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The Pale Daughter & The Tyrant Prince
*This is a character-driven true dark romance fantasy novel with morally black villains as main characters.*
One bargain.
Two souls.
A trifold price for love.
Nyxis Luscinia was born into a life of opulence and wealth, a bright future as Head Priestess of the Xar'vathi ahead of her. Alas, that prospect sounds pretty boring to the woman common folk only refer to as the pale daughter. Instead of becoming a puppet enslaved to the Emperor of Xar'vath, she craves to pull the strings herself.
Determined to reign over all, Nyxis sets out to forge her own destiny.
Far removed from her family's stifling rules and expectations, she lives a life on the run, hiding her true identity. By day, she uses her talents as a bard to make coin. But come nightfall, her secret quest for power leads her down a darker path full of necromancy and dangerous rituals.
Zalthorn is the brutal son of the mightiest sovereign in the Hells and heir to the demonic throne of House Varaxis. Entrenched in boredom and apathy, the tyrant Prince has only one goal: to find the horned woman he saw in a childhood dream. A pity that no Demon in all the Hells matches his description of the beauty he believes to be his fated mate. Worse, demonic society has long dismissed this ancient belief in kinship between souls as impractical folly.
Now, his family's patience for Zalthorn's romantic ideals has run out. The ultimatum of an arranged marriage with a noble bride threatens to end his hopeless search.
But Zalthorn isn't quite ready to give up yet when a strangely alluring ritual summon leads him to the one place he despises the most: the mortal realm.
As Nyxis and Zalthorn meet, their depraved attraction sets fire to their very souls.
The two are forced to ask themselves if fate truly exists, and just how much they're both willing to sacrifice for rapacious love.
"The Pale Daughter & The Tyrant Prince" can be enjoyed as a standalone novel, but is best read as a supplement to the main series, "A Toll Of Flesh". It is a prequel to "The Unbeating Heart", set a few years before its events.
*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.*
One bargain.
Two souls.
A trifold price for love.
Nyxis Luscinia was born into a life of opulence and wealth, a bright future as Head Priestess of the Xar'vathi ahead of her. Alas, that prospect sounds pretty boring to the woman common folk only refer to as the pale daughter. Instead of becoming a puppet enslaved to the Emperor of Xar'vath, she craves to pull the strings herself.
Determined to reign over all, Nyxis sets out to forge her own destiny.
Far removed from her family's stifling rules and expectations, she lives a life on the run, hiding her true identity. By day, she uses her talents as a bard to make coin. But come nightfall, her secret quest for power leads her down a darker path full of necromancy and dangerous rituals.
Zalthorn is the brutal son of the mightiest sovereign in the Hells and heir to the demonic throne of House Varaxis. Entrenched in boredom and apathy, the tyrant Prince has only one goal: to find the horned woman he saw in a childhood dream. A pity that no Demon in all the Hells matches his description of the beauty he believes to be his fated mate. Worse, demonic society has long dismissed this ancient belief in kinship between souls as impractical folly.
Now, his family's patience for Zalthorn's romantic ideals has run out. The ultimatum of an arranged marriage with a noble bride threatens to end his hopeless search.
But Zalthorn isn't quite ready to give up yet when a strangely alluring ritual summon leads him to the one place he despises the most: the mortal realm.
As Nyxis and Zalthorn meet, their depraved attraction sets fire to their very souls.
The two are forced to ask themselves if fate truly exists, and just how much they're both willing to sacrifice for rapacious love.
"The Pale Daughter & The Tyrant Prince" can be enjoyed as a standalone novel, but is best read as a supplement to the main series, "A Toll Of Flesh". It is a prequel to "The Unbeating Heart", set a few years before its events.
*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.*
479 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 28, 2023
77 people are currently reading
860 people want to read
About the author
Cyran Faringray
9 books166 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
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
March 25, 2023
The Pale Daughter and the Tyrant Prince answers the age old question, “is it romantic to drip blood from the severed head of an enemy over your lover whilst you engage in coitus?” (The answer is YES).
This is a lush dark romance with gore featuring a feral mortal who knows she’s meant to rule literally everything, and the sadistic Demon who falls for her.
Also, this book cold opens with an orgy. 10/10.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review of this book! This is the PREQUEL to The Unbeating Heart.
This is a lush dark romance with gore featuring a feral mortal who knows she’s meant to rule literally everything, and the sadistic Demon who falls for her.
Also, this book cold opens with an orgy. 10/10.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review of this book! This is the PREQUEL to The Unbeating Heart.
March 29, 2023
4.5⭐️ 5🌶️
Far too often, morals got in the way of real fun. 🖤
This book is unlike anything I’ve ever read before and I couldn’t be more obsessed with these two. It’s mainly a dark fantasy romance with moments of beautiful tenderness and moments of shocking erotic horror! From just a few pages into The Unbeating Heart I was desperate for more time with just Zal & Nyx and this book is their origin story 😍👌🏻
Zalthorn Varaxis is the Prince of the Hells - equally the stuff of dreams and nightmares and he is completely tied up in knots over a mortal bard, Nyx, who accidentally summons him. Unable to decide if he wants to 💥 or ☠️ her, he does the sensible thing and kidnaps her! That’s just the beginning of these two morally black characters falling in love.
There’s a fair bit of spice in here and some of it is so violent I cannot stress enough to please read the content warnings or DM me for specifics. It’s really not for the faint of heart but it’s written in such a way that I was *almost* into it because the characters themselves were so into it. 🫣🥵
It can be read as a standalone, but there’s definitely a benefit to reading in order. Some small details had more impact I think because they were touched on but not explained in book 1.
Thanks so much to the author for the ARC - all opinions are my own.
Far too often, morals got in the way of real fun. 🖤
This book is unlike anything I’ve ever read before and I couldn’t be more obsessed with these two. It’s mainly a dark fantasy romance with moments of beautiful tenderness and moments of shocking erotic horror! From just a few pages into The Unbeating Heart I was desperate for more time with just Zal & Nyx and this book is their origin story 😍👌🏻
Zalthorn Varaxis is the Prince of the Hells - equally the stuff of dreams and nightmares and he is completely tied up in knots over a mortal bard, Nyx, who accidentally summons him. Unable to decide if he wants to 💥 or ☠️ her, he does the sensible thing and kidnaps her! That’s just the beginning of these two morally black characters falling in love.
There’s a fair bit of spice in here and some of it is so violent I cannot stress enough to please read the content warnings or DM me for specifics. It’s really not for the faint of heart but it’s written in such a way that I was *almost* into it because the characters themselves were so into it. 🫣🥵
It can be read as a standalone, but there’s definitely a benefit to reading in order. Some small details had more impact I think because they were touched on but not explained in book 1.
Thanks so much to the author for the ARC - all opinions are my own.
May 3, 2023
Everyone meet my favorite deviant lovers. Have you read The Unbeating Heart? If not, go do that and then come running back.
This book raised the bar for dark romance. Nothing will ever top this (pun fully intended) mostly because Zal would never be a sub 😏. We finally got our demon daddy and little necromancer POVs and I personally will never be over getting to be in Nyxs head. It’s exactly as chaotic as I dreamed.
Here’s the main point: if you’re wanting the most unholy, unhinged, dark romance between two blood thirsty creatures that are simultaneously disgustingly cute with each other. Here it is!! And it’s done so, so incredibly well.
I am still struggling for words worthy to describe this story. There’s lots of severed anatomy and a lot of sex during aforementioned loss of extremities, which immediately makes this a 10/10.
You all can see the tropes or book blurb literally everywhere so I’m going to spend a little more time talking about the writing and ingenious story line. We finally see Zals full power, get an account of Nyxs roots, watch them come together (lol so many times) to be the definition of power couple. Im sorry, Nyx said being immortal is more a state of mind and her body just needed to catch up with the program?!? THE POWER?!? I highlighted 127 pieces of this book and normally I can’t be bothered because if I have to highlight it to remember it, why am I reading it? But not this book! I didn’t want to forget a single word of this beautiful violence. Forget killing in the name of revenge, normalize entertainment via murder and orgasms via bloodbath. The mastermind level of ingenuity I can’t even comprehend. I’m so ready for more and know I’ll just have to keep rereading because wtf else even comes close to this level of horny gore??
Anyways.. read this book, most likely one handed and fall in love with the most adorable psychopaths.
Bonus points for an intro to a fav TUH character at the VERY LAST MOMENT, that was rude but will leave you so ready for more of this story.
Just go ahead and initiate me into the cult, because I’m a lifelong fan.
This book raised the bar for dark romance. Nothing will ever top this (pun fully intended) mostly because Zal would never be a sub 😏. We finally got our demon daddy and little necromancer POVs and I personally will never be over getting to be in Nyxs head. It’s exactly as chaotic as I dreamed.
Here’s the main point: if you’re wanting the most unholy, unhinged, dark romance between two blood thirsty creatures that are simultaneously disgustingly cute with each other. Here it is!! And it’s done so, so incredibly well.
I am still struggling for words worthy to describe this story. There’s lots of severed anatomy and a lot of sex during aforementioned loss of extremities, which immediately makes this a 10/10.
You all can see the tropes or book blurb literally everywhere so I’m going to spend a little more time talking about the writing and ingenious story line. We finally see Zals full power, get an account of Nyxs roots, watch them come together (lol so many times) to be the definition of power couple. Im sorry, Nyx said being immortal is more a state of mind and her body just needed to catch up with the program?!? THE POWER?!? I highlighted 127 pieces of this book and normally I can’t be bothered because if I have to highlight it to remember it, why am I reading it? But not this book! I didn’t want to forget a single word of this beautiful violence. Forget killing in the name of revenge, normalize entertainment via murder and orgasms via bloodbath. The mastermind level of ingenuity I can’t even comprehend. I’m so ready for more and know I’ll just have to keep rereading because wtf else even comes close to this level of horny gore??
Anyways.. read this book, most likely one handed and fall in love with the most adorable psychopaths.
Bonus points for an intro to a fav TUH character at the VERY LAST MOMENT, that was rude but will leave you so ready for more of this story.
Just go ahead and initiate me into the cult, because I’m a lifelong fan.
May 16, 2023
❤️🔥✨ New Kinks await✨❤️🔥
First of all I - still - worship Nyx and Zal.
They have little in common with the usual romance protagonists - of course they are madly in love with each other but besides this they are villains through and through.
Not morally grey - they are bad ❤️🔥
Their arrogance is as over the top as everything else.
They definitely level up the whole dark romance genre with their blood obsession and morbid fantasies.
(Watch your stomach, Siblings - it's gonna be a ride.)
Sadly nearly every situation switches the POV - for example first her POV and after that the same situation from his POV.
The book wouldn't be this "long" but had all the same steam if Cyran hadn't chosen this kind of style. Of course I respect their choice - it simply wasn't for me and my ADHD brain. I loved all the details and it's really nice to have all these information but I would have preferred two books - some kind of duet (I mean literally 😅)
First of all I - still - worship Nyx and Zal.
They have little in common with the usual romance protagonists - of course they are madly in love with each other but besides this they are villains through and through.
Not morally grey - they are bad ❤️🔥
Their arrogance is as over the top as everything else.
They definitely level up the whole dark romance genre with their blood obsession and morbid fantasies.
(Watch your stomach, Siblings - it's gonna be a ride.)
Sadly nearly every situation switches the POV - for example first her POV and after that the same situation from his POV.
The book wouldn't be this "long" but had all the same steam if Cyran hadn't chosen this kind of style. Of course I respect their choice - it simply wasn't for me and my ADHD brain. I loved all the details and it's really nice to have all these information but I would have preferred two books - some kind of duet (I mean literally 😅)
March 28, 2023
AMAZING. This is the prequel to The Unbeating Heart; Zal and Nyx’s love story. I am obsessed with them. Their story is DARK (check trigger warnings) but SO PERFECT. Cyran paints the most beautiful pictures with her words and I can’t get enough. Beautiful storytelling, the most precious grumpy/sunshine, soft only for her, fated mates tale ever told. I cannot wait to see what they write next and you can bet I’ll be preordering whatever it is.
March 23, 2023
I was completely obsessed with The Unbeating Heart, so when Cyran asked if I wanted an ARC copy of TPD & TTP I was so in. More Zal and Nyx? Yes, please.
This happens before TUH, and it's honestly so fun to get to see exactly how Zal and Nyx became... Zal and Nyx. Their chemistry is off the charts from chapter 1, and if you don't fall more in love with Nyx with every page, we can't be friends.
Cyran's world building was one of the main draws of TUH for me, and they've managed to outdo themselves with this book. You can tell when an author took the time to think through the magical rules, the political structures, and the different cultures of their world, and Cyran definitely did so. Not to mention how perfect every character's name is.
Content and kink-wise this book is definitely darker than TUH. But remember - it's fiction! Fantasy fiction at that. So obviously some (many) of the things depicted here aren't meant to be practiced by us mere mortals. If you have an aversion to the darker side of things, proceed with caution.
However, overall, The Pale Daughter & The Tyrant Prince is thematically lighter than TUH. Zal and Nyx are so incredibly sweet and caring with each other as they fall in love. Which is what this book is ultimately about - an all encompassing; passionate; maddening; mind, body, and soul love.
Cyran has done it again, and I literally could not recommend this more for lovers of dark romance.
(I think I'm supposed to put somewhere in here that Cyran did not pay me for this, I'm just a fan girl)
This happens before TUH, and it's honestly so fun to get to see exactly how Zal and Nyx became... Zal and Nyx. Their chemistry is off the charts from chapter 1, and if you don't fall more in love with Nyx with every page, we can't be friends.
Cyran's world building was one of the main draws of TUH for me, and they've managed to outdo themselves with this book. You can tell when an author took the time to think through the magical rules, the political structures, and the different cultures of their world, and Cyran definitely did so. Not to mention how perfect every character's name is.
Content and kink-wise this book is definitely darker than TUH. But remember - it's fiction! Fantasy fiction at that. So obviously some (many) of the things depicted here aren't meant to be practiced by us mere mortals. If you have an aversion to the darker side of things, proceed with caution.
However, overall, The Pale Daughter & The Tyrant Prince is thematically lighter than TUH. Zal and Nyx are so incredibly sweet and caring with each other as they fall in love. Which is what this book is ultimately about - an all encompassing; passionate; maddening; mind, body, and soul love.
Cyran has done it again, and I literally could not recommend this more for lovers of dark romance.
(I think I'm supposed to put somewhere in here that Cyran did not pay me for this, I'm just a fan girl)
April 8, 2024
If you love romance, fantasy, and the macabre... READ THIS BOOK. You can also keep reading this review, but you could be spending your time reading this GEM of a book instead; just sayin'.
First off, this is a deliciously dark book 😈, so def read the content warnings first! I want to applaud Cyran for being up front and thorough so there are no triggering moments for folks.
Now for the good bits...
I've read a few dark romances that feature obsession, and I have never felt it like I have with Zal and Nyx 😍 I adore how their brutality as individuals creates the most violently romantic relationship. They are so intense and I am here for it.
The spicy scenes in this book are freaking hot 🔥 🥵, insanely intense, gorey, bloody, and also the most romantic sh*t I've ever read. I don't know how it's possible, but here we are:
"F***, I love that expression on your face when you think you're going to die."
I emoted out loud with laughing, gasps, "hell no", "heck yeah", and "no no no no" and that is pretty much my gold standard for a book.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5 glowing stars
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 Hot as hell
I received an ARC copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
First off, this is a deliciously dark book 😈, so def read the content warnings first! I want to applaud Cyran for being up front and thorough so there are no triggering moments for folks.
Now for the good bits...
I've read a few dark romances that feature obsession, and I have never felt it like I have with Zal and Nyx 😍 I adore how their brutality as individuals creates the most violently romantic relationship. They are so intense and I am here for it.
The spicy scenes in this book are freaking hot 🔥 🥵, insanely intense, gorey, bloody, and also the most romantic sh*t I've ever read. I don't know how it's possible, but here we are:
"F***, I love that expression on your face when you think you're going to die."
I emoted out loud with laughing, gasps, "hell no", "heck yeah", and "no no no no" and that is pretty much my gold standard for a book.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5 glowing stars
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 Hot as hell
I received an ARC copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
March 29, 2023
ARC Review
I fell in love with Nyx and Xal in The Unbeating Heart, so diving deeper into their origin story was amazing! Cyran's writing style is incredible and they have a way of building an intricate world that draws you in without being boring or overwhelming. This world has quickly become one of my favorites to escape to. This is a DARK romance, so make sure you check out the trigger warnings, and then be prepared to fall in love with a demon.
I fell in love with Nyx and Xal in The Unbeating Heart, so diving deeper into their origin story was amazing! Cyran's writing style is incredible and they have a way of building an intricate world that draws you in without being boring or overwhelming. This world has quickly become one of my favorites to escape to. This is a DARK romance, so make sure you check out the trigger warnings, and then be prepared to fall in love with a demon.
April 2, 2023
The prequel to The Unbeating Heart is just as good as Cyran's first novel, friends. This dark romance tickles all of your cravings and the characters never disappoint you.
This is definitely going on my re-read list, and I continue to love Zal and Nyx with my own beating heart.
This is definitely going on my re-read list, and I continue to love Zal and Nyx with my own beating heart.
featured
January 29, 2025Zalthorn from The Pale Daughter & The Tyrant Prince is demisexual!
https://www.tumblr.com/aspeccharacter...
https://www.tumblr.com/aspeccharacter...
June 2, 2023
Villains really are the best!
I had read a little about the trigger warnings in this book beforehand on the author’s Instagram so I didn’t go into it completely blind.
Having said that, this book has me firmly on team villain, and I have yet to find another book that comes close in making morally black characters so loveable!
Zalthorn’s quest to find his person he dreamed about hit close to home for me. I have wildly vivid dreams myself, and have often hoped some would come true!
Nyxis is hilarious, and I loved her strong sense of self worth, even when things didn’t always work out for the best.
Without spoiling parts of the story, there were moments when I had to put the book down and think about how I felt about certain scenes. I enjoy spending time in introspection so this book really scratched that itch!
Overall, this is easily in my top three favorite books I’ve read so far in 2023🖤
I had read a little about the trigger warnings in this book beforehand on the author’s Instagram so I didn’t go into it completely blind.
Having said that, this book has me firmly on team villain, and I have yet to find another book that comes close in making morally black characters so loveable!
Zalthorn’s quest to find his person he dreamed about hit close to home for me. I have wildly vivid dreams myself, and have often hoped some would come true!
Nyxis is hilarious, and I loved her strong sense of self worth, even when things didn’t always work out for the best.
Without spoiling parts of the story, there were moments when I had to put the book down and think about how I felt about certain scenes. I enjoy spending time in introspection so this book really scratched that itch!
Overall, this is easily in my top three favorite books I’ve read so far in 2023🖤
December 24, 2023
i hadn’t read about the book before starting, so i wasn’t expecting zal and nyx’s story. but it was a pleasant surprise. it was fun to read their becoming. it was kind of nostalgic idk. if i had read this book before the main one in the series, i would’ve enjoyed “The Unbeating Heart” better. at the point of reading this book i was used to all the gore of this author’s books and wasn’t disturbed by flesh-eating.
shout out to selene.
huge foreshadowing.
so sweet.
i felt like keeping nyx’s beating heart in the box was stupid. zal said that only his blood can open it and mentioned that it meant their future son too - but what about his evil father? with this logic of direct lineage the father was capable of opening the box too.
i liked that there were both of main characters’ povs but i was annoyed sometimes how chapters repeated themselves word by word just to show another pov. so i skipped quite a lot.
the combination of nyx and the twins was so hilarious. i wish in next book(s) we’ll see more of them.
shout out to selene.
“I’d always felt drawn to depictions of the moon.”
huge foreshadowing.
“Maybe I’d start a cult next. Take over the mortal realm with an army of undead servants. That sounded rather spectacular. And amusing.”
so sweet.
“He grazed my organs, and the gentle caress over my lungs was unexpectedly sweet.”
i felt like keeping nyx’s beating heart in the box was stupid. zal said that only his blood can open it and mentioned that it meant their future son too - but what about his evil father? with this logic of direct lineage the father was capable of opening the box too.
i liked that there were both of main characters’ povs but i was annoyed sometimes how chapters repeated themselves word by word just to show another pov. so i skipped quite a lot.
the combination of nyx and the twins was so hilarious. i wish in next book(s) we’ll see more of them.
March 24, 2023
✨ARC Review✨
This hands down the most beautiful love story ever written. I literally had heart flutters all the way through. The Pale Princess and the Tyrant Prince otherwise known as Nyx and Zal, the God King and Queen. This is a prequel to The Unbeating Heart, which is where I first fell in love with both of these characters and their unmatched devotion to each other. Honestly no other love story will ever stand a chance.
This is written in a dual POV, which I was obsessed with and as per usual the way Cyran writes you can not only imagine but literally feel the scenes. She has this ability to create such beautiful imagery in your mind.
With that being said these characters are morally black and the story is dark. Check the triggers before you dive in.
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🪵Burn: 🔥🔥🔥
🥵Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
⚠️Triggers: detailed violence and gore, torture/execution, themes of addiction, blood, alcohol/drug use, stalking, kidnapping, parent death (off-page, but referenced), necromancy and strong language. to—dub con, CNC, blood play, knife play, BDSM (including extreme masochism), breath play, demons, hard/taboo kink, orgasm control, size/height difference, vore, somnophilia, DP, and exhibitionism.
This hands down the most beautiful love story ever written. I literally had heart flutters all the way through. The Pale Princess and the Tyrant Prince otherwise known as Nyx and Zal, the God King and Queen. This is a prequel to The Unbeating Heart, which is where I first fell in love with both of these characters and their unmatched devotion to each other. Honestly no other love story will ever stand a chance.
This is written in a dual POV, which I was obsessed with and as per usual the way Cyran writes you can not only imagine but literally feel the scenes. She has this ability to create such beautiful imagery in your mind.
With that being said these characters are morally black and the story is dark. Check the triggers before you dive in.
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🪵Burn: 🔥🔥🔥
🥵Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
⚠️Triggers: detailed violence and gore, torture/execution, themes of addiction, blood, alcohol/drug use, stalking, kidnapping, parent death (off-page, but referenced), necromancy and strong language. to—dub con, CNC, blood play, knife play, BDSM (including extreme masochism), breath play, demons, hard/taboo kink, orgasm control, size/height difference, vore, somnophilia, DP, and exhibitionism.
March 26, 2023
This is the prequel to the Unbeating Heart where we get to learn more about Zalthorn and Nyxis; where they came from and how they found each other. Jumping back into the world with Zal & Nyx felt so good and honestly, felt like home (they truly stole my heart in TUH).
The love and passion between these two is just so beautiful. Yes this is a dark romance and Zal is a demon so there's lots of 'unconventional' romance, but it's their type of romance and it's perfect! Honestly, there were so many moments where I was like "this is messed up but also the most romantic sh*t ever!".
Nyxis is a bundle of fun, charisma and good banter. She is a sassy little thing full of confidence and knows exactly what she wants. So when she unintentionally summons Zalthorn, her mind was set on him.
Zalthorn is a big, muscular, powerful demon prince who still has a sliver of hope for the old folklore stories of fated mates. After spending years searching for the woman he saw in a dream, he is summoned by Nyx; someone who looks suspiciously similar to the woman from his dream...
Zal & Nyx were well and truly made for each other and are a perfect pair (in their own evil, gory way). Their love is deep - it is mind, body and soul, and it was so romantic in it's own way. The way the two of them navigate their feelings and grow together was just magic. This whole damn story was magic and Cyran has outdone themselves. 5/5 could not ask for anything more - this was pure dark, steamy heaven (or Hells) 😈
Note: I was kindly given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The love and passion between these two is just so beautiful. Yes this is a dark romance and Zal is a demon so there's lots of 'unconventional' romance, but it's their type of romance and it's perfect! Honestly, there were so many moments where I was like "this is messed up but also the most romantic sh*t ever!".
Nyxis is a bundle of fun, charisma and good banter. She is a sassy little thing full of confidence and knows exactly what she wants. So when she unintentionally summons Zalthorn, her mind was set on him.
Zalthorn is a big, muscular, powerful demon prince who still has a sliver of hope for the old folklore stories of fated mates. After spending years searching for the woman he saw in a dream, he is summoned by Nyx; someone who looks suspiciously similar to the woman from his dream...
Zal & Nyx were well and truly made for each other and are a perfect pair (in their own evil, gory way). Their love is deep - it is mind, body and soul, and it was so romantic in it's own way. The way the two of them navigate their feelings and grow together was just magic. This whole damn story was magic and Cyran has outdone themselves. 5/5 could not ask for anything more - this was pure dark, steamy heaven (or Hells) 😈
Note: I was kindly given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 26, 2023
I fell in love with The Unbeating Heart, so I was over the moon when offered in joining the ARC crew for The Pale Daughter & The Tyrant Prince.
This book takes place before The Unbeating Heart but could definitely be read as a standalone if you wished to do so; though, I would recommend reading TUH to get the full effect and truly enjoy the beauty that it offers.
The Pale Daughter & The Tyrant Prince follows the story of Nyx, a mortal that knows she deserves absolutely nothing less than the treatment of goddesses, and Zal, the brutal Demon and heir that wants to make it all happen.
And it all starts with a summoning that went awry and a dark attraction that couldn't be denied.
Nyx and Zal's story unfolds instantly and beautifully. The want and need from both parties is delicious in all the best and dark ways. I truly enjoyed getting a backstory on these two, and I didn't think that I could love them more than I already did. And I still can't wrap my head around the fact that two morally black characters gave me so many feelings and had such an amazing love story. There were a couple of parts that literally had me kicking my feet like a teenager, even if they were a little twisted.
This story contains a little bit of everything.
We have DUAL POVs, which were written wonderfully. Cyran has such a way with words and describing feelings, and I loved every chapter from Nyx's POV. She was so funny to me. Her attitude was truly 'God Queen', and I couldn't get enough of it.
We have grumpy and (dark) sunshine. We have some gore. We have fated mates. We have pitch black darkness and some taboo. If you're a sensitive reader, you'll definitely want to give the content warning a look-through.
I would recommend and personally give this five stars straight down the line. And once again, Cyran left me sad when I hit the last page. I wish I could just have Nyx and Zal content 24/7. I'm greedy, I can't help it. I learned from The God Queen herself.
As mentioned before, I received an ARC for this. The exchange for this ARC is an honest review. I was not paid for this review. I'm just a fan that wants to support a very talented author and help said author find their people.
This book takes place before The Unbeating Heart but could definitely be read as a standalone if you wished to do so; though, I would recommend reading TUH to get the full effect and truly enjoy the beauty that it offers.
The Pale Daughter & The Tyrant Prince follows the story of Nyx, a mortal that knows she deserves absolutely nothing less than the treatment of goddesses, and Zal, the brutal Demon and heir that wants to make it all happen.
And it all starts with a summoning that went awry and a dark attraction that couldn't be denied.
Nyx and Zal's story unfolds instantly and beautifully. The want and need from both parties is delicious in all the best and dark ways. I truly enjoyed getting a backstory on these two, and I didn't think that I could love them more than I already did. And I still can't wrap my head around the fact that two morally black characters gave me so many feelings and had such an amazing love story. There were a couple of parts that literally had me kicking my feet like a teenager, even if they were a little twisted.
This story contains a little bit of everything.
We have DUAL POVs, which were written wonderfully. Cyran has such a way with words and describing feelings, and I loved every chapter from Nyx's POV. She was so funny to me. Her attitude was truly 'God Queen', and I couldn't get enough of it.
We have grumpy and (dark) sunshine. We have some gore. We have fated mates. We have pitch black darkness and some taboo. If you're a sensitive reader, you'll definitely want to give the content warning a look-through.
I would recommend and personally give this five stars straight down the line. And once again, Cyran left me sad when I hit the last page. I wish I could just have Nyx and Zal content 24/7. I'm greedy, I can't help it. I learned from The God Queen herself.
As mentioned before, I received an ARC for this. The exchange for this ARC is an honest review. I was not paid for this review. I'm just a fan that wants to support a very talented author and help said author find their people.
March 24, 2023
**ARC REVIEW**
A prequel to The Unbeating Heart, here we have Nyx & Zalthorn's origin story; the Pale Daughter & The Tyrant Prince. Two souls from different realms destined/fated/MEANT to be together in this prophetic and divinely dark love story.
Written from a dual POV, we get to know both Nyx & Zalthorn on a more intimate level. The depth & detail in which the story, characters & especially the spicy scenes (!!!) are written is just, phenomenal. The monologues are everything.
I have fallen in love with Zal; NOT because he is THE demon of desire, but for his tender and loving admiration for Nyx. For such a brutal demon, he is quite the blushing beast for her, and it couldn't be sweeter.
If you're looking for your next dark, fantasy-romance read, this series IS IT. Just make sure you read the trigger warnings graciously listed by the author first. They're there for a reason as some of the kinks definitely aren't for everyone. They are a dark, gorey, but sinfully delicious read.
A prequel to The Unbeating Heart, here we have Nyx & Zalthorn's origin story; the Pale Daughter & The Tyrant Prince. Two souls from different realms destined/fated/MEANT to be together in this prophetic and divinely dark love story.
Written from a dual POV, we get to know both Nyx & Zalthorn on a more intimate level. The depth & detail in which the story, characters & especially the spicy scenes (!!!) are written is just, phenomenal. The monologues are everything.
I have fallen in love with Zal; NOT because he is THE demon of desire, but for his tender and loving admiration for Nyx. For such a brutal demon, he is quite the blushing beast for her, and it couldn't be sweeter.
If you're looking for your next dark, fantasy-romance read, this series IS IT. Just make sure you read the trigger warnings graciously listed by the author first. They're there for a reason as some of the kinks definitely aren't for everyone. They are a dark, gorey, but sinfully delicious read.
March 26, 2023
I was so nervous starting this book. I love LOVE Sel and the unbeating heart, and was unsure if I would this book as much since she’s not in it. Silly, silly me. Never doubt the glorious mind of Cyran Faringray. Honestly, the foreword was epic and then it just continued. This is a DARK romance so really check the trigger warnings, but the romance in it it’s just pure and so consuming. Nyx and Zal would do anything for each other and to see how their relationship develops it’s just so heartwarming and amazing. I’m usually not a fan of instalove, give me the slowburn and pining pls (hence loving Sel hehe), but I couldn’t get enough. I started procrastinating and baking when I was reading this because I didn’t want it to end. And when it, I went straight to tuh and started rereading that! I’m already excited to see what Cyran does next ❤️
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review and my thoughts are 100% my own
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review and my thoughts are 100% my own
March 25, 2023
When reading The Unbeating Heart, I fell in love with the love between Zal and Nyx. I thought they already had gotten all the way under my skin and I couldn't possibly love them more, but of course Cyran had to prove me wrong. A Xar'vathi and a Demon making a bargain? Sign me up. Add some wings, tails and neverending devotion and you've got me on my knees. This book is dark, it's delicious and i'm very patiently (not really) waiting for more. Cyran has a way of making you unsure about the TW's and then writing them in such a way that you're so into it that you start to doubt your own judgment. I think I no longer have any hard limits at this point and i love that.
November 10, 2024
I loved this book. I’m not usually one for high fantasy but I guess when it’s very dark I love it. The two main characters are unapologetically messed up and I love that for them. Also the vore representation is so good in this. The world building is good but I feel like it sort of lacks a cohesive plot. It felt like the climax was at the very end and felt very rushed. I assume this is part of a series but I still feel that way. The spice and dirty talk were top tier tho
January 21, 2024
zal and nyx are absolutely fucking depraved and i loved every second of it ((:
Read
April 9, 2024Not for me. Wasn’t really keeping my attention.
August 13, 2024
PAY ATTENTION TO THE TRIGGER WARNINGS, they aren't kidding
March 27, 2023
⚠️Please check content and trigger warnings.
The prequel to The Unbeating Heart. This tells of how Zal and Nyx met. And let me tell you, it's one Hell of a ride!
These two are absolutely depraved and perfect for each other. Their love is one for the ages, and nothing will stop them being together!
The prequel to The Unbeating Heart. This tells of how Zal and Nyx met. And let me tell you, it's one Hell of a ride!
These two are absolutely depraved and perfect for each other. Their love is one for the ages, and nothing will stop them being together!
March 31, 2023
Update 2: This was so amazing. The imagery is vivid without taking up a ton of time describing random things that don't feel like they matter. The sibling dynamics felt so real, the devotion between Nyx and Zal was incredible, the gore was gruesome, the Hells seem lovely (most of the time). Definitely like nothing I've ever read before, and I mean that with the highest compliments. This book is an easy 5 stars, the spice is on point, I couldn't ask for better.
Update: I'm just over a third of the way done and this is amazing. I don't want it to end!
I've gotten a few snippets of this from Cyran and I am DYING. It's going to be amazing. Is it release day yet?!
Update: I'm just over a third of the way done and this is amazing. I don't want it to end!
I've gotten a few snippets of this from Cyran and I am DYING. It's going to be amazing. Is it release day yet?!
March 26, 2023
“As Nyxis and Zalthorn meet, their depraved attraction sets fire to their very souls. The two are forced to ask themselves if fate truly exists, and just how much they’re willing to sacrifice for rapacious love”
5/5 STARS
10/5 spice level. ;)
Tropes:
- touch her and die
- forced proximity
- fated mates
- evil MMC but tender and sweet to FMC.
- demon romance
- grumpy vs sunshine
- size differences
- primal play
-breeding
- breath play
- blood play
- somnophilia
- dual POVs
Now THAT’s out of the way, I can start telling you how much I am in love with this book. I completely devoured this book within 24 hours. I could not put it down. The author did a phenomenal job with the pacing of this novel, there was truly never a dull moment. Nyx, the FMC, was so unhinged it was charming. She knew her worth and what she wanted and anyone who refused to give it to her could burn in hell (literally). I was so enamored with her brat tendencies, it allowed a lot of comedic relief throughout the book. And Zal, oh Zal, he is such a grump but he is always so in love with all of the witty and sassy things Nyx gets up to. I am hesitant to call him a brat tamer because he doesn’t *want* to tame her. He loves her in all of her insane, psychotic, deviant and murderous glory. But he does like to be stern and demand obedience in a bedroom setting… if you’re catching my drift. Zal has always been obsessed with the idea of his fated mate. He comes off as slightly hopeless romantic despite is demonic ways. Together, Nyx and Zal are delicious nefarious. They enable each other to take what they want. They are two souls, made of the same essence, intertwined by the fates, Together, they love debauchery, pain, and pleasure. Reveling in the bliss a pleasure demon’s lifestyle brings. The smutty scenes in this book were unlike anything from any other book. It left me feeling sated. Again, the author’s prose is phenomenal. Some of the scenes are so taboo, but oh so deliciously dark and taboo. When Zal screwed Nyx in a room full of his subjects will sprinkling mortal blood over her… PHEW! Someone get me some water. :D 10/10
QUOTES:
“You calm the stormy seas of my enrages soul, Nyxis Luscinia. You complete me. I can’t be without you, not for a single day. Not for a single fucking moment.”
“You’re far more beautiful than any flower or sparkling jewel, Nyx”..”If you find yourself amazed by the beauty of this place, then fuck. You should know that whenever I look at you, I experience the same wonder, the same are, the same adoration..multiplied a thousandfold.”
“The woman I saw in my dream is you, Nyxis.”..”It’s you I have been searching for. You are my prophecy fulfilled. You are my fated mate.”
“From the moment your radiant soul came into existence, it was fated to be entwined with mine. From this day on, Nyxis, you will never be alone again. All your sorrows will be mine own. All your enemies will be mine own. All your desires will be mine own.”
“Even when time tears itself apart and there is nothing but the void left, our bond will endure. Our love will endure. You have my promise”
“Do you want to start a cult with me, Nyx”
- “Gods, that is the most romantic proposal I have ever received!”
“A heart for a bargain.
Two fated souls, tied as one.
The Pale Daughter and the Tyrant Prince, forever bound”
If you need me, I’ll be off recommending this book to anyone in my near vicinity with ears! I can’t wait to see future works by Cyran!
5/5 STARS
10/5 spice level. ;)
Tropes:
- touch her and die
- forced proximity
- fated mates
- evil MMC but tender and sweet to FMC.
- demon romance
- grumpy vs sunshine
- size differences
- primal play
-breeding
- breath play
- blood play
- somnophilia
- dual POVs
Now THAT’s out of the way, I can start telling you how much I am in love with this book. I completely devoured this book within 24 hours. I could not put it down. The author did a phenomenal job with the pacing of this novel, there was truly never a dull moment. Nyx, the FMC, was so unhinged it was charming. She knew her worth and what she wanted and anyone who refused to give it to her could burn in hell (literally). I was so enamored with her brat tendencies, it allowed a lot of comedic relief throughout the book. And Zal, oh Zal, he is such a grump but he is always so in love with all of the witty and sassy things Nyx gets up to. I am hesitant to call him a brat tamer because he doesn’t *want* to tame her. He loves her in all of her insane, psychotic, deviant and murderous glory. But he does like to be stern and demand obedience in a bedroom setting… if you’re catching my drift. Zal has always been obsessed with the idea of his fated mate. He comes off as slightly hopeless romantic despite is demonic ways. Together, Nyx and Zal are delicious nefarious. They enable each other to take what they want. They are two souls, made of the same essence, intertwined by the fates, Together, they love debauchery, pain, and pleasure. Reveling in the bliss a pleasure demon’s lifestyle brings. The smutty scenes in this book were unlike anything from any other book. It left me feeling sated. Again, the author’s prose is phenomenal. Some of the scenes are so taboo, but oh so deliciously dark and taboo. When Zal screwed Nyx in a room full of his subjects will sprinkling mortal blood over her… PHEW! Someone get me some water. :D 10/10
QUOTES:
“You calm the stormy seas of my enrages soul, Nyxis Luscinia. You complete me. I can’t be without you, not for a single day. Not for a single fucking moment.”
“You’re far more beautiful than any flower or sparkling jewel, Nyx”..”If you find yourself amazed by the beauty of this place, then fuck. You should know that whenever I look at you, I experience the same wonder, the same are, the same adoration..multiplied a thousandfold.”
“The woman I saw in my dream is you, Nyxis.”..”It’s you I have been searching for. You are my prophecy fulfilled. You are my fated mate.”
“From the moment your radiant soul came into existence, it was fated to be entwined with mine. From this day on, Nyxis, you will never be alone again. All your sorrows will be mine own. All your enemies will be mine own. All your desires will be mine own.”
“Even when time tears itself apart and there is nothing but the void left, our bond will endure. Our love will endure. You have my promise”
“Do you want to start a cult with me, Nyx”
- “Gods, that is the most romantic proposal I have ever received!”
“A heart for a bargain.
Two fated souls, tied as one.
The Pale Daughter and the Tyrant Prince, forever bound”
If you need me, I’ll be off recommending this book to anyone in my near vicinity with ears! I can’t wait to see future works by Cyran!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2024
This book is the prequel to Cyran Faringray’s debut novel, The Unbeating Heart. Here we explore two MCs from that book in more depth, with a focus on how they became the dangerously addictive duo we’ve come to know and love.
I adore these MCs - this is the third book I’ve read with them, thanks to being a Patreon, and every time they succeed in delighting me!
Nyxis is a deviant and wickedly gleeful in her antics - her energy is infectious and you can’t help but love her. While Zalthorn is more reserved, it’s wonderful to see his character bloom from a brooding demon Prince to a persona wanting more than just what he’s entitled to. He wants a particular love, a fire and a reason for being outside the politics of his kingdom. And as he becomes more infatuated with the little necromancer, he begins to open up more in his personality - we see humour and a playfulness which is endearing to say the least. Because their love stems from a mutual lust for all things dark and perverse, it stops their affection from being too cheesy or insufferable. For all of their promises and dotings on each other, there’s an underlying bloodlust too which is always present and that’s what makes these two exciting.
The world Faringray has created is vast and complex. There is developed lore that we began to see in the book’s predecessor, The Unbeating Heart, that is expanded upon here. In addition, we are privy to some of the demonic Hells that have also been alluded to in TUH and the beauty in which they’re described makes our mortal realm seem pretty lacklustre by comparison. However, the Hells comes with its own rules and traditions - brutal and cutthroat - and we see a glimpse of how bloodthirsty these characters can get.
On that note, as usual with Cyran Faringray’s works, heed the trigger warnings. This is not a book for the squeamish or vanilla. There are mutilations, blood play to the extreme, desecration of corpses and torture - and that’s just the sex. Faringray doesn’t hold back pushing taboos and I’m always both fascinated and excited by how they manage to curtail the obscene into something palatable or, dare I say… enjoyable. This heat is of the ghost pepper variety and I love it all!
After finishing this book, I’m craving more Nyx and Zal and their adventures together so it won’t be long before I immerse myself in The Unbeating Heart once more, better knowledgeable of this world and the history of Nyx and Zal. I feel it will be an even more enjoyable read as this time, I won’t be learning about them along with Selene, completely unaware of what we’re dealing with, but more like catching up with old friends.
You do not have to have read The Unbeating Heart to enjoy The Pale Daughter and the Tyrant Prince so don’t hold off reading this if you haven’t come across this series before. But I promise, a world of demons, cults, the undead, wars, politics and a helluva lot of blood and lust awaits you… and it all begins with this book.
I adore these MCs - this is the third book I’ve read with them, thanks to being a Patreon, and every time they succeed in delighting me!
Nyxis is a deviant and wickedly gleeful in her antics - her energy is infectious and you can’t help but love her. While Zalthorn is more reserved, it’s wonderful to see his character bloom from a brooding demon Prince to a persona wanting more than just what he’s entitled to. He wants a particular love, a fire and a reason for being outside the politics of his kingdom. And as he becomes more infatuated with the little necromancer, he begins to open up more in his personality - we see humour and a playfulness which is endearing to say the least. Because their love stems from a mutual lust for all things dark and perverse, it stops their affection from being too cheesy or insufferable. For all of their promises and dotings on each other, there’s an underlying bloodlust too which is always present and that’s what makes these two exciting.
The world Faringray has created is vast and complex. There is developed lore that we began to see in the book’s predecessor, The Unbeating Heart, that is expanded upon here. In addition, we are privy to some of the demonic Hells that have also been alluded to in TUH and the beauty in which they’re described makes our mortal realm seem pretty lacklustre by comparison. However, the Hells comes with its own rules and traditions - brutal and cutthroat - and we see a glimpse of how bloodthirsty these characters can get.
On that note, as usual with Cyran Faringray’s works, heed the trigger warnings. This is not a book for the squeamish or vanilla. There are mutilations, blood play to the extreme, desecration of corpses and torture - and that’s just the sex. Faringray doesn’t hold back pushing taboos and I’m always both fascinated and excited by how they manage to curtail the obscene into something palatable or, dare I say… enjoyable. This heat is of the ghost pepper variety and I love it all!
After finishing this book, I’m craving more Nyx and Zal and their adventures together so it won’t be long before I immerse myself in The Unbeating Heart once more, better knowledgeable of this world and the history of Nyx and Zal. I feel it will be an even more enjoyable read as this time, I won’t be learning about them along with Selene, completely unaware of what we’re dealing with, but more like catching up with old friends.
You do not have to have read The Unbeating Heart to enjoy The Pale Daughter and the Tyrant Prince so don’t hold off reading this if you haven’t come across this series before. But I promise, a world of demons, cults, the undead, wars, politics and a helluva lot of blood and lust awaits you… and it all begins with this book.
November 30, 2024
I really wanted to like this book and I came back to it often with new strength to continue. But it was not it. For me it was painful to read same thing in two POV. I expected morally black but instead got “dark” internal monologues. Nothing dark, they were actually sweet and every second thought has to be sexual or every organ has to be mentioned all the time. Annoying 🤔
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 12, 2024
Terrible writing, characters that are so one-dimensional i can't even, and the plot? What plot?
Basically just crap bdsm fantasy with an attempt at a shock factor. Meh.
Basically just crap bdsm fantasy with an attempt at a shock factor. Meh.
March 26, 2023
This review will not contain any major spoilers. I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
TLDR: 5 stars, 150/10 spice. A truly unique book that tries a few different things that elevate it above a lot of others, such an incredible and enjoyable experience. THAT is what this book is: an experience. I loved every second.
And no, you do not need to read “The Unbeating Heart” before this but it will enrich your experience due to the various small references and details the author has strewn throughout. Read trigger/content warnings!
The Pale Daughter & The Tyrant Prince (TPD&TTP) is the second title from Cyran Faringray, a queer and chronically ill indie author. It features the two love interests, Nyxis and Zalthorn, from their previous work “The Unbeating Heart” as the main characters this time (in M/F), along with both their POVs.
TPD&TTP can be read as a standalone novel and stands strong on its own merits, and to reiterate: a reader DOES NOT have to read the previous work to understand what is going on at all, however it does feature some easter eggs and details that readers may recognize, which I personally enjoyed with immense satisfaction having read the prior title.
The Spice:
This book had such an effect on me that I had to cool off after each spicy scene, I kid you not. The writing, the descriptors, the way the character’s act with each other, everything is utterly and unequivocally erotic. I recommend reading the extensive list of trigger/content warnings on the author’s website if you are easily upset. However, I cannot get enough of very taboo, very dark, very harsh spice.
The POV:
TPD&TTP features a dual POV as mentioned previously, however it does something that I’ve never seen before. This is the inclusion of both character’s perspectives in the same scene but each with their own internal monologue so you truly get to hear, understand and feel what the character’s innermost desires are at that very moment. This is a masterstroke, a brilliant addition to the dark romance (and the book) space as I have always felt in certain situations, “I really would’ve loved to see what that character was thinking in that moment.” But that never happens and my mind is left to fill in the blanks. With the chapters included in TPD&TTP, you really gain an incredible insight into Nyx and Zal’s minds.
I devoured this book and am completely smitten with the world that unfolded before my eyes. I cannot get enough of the characters, the worldbuilding, the magic and the lore!
Favorite characters:
My favorite characters have to be the “Pale Daughter” herself, Nyxis, and the “Tyrant Prince” himself, Zalthorn. Their chemistry is so utterly fantastic and depraved, I just want more of them. More of everything in this world that the author has created. However, a special mention has to go to “the twins” Melly and Nelly, I go feral with laughter whenever humor is written in such a slick and natural way. Oh and don’t forget my absolute favorite comic relief: A certain Elf at the end…
I also really loved the tails and the various ways the tail actions were used to relay how a particular character was feeling. Yay TAILS!
Best moments:
One of the best moments in the book for me was a particular fight scene where Nyx has to employ all of her guile and cunning to get by. But this was a very tough thing to choose, the entire book is filled with quotes, quotes and more quotes. Memorable moments and fantastical descriptions of scenery. The author has enraptured the reader once more.
The pacing:
It’s fast and never stops in any one place for too long which suits the nature of the plot and definitely keeps you embroiled in the world the author submerges you in by their design. This being a fated mates story, of course. Make sure you educate yourself re: the trigger and content warnings if you’re having any doubts.
Conclusion:
The other reviews already posted have touched upon lots of great points and I feel like I would only be repeating them so I can only say: Check out their reviews and please read this book, please please please! It is a breath of fresh air in the dark romance space.
TLDR: 5 stars, 150/10 spice. A truly unique book that tries a few different things that elevate it above a lot of others, such an incredible and enjoyable experience. THAT is what this book is: an experience. I loved every second.
And no, you do not need to read “The Unbeating Heart” before this but it will enrich your experience due to the various small references and details the author has strewn throughout. Read trigger/content warnings!
The Pale Daughter & The Tyrant Prince (TPD&TTP) is the second title from Cyran Faringray, a queer and chronically ill indie author. It features the two love interests, Nyxis and Zalthorn, from their previous work “The Unbeating Heart” as the main characters this time (in M/F), along with both their POVs.
TPD&TTP can be read as a standalone novel and stands strong on its own merits, and to reiterate: a reader DOES NOT have to read the previous work to understand what is going on at all, however it does feature some easter eggs and details that readers may recognize, which I personally enjoyed with immense satisfaction having read the prior title.
The Spice:
This book had such an effect on me that I had to cool off after each spicy scene, I kid you not. The writing, the descriptors, the way the character’s act with each other, everything is utterly and unequivocally erotic. I recommend reading the extensive list of trigger/content warnings on the author’s website if you are easily upset. However, I cannot get enough of very taboo, very dark, very harsh spice.
The POV:
TPD&TTP features a dual POV as mentioned previously, however it does something that I’ve never seen before. This is the inclusion of both character’s perspectives in the same scene but each with their own internal monologue so you truly get to hear, understand and feel what the character’s innermost desires are at that very moment. This is a masterstroke, a brilliant addition to the dark romance (and the book) space as I have always felt in certain situations, “I really would’ve loved to see what that character was thinking in that moment.” But that never happens and my mind is left to fill in the blanks. With the chapters included in TPD&TTP, you really gain an incredible insight into Nyx and Zal’s minds.
I devoured this book and am completely smitten with the world that unfolded before my eyes. I cannot get enough of the characters, the worldbuilding, the magic and the lore!
Favorite characters:
My favorite characters have to be the “Pale Daughter” herself, Nyxis, and the “Tyrant Prince” himself, Zalthorn. Their chemistry is so utterly fantastic and depraved, I just want more of them. More of everything in this world that the author has created. However, a special mention has to go to “the twins” Melly and Nelly, I go feral with laughter whenever humor is written in such a slick and natural way. Oh and don’t forget my absolute favorite comic relief: A certain Elf at the end…
I also really loved the tails and the various ways the tail actions were used to relay how a particular character was feeling. Yay TAILS!
Best moments:
One of the best moments in the book for me was a particular fight scene where Nyx has to employ all of her guile and cunning to get by. But this was a very tough thing to choose, the entire book is filled with quotes, quotes and more quotes. Memorable moments and fantastical descriptions of scenery. The author has enraptured the reader once more.
The pacing:
It’s fast and never stops in any one place for too long which suits the nature of the plot and definitely keeps you embroiled in the world the author submerges you in by their design. This being a fated mates story, of course. Make sure you educate yourself re: the trigger and content warnings if you’re having any doubts.
Conclusion:
The other reviews already posted have touched upon lots of great points and I feel like I would only be repeating them so I can only say: Check out their reviews and please read this book, please please please! It is a breath of fresh air in the dark romance space.
March 27, 2023
The Pale Daughter & The Tyrant Prince
Cyran Faringray
"A heart for a bargain.
Two fated souls, tied as one."
"This book is a pitch black villain romance and is only intended for an adult audience."
**Read your trigger and content warnings people!
(If you have already The Unbeating Heart you will be fine)
Dedication- ..."for those who crave ravenous, unconditional love."
THIS BOOK DELIVERED THIS STORY 1000%
(I have to make a quick note! This cover! This cover your guys with this art of these two— ughh I cannot express how breathtaking it was the first time I saw it!)
First off I am so honored to know this amazing author and be able to get my grubby hands on this ARC! Thank you a million times over Cyran for trusting me with this.
I got chills reading this book from the prologue! I was so excited and ready to read the tale of how Zal and Nyx met and Cyran did not disappoint. To be honest I was pretty ravenous for this book after devouring “The Unbeating Heart”. If you have not read it yet! Go. Do. That. NOW!
This book was written in dual POV and Cyran NAILED IT!
Getting to hear and see and experience the story from both Zal and Nyx's head was beautiful! I have fallen even more in love with these depraved villains. Their internal dialogue had me laughing and then "oh my!" and then "so adorable" and then "so sweet"! They were both just so relatable and personable!
Not to mention So Godsdamned cute and depraved!
Cyran's own words "Tiptoeing the border between romance and ruin." I think describes this book and the love they (Zal & Nyx) have for each other perfectly.
Some other things:
TAILS the TAILS- I have always been a wing girl but the details/description of how much the tails are so emotionally telling. I LOVE tails about as much as I love wings now!
Touch her and die
Burn the world for you
Fated Mates
Tails, Wings, Horns, Fangs!
Depraved (Adorably relatable) villain love interests helplessly in love with each other
Hot and Spicy! There will be blood play! Oh the blood play
If I had to choose one quote to sum up this book and encapsulate it:
"But it wasn't just hot. It was the epitome of romance.
Since the first poem, since the first words of an ancient love letter, scrawled in crude letters onto simple parchment, lovers had wanted to give their hearts to one another. And I could imagine no one better to hold my fragile life in his cruel, caring hands than Zalthorn. There would be no one else I'd ever want to entrust with this most special gift."
There is honestly so much I highlighted- so many quotes - so many beautiful descriptions!
Please please please read this book and experience it for yourself!
“The Pale Daughter & the Tyrant Price” currently available for pre-order on Amazon!
Also read “The Unbeating Heart” to read more of their story!
If you have time go binge this story first! It is currently available on kindle unlimited! But trust me you will want to buy the paperback too!
Cyran- you knocked this one out of the park! I cannot wait to read what you write next!
Cyran Faringray
"A heart for a bargain.
Two fated souls, tied as one."
"This book is a pitch black villain romance and is only intended for an adult audience."
**Read your trigger and content warnings people!
(If you have already The Unbeating Heart you will be fine)
Dedication- ..."for those who crave ravenous, unconditional love."
THIS BOOK DELIVERED THIS STORY 1000%
(I have to make a quick note! This cover! This cover your guys with this art of these two— ughh I cannot express how breathtaking it was the first time I saw it!)
First off I am so honored to know this amazing author and be able to get my grubby hands on this ARC! Thank you a million times over Cyran for trusting me with this.
I got chills reading this book from the prologue! I was so excited and ready to read the tale of how Zal and Nyx met and Cyran did not disappoint. To be honest I was pretty ravenous for this book after devouring “The Unbeating Heart”. If you have not read it yet! Go. Do. That. NOW!
This book was written in dual POV and Cyran NAILED IT!
Getting to hear and see and experience the story from both Zal and Nyx's head was beautiful! I have fallen even more in love with these depraved villains. Their internal dialogue had me laughing and then "oh my!" and then "so adorable" and then "so sweet"! They were both just so relatable and personable!
Not to mention So Godsdamned cute and depraved!
Cyran's own words "Tiptoeing the border between romance and ruin." I think describes this book and the love they (Zal & Nyx) have for each other perfectly.
Some other things:
TAILS the TAILS- I have always been a wing girl but the details/description of how much the tails are so emotionally telling. I LOVE tails about as much as I love wings now!
Touch her and die
Burn the world for you
Fated Mates
Tails, Wings, Horns, Fangs!
Depraved (Adorably relatable) villain love interests helplessly in love with each other
Hot and Spicy! There will be blood play! Oh the blood play
If I had to choose one quote to sum up this book and encapsulate it:
"But it wasn't just hot. It was the epitome of romance.
Since the first poem, since the first words of an ancient love letter, scrawled in crude letters onto simple parchment, lovers had wanted to give their hearts to one another. And I could imagine no one better to hold my fragile life in his cruel, caring hands than Zalthorn. There would be no one else I'd ever want to entrust with this most special gift."
There is honestly so much I highlighted- so many quotes - so many beautiful descriptions!
Please please please read this book and experience it for yourself!
“The Pale Daughter & the Tyrant Price” currently available for pre-order on Amazon!
Also read “The Unbeating Heart” to read more of their story!
If you have time go binge this story first! It is currently available on kindle unlimited! But trust me you will want to buy the paperback too!
Cyran- you knocked this one out of the park! I cannot wait to read what you write next!
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