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The Unbeating Heart
*This is a character-driven, true dark romance fantasy novel with morally black villains as poly love interests.*
How does it feel to want when your heart has never known love?
Selene Argentea leads an isolated life of disenchantment as the mistreated spymaster at the royal court of Valourya. After a long period of relative peace, the small human kingdom faces the emerging threat of two charismatic cult leaders, Nyxis and Zalthorn, grasping for power. Selene is sent on a hopeless and deadly mission to infiltrate the Order of the Unbeating Heart and assassinate the heads of the organization.
A treacherous and sinful game begins.
Selene finds herself thrown into emotional turmoil, bearing a lifetime of regret about following orders instead of her heart. Torn between her sense of duty and unwelcome attraction toward the people she was commanded to kill, her fate becomes hers to decide for the very first time.
Side by side with her enemies, she discovers who she truly wants to be.
This book is only intended for an adult audience. It contains graphic violence, sexual content and strong language. Reader discretion is advised.
Please refer to the trigger warnings inside the book and on the author's website.
How does it feel to want when your heart has never known love?
Selene Argentea leads an isolated life of disenchantment as the mistreated spymaster at the royal court of Valourya. After a long period of relative peace, the small human kingdom faces the emerging threat of two charismatic cult leaders, Nyxis and Zalthorn, grasping for power. Selene is sent on a hopeless and deadly mission to infiltrate the Order of the Unbeating Heart and assassinate the heads of the organization.
A treacherous and sinful game begins.
Selene finds herself thrown into emotional turmoil, bearing a lifetime of regret about following orders instead of her heart. Torn between her sense of duty and unwelcome attraction toward the people she was commanded to kill, her fate becomes hers to decide for the very first time.
Side by side with her enemies, she discovers who she truly wants to be.
This book is only intended for an adult audience. It contains graphic violence, sexual content and strong language. Reader discretion is advised.
Please refer to the trigger warnings inside the book and on the author's website.
455 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 9, 2022
74 people are currently reading
1357 people want to read
About the author
Cyran Faringray
9 books165 followersCyran [ˈsɪ-ræn] Faringray is a queer, chronically ill author of deeply emotional, dark (nec)romantic novels with a touch of horror and morally black villains as love interests. Their character-driven stories feature magic, monsters and everything in between.
Though redemption arcs won’t ever be found in their books, all endings are happy ones.
When they’re not writing, Cyran is usually playing videogames, reading, napping or spending time with their partner and their dog. Their adoration for anything macabre—and erotic—runs deep, and is mirrored in their ever-growing collection of art prints.
Cyran is currently not active on Goodreads and messages will go unread. Please contact them through Instagram (@cyranfaringray) or via email: cyran@cyranfaringray.com
You can find Cyran here:
Website: cyranfaringray.com
Instagram: @cyranfaringray
TikTok: @cyranfaringray
Twitter: @cyranfaringray
Though redemption arcs won’t ever be found in their books, all endings are happy ones.
When they’re not writing, Cyran is usually playing videogames, reading, napping or spending time with their partner and their dog. Their adoration for anything macabre—and erotic—runs deep, and is mirrored in their ever-growing collection of art prints.
Cyran is currently not active on Goodreads and messages will go unread. Please contact them through Instagram (@cyranfaringray) or via email: cyran@cyranfaringray.com
You can find Cyran here:
Website: cyranfaringray.com
Instagram: @cyranfaringray
TikTok: @cyranfaringray
Twitter: @cyranfaringray
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
February 6, 2023
“Open your mouth for your God King.”
Basically I highlighted this entire book. And then spiralled and appointed myself the President of Cyran Faringray’s fan club.
This is a dark fantasy, please check the thorough tw that the author gives. Although I immediately became fine with any and all kinks within this book.
The 3 of these murderous main characters were truly delightful. They are going to be the best Poly couple to ever exist and I am here for it.
There is a SLIGHT cliffhanger at the end of this book but it’s not that bad.
Basically I highlighted this entire book. And then spiralled and appointed myself the President of Cyran Faringray’s fan club.
This is a dark fantasy, please check the thorough tw that the author gives. Although I immediately became fine with any and all kinks within this book.
The 3 of these murderous main characters were truly delightful. They are going to be the best Poly couple to ever exist and I am here for it.
There is a SLIGHT cliffhanger at the end of this book but it’s not that bad.
February 26, 2023
Let me start off with saying: i’m a seasoned smut reader. I love my why chooses, and i read smut scenes with a straight face in public. But this book turned me into a flustered mess, as if i was a blushing virgin who found out about fornication for the first time.
The combination of Nyxis, Zalthorn and Selene gave me all the feels. The emotional tension is amazing, the magic system is done so well, and the demons have TAILS. (I love me some tails.) The angst, the emotions, the betrayal, the writing in itself: it got under my skin and into my heart and i cannot wait for the next book.
The combination of Nyxis, Zalthorn and Selene gave me all the feels. The emotional tension is amazing, the magic system is done so well, and the demons have TAILS. (I love me some tails.) The angst, the emotions, the betrayal, the writing in itself: it got under my skin and into my heart and i cannot wait for the next book.
January 1, 2023
I am not okay with having to wait for a sequel. I need it asap. So fun and spicy and original
December 22, 2022
This review will not contain any major spoilers.
The Unbeating Heart is the debut novel from Cyran Faringray, a wonderfully written, angsty poly (f/f/m) romance with SPICE! And horror elements mixed in for good measure.
I saw an Instagram post from the author themselves that said this book would be coming out and suffice it to say, I was intrigued from the start. The synopsis alone just made me want more details and the story never lets up for a second.
First of all, what everyone wants to know about: The SPICE! How spicy is it? Well, it had me hot and bothered in no time and I’m usually not someone who is affected that quickly by smut but the scenes featured in the book are some of the hottest I’ve read. There are CHAPTER LONG spicy scenes! That’s how spicy we’re talking here.
The book is told from one perspective and very clearly that is by design as to obfuscate parts of the story and the other characters true motivations and thoughts from the reader so one never quite knows the whole story. This fact only seems to enhance the overall feeling and connection one has with the characters as one is only seeing Selene’s point of view and hearing her thoughts.
From the early rumblings and sparks that flame the fire of lust of the first chapters where Selene first meets Nyxis and Zalthorn, to the point in the story where deeper feelings begin to emerge, to the final conclusion, I was absolutely hooked and couldn’t put this book down.
My favorite characters are Zal and Zero (you’ll know who Zero is when you meet them, YES they use they/them pronouns, it’s so nice to see non-binary representation!) and I love the LGBT representation in The Unbeating Heart as a whole. It’s clear that the LGBT community is very important and close to the author’s (unbeating) heart! (Sorry I couldn’t help that terrible pun.) Nyxis and Selene are an extremely cute pairing as well and the way the two interact is remarkably wholesome, considering many of the “situations” the three main characters find themselves in. Also, TAILS! So cute.
One of the best moments of the book for me was the village festival, I loved seeing all the characters interact in a more relaxed setting, away from the main narrative. However, this did not prevent the emotional plot from moving forward with a lot of pining along the way from Selene’s side.
Usually, I am someone who very much appreciates the main plot being pushed ever onward but with the author’s writing, I never quite felt like it was “out of place” or “took too long” to get to where it needed to be to continue to the inevitable conclusion.
This is a good time to mention the pacing: it’s overall perfect for me. As stated before, I never felt like any scene or chapter over stayed its welcome and every single detail was brought into focus for a specific reason or purpose.
I’ll be waiting with bated breath for the sequel and any other novels written by them in the future. 5 stars, 100/10 spice.
It is, quite simply, an incredible read. Highly recommended!
The Unbeating Heart is the debut novel from Cyran Faringray, a wonderfully written, angsty poly (f/f/m) romance with SPICE! And horror elements mixed in for good measure.
I saw an Instagram post from the author themselves that said this book would be coming out and suffice it to say, I was intrigued from the start. The synopsis alone just made me want more details and the story never lets up for a second.
First of all, what everyone wants to know about: The SPICE! How spicy is it? Well, it had me hot and bothered in no time and I’m usually not someone who is affected that quickly by smut but the scenes featured in the book are some of the hottest I’ve read. There are CHAPTER LONG spicy scenes! That’s how spicy we’re talking here.
The book is told from one perspective and very clearly that is by design as to obfuscate parts of the story and the other characters true motivations and thoughts from the reader so one never quite knows the whole story. This fact only seems to enhance the overall feeling and connection one has with the characters as one is only seeing Selene’s point of view and hearing her thoughts.
From the early rumblings and sparks that flame the fire of lust of the first chapters where Selene first meets Nyxis and Zalthorn, to the point in the story where deeper feelings begin to emerge, to the final conclusion, I was absolutely hooked and couldn’t put this book down.
My favorite characters are Zal and Zero (you’ll know who Zero is when you meet them, YES they use they/them pronouns, it’s so nice to see non-binary representation!) and I love the LGBT representation in The Unbeating Heart as a whole. It’s clear that the LGBT community is very important and close to the author’s (unbeating) heart! (Sorry I couldn’t help that terrible pun.) Nyxis and Selene are an extremely cute pairing as well and the way the two interact is remarkably wholesome, considering many of the “situations” the three main characters find themselves in. Also, TAILS! So cute.
One of the best moments of the book for me was the village festival, I loved seeing all the characters interact in a more relaxed setting, away from the main narrative. However, this did not prevent the emotional plot from moving forward with a lot of pining along the way from Selene’s side.
Usually, I am someone who very much appreciates the main plot being pushed ever onward but with the author’s writing, I never quite felt like it was “out of place” or “took too long” to get to where it needed to be to continue to the inevitable conclusion.
This is a good time to mention the pacing: it’s overall perfect for me. As stated before, I never felt like any scene or chapter over stayed its welcome and every single detail was brought into focus for a specific reason or purpose.
I’ll be waiting with bated breath for the sequel and any other novels written by them in the future. 5 stars, 100/10 spice.
It is, quite simply, an incredible read. Highly recommended!
April 8, 2024
A breath of fresh air for dark romantacy. It's truly dark and the love interests aren't morally gray, they are downright evil. The protagonist is converted to the dark rather than the tired trope of redeeming the morally gray to the light. Definitely not for everyone, but I truly enjoyed reading something that felt different in this genre.
Oh, and the spice is devilishly good 😈
Oh, and the spice is devilishly good 😈
February 6, 2023
I'm Chloe! I'm usually a hardcore lurker and never leave reviews or ratings, or very rarely at least.
I have extreme social anxiety that even extends to online spaces, hence the lurker title.
This book literally spoke to me on so many levels that I have fallen completely in love with the characters, the world they live in and the entire way the author writes their emotions and interactions. As a non-binary person, the way I felt truly seen for once in literature was such a breath of fresh air, I couldn't stop reading. I ordered a paperback and will order a hardcover if there ever there is one. I am truly, utterly thankful to the author for writing this, it gave me a bright spark in my otherwise extremely gloomy existence.
Thank YOU!
P.S. I will be waiting for the next book in the series.
P.P.S I forgot, I think there is a prequel coming soon which I will also be reading ASAP.
With love,
Chloe
I have extreme social anxiety that even extends to online spaces, hence the lurker title.
This book literally spoke to me on so many levels that I have fallen completely in love with the characters, the world they live in and the entire way the author writes their emotions and interactions. As a non-binary person, the way I felt truly seen for once in literature was such a breath of fresh air, I couldn't stop reading. I ordered a paperback and will order a hardcover if there ever there is one. I am truly, utterly thankful to the author for writing this, it gave me a bright spark in my otherwise extremely gloomy existence.
Thank YOU!
P.S. I will be waiting for the next book in the series.
P.P.S I forgot, I think there is a prequel coming soon which I will also be reading ASAP.
With love,
Chloe
dnf
May 21, 2023too horny for my personal taste - amanda enjoy
dnf @10%
dnf @10%
December 30, 2022
Demons, necromancers, magic, a healthy dose of blood and gore and darkness: what more could you want. This story was marvelously told and a fantasy that sucks you in completely while also showing real emotions and mental struggles. Definitely a new favorite!
January 3, 2023
THIS BOOK IS INTENSE.
Prepare to set a day or two aside if you can— lock yourself in your room, you’re about to get sucked into a fantastic plot with some of the most seductive characters I’ve ever read.
The balance between plot and spice is perfect; Selene is a wonderful main character who sucks you into her world. Her inner dialogue is key to the development of the story, and her reactions are wonderfully written.
Nyxis and Zalthorn? Wonderfully dynamic. Zero will have you wheezing with their words. Can’t say too much (spoilers!) but this book is a page turner. I cannot wait for the next book from Cyran Faringray! Their writing is truly provocative and enthralling, and I couldn’t stop reading.
Prepare to set a day or two aside if you can— lock yourself in your room, you’re about to get sucked into a fantastic plot with some of the most seductive characters I’ve ever read.
The balance between plot and spice is perfect; Selene is a wonderful main character who sucks you into her world. Her inner dialogue is key to the development of the story, and her reactions are wonderfully written.
Nyxis and Zalthorn? Wonderfully dynamic. Zero will have you wheezing with their words. Can’t say too much (spoilers!) but this book is a page turner. I cannot wait for the next book from Cyran Faringray! Their writing is truly provocative and enthralling, and I couldn’t stop reading.
February 14, 2023
I could sit here for hours combing my brain, stringing together the most eloquent sentences & it still would not represent the emotions I encountered while reading this book.
This book was sinful decadence. Every page dripped with dark, unbridled chaos yet you couldn’t help but gorge yourself on the depravity.
I truly could not encapsulate with words what spending an entire book with these characters was like…but let’s start with our two main villains shall we?
Encountering these two on-page felt a lot like swimming with sharks except the cage isn’t locked, the sharks are humanoid & a small part of your brain is screaming that you want to know how they fvck.
The constant attention given to describing Nyxis & Zalthorn’s true forms was art. They were so otherworldly, so terrifyingly beautiful that you FELT the unrelenting lust that Selene described.
This wasn’t so much a love story as it was a delve into the human psyche. Exploring our ability to accept the reality of our baser selves, to look at our darkest desires in the face & embrace them for what they are. To be SELFISH in our pursuit of existing as our transparently authentic selves.
Reading this book you truly inserted yourself into Selene’s brain & experienced things through her senses. You felt yourself falling desperately in love with these horrific beings yet secretly not wanting to stop it.
The way they all 3 played off of one another. The way their personalities pushed & pulled to perfection. The way their dynamic slipped into the perfect mold seemingly right away.
The smut, the plot, THE FVCKING WRITING THAT FELT LIKE ART. Truly all my stars.
This book was sinful decadence. Every page dripped with dark, unbridled chaos yet you couldn’t help but gorge yourself on the depravity.
I truly could not encapsulate with words what spending an entire book with these characters was like…but let’s start with our two main villains shall we?
Encountering these two on-page felt a lot like swimming with sharks except the cage isn’t locked, the sharks are humanoid & a small part of your brain is screaming that you want to know how they fvck.
The constant attention given to describing Nyxis & Zalthorn’s true forms was art. They were so otherworldly, so terrifyingly beautiful that you FELT the unrelenting lust that Selene described.
This wasn’t so much a love story as it was a delve into the human psyche. Exploring our ability to accept the reality of our baser selves, to look at our darkest desires in the face & embrace them for what they are. To be SELFISH in our pursuit of existing as our transparently authentic selves.
Reading this book you truly inserted yourself into Selene’s brain & experienced things through her senses. You felt yourself falling desperately in love with these horrific beings yet secretly not wanting to stop it.
The way they all 3 played off of one another. The way their personalities pushed & pulled to perfection. The way their dynamic slipped into the perfect mold seemingly right away.
The smut, the plot, THE FVCKING WRITING THAT FELT LIKE ART. Truly all my stars.
March 1, 2023
A fantastic love story that incorporates mental illness, trauma, a vibrant cast of characters, with fantastically written romance scenes and a great plot? Sign me up!
that’s exactly what you’re going to get in this dark, sexy, and surprisingly FUN morally black romance. In between the weight of the story and characters is a truly enjoyable aspect that I was not expecting, like being on a depraved rollercoaster rather than the tower of terror or the tunnel of love. The incredibly well-developed characters really fascinated me and their interactions were so intensely well-written I feel like I know them.
Last of all, I related intensely to the journey and inner dialogue of the main character, who I think many people drawn to this book will as well.
I can’t wait for the story to continue!
that’s exactly what you’re going to get in this dark, sexy, and surprisingly FUN morally black romance. In between the weight of the story and characters is a truly enjoyable aspect that I was not expecting, like being on a depraved rollercoaster rather than the tower of terror or the tunnel of love. The incredibly well-developed characters really fascinated me and their interactions were so intensely well-written I feel like I know them.
Last of all, I related intensely to the journey and inner dialogue of the main character, who I think many people drawn to this book will as well.
I can’t wait for the story to continue!
January 12, 2023
So good. So unique. Brutal and captivating and exactly what I need in a fantasy. The characters were so well thought out and i loved the mental health aspect. Sel was such a strong FMC and it made her even stronger that she was able to show her weakness so fiercely.
March 4, 2024
4,75 stars - I can't believe I waited so long to read this, this was amazing and I'm on the floor
March 1, 2023
I’ve read this book twice and I still can’t adequately put into words what this book did to me. First and foremost it is deliciously violent. It’s a polyamorous relationship with a necromancer, a demon, and their human toy to start with, so please don’t go in expecting sunshine and sweet nothings. It’s HOT AF. Wingspan takes on a whole different meaning. IYKYK, okay. This is about to be such an incoherent review, but basically if you like dark romance with a plot that keeps you on your toes, read this book!!!
Alrighty now into my unhinged word vomit.
THE LAST LINE, are you fckn kidding me?!?! I’ve gone back to reread the last scene over and over, it hits the same every single time. I was ready to drop to the floor myself.
My mental health is directly related to Nyx and her happiness, if anything happens to her I will simply perish. Selene is well and truly a genuine enemies to lovers character arc. Without giving spoilers, I’m ready to see more of the intertwining of the relationship, there seems to be more than presently meets the eye.
Aside from the incredible writing with a story that draws you in from the beginning, you feel everything that this character feels. Honestly, at times I was ready to slam the book shut because I was so frustrated with the characters inner monologue in regards to her self consciousness/ timidness, however towards the end of the book the mental health aspects of the story came out in full force. Themes of stepping into who you are, outgrowing old friends, reevaluating the belief symptom we grew up with were saturating every page and as much as I related to Selene in these moments, I know that there are also so many people who could relate.
I’m excited to see more of the world building, history of the magic system, and the characters themselves in the books to follow. This easily became on of my top reads of the year and my new comfort read.
Alrighty now into my unhinged word vomit.
THE LAST LINE, are you fckn kidding me?!?! I’ve gone back to reread the last scene over and over, it hits the same every single time. I was ready to drop to the floor myself.
My mental health is directly related to Nyx and her happiness, if anything happens to her I will simply perish. Selene is well and truly a genuine enemies to lovers character arc. Without giving spoilers, I’m ready to see more of the intertwining of the relationship, there seems to be more than presently meets the eye.
Aside from the incredible writing with a story that draws you in from the beginning, you feel everything that this character feels. Honestly, at times I was ready to slam the book shut because I was so frustrated with the characters inner monologue in regards to her self consciousness/ timidness, however towards the end of the book the mental health aspects of the story came out in full force. Themes of stepping into who you are, outgrowing old friends, reevaluating the belief symptom we grew up with were saturating every page and as much as I related to Selene in these moments, I know that there are also so many people who could relate.
I’m excited to see more of the world building, history of the magic system, and the characters themselves in the books to follow. This easily became on of my top reads of the year and my new comfort read.
February 17, 2023
The Unbeating Heart is Faringray's debut dark fantasy romance novel and is an incredible 5⭐ dark, gory and sinful read. For the avid dark romance reader who loves morally black characters, fantastical monsters and darker k!n.k this is a must read.
Selene has been tasked with un-aliving a threat to the King, however as she infiltrates the world of her targets she is drawn to magic beyond her own comprehension. Her journey, success or failure, is purely dependent on her own desire and choices. The writing style and plot twists were captivating, I adored her inner monolouge and watching her character navigate new and forbidden paths.
From the very first glimpse at Zal and Nyx their adoration, power and cvvlt sensibilities immerse you into this addictive world. Cyran had me by the thr0a.t throughout the whole story. The dialouge, both possessive and obsessive in nature, created tension that was electric. The inter-character dynamics were sublime, the vö.re, kn.!.f€ and power play were a stand out. The pining, grovelling and monsterous (extra) app€.ndadg€s were the cherry in top!
It has to be said that this is the type of read that isn't for everyone-- however it was absolutely for me. Check your own triggers before diving in, because this truely is filled with dark romancers catnip! 5⭐
Ps. The prequel, and story of Nyx and Zal is releasing in March. It has quickly become one of my highly anticipated reads for 2023.
Selene has been tasked with un-aliving a threat to the King, however as she infiltrates the world of her targets she is drawn to magic beyond her own comprehension. Her journey, success or failure, is purely dependent on her own desire and choices. The writing style and plot twists were captivating, I adored her inner monolouge and watching her character navigate new and forbidden paths.
From the very first glimpse at Zal and Nyx their adoration, power and cvvlt sensibilities immerse you into this addictive world. Cyran had me by the thr0a.t throughout the whole story. The dialouge, both possessive and obsessive in nature, created tension that was electric. The inter-character dynamics were sublime, the vö.re, kn.!.f€ and power play were a stand out. The pining, grovelling and monsterous (extra) app€.ndadg€s were the cherry in top!
It has to be said that this is the type of read that isn't for everyone-- however it was absolutely for me. Check your own triggers before diving in, because this truely is filled with dark romancers catnip! 5⭐
Ps. The prequel, and story of Nyx and Zal is releasing in March. It has quickly become one of my highly anticipated reads for 2023.
December 24, 2022
This book was amazing right from chapter one. The pace was fast enough to keep you invested, and the depth of the characters was phenomenal. Sort of a slow burn, but with fireworks when it all comes together (pun intended). This book is a must read if you like dark romance fantasy. I'll be waiting for book 2 with baited breath.
December 29, 2022
I absolutely loved this book from the cover art to the characters to the relationships to the story. I felt the book gave me PLENTY of story to stay interested in reading and then the ending left me feral to read the next one. I think I actually devoured the whole book in one day.
If you are into dark romance reads- morally black/grey love interests- enemies to lovers you should read this book! Like run don't walk!I loved it so much that I bought the kindle book- which is a steal at this current price and then bought the paperback to have on my shelf!
I cannot wait to continue the journey!PLEASE check the trigger warnings before purchasing- it is a DARK romance so there maybe things that are triggering for some. With that said I found it all enjoyable and may or may not have unlocked new "interests" in the meantime.It has Bloodplay -Knife Play (did you add to cart yet...)-Special Peens (interest piqued yet?) -Light tail play (okay you got to be at least curious....)
If none of these things caught your attention here are a few more highlights....
-Villain Love interests/Morally Black
-DARK Romance
-Demons (Sexy ones)
-Necromancy
-Poly/Throuple
-Enemies to Lovers
-LGBTQIA+
Please read the trigger/content warning via the authors website for the full list.
If you are into dark romance reads- morally black/grey love interests- enemies to lovers you should read this book! Like run don't walk!I loved it so much that I bought the kindle book- which is a steal at this current price and then bought the paperback to have on my shelf!
I cannot wait to continue the journey!PLEASE check the trigger warnings before purchasing- it is a DARK romance so there maybe things that are triggering for some. With that said I found it all enjoyable and may or may not have unlocked new "interests" in the meantime.It has Bloodplay -Knife Play (did you add to cart yet...)-Special Peens (interest piqued yet?) -Light tail play (okay you got to be at least curious....)
If none of these things caught your attention here are a few more highlights....
-Villain Love interests/Morally Black
-DARK Romance
-Demons (Sexy ones)
-Necromancy
-Poly/Throuple
-Enemies to Lovers
-LGBTQIA+
Please read the trigger/content warning via the authors website for the full list.
February 6, 2023
I loved this book.
I realize the dark aspects are not going to be for everyone but for me? They are perfect. I can't wait for the next one.
I realize the dark aspects are not going to be for everyone but for me? They are perfect. I can't wait for the next one.
May 8, 2023
WE GET IT!!! NYXIS IS SMALL!
September 10, 2023
“Countless times people called me insane. Maybe it was about time I showed them real insanity. It was nothing like I imagined. It was better.”
I went blind into this book and it sure as hell exceeded any expectations I had.
In the beginning, I was a little thrown off. Like I was thrown in the middle of the story. But slowly it all started to make sense, all those elements were being pieced together.
The sexual tension was something else. I couldn't wait for it to finally snap. It's truly impressive how a book filled with sex (and it's not gratuitous, may I add) manages to also be a damn slow burn. It paid off deliciously though.
I may be desensitized as hell, but I don't think this book is as pitch-black as they painted it to be. It's definitely dark, Zal and Nyx are unapologetically villains, but apart from that, they are really sweet to Selene. The poor human didn't stand a chance, she was so conflicted, but not in an annoyingly way. And I could relate so much with her, like, how can I like Nyx and Zalthorn? Nyx is ADORABLE, by the way. This dichotomy just made it all the better. I want to learn more about Zal's grumpy ass.
“I love being marked by you. The more it hurts, the more I am reminded of your affection.”
The beginning aside, the pacing was good, and Selene's growth was well portrayed with all her ups and downs. Her path through figuring out who she really was wasn't an easy one. And Zal and Nyx didn't impose anything on her, they rather give her space to figure things out with herself.
I know this book is character-driven (the author states it clearly), but I was still confused about some aspects of the plot by the end of the book. Hopefully, it will be solved with the upcoming books.
Buddy read it with my dear Lennox 🥰
I went blind into this book and it sure as hell exceeded any expectations I had.
In the beginning, I was a little thrown off. Like I was thrown in the middle of the story. But slowly it all started to make sense, all those elements were being pieced together.
The sexual tension was something else. I couldn't wait for it to finally snap. It's truly impressive how a book filled with sex (and it's not gratuitous, may I add) manages to also be a damn slow burn. It paid off deliciously though.
I may be desensitized as hell, but I don't think this book is as pitch-black as they painted it to be. It's definitely dark, Zal and Nyx are unapologetically villains, but apart from that, they are really sweet to Selene. The poor human didn't stand a chance, she was so conflicted, but not in an annoyingly way. And I could relate so much with her, like, how can I like Nyx and Zalthorn? Nyx is ADORABLE, by the way. This dichotomy just made it all the better. I want to learn more about Zal's grumpy ass.
“I love being marked by you. The more it hurts, the more I am reminded of your affection.”
The beginning aside, the pacing was good, and Selene's growth was well portrayed with all her ups and downs. Her path through figuring out who she really was wasn't an easy one. And Zal and Nyx didn't impose anything on her, they rather give her space to figure things out with herself.
I know this book is character-driven (the author states it clearly), but I was still confused about some aspects of the plot by the end of the book. Hopefully, it will be solved with the upcoming books.
Buddy read it with my dear Lennox 🥰
March 11, 2023
"Holy is the Unbeating Heart! Holy is the Undying Shadow!"
I knew I had to read this book after seeing some friends praise it so highly. I honestly don't know if I will do this book the justice it deserves, but I will try.
When I say I was at the edge of my seat almost the entirety of the book, I am not joking lol. In order to protect the kingdom, Selene is sent to spy on the cult leaders of the Unbeating Heart. Her mission is to assassinate the heads of the organization. But as she gets closer to her targets, she is thrust into a world she never knew existed. Temptation becomes her reality and desires she never knew she had come to the forefront. Will she follow orders or will she follow her heart?
Selene's turmoil and self-depreciation in the book were so gut-wrenching, but I loved her so much as a character. Her struggles were just so real and raw. Nyx and Zal are the absolute worst (but in the best way). I have never pined so hard for the villains. Nyx was adorable yet terrifying at the same time lol. Zal is ever the protector but has the softest spot for Nyx. The amount of tension between the three characters is perfect, and the spice was *fans self* Oh.My.God. Hot lol.
Somethings you can look forward to:
Poly-romance
Enemies to Lovers
Necromance
A Little Bit of Horror
Political Intrigue
Taboo Kinks
Mental Health Rep
As always, please check trigger warnings before reading. Happy reading!
I knew I had to read this book after seeing some friends praise it so highly. I honestly don't know if I will do this book the justice it deserves, but I will try.
When I say I was at the edge of my seat almost the entirety of the book, I am not joking lol. In order to protect the kingdom, Selene is sent to spy on the cult leaders of the Unbeating Heart. Her mission is to assassinate the heads of the organization. But as she gets closer to her targets, she is thrust into a world she never knew existed. Temptation becomes her reality and desires she never knew she had come to the forefront. Will she follow orders or will she follow her heart?
Selene's turmoil and self-depreciation in the book were so gut-wrenching, but I loved her so much as a character. Her struggles were just so real and raw. Nyx and Zal are the absolute worst (but in the best way). I have never pined so hard for the villains. Nyx was adorable yet terrifying at the same time lol. Zal is ever the protector but has the softest spot for Nyx. The amount of tension between the three characters is perfect, and the spice was *fans self* Oh.My.God. Hot lol.
Somethings you can look forward to:
Poly-romance
Enemies to Lovers
Necromance
A Little Bit of Horror
Political Intrigue
Taboo Kinks
Mental Health Rep
As always, please check trigger warnings before reading. Happy reading!
March 11, 2023
Oh my gosh, this story is f*cking magnificent. 😍 This book isn’t just dark but some of it is downright evil, and I love it. This story captivates you from the first chapter onwards and I didn’t want to put it down. The absolutely devastating connection between Nyxis, Zalthorn and Selena was both brutal and beautiful. Don’t even get me started on the smutty scenes that had me blushing throughout. Did I mention that this book contains demons, magic and all the gore and darkness my black heart desires. Loved loved loved. The next book cannot be released soon enough.
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🪵Burn: 🔥🔥🔥
🥵Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
⚠️Triggers: Violence, Gore, Death, Murder, Blood Execution/Torture, Mental Illness (Anxiety, Panic Attacks, PTSD, Nightmares, Depression), Infertility/Pregnancy, Vomiting, Gaslighting, Misgendering, Loss of Body Control (Temporary Paralysis Through Magic), Needles, Explicit Sex, Blood Play/Blood Consumption, Dubcon, Flesh Consumption/Cannibalism, Scarring/Marking, Religious Themes, Occult Themes, Necromancy, Hard/Taboo Kink, Impalement, Knife Play, Orgasm Control/Orgasm Denial, BDSM, Orgies, Exhibitionism, Demons/Monsters, Undead
Threesomes, Breath Play, Emotional Manipulation, Stockholm Syndrome, Lima Syndrome, Dermatillomania, Light Tail Play
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🪵Burn: 🔥🔥🔥
🥵Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
⚠️Triggers: Violence, Gore, Death, Murder, Blood Execution/Torture, Mental Illness (Anxiety, Panic Attacks, PTSD, Nightmares, Depression), Infertility/Pregnancy, Vomiting, Gaslighting, Misgendering, Loss of Body Control (Temporary Paralysis Through Magic), Needles, Explicit Sex, Blood Play/Blood Consumption, Dubcon, Flesh Consumption/Cannibalism, Scarring/Marking, Religious Themes, Occult Themes, Necromancy, Hard/Taboo Kink, Impalement, Knife Play, Orgasm Control/Orgasm Denial, BDSM, Orgies, Exhibitionism, Demons/Monsters, Undead
Threesomes, Breath Play, Emotional Manipulation, Stockholm Syndrome, Lima Syndrome, Dermatillomania, Light Tail Play
April 10, 2023
Holy. Moly.
How is this a debut novel!! This book is a Dark Polyam Fantasy Romance with some horror-ish touches, and has scratched an itch I didn’t know I had! The poly relationship and non-binary rep was so organic and flowed naturally it was refreshing to read a book where these things just were.
Selene is tasked with assassinating the “evil” Necromancer Queen only to find herself the newest plaything for the God Queen and King.
This is so well written, perfect pacing, slow burn in a way that seduces you into this dark and sensual tale that when the smut hits..🫠🫠 (He has two 🍆 and he uses it at the same time on them)
“Kiss me, gorgeous little Saint, This is an order from your God Queen, Moonlight.”
“Present yourself to your God King, pet.”
‘It was slower than I fantasized, seeing the light drain from the man’s eyes.
Above all, though, the sight was hypnotic.
I had stood in the presence of death, but never did its presence bring satisfaction.
Never did it feel like life taken from someone else was life breathed right into my lungs.’
How is this a debut novel!! This book is a Dark Polyam Fantasy Romance with some horror-ish touches, and has scratched an itch I didn’t know I had! The poly relationship and non-binary rep was so organic and flowed naturally it was refreshing to read a book where these things just were.
Selene is tasked with assassinating the “evil” Necromancer Queen only to find herself the newest plaything for the God Queen and King.
This is so well written, perfect pacing, slow burn in a way that seduces you into this dark and sensual tale that when the smut hits..🫠🫠 (He has two 🍆 and he uses it at the same time on them)
“Kiss me, gorgeous little Saint, This is an order from your God Queen, Moonlight.”
“Present yourself to your God King, pet.”
‘It was slower than I fantasized, seeing the light drain from the man’s eyes.
Above all, though, the sight was hypnotic.
I had stood in the presence of death, but never did its presence bring satisfaction.
Never did it feel like life taken from someone else was life breathed right into my lungs.’
February 20, 2023
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
'I’d die because I was inexplicably horny and that seemed like a very embarrassing reason to die.'
I LOVED this book. It has everything I love and more. Awesome morally black characters with no redemption arcs, conflicted FMC (you can feel her anxiety, like real anxiety), beautifully portrayed diversity (who doesn't love a full cast of LGBTQIA+ people enjoying life?), monsters, all the kinks (check TW PLEASE!), wholesome and loving relationships and adventure. And cats. Well, just one brown cat.
The writing is beautiful, the descriptions are lush and evocative, with a masterful usage of words.
'The setting sun painted the ocean as an endless crimson backdrop. It shimmered like a sea of rubies and amber behind the ruins of a cathedral made from blackened stone. Crumbling, overgrown spires reached to the heavens, like arms eternally locked in desperate prayer, never to be answered. Shattered windows gaped like rows of hollow mouths, rays of golden light shining from them like a dragon’s fury.'
The themes it touches are dear to me: finding yourself and fighting for your desires in a world that is constantly telling you that who you are and what you want is wrong.
'My hands were bloodied and my desires twisted. I wasn’t what everyone wanted and hoped me to be, but I didn’t care. I didn’t want to seek strangers’ approval any longer. I didn’t want to live for anyone else but myself … and for them. I didn’t know who I was before I met them and now I couldn’t deny it. I didn’t want to deny it.'
Go read it right now and give the author some love. It's their debut novel and they deserve it <3
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
'I’d die because I was inexplicably horny and that seemed like a very embarrassing reason to die.'
I LOVED this book. It has everything I love and more. Awesome morally black characters with no redemption arcs, conflicted FMC (you can feel her anxiety, like real anxiety), beautifully portrayed diversity (who doesn't love a full cast of LGBTQIA+ people enjoying life?), monsters, all the kinks (check TW PLEASE!), wholesome and loving relationships and adventure. And cats. Well, just one brown cat.
The writing is beautiful, the descriptions are lush and evocative, with a masterful usage of words.
'The setting sun painted the ocean as an endless crimson backdrop. It shimmered like a sea of rubies and amber behind the ruins of a cathedral made from blackened stone. Crumbling, overgrown spires reached to the heavens, like arms eternally locked in desperate prayer, never to be answered. Shattered windows gaped like rows of hollow mouths, rays of golden light shining from them like a dragon’s fury.'
The themes it touches are dear to me: finding yourself and fighting for your desires in a world that is constantly telling you that who you are and what you want is wrong.
'My hands were bloodied and my desires twisted. I wasn’t what everyone wanted and hoped me to be, but I didn’t care. I didn’t want to seek strangers’ approval any longer. I didn’t want to live for anyone else but myself … and for them. I didn’t know who I was before I met them and now I couldn’t deny it. I didn’t want to deny it.'
Go read it right now and give the author some love. It's their debut novel and they deserve it <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2023
I’ve just finished this book and i just can’t deal with it. What an amazing wonderful, heartbreaking read. It’s unlike anything I’ve read before and I just live all three of them so much. Why aren’t more people raving about this book???? Pop to my insta thebookishswede for more thoughts, I just need to take a long shower and mourn that I’m done with the magic that was this book.
June 13, 2023
I absolutely devoured this book. Having strayed from fantasy over the years this pulled me in with a perfect mix of all my favorite tropes, plot points, character types, and filth. It’s truly astonishing that this is a debut novel. This isn’t a light read, and I’m thankful for that.
Firstly the characters; I am obsessed with Selene, Nyx and Zal. Not only as a throuple but as individuals. Selene is our POV in this book and she really delves into herself. Sometimes in books internal dialogue can be sloggy but I loved her journey of self discovery especially when she let the darker parts of her out and reveled in them. Nyx and Zal have a breathtaking dynamic; while they protect one another, they are in awe and revere their partners. There is very little “rescuing”, again, something I adored. The amount of respect they have for one another is gorgeous. It’s something that you have to read to experience.
This is a very character driven book so don’t expect the epic journey of a lifetime. There are big moments happening but they flow fluidly in the background while our main characters take center stage.
I would also like to mention that there is such beautiful representation in this book. It never felt thrown in for “bonus points”, it was written naturally and organically. I think this type of representation is what we need more
of in books.
The ending SLAYED me. I was gutted, and hungry for more. I was shocked and speechless at the turn of events and I’m so ready for the next book.
PS- the filth was DIVINE. Absolutely the sexiest debauchery I’ve read in awhile.
Firstly the characters; I am obsessed with Selene, Nyx and Zal. Not only as a throuple but as individuals. Selene is our POV in this book and she really delves into herself. Sometimes in books internal dialogue can be sloggy but I loved her journey of self discovery especially when she let the darker parts of her out and reveled in them. Nyx and Zal have a breathtaking dynamic; while they protect one another, they are in awe and revere their partners. There is very little “rescuing”, again, something I adored. The amount of respect they have for one another is gorgeous. It’s something that you have to read to experience.
This is a very character driven book so don’t expect the epic journey of a lifetime. There are big moments happening but they flow fluidly in the background while our main characters take center stage.
I would also like to mention that there is such beautiful representation in this book. It never felt thrown in for “bonus points”, it was written naturally and organically. I think this type of representation is what we need more
of in books.
The ending SLAYED me. I was gutted, and hungry for more. I was shocked and speechless at the turn of events and I’m so ready for the next book.
PS- the filth was DIVINE. Absolutely the sexiest debauchery I’ve read in awhile.
April 19, 2023
This book mixes Dark Romance + Horror + Monster Romance + LGBTQIA+ and was unlike anything I’ve ever read before.
Selene works as spymaster for the royal court, and has been tasked with taking out Nyxis and Zalthorn, the two cult leaders posing a threat to her kingdom. But she finds herself hopelessly entangled with her charismatic targets instead.
When I first started this read, I automatically got 𝘎𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘕𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘩 vibes, in that neither I, nor the narrator, seemed to know what was going on! 😂 (Oh, and of course, necromancy!) But as soon the story took off, it definitely became its own tale.
I think my favorite part of this book was the pining on Sel’s part. Through the narrative, I was truly feeling all of her angst myself. But don’t you worry, even with all that angst, there was still plenty of the good (🌶️) stuff!
The chemistry between the 3 MC’s was just so good, and I just loved all their interactions. With only Sel’s POV, we only truly know her feelings on their relationship, and can only guess to Nyx and Zal’s motivations, which just adds to the tension.
I feel like we’ve only brushed the surface of this world so far, and after that final scene, I’m clamoring for the next book!
What this book is giving:
✅ Enemies to Lovers
✅ Polyamory
✅ Necromancy
✅ Demons
✅ Morally BLACK Love Interests
✅ “Good Girl”
✅ Double the 🍆🍆 fun!
As with most Dark Romances: Check TW before jumping in!
Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
Selene works as spymaster for the royal court, and has been tasked with taking out Nyxis and Zalthorn, the two cult leaders posing a threat to her kingdom. But she finds herself hopelessly entangled with her charismatic targets instead.
When I first started this read, I automatically got 𝘎𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘕𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘩 vibes, in that neither I, nor the narrator, seemed to know what was going on! 😂 (Oh, and of course, necromancy!) But as soon the story took off, it definitely became its own tale.
I think my favorite part of this book was the pining on Sel’s part. Through the narrative, I was truly feeling all of her angst myself. But don’t you worry, even with all that angst, there was still plenty of the good (🌶️) stuff!
The chemistry between the 3 MC’s was just so good, and I just loved all their interactions. With only Sel’s POV, we only truly know her feelings on their relationship, and can only guess to Nyx and Zal’s motivations, which just adds to the tension.
I feel like we’ve only brushed the surface of this world so far, and after that final scene, I’m clamoring for the next book!
What this book is giving:
✅ Enemies to Lovers
✅ Polyamory
✅ Necromancy
✅ Demons
✅ Morally BLACK Love Interests
✅ “Good Girl”
✅ Double the 🍆🍆 fun!
As with most Dark Romances: Check TW before jumping in!
Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
December 14, 2023
well i don’t know how to rate it. it was definitely interesting. more than half of the book i was confused by everything that was happening. then i was shocked by some sex scenes. like look i had read a lot of dark stuff but here the guy bit a chunk from a woman’s shoulder and it was considered a foreplay.
was it a bully enemies to lovers romance? i didn’t understand anything from the start. was fmc a spy? who were the enemies? who were the libitina and the strages? was “strages” a plural or one person? who were the magical creatures? was fmc human? what was the point of her framing roman the head tailor?i didn’t get answers to the majority of the questions
fmc was aroused by strangest things. or were they influencing her feelings?
rip that pussy.
zalthorn had not one but two dicks.
i don’t know what to think of this book. i struggled to finish it. at many points i thought to dnf it. there was a cliffhanger and so far no next part is announced. but i would like to try the next book just to understand where everything is going to go.
was it a bully enemies to lovers romance? i didn’t understand anything from the start. was fmc a spy? who were the enemies? who were the libitina and the strages? was “strages” a plural or one person? who were the magical creatures? was fmc human? what was the point of her framing roman the head tailor?
fmc was aroused by strangest things. or were they influencing her feelings?
rip that pussy.
“Zalthorn reached forward and set my hand onto the thick erection straining against his trousers. My fingers looked tiny next to it.”
zalthorn had not one but two dicks.
“In all the Hells, I have not fucked a single hole as deliciously tight as your two cunts, my gorgeous pets,” he hissed.”
i don’t know what to think of this book. i struggled to finish it. at many points i thought to dnf it. there was a cliffhanger and so far no next part is announced. but i would like to try the next book just to understand where everything is going to go.
January 29, 2023
This was my first dark romance fantasy book (the fact that there were trigger/content warnings had me a little shook) but I LOVED it 🖤
January 23, 2023
If you love dark, twisted, taboo stories- you need to read this book.
If you don’t love all those things, well you still need to read this book. It will convert you. I am usually a pretty Vanilla reader and gore is not really my thing, but that just shows what an amazing writer Cyran is because I loved everything in this book.
Nyx and Zal have the cutest relationship. They are the sweetest, most devoted murderous couple and they made me melt with how they loved each other.
And Selene’s inner thoughts were incredibly relatable, from the “should I be attracted to this” to the feelings of being seen for the first time in her life.
Check trigger warnings
If you don’t love all those things, well you still need to read this book. It will convert you. I am usually a pretty Vanilla reader and gore is not really my thing, but that just shows what an amazing writer Cyran is because I loved everything in this book.
Nyx and Zal have the cutest relationship. They are the sweetest, most devoted murderous couple and they made me melt with how they loved each other.
And Selene’s inner thoughts were incredibly relatable, from the “should I be attracted to this” to the feelings of being seen for the first time in her life.
Check trigger warnings
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