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Shadows of Fire #2
Savage
From the moment he was born a god of light and darkness, Xevikan Daraxerxes was rejected by those who should have embraced him. A child of both realms, he was embraced by none. His is a lonely path that he’s walked for centuries as he’s done his best to avoid the divine politics of his parents.
But one can only stay neutral for so long. Now, Xev must face his past and learn from his mistakes. The world is in turmoil and his best friend and brother are facing enemies at every turn.
The evil he rejected is on the brink of destroying everything he knows and everyone he cares about. Either Xev embraces the savage inside himself that he’s spent centuries caging or he’ll be the last god ruling over a vacant, hollowed-out world.
But one can only stay neutral for so long. Now, Xev must face his past and learn from his mistakes. The world is in turmoil and his best friend and brother are facing enemies at every turn.
The evil he rejected is on the brink of destroying everything he knows and everyone he cares about. Either Xev embraces the savage inside himself that he’s spent centuries caging or he’ll be the last god ruling over a vacant, hollowed-out world.
327 pages
First published June 25, 2024
About the author
Sherrilyn Kenyon
238 books29.3k followersOfficial Author site
Official Nevermore site
Official Deadman's Cross site
Official Chronicles of Nick site
Official Silent Swans site
Official Hunter Legends site
Official Witch of Endor site
Official Lords of Avalon site
Official Facebook site
New York Times and international bestselling author Sherrilyn Kenyon is a regular at the #1 spot. With legions of fans known as Paladins (thousands of whom proudly sport tattoos from her series and who travel from all over the world to attend her appearances), her books are always snatched up as soon as they appear on store shelves. Since 2004, she had placed more than 80 novels on the New York Times list in all formats including manga and graphic novels. Her current series are: Dark-Hunters, Chronicles of Nick and The League, and her books are available in over 100 countries where eager fans impatiently wait for the next release. Her Chronicles of Nick and Dark-Hunter series are soon to be major motion pictures while Dark-Hunter is also being developed as a television series. Join her and her Paladins online at MySherrilyn.com and www.facebook.com/mysherrilyn
Official Nevermore site
Official Deadman's Cross site
Official Chronicles of Nick site
Official Silent Swans site
Official Hunter Legends site
Official Witch of Endor site
Official Lords of Avalon site
Official Facebook site
New York Times and international bestselling author Sherrilyn Kenyon is a regular at the #1 spot. With legions of fans known as Paladins (thousands of whom proudly sport tattoos from her series and who travel from all over the world to attend her appearances), her books are always snatched up as soon as they appear on store shelves. Since 2004, she had placed more than 80 novels on the New York Times list in all formats including manga and graphic novels. Her current series are: Dark-Hunters, Chronicles of Nick and The League, and her books are available in over 100 countries where eager fans impatiently wait for the next release. Her Chronicles of Nick and Dark-Hunter series are soon to be major motion pictures while Dark-Hunter is also being developed as a television series. Join her and her Paladins online at MySherrilyn.com and www.facebook.com/mysherrilyn
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
June 16, 2024
I truly enjoyed this book. Getting the background on Xev and so many of the others. The fighting between good & evil is always great to read about. How someone can be born and raised evil but turn out so loving and caring.
This did make me want to go back and reread the whole series over again.
This did make me want to go back and reread the whole series over again.
July 8, 2024
This book is just special to me because I’m literally obsessed with Jaden and his sons. The lengths those men go to in order to protect their loved ones… even when that will prove to be an extremely poor decision. Gah. I love them all.
Jaden is such a softie inside and I will die on this hill.
Jaden is such a softie inside and I will die on this hill.
June 27, 2024
This was a tough one to read. From the start Xev was treated like shit by his parents, then when he found someone who would care for him, they were killed in the most horrible way, often in front of him. It led him to be cynical. Even when he tried to do the right thing, he was often betrayed and kept away from those he loved. Sure there was a happy ending, but it was a long time coming, like centuries, not sure I would still be sane or nice if the same things happened to me.
July 12, 2024
This is one that I wished was a bit longer
This is Xev's story -
I warn you now his life was absolute shite
This was one of those reads that I kept trying to make last longer
This gave me so much background and insight into some of my favorite characters. We got to get to know Xev's family up close and personal
As well as how his relationship with Myone began
We get to be there when the betrayals began
How we got one Malachai and Seraphi
How they were created
How they were betrayed
So much packed into this release
As you expect from Kenyon this has it all and then some
Fast-paced storyline - Action packed - Angsty - Suspense - High Heat Romance - Forbidden Love - Family (by choice )
This is Xev's story -
I warn you now his life was absolute shite
This was one of those reads that I kept trying to make last longer
This gave me so much background and insight into some of my favorite characters. We got to get to know Xev's family up close and personal
As well as how his relationship with Myone began
We get to be there when the betrayals began
How we got one Malachai and Seraphi
How they were created
How they were betrayed
So much packed into this release
As you expect from Kenyon this has it all and then some
Fast-paced storyline - Action packed - Angsty - Suspense - High Heat Romance - Forbidden Love - Family (by choice )
June 18, 2024
Daraxerxes/Xev/Xevikan prefers Xev. Born from Jaden god of light and Azura goddess of dark.
Michi servant to Inari, raised Xev since neither parent wanted him.
Half brothers Malphas/Caleb and Shadow, half sister Anat Laguerre, cousin Paimon, Lombrey Eternal death
aunt, Lilit, Cam, Braith/Apollymi, uncle Noir, Rezar
Kissare, father of Monakribos/Kyri, lover to Braith
Tisahn., Kuru. Myone Mimoroux/Sephiroth. deamon is also mother to Jared.
Welcome to the wonderful world created by a brilliant author that will grab you from page one and never let go. Her characters have depth and flaws, most are wounded in some way. Her plots are very diverse with action, suspense, drama, family dysfunction, mythology, betryal, and romance.
This is how the only one Malachai rule came about. Sephirii were to be limited. Where to start...Xev being made from hatred, betrayal, and drunkenness is abandoned at birth by both his parents. He was hidden by Michi in her den until Inari ordered his death, which Michi could not do. She turned him over to Azura hoping that since the dark goddess was still searching for him would be a good thing. Azura only wanted him to control Jaden, which didn't work. She abused, tortured, beat, and hated Xev.
Xev is befriended by Shadow and Malphas. The three backed each other as much as possible. Azura used Xev any way she could. Once he glimpsed Myone, that was it for him, she was his everything.
War, abuse, and bad parents can not keep Xev down. His story is heartfelt and dynamic. With all his ups and downs he just grabs you and you become part of his story from the get go.
Michi servant to Inari, raised Xev since neither parent wanted him.
Half brothers Malphas/Caleb and Shadow, half sister Anat Laguerre, cousin Paimon, Lombrey Eternal death
aunt, Lilit, Cam, Braith/Apollymi, uncle Noir, Rezar
Kissare, father of Monakribos/Kyri, lover to Braith
Tisahn., Kuru. Myone Mimoroux/Sephiroth. deamon is also mother to Jared.
Welcome to the wonderful world created by a brilliant author that will grab you from page one and never let go. Her characters have depth and flaws, most are wounded in some way. Her plots are very diverse with action, suspense, drama, family dysfunction, mythology, betryal, and romance.
This is how the only one Malachai rule came about. Sephirii were to be limited. Where to start...Xev being made from hatred, betrayal, and drunkenness is abandoned at birth by both his parents. He was hidden by Michi in her den until Inari ordered his death, which Michi could not do. She turned him over to Azura hoping that since the dark goddess was still searching for him would be a good thing. Azura only wanted him to control Jaden, which didn't work. She abused, tortured, beat, and hated Xev.
Xev is befriended by Shadow and Malphas. The three backed each other as much as possible. Azura used Xev any way she could. Once he glimpsed Myone, that was it for him, she was his everything.
War, abuse, and bad parents can not keep Xev down. His story is heartfelt and dynamic. With all his ups and downs he just grabs you and you become part of his story from the get go.
June 14, 2024
Xev’s story has arrived! We have seen Xev a lot throughout the series, especially in the Chronicles of Nick. It’s definitely nice to get his origin story. Born of Azura and Jaden, neither wanted Xev in their lives. Yet Xev would be bound in a way to both. He is caught in a way between demons and the Sephirii. Forced to fight for one side but his heart belongs to a leader of the Sephirii, Myone. Myone sees the good in Xev from the beginning and it doesn’t take long for these two to fall in love. But their lives are never easy. Opposite sides of war, meeting in secret, the two long for the day there is no more war. And things only get more complicated when Myone gets pregnant. Their son, Jared, will shape so much of what is to come. We get more details in this book about this war that we know ended with so many deaths and betrayals. I loved getting to know Xev more and the history. I also feel a big need to do a reread since it has been so long since I’ve read all these stories. However, it is still a favorite world of mine and I can’t wait for the next book.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 1, 2024
Happy endings all over again.
Same as with Caleb's & Lilliana's book, this one had a happy ending after all. Xev & Myone got reunited with Jaden's help, and I loved it.
What I didn't like is the feeling of reading something that I have already read. This one had a lot of overlapping moments with Caleb's book. Also, I would love to see Xev & Myone chapters from the current timeline, after they get reunited.
We got a nice little insight into how Malachai were made, how badass Apollymi really is, and how awful Azura is. The parentages and siblings were discussed, which weren't something new for me because I keep detailed character bios to help me navigate this series.
What got me confused is that not all dragonkyn where directly born from Lilith, for example Max is mentioned, in his book, to be born from lilitu demoness and Adidiron, and in this book he is stated to be Shadow's real brother.
The next one is Simi, let's see what Sherrilyn McQueen is cooking for us with that one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2024
Xev was born of light and dark and neither parent wanted him. Both are gods and the most evil. Xev was raised with evil but has good in him. He finds his brothers and they are united by one thing they share, hate for their parents. He falls for a Sepherii, Myone but it is forbidden for them to be together. Wars are breaking out and it is putting all the important people in Xev’s life against each other. Will it cause Xev to lose the most important people in his life?
I have absolutely no idea how to explain this. Excellent read. I have read most of the other books by this author but it’s been years since I read them. Fighting. Secrets. Betrayal. I don’t like how some of the dialogue runs together. But it was hard to put down.
I have absolutely no idea how to explain this. Excellent read. I have read most of the other books by this author but it’s been years since I read them. Fighting. Secrets. Betrayal. I don’t like how some of the dialogue runs together. But it was hard to put down.
June 25, 2024
This is Daraxerxes (better known as Xev) backstory. We get to see how he meets his brothers Malphas aka Caleb and Shadow. We get to know more about Jaden, Jared, Apollymi and so many more characters that I can't name them all here.
This story is filled with action, suspense, drama, betrayal, gods, demons, war, finding his one true love, and all the heartache he goes through. If you love reading the backstorys of characters and learning the mythology of the dark hunter world, then this is one you won't want to miss out on reading. It made me want to go back and reread the others too.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story is filled with action, suspense, drama, betrayal, gods, demons, war, finding his one true love, and all the heartache he goes through. If you love reading the backstorys of characters and learning the mythology of the dark hunter world, then this is one you won't want to miss out on reading. It made me want to go back and reread the others too.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 27, 2024
First, it was Caleb who surprised me.
Now, Xev.
My heart could burst any moment due to profound joy.
The moment I got its electronic copy, I immediately devoured the book and finished it in one sitting. While reading, I couldn't help but reminisce on the side. I first met this loving and selfless immortal ten years and two months ago in Nick's CON book titled Illusion. I instantly fell in love with him.
Thank you, AG for giving him the HEA he so truly, madly, deeply deserved.
Now, I'm looking forward to Shadow and Jaden's books in the DH series.
Cheers!
Now, Xev.
My heart could burst any moment due to profound joy.
The moment I got its electronic copy, I immediately devoured the book and finished it in one sitting. While reading, I couldn't help but reminisce on the side. I first met this loving and selfless immortal ten years and two months ago in Nick's CON book titled Illusion. I instantly fell in love with him.
Thank you, AG for giving him the HEA he so truly, madly, deeply deserved.
Now, I'm looking forward to Shadow and Jaden's books in the DH series.
Cheers!
July 2, 2024
an enchanting return
This book was enchanting and endearing in its bloodshed, character development, and the twists and turns that never really have you trusting any of the characters. Not even Xev. I have been a fan of these books for years, I have read the entire dark hunter series, the deadman’s pirate series, the Ichidian universe series and every novella in between! While I was clamoring to see some more Acheron (as always!) I thought this was a fantastic return for the author! I’m excited to see what she has in store for with Simi’s book!
This book was enchanting and endearing in its bloodshed, character development, and the twists and turns that never really have you trusting any of the characters. Not even Xev. I have been a fan of these books for years, I have read the entire dark hunter series, the deadman’s pirate series, the Ichidian universe series and every novella in between! While I was clamoring to see some more Acheron (as always!) I thought this was a fantastic return for the author! I’m excited to see what she has in store for with Simi’s book!
June 9, 2024
I have waited so long for more Chronicles of Nick. I am not sure where this series is going but that’s okay, I’m along for the ride. Well written, confusing and mind blowing. There were parts where I wanted to hurt someone, parts were I wanted to cry, parts that made me happy and an ending that made me question why I had never seen that coming. I loved this story for bringing back to mind the Dark Hunter and Nick books I inhaled as they were released.
June 9, 2024
This book is as savage as the title says. You do not get the in depth details but you get the idea of what these characters go through and how some just live to be a tormentor. I advise getting the tissues out as it gets emotional. I felt the emotional pain of loss and the grieving. This author gives us this emotional roller-coaster in a book that is well written.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2024
My heart breaks for Xev, Myone, Jared and all the rest trapped and tormented by the Primals. If ever beings needed to be put down like rabid animals, Azura and Noir qualify. This is a story to break your heart, give you a bit of hope and then stomp it flat. You are then picked up, brushed off and given a cuddle and hope is restored. Such a great book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 30, 2024
So powerful
Not an easy book to read. Not difficult to follow just the emotions are so powerful.
If you have not followed the multiple books in storyline you may not be as touched.
I am a longtime fan. Devour all the authors books.
I am thrilled by this origin like story.. it explains a lot of the characters in series.
I cried and laughed in parts and felt the pain in others.
Loved the ending.
Will remember this book and the emotions.
Not an easy book to read. Not difficult to follow just the emotions are so powerful.
If you have not followed the multiple books in storyline you may not be as touched.
I am a longtime fan. Devour all the authors books.
I am thrilled by this origin like story.. it explains a lot of the characters in series.
I cried and laughed in parts and felt the pain in others.
Loved the ending.
Will remember this book and the emotions.
June 30, 2024
Quick and easy read, and I liked learning of what happened in Xev's past. While this does pertain to Nick's family and the story that has been going on in Chronicles of Nick, I am disappointed that the author has regressed into the past while hinting about the future. The next book in the series is Simi, come on!! Her story could be told in the main series...get to the meat of the series...how the story goes from teenage Nick, to adult Nick! Stop dragging it out
July 2, 2024
The ending wasn't the best. Why kill Myone and then bring her back in the final pages? Definitely needed more. As far as I'm aware, Jared and Xev hadn't interacted in text since Xev was freed. Definitely needed a scene of them together, maybe more. The whiplash was way too extreme, at least with Last Christmas there was a break before she was through back
5 stars because Xev is my favorite character
5 stars because Xev is my favorite character
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2024
This was an intriguing and frustrating read from the beginning. Our MC Xev has only known heartbreak after heartbreak and fights constantly for another way but does nothing to change his situation. The storyline looped around a few times and everyone constantly had their hands tied simply because of status quo. Frustrating to say the least.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 25, 2024
So emotional, this one explains a lot of things fan have been wondering about. I wanted to reach into the pages so many times for Xev. I read it in one sitting. I had to know where it was going. An excellent addition to this great world the author has created.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 25, 2024
I really cannot express in words how brilliant this fantasy world Sherilyn has created is. I have been a fan since I read the first Dark Hunter book and have every one physically! I have re read so many times and still get completely pulled in! Everything is perfection the storyline, plot, writing, characters! If you love mythology then do read these books honestly you won't find better!
July 6, 2024
The ending although good, felt like there was something missing. A big gap of time that wasn’t accounted for a needed in the book. Even reread several times to see if I just missed it. No, it is missing. Myone dead and her husband and some heartbroken hating his dad to all is well. Makes me sad and wish I didn’t preorder next book.
July 8, 2024
Better than ever
It delivered and left you excited for more.
Nothing "cookie cutter" about this plot. Sherrilyn tells a story and the thought of putting it down even when done, just seems wrong. The characters come to life and you stop reading a book and become part of a world. I enjoy these Nick books. Looking forward to Book 4!
It delivered and left you excited for more.
Nothing "cookie cutter" about this plot. Sherrilyn tells a story and the thought of putting it down even when done, just seems wrong. The characters come to life and you stop reading a book and become part of a world. I enjoy these Nick books. Looking forward to Book 4!
June 12, 2024
This story , as well as all of Sherrilyn Kenyon's books, was wonderful. It was great to read of Nick's story as he has been on elf my favorite character's throughout her books. Never a dull moment and always full of action with awesome characters.
June 15, 2024
Wow this is a brilliant installment to this series. I really liked this book because it is a thrilling and emotionally charged story that will left me eager to discover what fate awaits the characters so much so I didn't stop reading until I reached the end.
June 23, 2024
I’ve read most of the books by this author so it was fun to read a prequel that gives a bit more backstory about the gods and demons. If you like her dark hunter series then you’ll likely enjoy this as well.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 25, 2024
Savage…
What a guy to do when he’s kept his head down all his very long life? As a product of Heaven and hell, Xev has been unwanted his whole long life. His mother was literally a demon. But now, he has to pick a side. Any side. Good or bad. But a side.
What a guy to do when he’s kept his head down all his very long life? As a product of Heaven and hell, Xev has been unwanted his whole long life. His mother was literally a demon. But now, he has to pick a side. Any side. Good or bad. But a side.
June 25, 2024
Enjoyed this book very much!
Loved seeing the first Malachi not full of hatred. Shows they can love and be happy. There is hope for Nick.
Loved seeing old friends. It's nice to be in this world again.
Loved seeing the first Malachi not full of hatred. Shows they can love and be happy. There is hope for Nick.
Loved seeing old friends. It's nice to be in this world again.
June 28, 2024
Another SK Special
Knowing the story behind Xev was so Choice, just like Caleb's... I love the buildups for this series! I know this is all laying the foundation for the upcoming Jaden/Savitar books, and I'm soooo here for it 🙌
Knowing the story behind Xev was so Choice, just like Caleb's... I love the buildups for this series! I know this is all laying the foundation for the upcoming Jaden/Savitar books, and I'm soooo here for it 🙌
June 29, 2024
Me ha encantado el libro. Una pasada. Ojalá algún día pueda leer el libro de Jaden, Jared, Shadow...
June 30, 2024
Well written, a must read
I love visiting this world and characters, through so much heartache love and friendship prevails. A great addition to this series.
I love visiting this world and characters, through so much heartache love and friendship prevails. A great addition to this series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews