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Iblis’ Affliction
Iblīs (Arabic إبليس)—the primary devil in Islam.
“If you sleep with the Devil, don’t expect to get out of hell.”
DEMANDING. NEEDY. DANGEROUS. Slater is everything Talha doesn’t want but everything the crime lord needs. The bloodiest ripper of Anatolia, nicknamed Iblīs, kills for him and warms his bed. Stuck in a power play and a loveless, symbiotic relationship, Talha knows that if he shows weakness, he will fall at the hand of his own weapon.
THIRST FOR BLOOD, SEX, AND PAIN. It drives Slater crazy. Only Talha can soothe the deep ache that grows stronger every day. Slater allows Master to think he is in charge until Talha cheats by changing the rules of their game. But Master doesn’t grasp that there’s no escape from Iblīs’ affliction.
Editor: Emma Jaye
“If you sleep with the Devil, don’t expect to get out of hell.”
DEMANDING. NEEDY. DANGEROUS. Slater is everything Talha doesn’t want but everything the crime lord needs. The bloodiest ripper of Anatolia, nicknamed Iblīs, kills for him and warms his bed. Stuck in a power play and a loveless, symbiotic relationship, Talha knows that if he shows weakness, he will fall at the hand of his own weapon.
THIRST FOR BLOOD, SEX, AND PAIN. It drives Slater crazy. Only Talha can soothe the deep ache that grows stronger every day. Slater allows Master to think he is in charge until Talha cheats by changing the rules of their game. But Master doesn’t grasp that there’s no escape from Iblīs’ affliction.
Editor: Emma Jaye
407 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 29, 2020
114 people are currently reading
885 people want to read
About the author
Nero Seal
18 books623 followersJournalist, poker player, casino events manager, designer, and SEO specialist, Nero Seal tried it all before committing to the idea of being an M/M fiction writer. Living in one of the most homophobic countries in the world, he has a lot to say. Being an avid traveler, he creates his imaginary worlds from the places he’s been and the people he’s met.
Characters always talk in his head, forcing him to write their stories, using his 49 kinks as the ultimate weapon of allure. When the voices in his head aren’t slaving him around, he is drawing, hiking, and procrastinating important things in favor of momentary gratification.
Characters always talk in his head, forcing him to write their stories, using his 49 kinks as the ultimate weapon of allure. When the voices in his head aren’t slaving him around, he is drawing, hiking, and procrastinating important things in favor of momentary gratification.
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January 27, 2024
reread: january 2024
i missed them so much!!
my love for Slater and Talha are as strong as ever. both are such interesting characters imo, and i loved their dynamic/interactions. will never get enough of them. 🥹
(also yes, i still want Savaş' story. 👀)
***
His glare hardened, glinted with boiling frenzy. Slater jerked, trying to break the restraints. He rolled to his side, panting and growling, then jerked again. A strained voice full of hurt and disdain chilled the air as he spoke, "It means nothing. Even if Master doesn't want Slater anymore, Slater won't leave. There's no escape, Master."
A myriad of contradictory emotions prickled in Talha's chest. Rolling to his throat, they closed his air passage, making it hard to breathe. Watching Slater's face contort in desperation, he thought that if he pushed a little more, Slater would definitely cry. The darkest part of his soul burned with a need to see Slater's face drenched with tears. However, instead of correcting Slater's behavior, he whispered, "I don't want to escape."
omg THIS is what i'd consider an actual dark romance (i've read, and loved, quite a good amount of dark romances at this point but i feel like, more often than not, they just have dark elements, but it's not actually d a r k) filled with fucked up shit and interesting, complex characters whom i love and fear at the same time and i loved every moment of this. <3
ALSO I NEED SAVAŞ' (and Dinçer? 👀) STORY LIKE I NEED AIR TO BREATHE. PLEASE. 😭
i missed them so much!!
my love for Slater and Talha are as strong as ever. both are such interesting characters imo, and i loved their dynamic/interactions. will never get enough of them. 🥹
(also yes, i still want Savaş' story. 👀)
***
His glare hardened, glinted with boiling frenzy. Slater jerked, trying to break the restraints. He rolled to his side, panting and growling, then jerked again. A strained voice full of hurt and disdain chilled the air as he spoke, "It means nothing. Even if Master doesn't want Slater anymore, Slater won't leave. There's no escape, Master."
A myriad of contradictory emotions prickled in Talha's chest. Rolling to his throat, they closed his air passage, making it hard to breathe. Watching Slater's face contort in desperation, he thought that if he pushed a little more, Slater would definitely cry. The darkest part of his soul burned with a need to see Slater's face drenched with tears. However, instead of correcting Slater's behavior, he whispered, "I don't want to escape."
omg THIS is what i'd consider an actual dark romance (i've read, and loved, quite a good amount of dark romances at this point but i feel like, more often than not, they just have dark elements, but it's not actually d a r k) filled with fucked up shit and interesting, complex characters whom i love and fear at the same time and i loved every moment of this. <3
ALSO I NEED SAVAŞ' (and Dinçer? 👀) STORY LIKE I NEED AIR TO BREATHE. PLEASE. 😭
June 4, 2020
Re-edited 4/6/2020
**** 4 Stars ****
I can't make much sense of my thoughts, but one thing for sure, Nero Seal takes madness to another level in Iblis’ Affliction.
I feel that the wires inside my head are short-circuited because I can't find a place to compartmentalize "enjoyment" in this experience. Nonetheless, I'm still giving it 4 stars.
It wasn't a pleasant read. 😖 Not that I should expect one anyway, after reading the blurb.🤷🏼♀️
It also took me a while to get fully invested. 🤔 However, almost halfway through the story started crawling under my skin. And what started as a curiosity reverted to an I couldn't stop reading it.
Entranced.
Disturbed.
Disgusted.
Addicted.
Told ya.🤷🏼♀️
It was frightening, gory and macabre. Still, I was fascinated.
Slater, aka Iblīs, was an incredibly well done psycho crazy character.
Talha, the other MC, was the head of a crime organization. A very bad guy, who wanted to be respected instead of feared.
Now take that, inside his criminal and twisted world, he had his own rules and moral compass where honour and family was everything, and for that, he would look after the ones that were loyal to him.
I especially loved Talha's control over Slater's deliberate tauntings.😏 Because I'm gonna tell you, Slater drove Talha mad in many occasions. And Talha took it like a champ! Calm, controlled and cold showing incredible willpower and strength.
As you can see I've got this one all over the place and I think I should just stop trying to make any sense of it and accept that I'm a sucker for fucked up reads. 😬 with psycho crazy characters.
Not for the faint of heart.
**** 4 Stars ****
I can't make much sense of my thoughts, but one thing for sure, Nero Seal takes madness to another level in Iblis’ Affliction.
I feel that the wires inside my head are short-circuited because I can't find a place to compartmentalize "enjoyment" in this experience. Nonetheless, I'm still giving it 4 stars.
It wasn't a pleasant read. 😖 Not that I should expect one anyway, after reading the blurb.🤷🏼♀️
It also took me a while to get fully invested. 🤔 However, almost halfway through the story started crawling under my skin. And what started as a curiosity reverted to an I couldn't stop reading it.
Entranced.
Disturbed.
Disgusted.
Addicted.
Told ya.🤷🏼♀️
It was frightening, gory and macabre. Still, I was fascinated.
Slater, aka Iblīs, was an incredibly well done psycho crazy character.
Talha, the other MC, was the head of a crime organization. A very bad guy, who wanted to be respected instead of feared.
Now take that, inside his criminal and twisted world, he had his own rules and moral compass where honour and family was everything, and for that, he would look after the ones that were loyal to him.
I especially loved Talha's control over Slater's deliberate tauntings.😏 Because I'm gonna tell you, Slater drove Talha mad in many occasions. And Talha took it like a champ! Calm, controlled and cold showing incredible willpower and strength.
As you can see I've got this one all over the place and I think I should just stop trying to make any sense of it and accept that I'm a sucker for fucked up reads. 😬 with psycho crazy characters.
Not for the faint of heart.
June 2, 2020
Hmm... what to say about this book?
1) Kudos for the cover. Lovely, fitting cover.
2) Kudos for the setting and the plot. Interesting and seemingly well-researched.
3) Kudos for interesting MCs... BUT
here's where I had to take off 2 stars
1) This is not a "romance." Nor is it a "love story." It's about obsession and addiction and a deal with the devil. So I think I had my expectations ruined by expecting some aspect of "love" in here. Those words were said, BTW, but I didn't entirely believe them. And if there was supposed to be that, then the novel for sure didn't deliver. See point 2.
2) It got repetitive. I ended up skipping/ skimming a bunch. The general premise is that Slater is the henchman for Tahal, who is a powerful kinda mafia lord and his Master. But the "dog" is rather feral and liable to bite the master if he doesn't exert the proper control and authority. Keep Slater on a tight leash. Much of the book, well, all of the book is about this power struggle between the 2. This takes form in flashbacks and in the present. Now, I would have appreciated the power struggle more if it was also threaded through with moments of tenderness. But that was missing. There is no tenderness (for reasons I can understand, but these are men, and something fundamental seemed missing). I'm not talking soft words and soft touches, but some depth of feeling beyond simple physical manipulation (Slater essentially gets a hetero to f*ck him through various means, the first time while Tahal was drunk). And psychological warfare. A lot of EMOTION was missing.
Related to that, it might have been mentioned about 20+ times how Tahal was furious and can't forgive Slater for raping him. (this was during the bound and gagged present day revenge). Not entirely sure I needed that reminder 20+ times. Somehow, that stuck out more than everything else Slater did. Intentional on part of author? Seems to be. Why tho? To show that the master isn't really the master, and the dog isn't really the dog?
And then we end in the epilogue by repeating the prologue. So obviously this cycle of never-ending (repetitive) struggle between the 2 men will continue ad nauseum. So there's no character development? What is the point then of all these 5 years+ of going through all this stuff? Did they learn nothing?
In the end, I don't know what the point of the book was, except for shock and titillation (and I've read more shocking). If there's no point, there's no satisfaction. If it ended with one or both of the men dying, I might actually feel more satisfied. SOMETHING. But nope, on an endless loop it continues.
Overall, writing isn't bad. I just don't know what the point was.
1) Kudos for the cover. Lovely, fitting cover.
2) Kudos for the setting and the plot. Interesting and seemingly well-researched.
3) Kudos for interesting MCs... BUT
here's where I had to take off 2 stars
1) This is not a "romance." Nor is it a "love story." It's about obsession and addiction and a deal with the devil. So I think I had my expectations ruined by expecting some aspect of "love" in here. Those words were said, BTW, but I didn't entirely believe them. And if there was supposed to be that, then the novel for sure didn't deliver. See point 2.
2) It got repetitive. I ended up skipping/ skimming a bunch. The general premise is that Slater is the henchman for Tahal, who is a powerful kinda mafia lord and his Master. But the "dog" is rather feral and liable to bite the master if he doesn't exert the proper control and authority. Keep Slater on a tight leash. Much of the book, well, all of the book is about this power struggle between the 2. This takes form in flashbacks and in the present. Now, I would have appreciated the power struggle more if it was also threaded through with moments of tenderness. But that was missing. There is no tenderness (for reasons I can understand, but these are men, and something fundamental seemed missing). I'm not talking soft words and soft touches, but some depth of feeling beyond simple physical manipulation (Slater essentially gets a hetero to f*ck him through various means, the first time while Tahal was drunk). And psychological warfare. A lot of EMOTION was missing.
Related to that, it might have been mentioned about 20+ times how Tahal was furious and can't forgive Slater for raping him. (this was during the bound and gagged present day revenge). Not entirely sure I needed that reminder 20+ times. Somehow, that stuck out more than everything else Slater did. Intentional on part of author? Seems to be. Why tho? To show that the master isn't really the master, and the dog isn't really the dog?
And then we end in the epilogue by repeating the prologue. So obviously this cycle of never-ending (repetitive) struggle between the 2 men will continue ad nauseum. So there's no character development? What is the point then of all these 5 years+ of going through all this stuff? Did they learn nothing?
In the end, I don't know what the point of the book was, except for shock and titillation (and I've read more shocking). If there's no point, there's no satisfaction. If it ended with one or both of the men dying, I might actually feel more satisfied. SOMETHING. But nope, on an endless loop it continues.
Overall, writing isn't bad. I just don't know what the point was.
May 16, 2024
grotesque and brutal but i loved every second….slater is such a fucking interesting character and i loved that no matter what bullshit slater is on, and man is he ever on some bullshit💀, talha physically couldn’t bear to let him go…..also the first time in the book talha genuinely feels fear is FOR slater!?!?! and the first time slater feels anything close to fear it’s bc he thought master might tell him to go away!?!? SCREAM😩😩😩
~“Slater will kill anyone who stands in Slater’s way. Slater isn’t sorry, because Slater will do it again if Master touches someone else.”
Talha’s eyes softened. The ever-present attention returned to the depth of his pupils, as he examined Slater’s face with concern.
“Slater will drown the world in blood… for Master.” Slater swallowed, devouring Talha’s lips with his eyes. “There is no escape. Give up.”
“You are fucking trouble…” The warm breath played over Slater’s chin as Talha leaned into the ripper and brushed his lips against Slater’s.~
slater isn’t sorry???? slater will do it again???? talha’s eyes SOFTENED after hearing that?!!?!?!?! your honor, they’re insane and i love them🙇♀️🙇♀️
~“Slater will kill anyone who stands in Slater’s way. Slater isn’t sorry, because Slater will do it again if Master touches someone else.”
Talha’s eyes softened. The ever-present attention returned to the depth of his pupils, as he examined Slater’s face with concern.
“Slater will drown the world in blood… for Master.” Slater swallowed, devouring Talha’s lips with his eyes. “There is no escape. Give up.”
“You are fucking trouble…” The warm breath played over Slater’s chin as Talha leaned into the ripper and brushed his lips against Slater’s.~
slater isn’t sorry???? slater will do it again???? talha’s eyes SOFTENED after hearing that?!!?!?!?! your honor, they’re insane and i love them🙇♀️🙇♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2020
Ummmm yeah, okay that was.....Ummmm yeah
I swear if Nero Seal and Lily White ever joined forces we'd be in some serious trouble because no one has ever fucked with my mind like either of them. I'm serious about this because I can say in all honesty that the night after I finished this book I had a dream, I hardly ever dream because I don't sleep well enough too, about one of the scenes and it was a vivid one and it scared the bejesus out of me.
read my full review, an excerpt, and enter a giveaway here ➧ https://bit.ly/NBReviewIblis
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
I swear if Nero Seal and Lily White ever joined forces we'd be in some serious trouble because no one has ever fucked with my mind like either of them. I'm serious about this because I can say in all honesty that the night after I finished this book I had a dream, I hardly ever dream because I don't sleep well enough too, about one of the scenes and it was a vivid one and it scared the bejesus out of me.
read my full review, an excerpt, and enter a giveaway here ➧ https://bit.ly/NBReviewIblis
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
June 7, 2020
Nero Seal is the only author that can write a psychopathic, morally depraved MC who the reader empathizes with. This book is way more macabre and violent than the Egoist series, but it was just as as addicting and even more of a headf$ck. It brings the idea of unhealthy obsession to a whole new level.
The main MC is Slater, a deranged but exceptionally skilled executioner who delights in the kill and inspires fear among even the most violent of men. He will only submit to one master and only for as long as that master gives him what he needs. When used as a weapon against one’s enemies, Slater can elevate his master to the level of almost God, but he’s highly unstable and will turn on you in a dime.
There is no sweet and fuzzy romance in this story, but there is a crazy, intense, perverse codependency and lust, and something that starts to look something like love, though it’s confused and twisted inside of Slater’s head with idolatry and zeal.
Slater and Talha’s characters were incredibly well written, especially with the sick push and pull between them. You watch in morbid fascination as Talha’s humanity bleeds out into his “pet” and the lines that form his regimented reality begin to fade away the more time he spends with Slater.
There were some gruesome scenes that could be show stoppers for some readers - it’s not for the faint of heart. Slater’s like your devoted cat who brings dead, mauled mice to your door as gifts. You’re revolted but at the same time endeared in a sick way because you know that’s how he shows his love. And can you really blame him? You’re the one keeping a hunter as a pet.
You can feel Talha’s conflict and struggle to rationalize his changing feelings towards his “pet” in light of his insane behavior, and you feel him gradually give in. It becomes impossible for him to deny the magnetism between them.
One thing’s for sure - you will never pick up this book and think “I’ve read something similar before.” There is nothing else like it - for better or for worse! And I might be a terrible person for loving it, but... c’est la vie :-)
The main MC is Slater, a deranged but exceptionally skilled executioner who delights in the kill and inspires fear among even the most violent of men. He will only submit to one master and only for as long as that master gives him what he needs. When used as a weapon against one’s enemies, Slater can elevate his master to the level of almost God, but he’s highly unstable and will turn on you in a dime.
There is no sweet and fuzzy romance in this story, but there is a crazy, intense, perverse codependency and lust, and something that starts to look something like love, though it’s confused and twisted inside of Slater’s head with idolatry and zeal.
Slater and Talha’s characters were incredibly well written, especially with the sick push and pull between them. You watch in morbid fascination as Talha’s humanity bleeds out into his “pet” and the lines that form his regimented reality begin to fade away the more time he spends with Slater.
There were some gruesome scenes that could be show stoppers for some readers - it’s not for the faint of heart. Slater’s like your devoted cat who brings dead, mauled mice to your door as gifts. You’re revolted but at the same time endeared in a sick way because you know that’s how he shows his love. And can you really blame him? You’re the one keeping a hunter as a pet.
You can feel Talha’s conflict and struggle to rationalize his changing feelings towards his “pet” in light of his insane behavior, and you feel him gradually give in. It becomes impossible for him to deny the magnetism between them.
One thing’s for sure - you will never pick up this book and think “I’ve read something similar before.” There is nothing else like it - for better or for worse! And I might be a terrible person for loving it, but... c’est la vie :-)
June 9, 2020
‘The bloodiest murderer of Anatolia, who mowed down souls and lives as if they were nothing, spread his legs for him’ - Talha
Slater AKA Iblīs AKA the bloodiest murderer of Anatolia becomes Talha’s power and strength. For this Talha pays with his soul.
What Slater feels for Talha is not something he can understand. Slater learnt emotional control from a young age.
He is a psychopath.
His emotional range is not that of a normal person.
'“Slater hates shopping. Slater hates crowded places. When Slater is irritated, Slater want’s to kill” Slater hissed’
He is 'death with an angel face'.
Slater communicates using the third person, it is childish rather than narcissistic or egotistical. This is probably the only thing I struggled with in this story, it lacked believability in the beginning but at some point this shifts for me and it began to make sense for the character.
Slater is ‘rough, pushy, dominant, disrespectful, fickle, immoral, and childish.’
Talha walks a tight rope. His control over Slater requires constant improvisations. He’s not only balancing Slater but also his own reaction and feelings towards him.
“You know, sometimes, I wish you were a little more normal. Sometimes, I want…. Never mind…. I guess, if you sleep with the Devil, you can’t expect to get out of Hell.”- Talha
This story is not linear, while the present unfolds in a destructive manner we slide back into the past witnessing their first meeting, the first kill, the learning curve, the exchange of power.
I do consider this a love story. Though I use this word for its most basic meaning.
A love story between a crime lord and a killer.
So you might want to suspend any hope of sweet and tender.
It is gruesome, bloody, vicious, cruel, violent and completely unconventional.
“ Master is so beautiful, so cold. The heavy clouds of power Talha emitted, cocooned him, making Slater feel warm, protected, safe…" - Slater
I thought this story was completely fascinating, engaging and original.
It stays true to the characters to the very end which I appreciated.
This is definitely dark and twisted.
I would seriously love to read more about Talha and Slater, I hope their story isn’t finished.
5 Stars for a fascinating tale.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoys dark romances with immoral characters.
Slater AKA Iblīs AKA the bloodiest murderer of Anatolia becomes Talha’s power and strength. For this Talha pays with his soul.
What Slater feels for Talha is not something he can understand. Slater learnt emotional control from a young age.
He is a psychopath.
His emotional range is not that of a normal person.
'“Slater hates shopping. Slater hates crowded places. When Slater is irritated, Slater want’s to kill” Slater hissed’
He is 'death with an angel face'.
Slater communicates using the third person, it is childish rather than narcissistic or egotistical. This is probably the only thing I struggled with in this story, it lacked believability in the beginning but at some point this shifts for me and it began to make sense for the character.
Slater is ‘rough, pushy, dominant, disrespectful, fickle, immoral, and childish.’
Talha walks a tight rope. His control over Slater requires constant improvisations. He’s not only balancing Slater but also his own reaction and feelings towards him.
“You know, sometimes, I wish you were a little more normal. Sometimes, I want…. Never mind…. I guess, if you sleep with the Devil, you can’t expect to get out of Hell.”- Talha
This story is not linear, while the present unfolds in a destructive manner we slide back into the past witnessing their first meeting, the first kill, the learning curve, the exchange of power.
I do consider this a love story. Though I use this word for its most basic meaning.
A love story between a crime lord and a killer.
So you might want to suspend any hope of sweet and tender.
It is gruesome, bloody, vicious, cruel, violent and completely unconventional.
“ Master is so beautiful, so cold. The heavy clouds of power Talha emitted, cocooned him, making Slater feel warm, protected, safe…" - Slater
I thought this story was completely fascinating, engaging and original.
It stays true to the characters to the very end which I appreciated.
This is definitely dark and twisted.
I would seriously love to read more about Talha and Slater, I hope their story isn’t finished.
5 Stars for a fascinating tale.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoys dark romances with immoral characters.
May 18, 2020
How can a psychopath who kills for fun be cute?
A bloody tale of two twisted, strong, brutal men both trying to turn the other into what he needs.
Talha is a mafia boss on the up, but when the legendary Iblis, an assassin nobody alive has seen, ends up in his path, he makes a business decision to take him on.
And then the fun begins!
Epic characterisation makes this a unique compelling book.
A bloody tale of two twisted, strong, brutal men both trying to turn the other into what he needs.
Talha is a mafia boss on the up, but when the legendary Iblis, an assassin nobody alive has seen, ends up in his path, he makes a business decision to take him on.
And then the fun begins!
Epic characterisation makes this a unique compelling book.
May 17, 2020
This was an amazing book. I loved every second of it. It was impossible to put it down. The plot was intriguing and the way the story was told was just perfect. It had a nice steady pace. It has a few action scenes, not too much but a perfect balance. It is a dark book with a lot of violence on it, so it might not be suitable for every reader. Beware the warning tags before reading it.
I can’t really think of a thing about it I didn’t liked. Maybe the pain the author put me through in some scenes, but that might be saying I don’t like angst, and that is a huge lie. I loved every angsty moment of it.
What I liked the most about it was Slater. He was such a fascinating character. So Beautifully emotionally detached. He was everything I expected him to be and more. He was so lethal and cruel but, at the same time, there was something about him that make it impossible not to fall in love with such an odd character.
Overall it was an amazing book. I loved it. I wouldn’t hesitate on recommend.
I can’t really think of a thing about it I didn’t liked. Maybe the pain the author put me through in some scenes, but that might be saying I don’t like angst, and that is a huge lie. I loved every angsty moment of it.
What I liked the most about it was Slater. He was such a fascinating character. So Beautifully emotionally detached. He was everything I expected him to be and more. He was so lethal and cruel but, at the same time, there was something about him that make it impossible not to fall in love with such an odd character.
Overall it was an amazing book. I loved it. I wouldn’t hesitate on recommend.
June 9, 2020
One of the bloodiest, most twisted, yet strangely realistic representations of a "love" affair between a crime boss and his assassin. I loved Talha's inner-turmoil throughout, and I completely understood Slater's motivations. I'd like a bonus scene with the two of them in couples' therapy.
May 10, 2021
3.75 stars
“If you sleep with the Devil,
don’t expect to get out of hell."
I have a lot of mixed feelings for this book.
Things I loved:
1) It was a very well written book. The writing style was beautiful and engaging.
2) The story was culturally rich. I LOVED the setting of this book. It was set in Istanbul and some other Asian and European Parts and they were described and researched wonderfully. It was good to see how Talha fought with his bisexual nature cuz of the way he was raised and his religious beliefs. That made the story much more real.
3) The blood and gore scenes were deliciously dark and depraved. I guess it says something about me too since I was able to read scenes like " using a cut off head as a star on top of a Christmas tree and intestines as tree ornaments and decorations" with a grin on my lips. *wry smile* 🔪🔪
4) Iblis! - He was really really fascinating. He managed to be a bloodlusty psychopath and adorable at the same time somehow. Getting to read about his childhood, training, mannerisms and mind games was a treat. And ofc, his karambits were 🖤
5) Talha - His ambition, determination and twisted honour, combined with his immorality was a treat as well. Nero Seal can create amazingly well-developed characters!😍
What I didn't like :
🥀 I was confused for the first 30% portion of the book about whether Iblis was just the title given to Slater because of his horrifying kills or if there was a paranormal aspect to the novel and Slater was possessed by Iblis. It was truly annoying. The way it was written didn't clear my confusion. Especially the references to "the demonic glow in his eyes", "his heightened senses" and "his extreme speed and skills" were described in detail which didn't help at all. (That's on me for going into this book completely blind, I guess)
🥀The chapters are divided between past and present scenes. I was bored during the "past" scenes a lot. I don't have any problems reading books that glimpse both past and present but In this particular book, I wanted the story to just move further instead of backwards. So yeah, I was pretty bored during nearly 25% of the book.
🥀Even though there is a love confession in the book, I didn't feel that connection between Slater and Talha at all. Their relationship was about power struggles and psychological warfare....and it continued to be that way. There was no love so the confession and the climax felt pretty disappointing. I wanted one to kill another....whether it was Talha who died or Iblis, that didn't matter.
Still, this book is an experience in itself and it's gonna remain in my head for a long time. So I def recommend it to dark lovers!
“If you sleep with the Devil,
don’t expect to get out of hell."
I have a lot of mixed feelings for this book.
Things I loved:
1) It was a very well written book. The writing style was beautiful and engaging.
2) The story was culturally rich. I LOVED the setting of this book. It was set in Istanbul and some other Asian and European Parts and they were described and researched wonderfully. It was good to see how Talha fought with his bisexual nature cuz of the way he was raised and his religious beliefs. That made the story much more real.
3) The blood and gore scenes were deliciously dark and depraved. I guess it says something about me too since I was able to read scenes like " using a cut off head as a star on top of a Christmas tree and intestines as tree ornaments and decorations" with a grin on my lips. *wry smile* 🔪🔪
4) Iblis! - He was really really fascinating. He managed to be a bloodlusty psychopath and adorable at the same time somehow. Getting to read about his childhood, training, mannerisms and mind games was a treat. And ofc, his karambits were 🖤
5) Talha - His ambition, determination and twisted honour, combined with his immorality was a treat as well. Nero Seal can create amazingly well-developed characters!😍
What I didn't like :
🥀 I was confused for the first 30% portion of the book about whether Iblis was just the title given to Slater because of his horrifying kills or if there was a paranormal aspect to the novel and Slater was possessed by Iblis. It was truly annoying. The way it was written didn't clear my confusion. Especially the references to "the demonic glow in his eyes", "his heightened senses" and "his extreme speed and skills" were described in detail which didn't help at all. (That's on me for going into this book completely blind, I guess)
🥀The chapters are divided between past and present scenes. I was bored during the "past" scenes a lot. I don't have any problems reading books that glimpse both past and present but In this particular book, I wanted the story to just move further instead of backwards. So yeah, I was pretty bored during nearly 25% of the book.
🥀Even though there is a love confession in the book, I didn't feel that connection between Slater and Talha at all. Their relationship was about power struggles and psychological warfare....and it continued to be that way. There was no love so the confession and the climax felt pretty disappointing. I wanted one to kill another....whether it was Talha who died or Iblis, that didn't matter.
Still, this book is an experience in itself and it's gonna remain in my head for a long time. So I def recommend it to dark lovers!
May 30, 2020
HOLYSHEEEET!
I'm so glad I didn't give up, because I started this book twice, but I wasn't in the right mind space so I put it aside... then before the release day I picked it up again, and didn't put it down until I finished reading it.
IBLIS is EVERYTHING! Everything I didn't know I needed in my life and everything I love in my dark - and I mean DARK - books.
It was so deliciously dark and twisted while full romance. How can you find love in a massacre? So good! Christmas in May - never forget that scene in my life.
Loved Iblis/Slate. He was so adorable in his own bloody way. I loved when he said "Master is funny." That line was the best ever, especially how he said it to Talha. Their relationship was really something else. I was so afraid of the ending and I had many mini heart attacks while reading it.
I swear, there aren't any other character like Slater - he is so perfect, I just want to re-read the book and be with Slater and Talha again and again. Their story is so good with all those blood and all the romance. I loved watching Slater getting weaker for Talha, and Talha getting stronger. And the best, it was really good that Slater was speaking in third person, it really gave to the story.
I think I could write about Slater for ages. I could tell how amazing he is and how perfect this book was. I haven't got enough vocabulary for telling you how awesome this was.
My favorite scene was when Slater and Talha were in the basement and Slater admitted his weakness. And when Talha painted that line for Slater in the hospital. IT WAS SO COOL.
I really, really loved reading Iblis. So dark and so good. Finally! This is my favorite Nero Seal book!
HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT. But only if you have the stomach for this kind of darkness.
I'm so glad I didn't give up, because I started this book twice, but I wasn't in the right mind space so I put it aside... then before the release day I picked it up again, and didn't put it down until I finished reading it.
IBLIS is EVERYTHING! Everything I didn't know I needed in my life and everything I love in my dark - and I mean DARK - books.
It was so deliciously dark and twisted while full romance. How can you find love in a massacre? So good! Christmas in May - never forget that scene in my life.
Loved Iblis/Slate. He was so adorable in his own bloody way. I loved when he said "Master is funny." That line was the best ever, especially how he said it to Talha. Their relationship was really something else. I was so afraid of the ending and I had many mini heart attacks while reading it.
I swear, there aren't any other character like Slater - he is so perfect, I just want to re-read the book and be with Slater and Talha again and again. Their story is so good with all those blood and all the romance. I loved watching Slater getting weaker for Talha, and Talha getting stronger. And the best, it was really good that Slater was speaking in third person, it really gave to the story.
I think I could write about Slater for ages. I could tell how amazing he is and how perfect this book was. I haven't got enough vocabulary for telling you how awesome this was.
My favorite scene was when Slater and Talha were in the basement and Slater admitted his weakness. And when Talha painted that line for Slater in the hospital. IT WAS SO COOL.
I really, really loved reading Iblis. So dark and so good. Finally! This is my favorite Nero Seal book!
HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT. But only if you have the stomach for this kind of darkness.
November 6, 2020
wow.
I've come across a lot of psycho books. But if you truly look the word up in the dictionary ... you'll find Slater's picture.
This cover.
THIS COVER.
Good lord, this cover. Literally picture perfect. My my.
.... Like a dog on the verge of having rabies.... biting that hand that feeds it...
... Like that killer cat that's too big to be a cat .... can scratch your face off one minute ... bring you the head of dead presents the next minute. ... to forcing you to cuddle it the next while making you bleed..
.... like ... Gollum with his precious, you're almost afraid to be the obsession and addiction he comes to find .. and can't seem to let go of ..
.... Flattering...
.... devastating ...
.... chilling
The story revolves around our main two:
Slater (the Iblis)
Talha (one who found himself bound to an Iblis)
The defining lines of their relationship is so obscure, ever changing but yet not, confusing but clear..
Who is the master and who is the dog? Who control's who? how intertwined can you be with one who's sole purpose is to kill?
The story starts with where they are, goes to the how they came to be, and back to where we are now.
Oh dear readers, the walls will be painted red.
..... red for pain, red for lust ... red for sacrifice, danger, anger, joy, the extremes of emotions mixed together in a cauldron about to boil over if you don't keep your eye on it.
But among this chaos, blood splattered walls, rooms thick with tension ... you find these really small slivers of ...endearing moments
____________________
Mine… Master is mine. No one else can touch him. No one else will ever touch him. Only Slater.
____________________
.... but I guess it can only be endearing if the other party wants it too, right?
Despite our rabid dog/killer overgrown cat that seems to wreak nothing but destruction in it's wake .. you can't help but love him... even if they happened to accidentally give too big of a love bite that leaves you on the verge of death...
... they meant well... right?
One man's ascension to the top ... may also be his fall.
What are we going to do with you Slater?
__________________
“So fucking troublesome…”
__________________
I've come across a lot of psycho books. But if you truly look the word up in the dictionary ... you'll find Slater's picture.
This cover.
THIS COVER.
Good lord, this cover. Literally picture perfect. My my.
.... Like a dog on the verge of having rabies.... biting that hand that feeds it...
... Like that killer cat that's too big to be a cat .... can scratch your face off one minute ... bring you the head of dead presents the next minute. ... to forcing you to cuddle it the next while making you bleed..
.... like ... Gollum with his precious, you're almost afraid to be the obsession and addiction he comes to find .. and can't seem to let go of ..
.... Flattering...
.... devastating ...
.... chilling
The story revolves around our main two:
Slater (the Iblis)
Talha (one who found himself bound to an Iblis)
The defining lines of their relationship is so obscure, ever changing but yet not, confusing but clear..
Who is the master and who is the dog? Who control's who? how intertwined can you be with one who's sole purpose is to kill?
The story starts with where they are, goes to the how they came to be, and back to where we are now.
Oh dear readers, the walls will be painted red.
..... red for pain, red for lust ... red for sacrifice, danger, anger, joy, the extremes of emotions mixed together in a cauldron about to boil over if you don't keep your eye on it.
But among this chaos, blood splattered walls, rooms thick with tension ... you find these really small slivers of ...endearing moments
____________________
Mine… Master is mine. No one else can touch him. No one else will ever touch him. Only Slater.
____________________
.... but I guess it can only be endearing if the other party wants it too, right?
Despite our rabid dog/killer overgrown cat that seems to wreak nothing but destruction in it's wake .. you can't help but love him... even if they happened to accidentally give too big of a love bite that leaves you on the verge of death...
... they meant well... right?
One man's ascension to the top ... may also be his fall.
What are we going to do with you Slater?
__________________
“So fucking troublesome…”
__________________
May 19, 2020
Endişe verici
disquiet; adjective
That's what you should feel about a psychopath who kills just for the pleasure of killing, and ends up conquering your heart!
Iblis the Reaper, legendary assassin, and the most interesting character there is, believe me!
In this new book , Nero Seal, brings us a very well ploted story about two man's personal fight with their own needs and desires and consequences.
Full of blood, taboo, power games, cruelty and dark temptations this is a very good and addictive reading time, where you will meet Talha the Turkish Crime Boss and Slater(swoon) and Iblis relationship... Go, go read it now!!
disquiet; adjective
That's what you should feel about a psychopath who kills just for the pleasure of killing, and ends up conquering your heart!
Iblis the Reaper, legendary assassin, and the most interesting character there is, believe me!
In this new book , Nero Seal, brings us a very well ploted story about two man's personal fight with their own needs and desires and consequences.
Full of blood, taboo, power games, cruelty and dark temptations this is a very good and addictive reading time, where you will meet Talha the Turkish Crime Boss and Slater(swoon) and Iblis relationship... Go, go read it now!!
Want to read
June 26, 2020
→ Just released! Grab your copy now! ←
→ Submit or subscribe to The DARK Newsletter! ←
Blurb:
Iblīs (Arabic إبليس)—the primary devil in Islam.
“If you sleep with the Devil, don’t expect to get out of hell.”
DEMANDING. NEEDY. DANGEROUS. Slater is everything Talha doesn’t want but everything the crime lord needs. The bloodiest ripper of Anatolia, nicknamed Iblīs, kills for him and warms his bed. Stuck in a power play and a loveless, symbiotic relationship, Talha knows that if he shows weakness, he will fall at the hand of his own weapon.
THIRST FOR BLOOD, SEX, AND PAIN. It drives Slater crazy. Only Talha can soothe the deep ache that grows stronger every day. Slater allows Master to think he is in charge until Talha cheats by changing the rules of their game. But Master doesn’t grasp that there’s no escape from Iblīs’ affliction.
Merged review:
→ Just released! Grab your copy now! ←
→ Submit or subscribe to The DARK Newsletter! ←
Blurb:
Iblīs (Arabic إبليس)—the primary devil in Islam.
“If you sleep with the Devil, don’t expect to get out of hell.”
DEMANDING. NEEDY. DANGEROUS. Slater is everything Talha doesn’t want but everything the crime lord needs. The bloodiest ripper of Anatolia, nicknamed Iblīs, kills for him and warms his bed. Stuck in a power play and a loveless, symbiotic relationship, Talha knows that if he shows weakness, he will fall at the hand of his own weapon.
THIRST FOR BLOOD, SEX, AND PAIN. It drives Slater crazy. Only Talha can soothe the deep ache that grows stronger every day. Slater allows Master to think he is in charge until Talha cheats by changing the rules of their game. But Master doesn’t grasp that there’s no escape from Iblīs’ affliction.
May 29, 2020
If I could give this book more than five stars I would! I have been so excited to review this book. I have so much I want to tell you, but I fear ruining the book for you. So I'm going to try to explain the greatness of the book without spoiling anything. Here goes. It's not very often that I find myself so completely, and pleasantly surprised by a story I'm reading. I went into this thinking I had a pretty good idea of how the story would play out, but nope, Slater proved me wrong. While most of you may find Slater to be the "villain" through this, I found myself justifying and defending him. With everything Slater does, the fact that the author could make me have those reactions toward him, that's amazing work right there. Let me make it clear, I do not agree with certain actions Slater made, but I still found myself able to feel for this character. Slater has had a horrible life thus far, no child should go through the horrors that he did. Being brutalized, never knowing a kind or loving hand, taught that you are only a weapon, having your humanity violently stripped from you, these are just some of what Slater went through. Knowing this history of his, that helps you find some kind of understanding, or acceptance of what he is now. Okay, well maybe not all of you, but some of you will be able to. Anyway, with Slater being what he is, he needs a very strong master to control him, or else the streets will run red with blood. Talha comes into the picture immediately after Slater has ended his last master for becoming weak. Slater sees the strength, lack of fear, and power that makes up Talha. Talha has heard of Slater, or rather Iblis as he has been named, and he wants him. Talha feels that with having Iblis working for him, he would be unstoppable. So Talha proceeds to make a deal with the devil. The story following after this deal is made, had a death grip on me that didn't let up until well after the last word read. To be honest, I think it's still got a hold on part of me, as I have continued thinking about it. This book is not for the faint of heart. Slater has more than earned his name of Iblis. You will not be spared the gore, the torture, the depravity of Slaters mind and capabilities. When Talha fails to remember exactly what deal he made with Iblis, fails to see the truth in Slaters eyes and actions, and lets his greed for power spur his decisions, Iblis is unleashed. Iblis sure knows how to be creative, and I found myself with my jaw dropped a few times with what he does. If you enjoy DARK reads, have no triggers, and want to explore the depravity of the devil, then this is your book!! Nero Seal don't ever stop what you're doing, you're amazing! I wish everyone could read this and enjoy it as much as I did.
May 29, 2020
OMG OMG OMG!!!
I didn't really know what to expect with this one I just knew that I had to read it...Nero is a master at the dark and depraved and this had both in spades..
Slater/Iblis is both terrifying and some how kinda cute a deadly assassin and killing machine answers to only one man Talha/Master a crime boss trying to make a name for himself till Slater feels betrayed and a whole lot of killing,blood and gore happens..This is definitely not for weak hearted...
I didn't really know what to expect with this one I just knew that I had to read it...Nero is a master at the dark and depraved and this had both in spades..
Slater/Iblis is both terrifying and some how kinda cute a deadly assassin and killing machine answers to only one man Talha/Master a crime boss trying to make a name for himself till Slater feels betrayed and a whole lot of killing,blood and gore happens..This is definitely not for weak hearted...
June 3, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
In order to be the Master Slater needs, Talha has to be perfect. He must never lack control, he must never let down his guard, he must never make mistakes. Ambition, though, his desire to spread his power and influence to Europe, risks bringing down everything he has ever built. In order to get Europe, Talha has to marry a powerful and dangerous woman who wants two things: For Talha to give her a child, and for Talha to give her Slater. She wants to use the infamous killer for her own plans … and Talha agrees.
I am not really a fan of these sorts of dark romances, where pain and blood and debasement go hand in hand with pleasure and ecstasy, but there is something appealing in this book, even so. Slater isn’t a born submissive who revels in pain. What he is is a monster, an unrepentant psychopath who revels in is the full and undivided attention of his Master, in the strength and brutality of his Master, and in serving a monster just like he is. The role reversal, the anger, the calculation in both men as they try to outplay the other (or even outplay themselves) is interesting in a bitter, creepy sort of way. And even with all these dark moments, there are sparkles of humor, breaking up some of the unrelenting tension and horror....
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
In order to be the Master Slater needs, Talha has to be perfect. He must never lack control, he must never let down his guard, he must never make mistakes. Ambition, though, his desire to spread his power and influence to Europe, risks bringing down everything he has ever built. In order to get Europe, Talha has to marry a powerful and dangerous woman who wants two things: For Talha to give her a child, and for Talha to give her Slater. She wants to use the infamous killer for her own plans … and Talha agrees.
I am not really a fan of these sorts of dark romances, where pain and blood and debasement go hand in hand with pleasure and ecstasy, but there is something appealing in this book, even so. Slater isn’t a born submissive who revels in pain. What he is is a monster, an unrepentant psychopath who revels in is the full and undivided attention of his Master, in the strength and brutality of his Master, and in serving a monster just like he is. The role reversal, the anger, the calculation in both men as they try to outplay the other (or even outplay themselves) is interesting in a bitter, creepy sort of way. And even with all these dark moments, there are sparkles of humor, breaking up some of the unrelenting tension and horror....
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
February 4, 2024
OMG..Well..I really don't know how to review this...This is a new author for me and I was drawn his way by Jack L Pyke and am I glad she did...This is not an easy read...Slater/Iblis is an assassin but something else..He is the Devil I am sure...I don't know how to describe who or what he is...I love how he speaks of himself in third person..I've never read a book where an MC does that...Talha who becomes his Master really doesn't know what he's let himself in for....Slater brings chaos and mass murder to his life, although Talha is no innocent...How can an author make you care for and almost cry for a murderer....The author made me feel so much for these two...I don't want to say anymore except it's a book I will think about for a long time..I can't wait for the next one and I will be ready to eagerly add this to my paperback collection x
May 29, 2020
This book is just amazing! It's already one of my favorite books this year. Nero's writing is too addictive. Yes, it was bloody and gruseome and quite violent. But I loved every minute of it!
June 4, 2020
Talha The head of the a mafia family, has built a reputation of being ruthless but fair.
Slater is a Reaper (assassin), of the most gruesome type. Known as Iblis (the devil), you make a deal for his services, he will be the most loyal servant and will kill anyone you ask him to. But if you make a deal with him, to be his Master, there is two things you need to know. 1, abide by the agreement and 2, if you don’t or you want out of the agreement, well lets just say you will become his next victim.
We follow the complicated and messy relationship between Talha and Slater. Slater is an extremely complicated and disturbing character. A brutal killer, but he also needs to be controlled with sadistic force to stop him getting out of control. He comes across as someone with learning difficulties, but don’t let that fool you into thinking he is not clever, as that mistake may cost you your life.
Talha finds it almost impossible to control and understand Slater. Which leads Slater to keep pushing Talha’s boundaries and testing his master.
Things kind of run ok between them until Slater finds out that Talha is to marry a woman. Slater sees this as a betrayal and seeks out his revenge, looking at the world through blood filled vision.
Both men find themselves with mixed and unknown feelings towards the other, The feelings will either save them or destroy one or both of them.
Both characters are fell developed and true to their parts in the story. Talha demands respect from his soldiers, he craves more power and will do anything to get it.
Slater is most ruthless and blood thirsty, yet he has a innocent and childlike side to his character, that makes you fall in love with him, yes I openly admit I love the psycho killer.
The pace and the descriptive world is so real and well written, Especially the hunting scene and the kidnapping scene, where you really begin to see that both characters have strong feelings for the other, even if they do not admit it to themselves or even understand the feelings.
The book is a gripping read that has you biting your nails until the last few pages. I usually pride myself on being able to guess where a story is heading and how it will unfold. But not with this book, The author had me guessing right till the end.
Slater is a Reaper (assassin), of the most gruesome type. Known as Iblis (the devil), you make a deal for his services, he will be the most loyal servant and will kill anyone you ask him to. But if you make a deal with him, to be his Master, there is two things you need to know. 1, abide by the agreement and 2, if you don’t or you want out of the agreement, well lets just say you will become his next victim.
We follow the complicated and messy relationship between Talha and Slater. Slater is an extremely complicated and disturbing character. A brutal killer, but he also needs to be controlled with sadistic force to stop him getting out of control. He comes across as someone with learning difficulties, but don’t let that fool you into thinking he is not clever, as that mistake may cost you your life.
Talha finds it almost impossible to control and understand Slater. Which leads Slater to keep pushing Talha’s boundaries and testing his master.
Things kind of run ok between them until Slater finds out that Talha is to marry a woman. Slater sees this as a betrayal and seeks out his revenge, looking at the world through blood filled vision.
Both men find themselves with mixed and unknown feelings towards the other, The feelings will either save them or destroy one or both of them.
Both characters are fell developed and true to their parts in the story. Talha demands respect from his soldiers, he craves more power and will do anything to get it.
Slater is most ruthless and blood thirsty, yet he has a innocent and childlike side to his character, that makes you fall in love with him, yes I openly admit I love the psycho killer.
The pace and the descriptive world is so real and well written, Especially the hunting scene and the kidnapping scene, where you really begin to see that both characters have strong feelings for the other, even if they do not admit it to themselves or even understand the feelings.
The book is a gripping read that has you biting your nails until the last few pages. I usually pride myself on being able to guess where a story is heading and how it will unfold. But not with this book, The author had me guessing right till the end.
May 29, 2020
10 deliciously depraved and dying stars
I don't even know where to start!
First - No Spoilers
Next - if crispy craniums and crimson-colored holiday ornaments make you queasy this may not be for you
Now how can I share how positively giddy this read made me feel?
Don't get me twisted - I cried a few of those silent tears because Iblis ...
He was deadly but he was also a bit like a puppy - playful, energetic, protective, and prone to piddle on your rug.
I also found myself cringing quite a few times - Iblis was good at what he did
And last but most important I smiled - sure the scenes probably weren't meant to be '"cute" but then again 🤷♀️
The back and forth between Talha and Slater?
It was... explosive 💣
It almost seems to temper a description.
Slater pushed and pushed until finally, Talha exploded.
Manipulative?
Maybe.
But if you want results sometimes you have to make sacrifices
The Hunt??
I think this scene is what truly endeared me to Slater.
Again... Yes, I'm aware he isn't quite stable but it's not his fault.
He just needs a stern hand, a little love, and a strong steel cage or a strong leash
I have so much I want to say so I'm going to step back and gather myself
☝️ I did that and I can only say if you enjoy your reads a bit twisted with that edge of psychological foreplay this is for you
I don't even know where to start!
First - No Spoilers
Next - if crispy craniums and crimson-colored holiday ornaments make you queasy this may not be for you
Now how can I share how positively giddy this read made me feel?
Don't get me twisted - I cried a few of those silent tears because Iblis ...
He was deadly but he was also a bit like a puppy - playful, energetic, protective, and prone to piddle on your rug.
I also found myself cringing quite a few times - Iblis was good at what he did
And last but most important I smiled - sure the scenes probably weren't meant to be '"cute" but then again 🤷♀️
The back and forth between Talha and Slater?
It was... explosive 💣
It almost seems to temper a description.
Slater pushed and pushed until finally, Talha exploded.
Manipulative?
Maybe.
But if you want results sometimes you have to make sacrifices
The Hunt??
I think this scene is what truly endeared me to Slater.
Again... Yes, I'm aware he isn't quite stable but it's not his fault.
He just needs a stern hand, a little love, and a strong steel cage or a strong leash
I have so much I want to say so I'm going to step back and gather myself
☝️ I did that and I can only say if you enjoy your reads a bit twisted with that edge of psychological foreplay this is for you
May 22, 2020
This is a haunting story. If you have triggers you need to read the warnings before you start this story. There are some descriptive parts and situations here that might make some uncomfortable. Talha basically starts out a okay guy. He finds his way in life using and gaining power. He is a fair leader until he runs across Iblis. The relationship between the two is such a tug or war. It gets extremely violent and descriptive. The battle of wills is entertaining and frustrating. The story drew me into it to the point I had a hard time setting it down. Talha is given plenty of chances to make decisions and he seems unable to follow what he knows he should do. Through everything and there are a number is situations, I was on edge wanting to know the answers. I don’t know if there will be more to the story but I feel the ending is a ending but could also be carried on and plenty more to the story could be added because I was left not really knowing everything.
December 27, 2021
This was an amazing book, it kept my interest from the first page to the last. It was a dark book with a lot of violence and brutality, there are some graphic description of situations here that might make some uncomfortable but even though this book has a lot of gore, I can't stop reading it. Nero Seal writes it so well, he did a fantastic job of making you feel for each character. This book was incredibly written! I can't wait for the next one.
April 20, 2021
This was as disturbing as it was good. This is the second book I’ve read about this author and I’m impressed. This is not for everyone, the characters had little redeeming qualities, but for some reason I found them endearing. They this is not a love story, for some reason I did feel that the characters felt deeply for each other as much as they could.
May 30, 2020
This book was given to me as an ARC, all opinions are my own.
Nero Seal have a way of writing that just keeps you glued to the pages from the start with intriguing characters and a plot that stays with you.
But again that is his speciality, keeping you on edge, getting you attached to wrong characters and rooting for a somewhat happy ending though not knowing if it will be kind or crushing.
I felt the tears prickling at more times than one.
And this one was no different as I fell for the clearly broken Slater from the first moment. Usually a cold blooded killer that likes to decorate with intestines isn't cute, but this one is. With his sweet tooth and his struggle with understanding his own needs for his Master but so easily follows his instinct to have him.
The same goes for Talha, it's something so appealing about him and all through the book I didn't know where I had him until the very last page, which kept me on the edge of my seat. Mostly because he didn't know it himself. Specially when it came to his Iblis.
Though it should have been horrid to read about the carnage, it wasn't as it served a purpose and wasn't just put there to jostle a reaction from the reader. I could go on and on about the book and the impact it had.
It just needs to be read, the impeccable writing, the amazing plot, wonderful characters and the amount of work that must have gone in to it shows on each page.
Nero Seal have a way of writing that just keeps you glued to the pages from the start with intriguing characters and a plot that stays with you.
But again that is his speciality, keeping you on edge, getting you attached to wrong characters and rooting for a somewhat happy ending though not knowing if it will be kind or crushing.
I felt the tears prickling at more times than one.
And this one was no different as I fell for the clearly broken Slater from the first moment. Usually a cold blooded killer that likes to decorate with intestines isn't cute, but this one is. With his sweet tooth and his struggle with understanding his own needs for his Master but so easily follows his instinct to have him.
The same goes for Talha, it's something so appealing about him and all through the book I didn't know where I had him until the very last page, which kept me on the edge of my seat. Mostly because he didn't know it himself. Specially when it came to his Iblis.
Though it should have been horrid to read about the carnage, it wasn't as it served a purpose and wasn't just put there to jostle a reaction from the reader. I could go on and on about the book and the impact it had.
It just needs to be read, the impeccable writing, the amazing plot, wonderful characters and the amount of work that must have gone in to it shows on each page.
June 1, 2020
Wow!! I highly recommend this book!! This is another excellent read from this author. This is not your typical love story, but a twisted, scary kind of love. Don't look for hearts and flowers, but blood and guts. Literally. You've been warned. This book is not for the weak and timid. It is a love story for those with a desire for dark and violent love; the kind that is forged in Hell.
This is the story of Talha, a Turkish crime Lord. His goal is to spread his criminal empire west into Europe, but to do that he needs to have London on board. A devilish deal promises him London, but it never takes place. Something dark and evil occurs that ensures that will never happen.
Slater. A merciless killer. He serves Talha as his Iblis. He's crucial to the deal that will ensure Talha acquires London and fulfill his lifelong dream. Slater worships his Master and looks forward to the pain he inflicts. It's a symbiotic relationship that appears to work, until it doesn't. Everything gets turned upside down, with a lot of blood spilled along the way.
This book is not for everybody. It is a standalone. I loved this book and have already read it twice! The author really uses his words to paint a picture and takes us on a dark journey into what Hell must be like. Brilliant!!
This is the story of Talha, a Turkish crime Lord. His goal is to spread his criminal empire west into Europe, but to do that he needs to have London on board. A devilish deal promises him London, but it never takes place. Something dark and evil occurs that ensures that will never happen.
Slater. A merciless killer. He serves Talha as his Iblis. He's crucial to the deal that will ensure Talha acquires London and fulfill his lifelong dream. Slater worships his Master and looks forward to the pain he inflicts. It's a symbiotic relationship that appears to work, until it doesn't. Everything gets turned upside down, with a lot of blood spilled along the way.
This book is not for everybody. It is a standalone. I loved this book and have already read it twice! The author really uses his words to paint a picture and takes us on a dark journey into what Hell must be like. Brilliant!!
May 30, 2020
Dark, Delicious and Haunting!
"Weak can't own Slater. Only strong can."
OMG! This story is amazingly twisted, utterly dark and extremely delicious! This is the first book I have read by Nero Seal and it definitely won't be the last. This amazing author threw me down a rabbit hole of utter depravity, gut wrenching emotions and twisted darkness. And I absolutely loved every second of it.
Talha and Slater have a unique relationship, which is fraught with the intense and powerful push and pull from both to be on top. Talha is the leader and alpha but Slater finds the need to keep him grounded and teach him that Slater is the real alpha in their intense relationship. At times their passion turns into extreme violence and explosive emotions. Their battle of dominance is highly entertaining and delicious to read about.
There were so many little twists and turns throughout this story that I wasn't sure what would happen when I turned the next page. Slater gutted me and shocked me. There is no end to his depravity and twistedness. I was blown away by the viciousness of Slater and Talha and their ability to forgive.
This is definitely and intense and emotional story that will keep you up late at night wanting to read this amazing authors passionate words. Highly recommend.
"Weak can't own Slater. Only strong can."
OMG! This story is amazingly twisted, utterly dark and extremely delicious! This is the first book I have read by Nero Seal and it definitely won't be the last. This amazing author threw me down a rabbit hole of utter depravity, gut wrenching emotions and twisted darkness. And I absolutely loved every second of it.
Talha and Slater have a unique relationship, which is fraught with the intense and powerful push and pull from both to be on top. Talha is the leader and alpha but Slater finds the need to keep him grounded and teach him that Slater is the real alpha in their intense relationship. At times their passion turns into extreme violence and explosive emotions. Their battle of dominance is highly entertaining and delicious to read about.
There were so many little twists and turns throughout this story that I wasn't sure what would happen when I turned the next page. Slater gutted me and shocked me. There is no end to his depravity and twistedness. I was blown away by the viciousness of Slater and Talha and their ability to forgive.
This is definitely and intense and emotional story that will keep you up late at night wanting to read this amazing authors passionate words. Highly recommend.
June 12, 2020
Considering that it totally got me to root for the psycopath, I'd say fantastic characters and amazing story. Incredible read.
May 31, 2020
Holy mindf*&k! There are few authors that I know of in the MM genre who can take you on a twisted, strange, violent, dark and crazy ride and have you exiting the other side saying 'Please may I have some more?' Nero Seal is definitely one of them. It's a gift that few authors possess to have you rooting for someone who is sick and twisted. Nero has that gift.....and more. Don't read this because you want a sweet, sappy love story, although it's fine to read those too. But if you want to challenge your mind, your heart, and even your soul to see things from a different perspective, to find some good buried deep underneath the darkness - then this is definitely the book for you. I can't wait for more.
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