed to talk about her issues. When she tried to lie about what happened, Dr. Hershey knew she was lying and would have none of it. So she explained what happened in that alley until she passed out.
Selma trusts her new psychiatrist despite the fact that he is a handsome demon with horns and pointed ears. Dr. Marathin Hershey is also chief psychiatrist at Ravenswood House. He prescribes an unorthodox treatment for her psychiatric disorder. However, Selma soon finds out he has nefarious plans for her. So she runs away.
The Hero: Lord Protector Kain - after Selmas escapes from the mental hospital. Something about her had him on edge. He was the Lord of the Minnesota territory and was in charge of finding a group of female demons that were rumored to have settled in his territory and might be a precursor for the queen to try to break through from the North, in Canada. He sees that she is a breeder in need of protection.
This was an odd romance, since Selma is attracted to and hooks up with her doctor before the Hero is ever introduced into the story. Kain was a demon, but he was a much better man than Marathin Hershey who wanted to dominate and control every aspect of Selma’s life. I liked Kain, but didn’t like parts of this story, such as the auction and public claiming. Plus the fact that as a breeder Selma was seen as an object to be owned. Though overall I really did enjoy the story and the narration was great.
This book was told in dual points of view via dual narration and was narrated by Stella Hunter and Jason Clarke. These are two of my favorite narrators. Stella has an soft feminine voice and does a decent man’s voice as well. Jason has a deep gravelly voice and shows a lot of emotion through his voice and I just love his narration.
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December 28, 2016
Personally I felt like this book could have been great but fell immensely far from the mark. That's not to say it was a horrible read, or even the kind of read I couldn't finish. I did finish the entire boxed series.
The first thing that needs to be noted is how graphic this book is. Granted, it's a romance and a steamy one with all that entails. This is my preferred genre both as a reader and an author, but this book fell short on several platforms for me.
First there was the fact that the first major male presence we have is the doctor and not the actual main male protagonist, Kain. I think if we knew Kain had been coming by seeing his presence in a flash ahead or simply a scene or two with just him where we got to know him as a harsh tear before we were halfway through the collection and there was very little character build on him that would have been much easier to swallow. As it was, the only indication we had that the doctor wasn't going to be our main male squeeze was the fact that it was mentioned in blurb about the book and the fact that the doctor was a reprehensible guy.
That reprehensible personality was a bit of a strike two for me. I'm a big believer in evil characters of varying accounts but this guy was just yuck. The bloodthirsty aspects I can appreciate, they are demons after all, but the whole bizarre rape creepy fisting thing that happened repeatedly was just a bit much. I mean ok I can even bend my sensibilities with rape scenes we have to fully witness, which in itself is kind of unnecessary to go into that type of detail for something so awful that will surely give rape victims pause and horrible rekindled memories. The part that bothered me the most was the fact that I completely was unsure how I was supposed to feel while reading it. It almost seemed for a bit that the author wanted us to be ok or even turned on by the graphic scenes with the doctor. That part really struck me as odd and wrong. For a few minutes there I was even wondering if the doctor and the main character were going to end up together. Thank goodness they did not.
Then there was the whole fisting bit and giant dick with ridges the demons seem to have. I'm all for guys being well endowed but really what was up with the idea that these guys are so overly endowed that it's actually painful for the girl long term. This isn't like the kind of thing the girl will ever get used to either, it was pretty much stated that for the deed to be please the for the females at all the marking that puts them into a sexual frenzy needs to be used every time. Kind of kills the moment repeatedly if you ask me.
Finally, there was the fact that the book sort of just ended. It was as if there should have been another chapter at least to wrap up the story. Instead we are left with what's practically a cliffhanger with no promise or intention of anything else being ever written. By the time I got passed all the other issues and started to enjoy the two main characters together dealing with the antagonistic points the book just dropped me off on the side of the road and drove away without a backwards glance. Kind of pissed me off to be completely honest.
Overall, I'll say I liked the premise but it needed some serious work and completion before it went to print. The author also definitely needs some beta readers, if they don't already have some. If they do than they need to either listen to them better or they need a wider variety to give more comprehensive feedback. Perhaps in a few years I'll try another book by the author after they've had time to grow in their work. Until then I think I'll move onto greener pastures where there's more love in the thriller type plot and less rape and confusing emotions.
The first thing that needs to be noted is how graphic this book is. Granted, it's a romance and a steamy one with all that entails. This is my preferred genre both as a reader and an author, but this book fell short on several platforms for me.
First there was the fact that the first major male presence we have is the doctor and not the actual main male protagonist, Kain. I think if we knew Kain had been coming by seeing his presence in a flash ahead or simply a scene or two with just him where we got to know him as a harsh tear before we were halfway through the collection and there was very little character build on him that would have been much easier to swallow. As it was, the only indication we had that the doctor wasn't going to be our main male squeeze was the fact that it was mentioned in blurb about the book and the fact that the doctor was a reprehensible guy.
That reprehensible personality was a bit of a strike two for me. I'm a big believer in evil characters of varying accounts but this guy was just yuck. The bloodthirsty aspects I can appreciate, they are demons after all, but the whole bizarre rape creepy fisting thing that happened repeatedly was just a bit much. I mean ok I can even bend my sensibilities with rape scenes we have to fully witness, which in itself is kind of unnecessary to go into that type of detail for something so awful that will surely give rape victims pause and horrible rekindled memories. The part that bothered me the most was the fact that I completely was unsure how I was supposed to feel while reading it. It almost seemed for a bit that the author wanted us to be ok or even turned on by the graphic scenes with the doctor. That part really struck me as odd and wrong. For a few minutes there I was even wondering if the doctor and the main character were going to end up together. Thank goodness they did not.
Then there was the whole fisting bit and giant dick with ridges the demons seem to have. I'm all for guys being well endowed but really what was up with the idea that these guys are so overly endowed that it's actually painful for the girl long term. This isn't like the kind of thing the girl will ever get used to either, it was pretty much stated that for the deed to be please the for the females at all the marking that puts them into a sexual frenzy needs to be used every time. Kind of kills the moment repeatedly if you ask me.
Finally, there was the fact that the book sort of just ended. It was as if there should have been another chapter at least to wrap up the story. Instead we are left with what's practically a cliffhanger with no promise or intention of anything else being ever written. By the time I got passed all the other issues and started to enjoy the two main characters together dealing with the antagonistic points the book just dropped me off on the side of the road and drove away without a backwards glance. Kind of pissed me off to be completely honest.
Overall, I'll say I liked the premise but it needed some serious work and completion before it went to print. The author also definitely needs some beta readers, if they don't already have some. If they do than they need to either listen to them better or they need a wider variety to give more comprehensive feedback. Perhaps in a few years I'll try another book by the author after they've had time to grow in their work. Until then I think I'll move onto greener pastures where there's more love in the thriller type plot and less rape and confusing emotions.
October 22, 2022
4.5 stars
So the way I see it, Branded + Demon's Mark = gods and goddesses (oh yay!) playing dices with humanity... as usual 😅.
Wow, what an awesome book! Though I read the original six part serial (re: Hunted, Captured, Claimed and Cherished) years ago, I am stunned anew by the epicness of this story. So many twists, so many obstacles that kept me on the edge of my seat! This was a packed full story with a very good pace and very original story elements that meshed beautifully together under the expert hands of the author. Bravo Nora Ash, this is a win!
Just like I did for Book 1 Branded, I skimmed read in parallel the original serial for comparison. And yes, I loved this rewritten version the best. Because Selma was infinitely less abused on page (these were thankfully removed/ changed/ toned down: ). While reading some of the edited scenes sometimes gave the impression of abrupt change of scenes, it enabled the story to focus more to the point on the development of the romance between Selma and Kain. Which is 💯 welcomed. Like I pointed out in my review for Book 1, the edits in the first book helped a lot in removing any ambiguity between Selma and Marathin. Even in scenes where the infamous 'ring' is involved, the interaction between Selma and Kain read completely opposite to the abuse she experienced with Marathin in Book 1. Nora Ash did really a great job on the rewrite to tighten the original story (which was already great) and elevate it notches higher. I guess that some readers may complain that the rewritten story is now less dark but my poor little heart is grateful for the toning down.
And in the new version, Selma felt much more affirmed in personality throughout the book, showing a consistent character development from when we first meet her until she kicks asses hard in the last part of this book (oh yay!). Kain's backstory remained the best part of old and new versions (no change). His story is still top notch and totally explains who he is when he meets Selma and what are his motivations. Although forged in his traumatic childhood, all the hurt has built him into a one of a kind demon with a strong moral compass towards human breeders. In a way, he would not have conquered Selma if he was just like other demons. I loved his angst over Selma *chef's kiss* - the way he was so caring and considerate with Selma, always feeling guilty and assuming that he has hurt her, needing her consent, and selflessly letting her go. Kain is total big ❤, who Nora Ash has successfully differentiated from toxic Marathin. And let's not forget that it is through his deep and eternal love for Selma that she comes into her full power! And yes, Love is the answer... as usual 🥰!
About the sex scenes... oh my gosh... No surprise here that Nora Ash's pen is really, really good at writing dirty wicked good smut 🥵😍! (expect )
While reading this book, it occurred to me that the world building of Nora Ash for this duet is so well thought and well done that it has the huge potential of being expanded (infinitely!) into a magnus opus à la GoT, in an even more sexy and primal version. Seriously, I am not joking. The world building smells of epic stories, what with: gods, goddesses, wars at all levels spanning centuries, demons, demonesses, dark/light magic, betrayals and celestial plans, politics, humans being seers/ breeders, romances, fertility issues, mating rituals/ rules, barbaric customs, sanctuaries... I would love to see it both in books and onscreen.
It also occurred to me that the story in this duet had many elements of modern day omegaverse. Given the original publication date, I might even say that it was a prelude to omegaverse? There were scents, pheromones, hums, growls, induced heats, fated mates, claims, rutting, protectiveness towards the female... only the knots (though there were 'ridges' - yikes/ yay!), nesting and designation were missing. Maybe I am wrong but kudos Nora Ash for the plot creativity!
Other random thoughts on the story:
😈 Loved how Marathin evilness was essentially subdued to the bare minimum. What a relief! And .
😈 Some of the rewritten scenes were in fact pov changes to the same scenes (note: the duet is written in 3rd person narrative). It was interesting to read complementary povs in the original serial. So that might be an incentive to read both versions.
😈 I think I felt the same when I read the serial the first time around, but really how convenient that ! I mean this is a golden trope for justified smut on page 🥵! Loved it of course (even if )
😈 I did not like Selma's tone (repeatedly) when referring to Kane's mother. I know she cares for her mate's welfare, but as a once hunted and abused prey herself, shouldn't she at least be able to appreciate the other woman's perceived nightmare? Everyone is different and the situation in which breeder humans found themselves is not a comfortable one, at all.
😈 Kain's father is an interesting character with hidden depths and hurts. Any chance for more background on him in the future?
😈
😈 My biggest rant here concerns the damn I have not considered this in my rating for this book but I will be disappointed if it is not explained away in future books.
😈 Unanswered questions at the end of this book:
😈 Loved the book cover compared to the ones for the serial, but Kain is not like this at all!
So, I totally recommend this book if you want an epic love story, with fantasy elements and a complex world building, that is not only well written but has also scorching smut to boot. I think that for a new reader, reading this duet is the thing to do and there is no need to go back to the original serial. You might be tempted to read the original story though, if you want a much darker, ambiguous, perverted and claustrophic version. The parallel reading was an interesting experience as well. But in future, my re-reads will only include the duet versions. In the meantime, crossing fingers for Kesh's book (loved his acerbic humour), soon I hope.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2019
After Branded,i knew i need to find out Selma’s fate.
I mean,she ran from that bastard,Marathin,but that didn’t mean she was safe......
So when i was offered the ARC for Demon’s Mark,i immediately responded with a YES,PLEASE!!!
It was a hell of a ride,but i loved every second!
And the good news is,that there is going to be more.....Kain has a brother that needs his story told.
Selma was on the run,and not seeing the demons true form was frightening....
But even if she couldn’t see Kain’s,she knew he was one,and she had to get away from him.
And landed into more trouble with female demons,intent on hurting her.
Luckily for her,Lord Protector Kain couldn’t let a Breeder run loose in his territory,and he went after her.
He saves her,and even though he feels a deep need to claim this little breeder,he decides to take her to be auctioned.
Finding out she hates being a breeder,makes him think again.
The chance of a fate for her like his mothers.....not going there.
This demon is different,and it puzzles Selma.
Even though she knows he wants her badly,he does the unexpected and takes her wishes seriously.
After saving her,again and again,she knows in her heart this is a good man.
And when he needs saving,she doesn’t think twice about returning the favor.
Finding out there’s more to her than meets the eye,is véry helpful!
There were so many twists and turns,it kept me on the edge of my seat.
Needing to know if they had a chance to be together,kept me reading and reading until, at last,i knew.....
This was a rollercoaster ride,and i loved every minute of it!
I mean,she ran from that bastard,Marathin,but that didn’t mean she was safe......
So when i was offered the ARC for Demon’s Mark,i immediately responded with a YES,PLEASE!!!
It was a hell of a ride,but i loved every second!
And the good news is,that there is going to be more.....Kain has a brother that needs his story told.
Selma was on the run,and not seeing the demons true form was frightening....
But even if she couldn’t see Kain’s,she knew he was one,and she had to get away from him.
And landed into more trouble with female demons,intent on hurting her.
Luckily for her,Lord Protector Kain couldn’t let a Breeder run loose in his territory,and he went after her.
He saves her,and even though he feels a deep need to claim this little breeder,he decides to take her to be auctioned.
Finding out she hates being a breeder,makes him think again.
The chance of a fate for her like his mothers.....not going there.
This demon is different,and it puzzles Selma.
Even though she knows he wants her badly,he does the unexpected and takes her wishes seriously.
After saving her,again and again,she knows in her heart this is a good man.
And when he needs saving,she doesn’t think twice about returning the favor.
Finding out there’s more to her than meets the eye,is véry helpful!
There were so many twists and turns,it kept me on the edge of my seat.
Needing to know if they had a chance to be together,kept me reading and reading until, at last,i knew.....
This was a rollercoaster ride,and i loved every minute of it!
May 6, 2021
I was getting into the book quiet well until the scene where the bedpost came into it.. I actually had to put the book down for a few days. I was in total shock.. but besides that scene This author has definitely created an interesting world, with a great cast of characters and well a whole lotta hot demon sex!
I will give the next book a go..
I will give the next book a go..
March 27, 2021
3.5 stars!
Demon's Mark is the story of Kain and Selma and is set up as a unique twist on an Omegaverse. I did not read the prequel for Selma's story but I don't think it was entirely necessary. Ash has created a captivating world of demons and breeders. Selma is a breeder but a special kind of breeder and after escaping her own personal hell, she finds herself right back into the arms of another demon she sees as her enemy. But Kain is so much more than she originally thinks.
Kain, despite being a demon, is a protector and his possessive nature is screaming to protect and possess Selma. Kain may be the only one that can save and protect her even though he never wanted a mate. Can Selma trust Kain? Can Kain save Selma? Can they make a life together despite the challenging forces and war brewing?
First, I like Omegaverse but I tend to stay in the shallow end of Omegaverse reads because they can get very dark. I would classify this as on the lighter end. This story had a great plot line, nice world building and a heavy dose of action. The steamy bits were good but since I didn't like the heroine all the time, I felt disconnected from their romance. My biggest problem with the heroine was her reaction to Kain when she saw his true form. Personally, I liked his true form better.
Overall, a decent read. I will definitely be picking up more of Ash's books in the future!
Demon's Mark is the story of Kain and Selma and is set up as a unique twist on an Omegaverse. I did not read the prequel for Selma's story but I don't think it was entirely necessary. Ash has created a captivating world of demons and breeders. Selma is a breeder but a special kind of breeder and after escaping her own personal hell, she finds herself right back into the arms of another demon she sees as her enemy. But Kain is so much more than she originally thinks.
Kain, despite being a demon, is a protector and his possessive nature is screaming to protect and possess Selma. Kain may be the only one that can save and protect her even though he never wanted a mate. Can Selma trust Kain? Can Kain save Selma? Can they make a life together despite the challenging forces and war brewing?
First, I like Omegaverse but I tend to stay in the shallow end of Omegaverse reads because they can get very dark. I would classify this as on the lighter end. This story had a great plot line, nice world building and a heavy dose of action. The steamy bits were good but since I didn't like the heroine all the time, I felt disconnected from their romance. My biggest problem with the heroine was her reaction to Kain when she saw his true form. Personally, I liked his true form better.
Overall, a decent read. I will definitely be picking up more of Ash's books in the future!
Read
February 14, 2022Is it crazy of me to NOT READ THIS because I'm a fan of the bad demon from BRANDED? I don't know Kian, and I sure as hell am having mixed feelings with the fact the heroine had sex with the demon in Branded only to fall for another demon here...hmmm...this is a pass for me because I would have preferred Selma to end up with the first demon, despite the way he treated her....well I'm a lover of dark romance so I felt it had plenty of room and angst to grow with.
April 8, 2018
4.5 STARS
Hell yeah! This is one sexy read!
What’s not to love about this hot, filthy, carnal read? Nora Ash knows how to write them and this book was pure sinful pleasure!!! 😏
Hell yeah! This is one sexy read!
What’s not to love about this hot, filthy, carnal read? Nora Ash knows how to write them and this book was pure sinful pleasure!!! 😏
October 25, 2019
Lord Kain...At Your Service...
Demon's Mark is book number 1 of this amazing demonic series and you will need to have read the prequel book 'Branded' before you read this book as it won't make much sense to you if you don't. :)
Selma is on the run from Marathin. Tiered, dirty and terrified she happens upon Lord Protector Kain.
Originally on a different mission, Lord Kain has enough to worry about than the little breeder he spies entering the pub. There have been reports of females entering his territory and it's his job as Protector to deal with them.
No longer able to see through a demon's disguise (read the prequel Branded!) doesn't mean Selma can't feel them. And there is definitely something telling about the handsome yet very large male sitting in the dark corner, but by running away - she finds herself in even more dangerous trouble.
Female demons... and they HATE breeders.
It seems Selma and Kain's paths are destined to cross, can Selma trust again? Is Kain just like every other demon she's met so far?
This series is dark erotica with some serious Alpha Males, demons, dubious consent, power exchange ++, so you have been warned, but I absolutely loved it! It's HAWT and it's sexy!
And Selma and Kain's story is, in my opinion, a beautiful one. Kain shows us that there is so much more at stake than small things. And believe it or not, this giant Alpha Male demon? He's got a heart. And he is fiercely protective.
I can not wait for the last instalment in the series: Prince of Demons!
**I received this ARC copy for free in exchange for an honest review**
Demon's Mark is book number 1 of this amazing demonic series and you will need to have read the prequel book 'Branded' before you read this book as it won't make much sense to you if you don't. :)
Selma is on the run from Marathin. Tiered, dirty and terrified she happens upon Lord Protector Kain.
Originally on a different mission, Lord Kain has enough to worry about than the little breeder he spies entering the pub. There have been reports of females entering his territory and it's his job as Protector to deal with them.
No longer able to see through a demon's disguise (read the prequel Branded!) doesn't mean Selma can't feel them. And there is definitely something telling about the handsome yet very large male sitting in the dark corner, but by running away - she finds herself in even more dangerous trouble.
Female demons... and they HATE breeders.
It seems Selma and Kain's paths are destined to cross, can Selma trust again? Is Kain just like every other demon she's met so far?
This series is dark erotica with some serious Alpha Males, demons, dubious consent, power exchange ++, so you have been warned, but I absolutely loved it! It's HAWT and it's sexy!
And Selma and Kain's story is, in my opinion, a beautiful one. Kain shows us that there is so much more at stake than small things. And believe it or not, this giant Alpha Male demon? He's got a heart. And he is fiercely protective.
I can not wait for the last instalment in the series: Prince of Demons!
**I received this ARC copy for free in exchange for an honest review**
August 3, 2022
*Audiobook ALC Review* First, let's get the TW/CW out of the way. Violence, forced breeding, and rape. That said, WHOA! I loved Selma and Kain's story and everything about this book. The world building is fascinating and grips you from the very beginning. The things Selma endures at the hands of demons is disturbing and horrific. I wasn't sure if I'd get past that, but then Kain appears. Even then, DAYUMN. The things he does to her had me warring in my brain between how hot it was and how I should be thinking it was wrong. Hottness won out. Kain proved that demons can have a good heart when push comes to shove. Even though he was sworn to protect her, he still gave her her freedom. But, what Selma found out in Colorado only solidified the suspicion that love conquers and heals all. They were definitely a pair to be reckoned with and I can't wait to listen to Kash's story next. I may just eyeball read it because I'm impatient. Stella Hunter narrated a large majority of the book and is a freaking Goddess! Don't worry, there's lots of growly, sexy demon Jason Clarke too. There were definitely some raw moments and I teared up because of their performances. This one is dark, but oh so satisfying!
October 25, 2019
Demons👹 R Us
Super Alphas👹🍆⛲ secretly rule the world🌍!
Demons👹 in disguise now rule the 🌎Earth, their true horned form only seen by rare DNA compatible human women called breeders💃💋. These women are taken from the population by The Demons👹 as soon as they mature for mates.
Selma💃💋 avoids her fate for years by denying she can see the Demons' true forms👹, which she labels as monsters👹! Eventually she is caught and determined to be a pure breeder, a priceless human woman, reserved only for the lust of a Demon Lord👹🍆⛲.
ARC Received from Hidden 💎Gems
This book was $4.99 on Amazon at the time of this review.
Opinions Expressed here are entirely my own.
This novella is XXX ADULT all the way with BDSM elements. There are also graphic descriptions of violence by the Demon Lord Kain👹 against perceived threats to his breeder, Selma💃💋.
I don't like the fact that this is just one novella in a series that ends in a cliffhanger each time. The reader must buy the entire series of novellas to read The whole story.
Super Alphas👹🍆⛲ secretly rule the world🌍!
Demons👹 in disguise now rule the 🌎Earth, their true horned form only seen by rare DNA compatible human women called breeders💃💋. These women are taken from the population by The Demons👹 as soon as they mature for mates.
Selma💃💋 avoids her fate for years by denying she can see the Demons' true forms👹, which she labels as monsters👹! Eventually she is caught and determined to be a pure breeder, a priceless human woman, reserved only for the lust of a Demon Lord👹🍆⛲.
ARC Received from Hidden 💎Gems
This book was $4.99 on Amazon at the time of this review.
Opinions Expressed here are entirely my own.
This novella is XXX ADULT all the way with BDSM elements. There are also graphic descriptions of violence by the Demon Lord Kain👹 against perceived threats to his breeder, Selma💃💋.
I don't like the fact that this is just one novella in a series that ends in a cliffhanger each time. The reader must buy the entire series of novellas to read The whole story.
October 25, 2019
This novel is the full length follow up to the short prequel of "Branded" by Nora Ash. "Demon's Mark" picks up Selma's story a few months after her escape from the psychiatric hospital and a dire future with Marathin. The first ten pages of this novel sets the tone for the rest of the book. There is plenty of butt kicking, sexual attraction, steamy erotica, witty banter, paranormal activity and heartfelt sentiments. There are twists and turns as well as "I saw that coming" moments that make this story interesting and a page turner. Although it ends with a HEA, I also felt it was a cliffhanger. However the ride you take reading this novel, the ending is worth it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 9, 2022
Narration:🎙🎙🎙🎙
Spice: 🌶🌶
Troupe: captive
Triggers: r@pe
First off trigger warning! If you are sensitive to assault in stories, this one is not for you. Force and coercion is a consistent theme from the beginning of the story. Literally within the first 5 minutes.
Overall it was decent. There was a lot of sex but it wasn’t spicy if that makes sense. It wasn’t stimulating. I may listen to book 2.
Spice: 🌶🌶
Troupe: captive
Triggers: r@pe
First off trigger warning! If you are sensitive to assault in stories, this one is not for you. Force and coercion is a consistent theme from the beginning of the story. Literally within the first 5 minutes.
Overall it was decent. There was a lot of sex but it wasn’t spicy if that makes sense. It wasn’t stimulating. I may listen to book 2.
Did Not Finish
February 17, 2025DNF at 62%. Cleaning out my Kindle. I just can’t get into it. I read this last year but kept pausing hoping I’d be in the right mood but throwing in the towel.
I also hate that I bought the prologue separately since I wanted to read the whole story in one book, which is Branded. The prologue was so much better than the actual story… hero wasn’t as memorable as the villain.
I also hate that I bought the prologue separately since I wanted to read the whole story in one book, which is Branded. The prologue was so much better than the actual story… hero wasn’t as memorable as the villain.
January 24, 2024
DNF at 49%
I really tried here. But this is most definitely not for me.
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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I really tried here. But this is most definitely not for me.
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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May 25, 2025
Wow this was intense. I think the much-discussed fisting scene was removed from the version I read. It was smutty, but there was a lot of good character development and fascinating world building. I couldn’t put it down.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2026
This audiobook was such a fun time omg!!!
And I really want a Keerigan book now!
And I really want a Keerigan book now!
September 29, 2026
Haven’t read a demon fantasy in awhile but this was really good
September 7, 2022
This was such a unique book, and I do not want to give too much away. I have enjoyed several of Nora‘s PNR writing, and was excited to dive into a Demon PNR… yes… yes I liked it very much! 🔥 Nora created a whole new creative and highly detailed world in that demons walk among us. They just use glamour to make themselves look human… Only very special humans can see their true form. This is a very dark, sometimes disturbing, yet very romantic story. Granted there are potential triggers for sensitive readers. *check the authors TW/CW*
There are plenty of explicit sex scenes but also touchingly endearing back stories of both characters.
Selma escapes an awful fate of being a human breeder to a very cruel and sadistic Demon. When she is on the run she caught the eye of Kain. He didn’t know why he was so concerned and drawn to this woman, because the last thing this Demon Lord needed was a human woman. Kaine never wanted to take a mate. (When Demons find their mate, they are bound together for forever). Selma was hesitant on trusting Kaine,but she had a sense he could be trusted. She sometimes even felt cherished and protected. Kaine fought against his own dark demon instincts to protect Selma from the other Lord demons, as well as from himself sometimes. Kain and Selma go through so much together, and it really touched my heart with the tender moments. It is a nailbiter that’s for sure!
Jason Clarke and Stella Hunter narrate this delicious book, and OH MAN! do both of them deliver! Jason just blew me away with his performance as Kain. There are so many different sides to him. Dominating, scary, protecting, patient, loving, loyal, and yet vulnerable at times..and… Super-uber growly perfection! Kain is definitely a demon you would fall for. Stella portrayed Selma’s scared, determined, strong, vulnerable, but very innocent persona perfectly. She goes from being afraid to finding her strength and her inner power. Stellar performance!
There are plenty of explicit sex scenes but also touchingly endearing back stories of both characters.
Selma escapes an awful fate of being a human breeder to a very cruel and sadistic Demon. When she is on the run she caught the eye of Kain. He didn’t know why he was so concerned and drawn to this woman, because the last thing this Demon Lord needed was a human woman. Kaine never wanted to take a mate. (When Demons find their mate, they are bound together for forever). Selma was hesitant on trusting Kaine,but she had a sense he could be trusted. She sometimes even felt cherished and protected. Kaine fought against his own dark demon instincts to protect Selma from the other Lord demons, as well as from himself sometimes. Kain and Selma go through so much together, and it really touched my heart with the tender moments. It is a nailbiter that’s for sure!
Jason Clarke and Stella Hunter narrate this delicious book, and OH MAN! do both of them deliver! Jason just blew me away with his performance as Kain. There are so many different sides to him. Dominating, scary, protecting, patient, loving, loyal, and yet vulnerable at times..and… Super-uber growly perfection! Kain is definitely a demon you would fall for. Stella portrayed Selma’s scared, determined, strong, vulnerable, but very innocent persona perfectly. She goes from being afraid to finding her strength and her inner power. Stellar performance!
August 10, 2022
*AudioBook ALC Review*
I’m more of a Vampire Witch Hybrid kinda gal, but who knew I could fall for a Demon?
Well, when you combine the raw, gritty and sexy writing talents of Nora, with one of the hottest pairings in audio that’s how: Stella Hunter and Jason Clarke were amazing!
This is my first foray into Nora’s PNR world: I loved her Made & Broken Series – Dark Mafia Romance so I knew I’d enjoy this book.
Right off the bat, this is very dark, with violence, rape and forced breeding so keep that in mind when you go into this book.
When we meet Selma, she is what's known as a 'breeder' and highly sort after one at that, and she has to face some intense and violent scenes, and through her grit and determination, she manages to survive and escape and while on the run, meets Kain and oh the sizzle and crackle is instant.
Kain being the all fearing, sexy yet very broody Demon feels an instant attraction and urge to protect his ‘little one’.
Selma could sense instantly that Kain was different to the other Demons, he cared for her but didn’t want to control or force her into anything – Selma was feisty and he loved the sassiness.
Together they faced some terrifying moments, and emotions ran high – the tender-sweet moments between them were so touching, there were moments of despair too, but in the end Selma and Kain got their HEA.
I can’t wait to hear Kash’s story in the next book: Prince of Demon’s
Once again, Stella and Jason’s performance was phenomenal - Stella did much of the heavy lifting and narrated the majority of the book, while Jason worked his magic with his trademark sexy growl, well I knew I was a gonner!
I’m a big fan of both of these artists, and I adore them in this series – trust Jason to make me fall for a Demon!
I’m more of a Vampire Witch Hybrid kinda gal, but who knew I could fall for a Demon?
Well, when you combine the raw, gritty and sexy writing talents of Nora, with one of the hottest pairings in audio that’s how: Stella Hunter and Jason Clarke were amazing!
This is my first foray into Nora’s PNR world: I loved her Made & Broken Series – Dark Mafia Romance so I knew I’d enjoy this book.
Right off the bat, this is very dark, with violence, rape and forced breeding so keep that in mind when you go into this book.
When we meet Selma, she is what's known as a 'breeder' and highly sort after one at that, and she has to face some intense and violent scenes, and through her grit and determination, she manages to survive and escape and while on the run, meets Kain and oh the sizzle and crackle is instant.
Kain being the all fearing, sexy yet very broody Demon feels an instant attraction and urge to protect his ‘little one’.
Selma could sense instantly that Kain was different to the other Demons, he cared for her but didn’t want to control or force her into anything – Selma was feisty and he loved the sassiness.
Together they faced some terrifying moments, and emotions ran high – the tender-sweet moments between them were so touching, there were moments of despair too, but in the end Selma and Kain got their HEA.
I can’t wait to hear Kash’s story in the next book: Prince of Demon’s
Once again, Stella and Jason’s performance was phenomenal - Stella did much of the heavy lifting and narrated the majority of the book, while Jason worked his magic with his trademark sexy growl, well I knew I was a gonner!
I’m a big fan of both of these artists, and I adore them in this series – trust Jason to make me fall for a Demon!
August 5, 2022
**Audio Review**
Demon’s Mark by Nora Ash was one dark thrilling spicy omegaverse ride. This may have been my first “demon” romance, and I was definitely intrigued! Kain and Selma’s journey to HEA is full of shocking twists and gripping turns that kept me on the edge of my seat till the very end.
Jason Clarke and Stella Hunter narrate this audiobook and show how talented they are with Nora’s words. This story is told in 3rd person point of view. In Stella’s performance as Selma, a human breeder, you could feel her pain, vulnerability, and strength as she discovers are true calling and her love for Kain. Jason conveys Kain’s alluring, dominant, and alpha Lord Demon's side in his surly growly tone.
Overall, I enjoyed this audiobook. It was different from what I normally listen to, so it was fun to explore a little darker trope. I’m so happy that Kain and Selma found their HEA, and I look forward to Kain’s brother’s romance next.
Demon’s Mark by Nora Ash was one dark thrilling spicy omegaverse ride. This may have been my first “demon” romance, and I was definitely intrigued! Kain and Selma’s journey to HEA is full of shocking twists and gripping turns that kept me on the edge of my seat till the very end.
Jason Clarke and Stella Hunter narrate this audiobook and show how talented they are with Nora’s words. This story is told in 3rd person point of view. In Stella’s performance as Selma, a human breeder, you could feel her pain, vulnerability, and strength as she discovers are true calling and her love for Kain. Jason conveys Kain’s alluring, dominant, and alpha Lord Demon's side in his surly growly tone.
Overall, I enjoyed this audiobook. It was different from what I normally listen to, so it was fun to explore a little darker trope. I’m so happy that Kain and Selma found their HEA, and I look forward to Kain’s brother’s romance next.
July 23, 2015
So I came across a free book of the first book in this series and I devoured it in like an hour. My intrigue was caught and held by the content and the author's writing style. I immediately one liked this box set of her work.
It is almost distressing how much I love this collection. I mean there was a lot of sex...but such bloody awesome pulse pounding sex. LOL. I loved the paranormal world, and the conflict forcing Selma and Kain together and apart. I think that is what I loved so much...the perfect bled of story telling combined with the kind of fantasy sex that leaves on drooling and not knowing it is is okay to love what you are reading so much.
Recommend to erotic romance lovers.
It is almost distressing how much I love this collection. I mean there was a lot of sex...but such bloody awesome pulse pounding sex. LOL. I loved the paranormal world, and the conflict forcing Selma and Kain together and apart. I think that is what I loved so much...the perfect bled of story telling combined with the kind of fantasy sex that leaves on drooling and not knowing it is is okay to love what you are reading so much.
Recommend to erotic romance lovers.
October 24, 2019
Review posted in its entirety at http://www.betwixtthesheets.com
"I really liked this book and it caught me wholly by surprise. When 'Demon's Mark' arrived, it came with 'Branded,' which is the prequel of the series written by Nora Ash. I'd never read any of her work, so as I made my way through the first book, it was very short and about 90% sex/10% content.. though for once I didn't mind.. as even those scenes were incredibly steamy. BUT.. BUT.. even though it felt like the equivalent of pop music for my bookshelf, I eagerly kept reading.
When I got to the main title, everything changed for the better. It's much more substance oriented and..."
"I really liked this book and it caught me wholly by surprise. When 'Demon's Mark' arrived, it came with 'Branded,' which is the prequel of the series written by Nora Ash. I'd never read any of her work, so as I made my way through the first book, it was very short and about 90% sex/10% content.. though for once I didn't mind.. as even those scenes were incredibly steamy. BUT.. BUT.. even though it felt like the equivalent of pop music for my bookshelf, I eagerly kept reading.
When I got to the main title, everything changed for the better. It's much more substance oriented and..."
October 25, 2019
Received ARC from Author for Honest Review.
I Give this Book a 4/5 Star Rating.
Cliffhanger(?): Yes! :D
Romance: 3.5/5, not in a bad way! :D
Heat: 3.5/5
Suspense: 4/5
Drama: 5/5
No Spoilers!
I’m Highly Anticipating the Next Book!
I love where it left off and I’m absolutely craving more of Selma & Kain! Love Them So Much!!
I Most Definitely Will be Reading more of Nora Ash’s Books! :D
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I Give this Book a 4/5 Star Rating.
Cliffhanger(?): Yes! :D
Romance: 3.5/5, not in a bad way! :D
Heat: 3.5/5
Suspense: 4/5
Drama: 5/5
No Spoilers!
I’m Highly Anticipating the Next Book!
I love where it left off and I’m absolutely craving more of Selma & Kain! Love Them So Much!!
I Most Definitely Will be Reading more of Nora Ash’s Books! :D
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 23, 2025
This was exactly what I needed! Dark themes, demons, breeding, tortured hero..what else do you need? I recommend the audiobook for sure..Stella Hunter and Jason Clarke do a great job bringing these characters to life.
The only reason it was a solid 4 for me rather than a 5 is that it was just missing that little extra je ne sais quoi. Couldn’t put my finger on it but nonetheless, I’d absolutely recommend it if you’re looking for something dark with a demon action!
The only reason it was a solid 4 for me rather than a 5 is that it was just missing that little extra je ne sais quoi. Couldn’t put my finger on it but nonetheless, I’d absolutely recommend it if you’re looking for something dark with a demon action!
November 18, 2020
I don’t know how I came across this book. I was just stroll through the iBooks store and this one popped up.
I would say, 75% of the ideas came from Japanese Hentai (without the tentacle sex) Many ideas had logical sense and the H and h was just sexed up throughout the story. It was a really dark romance - reminded me of the movie - Legend, starring Tom Cruise, with the princess falling in love with a demon.
The sex scene (I call it sex not love) was very descriptive. Either the author is really a male using a female name or they were watching hentai and describing exactly what they saw. It’s a written version of the anime “Urotsukidoji” based on the same manga series, except in a non high school setting.
1. H in human disguise with a soft heart - check!
2. h attracts demons without herself understanding why - check
3. Graphic sex scene - check
4. h emitting damaging white light after she falls pregnant - check
5. A demon H able to control his sexual urges - check.
Would I read book 2? Yes. It’s crazy sauce galore!
I would say, 75% of the ideas came from Japanese Hentai (without the tentacle sex) Many ideas had logical sense and the H and h was just sexed up throughout the story. It was a really dark romance - reminded me of the movie - Legend, starring Tom Cruise, with the princess falling in love with a demon.
The sex scene (I call it sex not love) was very descriptive. Either the author is really a male using a female name or they were watching hentai and describing exactly what they saw. It’s a written version of the anime “Urotsukidoji” based on the same manga series, except in a non high school setting.
1. H in human disguise with a soft heart - check!
2. h attracts demons without herself understanding why - check
3. Graphic sex scene - check
4. h emitting damaging white light after she falls pregnant - check
5. A demon H able to control his sexual urges - check.
Would I read book 2? Yes. It’s crazy sauce galore!
Did Not Finish
September 2, 2024DNF at 6% for personal ick. Weird af Dr/psych Patient relationship. His treatment for her lifelong “disease” of seeing monsters after being nearly SA’d by one is a clitoris implant where he prescribes her more orgasms to help hormonal balance in the hopes that will stop her from seeing monsters. Gagging cause as a doctor, no. Hard pass.
May 10, 2024
Really impressed by this book! It was really good!
February 23, 2026
read this to mindlessly kill time. somehow every page in the book made me cringe. i WILL be reading the second book when i need to turn my brain off
December 3, 2023
I defenently want to read book 2
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