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Prydain #1
Beast
He stuck the knife in the ground and stripped off his leathers. The tunic came off, revealing a long, lean, muscled torso, covered in tattoos. Snakes ran up and down his arms, his pecs and his shoulders. A skull blazed on his chest.
Then he was pushing apart my legs, settling between my thighs, leaning over me. He smelled of smoke, leather and musk. It was terrifying, like being at the mercy of an animal.
Falsely accused, Wynne is determined to clear her name. However, a trip to petition the Steward at Brighthelme turns disastrous when the Beasts, fearsome warriors from the frozen north, raze the city. When Wynne is carried away, she’s determined to regain her freedom but Rune, her captor, has other ideas.
Beast is set in Prydain, an imaginary place that combines Anglo-Saxon England with Medieval England, the Teutonic Kingdom and the Viking Age.
Note: this story contains kidnapping, dub-con and graphic violence. It is a standalone novel; no cliff-hangers.
Then he was pushing apart my legs, settling between my thighs, leaning over me. He smelled of smoke, leather and musk. It was terrifying, like being at the mercy of an animal.
Falsely accused, Wynne is determined to clear her name. However, a trip to petition the Steward at Brighthelme turns disastrous when the Beasts, fearsome warriors from the frozen north, raze the city. When Wynne is carried away, she’s determined to regain her freedom but Rune, her captor, has other ideas.
Beast is set in Prydain, an imaginary place that combines Anglo-Saxon England with Medieval England, the Teutonic Kingdom and the Viking Age.
Note: this story contains kidnapping, dub-con and graphic violence. It is a standalone novel; no cliff-hangers.
137 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 3, 2016
36 people are currently reading
399 people want to read
About the author
A.J. Adams
22 books263 followersAJ Adams married her best friend and moved to the tropics where they are living their own Happily Ever After. She believes writing is not so much a passion as an obsession.
She writes twisted stories of love, mayhem, and murder as AJ Adams and sweet romance novels with strong women and very hunky men as Ellen Whyte, her IRL name.
When she's not writing, she's cooking and gossiping with her friends. She is also personal maid to rescue cats Target, Swooner and Tic Tac.
She's no longer on Goodreads but please do come and chat on FB at www.facebook.com/ewhyte (no friendship request required)
Don't miss new releases, discounts and special offers. Sign up for the newsletter at https://dirtydangerous.blogspot.my/p/...
She writes twisted stories of love, mayhem, and murder as AJ Adams and sweet romance novels with strong women and very hunky men as Ellen Whyte, her IRL name.
When she's not writing, she's cooking and gossiping with her friends. She is also personal maid to rescue cats Target, Swooner and Tic Tac.
She's no longer on Goodreads but please do come and chat on FB at www.facebook.com/ewhyte (no friendship request required)
Don't miss new releases, discounts and special offers. Sign up for the newsletter at https://dirtydangerous.blogspot.my/p/...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
December 6, 2016
Tried it and unfortunately the writing style wasn't my thing. I don't know if it's just me or what but I could, honest to God, read only one page and the way the writer tells the story, I was completely confused on more than just one occasion. I really don't like the flow and the way the sentenses are formed, just lacks some order. It goes from what happened in the past, then to the future, then again some mix with the past... I just want to know what's what at all times and I couldn't get that from this story. :(
May 20, 2016
World building: 5 stars
Characters: 5 stars
Story: 5 stars
Romance: 5 stars
A.J. Adams, I'm so glad you're back!
Characters: 5 stars
Story: 5 stars
Romance: 5 stars
A.J. Adams, I'm so glad you're back!
August 1, 2017
Beast is different and it won't be for everyone. The characters and where it all takes place is pure fiction but there is a mix between the Vikings and Anglo Saxon England with some other more modern day objects included.
The blurb sounded interesting and seeing as the author contacted me and asked for a read and review and why the hell not?
As I said and I can only emphasise the fact that this will not be for everyone.
There is non consenual acts, there is dubious content and there is the sharing of women between the Beasts from the North. If you can oversee all that then you might like it. Admittedly it was hard for me but once they started to get to know one another, Rune & Wynne (the MC) I really liked it.
Ms. Adams doesn't sugarcoat it. Wynne's inner ramblings did do my nut in to be honest so that is why I docked a star, the content wasn't to a certain point for me but as I need and like diversity in reading, I'm not complaining. I would have liked to have seen Rune talking more in the book.
Book recieved by author in exchange for an honest review.
Review can also be found at http://jerisbookattic-reviewblog.blog...
The blurb sounded interesting and seeing as the author contacted me and asked for a read and review and why the hell not?
As I said and I can only emphasise the fact that this will not be for everyone.
There is non consenual acts, there is dubious content and there is the sharing of women between the Beasts from the North. If you can oversee all that then you might like it. Admittedly it was hard for me but once they started to get to know one another, Rune & Wynne (the MC) I really liked it.
Ms. Adams doesn't sugarcoat it. Wynne's inner ramblings did do my nut in to be honest so that is why I docked a star, the content wasn't to a certain point for me but as I need and like diversity in reading, I'm not complaining. I would have liked to have seen Rune talking more in the book.
Book recieved by author in exchange for an honest review.
Review can also be found at http://jerisbookattic-reviewblog.blog...
September 11, 2022
When i heard Beast was on sale for only €2,99,i decided it was a good time to re-read this delicious dark gem AJ Adams wrote.
I’ve been a big fan of her stories from the start,her Zeta Cartel series was a joy to read,and the Prydian series is just as good.
Beast is the first in this series that’s situated in Prydain, an imaginary place that combines Anglo-Saxon England with Medieval England, the Teutonic Kingdom and the Viking Age.
Meaning you get a good picture of a dark past,when women had even less rights than they have today.
Where villages got raided by the enemy,and then burnt to the ground.
It’s in these dark times our heroine Wynne of the Vale struggles to get what’s rightfully hers.
Namely,the land left by her late mother,and a Citizenship.
Being cheated out of both by her greedy uncle and a false accusation,she comes to petition the Steward at Brighthelme to speak up for her.
Only,she’s come at the worst possible time…not only is the Steward not there,Brighthelme is under attack!
The Beasts that were there to do business find their ship is being set aflame by townsmen.
But they’re not going to let that happen without taking their revenge,not these Beasts…
They take what they can get their hands on,including as many women as they can find.
Wynne is amongst those poor women,but they treat her like dirt because of those false accusations.
But she’s determined to escape,find her way back,and get justice for herself.
If only the Beast’s leader didn’t claim her for himself,and take her against her will.
And then,to her confusion, treat her the way she always wanted to be treated…
Rune is determined to take everything from those bastards that burned down their ship.
Taking the women is a part of that,and leaving the men without anything of value is the other.
But there’s one woman who fights them,who tries to escape every chance she gets.
When he takes her that first time,he knows he ís her first,and he knows she’s been treated poorly in the past.
He knows this wild woman is the one he wants for himself,and he’ll do anything to make her stay.
But how to convince her she’s his,to show her he can make her happy?
The Beasts may be called that,but are they really?
Sure,they start with raping the women,that’s really bad.
But they start caring about them…treating them a little better once they get to know them.
Ok,they were still rough with them,but less….
Those women still treated Wynne badly,though.
Even when she stood up for them,even when she did her best to save them.
But when the Citizens finally made their way towards the Beast’s village,it was véry clear who were civilized and who weren’t….
This was a dark story,one that showed a rough way of life.
A story that may have been tough to take in at times,but one that had it’s beautiful moments.
A story that made me think,that made me look at civilization from a different perspective.
And,most importantly,a story that left me with a very good feeling…..
Why,you ask?
That’s for you to find out!
I’ve been a big fan of her stories from the start,her Zeta Cartel series was a joy to read,and the Prydian series is just as good.
Beast is the first in this series that’s situated in Prydain, an imaginary place that combines Anglo-Saxon England with Medieval England, the Teutonic Kingdom and the Viking Age.
Meaning you get a good picture of a dark past,when women had even less rights than they have today.
Where villages got raided by the enemy,and then burnt to the ground.
It’s in these dark times our heroine Wynne of the Vale struggles to get what’s rightfully hers.
Namely,the land left by her late mother,and a Citizenship.
Being cheated out of both by her greedy uncle and a false accusation,she comes to petition the Steward at Brighthelme to speak up for her.
Only,she’s come at the worst possible time…not only is the Steward not there,Brighthelme is under attack!
The Beasts that were there to do business find their ship is being set aflame by townsmen.
But they’re not going to let that happen without taking their revenge,not these Beasts…
They take what they can get their hands on,including as many women as they can find.
Wynne is amongst those poor women,but they treat her like dirt because of those false accusations.
But she’s determined to escape,find her way back,and get justice for herself.
If only the Beast’s leader didn’t claim her for himself,and take her against her will.
And then,to her confusion, treat her the way she always wanted to be treated…
Rune is determined to take everything from those bastards that burned down their ship.
Taking the women is a part of that,and leaving the men without anything of value is the other.
But there’s one woman who fights them,who tries to escape every chance she gets.
When he takes her that first time,he knows he ís her first,and he knows she’s been treated poorly in the past.
He knows this wild woman is the one he wants for himself,and he’ll do anything to make her stay.
But how to convince her she’s his,to show her he can make her happy?
The Beasts may be called that,but are they really?
Sure,they start with raping the women,that’s really bad.
But they start caring about them…treating them a little better once they get to know them.
Ok,they were still rough with them,but less….
Those women still treated Wynne badly,though.
Even when she stood up for them,even when she did her best to save them.
But when the Citizens finally made their way towards the Beast’s village,it was véry clear who were civilized and who weren’t….
This was a dark story,one that showed a rough way of life.
A story that may have been tough to take in at times,but one that had it’s beautiful moments.
A story that made me think,that made me look at civilization from a different perspective.
And,most importantly,a story that left me with a very good feeling…..
Why,you ask?
That’s for you to find out!
April 14, 2016
4 stars
"when you're owned, body and soul, pride is the only thing you can keep."
Before I start this review- I have to warn you...this book is FILLED with non-con sex. I do realize that the blurb says that this book is dub-con, but nope...there is RAPE in this book and it is in no way consensual. But honestly, I think that's why I like this author. She GOES THERE, when many other authors are afraid to GO THERE. I like my books dark...
This was definitely different than her previous books, and that wasn't really a bad thing. Being that this is a fantasy novel, it took a bit to get used to the lingo and the different characters. But I found that by highlighting the definitions and such and going back when I needed to, definitely made it easier. I had to do the same thing when I started the Immortals After Dark series by Kresley Cole, so I was used to it at this point.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. It was a bit predictable at times, but the sex that WAS consensual was hot. The heroine was strong. The hero was big and sexy. What more can I ask for?
"when you're owned, body and soul, pride is the only thing you can keep."
Before I start this review- I have to warn you...this book is FILLED with non-con sex. I do realize that the blurb says that this book is dub-con, but nope...there is RAPE in this book and it is in no way consensual. But honestly, I think that's why I like this author. She GOES THERE, when many other authors are afraid to GO THERE. I like my books dark...
This was definitely different than her previous books, and that wasn't really a bad thing. Being that this is a fantasy novel, it took a bit to get used to the lingo and the different characters. But I found that by highlighting the definitions and such and going back when I needed to, definitely made it easier. I had to do the same thing when I started the Immortals After Dark series by Kresley Cole, so I was used to it at this point.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. It was a bit predictable at times, but the sex that WAS consensual was hot. The heroine was strong. The hero was big and sexy. What more can I ask for?
December 13, 2022
I mostly enjoyed this it’s not my favourite from this author but it was still imaginative and well-written. It’s set in a fantasy world but has an almost barbarian medieval feel to it. It’s told from the heroine's POV Wynne whose a former slave trying to earn citizenship. In this world, citizens have all of the power and through a misunderstanding, Wynne’s family had conspired to strip her of her expected inheritance and had her whipped publicly.
When the beasts from the north come to trade and are betrayed by the town their ship burnt they attack. Looting killing and pillaging they are brutal and relentless. Wynne is one of many females taken but unlike the other females, her value for ransom is low.
So this was a dark one the woman are treated abysmally by their captors raped and passed around the men some even dying from their treatment in the days to follow. Wynne is made of much sturdier stuff and is the only one who thinks fighting back is the answer she’s quite the rebel but also alone in her thinking so she is soon ostracised something she is all too used to.
Wynne also catches the eye of their apparent leader Rune and although she is also assaulted by him he does keep the other beasts away from her acting as a sort of protection. He is also definitely kinder than his comrades though he does keep Wynne chained to stop her from escaping him.
I liked this but I was slightly bemused by how these women were later willing to stay and play nice after everything these men had put them through especially with the deaths of some of the girls it just didn’t seem authentic to me that they weren’t more traumatised by there experiences. I could kind of understand Wynne and her feelings as Rune was the best of the lot but the others not so much. I also thought these beasts were actually a bit dense I know they were angry but it was hardly intelligent to not try to take better care of the girls they had taken. A dead female is just not worth anything to them.
Overall I enjoyed this I just didn’t love it I will probably read the next book in the series as I did like the world and I do like this author. It was also quite a short read and I think this may be impacted the connection for me the romance did suffer somewhat feeling slightly underdeveloped and I don’t think this was expansive enough to showcase Runes and his men's redemption in a believable light. I just wasn’t really feeling the chemistry a whole lot. I’m also wondering if this was maybe an earlier work by this author.
Overall I would still recommend this but be aware it isn’t a light fluffy romance and contains some dark scenarios. The writing was as usual good and the world itself intriguing. On a side-note I’d like to add this particular author is now a favourite of mine I do love her gritty dark not afraid to push the boundaries writing style immensely and I’d definitely recommend reading her work if that’s the vibe your after.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/63435390
March 28, 2024
I tried to read this a few years ago but I couldn't get into the writing style, but I was in the mood for viking romance and I ended up loving this! I couldn't put it down and this would have been an all-nighter but for lots of work deadlines that sapped up my energy.
Loved the worldbuilding and how it unfolds. Some GR reviewers noted wanting a little something more from the plot than what it got, which was pretty much a journey home plot. I didn't mind that there were no higher "life or death stakes" because I quite enjoyed learning about the culture of the beasts, and that of the Ten Cities, their customs, their histories. I think that was more interesting than if there was something more political or life-threatening.
I also felt Beast didn't pull back on the harshness of the beasts or the cities. The beasts were pretty much raping without much concern, but it wasn't as though life in the cities for the citizens or the slaves were that much more benign. And what we find out about the beasts later on also changes the reader's perception of their actions without excusing or absolving them. I liked that there were shades of grey and no easy answer that the author is pointedly guiding the reader to.
Loved the worldbuilding and how it unfolds. Some GR reviewers noted wanting a little something more from the plot than what it got, which was pretty much a journey home plot. I didn't mind that there were no higher "life or death stakes" because I quite enjoyed learning about the culture of the beasts, and that of the Ten Cities, their customs, their histories. I think that was more interesting than if there was something more political or life-threatening.
I also felt Beast didn't pull back on the harshness of the beasts or the cities. The beasts were pretty much raping without much concern, but it wasn't as though life in the cities for the citizens or the slaves were that much more benign. And what we find out about the beasts later on also changes the reader's perception of their actions without excusing or absolving them. I liked that there were shades of grey and no easy answer that the author is pointedly guiding the reader to.
May 31, 2022
DNF 75%
Writing was confusing and repetitive. I found myself rereading pages to understand what was happening.
The main characters in this story lacked any sort of chemistry, or maybe this is suppose to be some slow burn romance, which I hate.🤷🏻♀️yea, I can’t stand slow burn romance, so it might just be me.
I’ve read another book by this author, and in both books the main characters met and it looked like physical attraction was seriously missing, and yet they go right into having sex. These love scenes felt forced, because the MCs lacked any chemistry at all! How did the H even get it up, because he sure as hell didn’t even look like he was interested in the h?
The cover for this book was all wrong.
The h had copper hair. She’s a red head who’s hair was chopped off short as punishment. Her RED hair is as short as a boy!
Some pros:
The book was dark, twisted and real. The author doesn’t sugar coat the scenes!
This is a fantasy romance, the period is around Viking time. There were slaves, there were conquering men who came, burned cities, kidnapped, and brutally raped women.
I appreciate the author for keeping these scenes authentic, it made the book feel real.
Triggers
Lots of rapes and violence all over this book.
The H rapes the h and forces her to orgasm.
The h is a virgin.
Now that you’ve been warned about the rapes in this book, don’t read it if rape is a deal breaker for you. Plenty of fake/vanilla -no violence or rape - Viking books for you to check out instead of this one.
DNF because I was mostly bored, and the tstl h got on my last nerves.
Writing was confusing and repetitive. I found myself rereading pages to understand what was happening.
The main characters in this story lacked any sort of chemistry, or maybe this is suppose to be some slow burn romance, which I hate.🤷🏻♀️yea, I can’t stand slow burn romance, so it might just be me.
I’ve read another book by this author, and in both books the main characters met and it looked like physical attraction was seriously missing, and yet they go right into having sex. These love scenes felt forced, because the MCs lacked any chemistry at all! How did the H even get it up, because he sure as hell didn’t even look like he was interested in the h?
The cover for this book was all wrong.
The h had copper hair. She’s a red head who’s hair was chopped off short as punishment. Her RED hair is as short as a boy!
Some pros:
The book was dark, twisted and real. The author doesn’t sugar coat the scenes!
This is a fantasy romance, the period is around Viking time. There were slaves, there were conquering men who came, burned cities, kidnapped, and brutally raped women.
I appreciate the author for keeping these scenes authentic, it made the book feel real.
Triggers
Lots of rapes and violence all over this book.
The H rapes the h and forces her to orgasm.
The h is a virgin.
Now that you’ve been warned about the rapes in this book, don’t read it if rape is a deal breaker for you. Plenty of fake/vanilla -no violence or rape - Viking books for you to check out instead of this one.
DNF because I was mostly bored, and the tstl h got on my last nerves.
April 5, 2016
Wynne of the Vale has not had an easy life. The daughter of a slave she has seen much. She finally believes her luck has changed when she returns to her mother’s village – but it has not changed – and in trying to right wrongs she has suffered at the hands of her family she is captured by raiders called beasts…and that is just the beginning. The beast that claims her is Rune. As the story unfolds Wynne comes to see beasts as more than what they are rumored to be. She realizes that she must survive – no matter what. She wants freedom and her good name back and how she achieves this eventually is not the way she set out to do so.
I enjoyed the story, the unfolding personalities of the characters, the camaraderie of the beasts, the witty dialogue and the possibilities that were opened up toward the end of the story. This is a complete story in novella length but there is potential for a series if the author chooses to write one. With nine cities in Pyrdain, fighting and raiding between the cities, information to be shared and so much that can be explored I hope there will be more books to look forward to. That said – this is not a warm cozy romance but one that has some very dark moments for most of the characters – the book comes with disclaimers as it should BUT *I* thoroughly enjoyed it!
Thank you to the author for the Beta copy of this book to read and review.
4.5 Stars
I enjoyed the story, the unfolding personalities of the characters, the camaraderie of the beasts, the witty dialogue and the possibilities that were opened up toward the end of the story. This is a complete story in novella length but there is potential for a series if the author chooses to write one. With nine cities in Pyrdain, fighting and raiding between the cities, information to be shared and so much that can be explored I hope there will be more books to look forward to. That said – this is not a warm cozy romance but one that has some very dark moments for most of the characters – the book comes with disclaimers as it should BUT *I* thoroughly enjoyed it!
Thank you to the author for the Beta copy of this book to read and review.
4.5 Stars
February 25, 2024
4 Beastly Stars ⭐️
New author to me. I really like her writing, everything flowed smoothly. Enjoyed the story even though the beasts were brutal in the beginning to middle of the book all except for Rune and his tender spot for Wynne. I enjoyed this world Beasts!
New author to me. I really like her writing, everything flowed smoothly. Enjoyed the story even though the beasts were brutal in the beginning to middle of the book all except for Rune and his tender spot for Wynne. I enjoyed this world Beasts!
May 20, 2016
Wow! This was an interesting book but I can’t say it was fun to read since parts of it make the beginning of Kristen Ashley’s Golden Dynasty look like a fluffy sweet fairytale. Dubious consent my ass, there is out and out rape going on and lots of it so be warned. What made me keep reading was that this book was set in a medieval type world with barbarian/Viking type men called Beasts wandering around. Although nothing can make rape right, it fits the setting, but I wish the author had called it what it was.
The town of Brighthelme found out the hard way what happens when you betray barbarians. A group of “Beasts” struck back by burning the town down, killing most the men and taking the women. It was harsh and brutal and hard to read. By the end of the book I had softened towards their leader, Rune, but I still wasn’t won over.
Wynne seemed to have the worst of luck. The women of this world were basically all slaves, citizens or not. Born a slave after her citizen mother was captured, she finally made it back to her mother’s family only to be betrayed by them. She goes to Brighthelme to clear her name and is kidnapped by the beasts. She was strong, intelligent, and never gave up even when the odds were against her. I liked her, but her one track mind set on clearing her name got on my last nerve. It was a seriously miserable existence she was living before being kidnapped, so I thought she needed to spend a lot more time focusing on her present instead of her seriously whacked need to clear her name so she could go back to her really crappy relatives.
With their boat burned Rune has to get his men and their captives across the continent, making sure everyone is fed and stays alive. I ended up liking him. He was unbelievably smart and resourceful and he seemed to have some honor. He saw Wynne as a strong, brave, compassionate leader among the women even if those same women reviled her and believed the accusations against her.
Again, this was a brutal book but a page turner. There were undercurrents throughout that needed to be paid attention to. The ending felt unbelievably rushed which really sucked. All of a sudden everything was wrapped up in a tidy little bow. This did not work for me and I ended up feeling a cheated. Again, when I finished I wasn’t sure I liked the book but it definitely kept my attention.
Spice’s Rating: 3.5 Decent but Not For The Faint Of Heart Stars.
For this review and more, check out EDGy Reviews
The town of Brighthelme found out the hard way what happens when you betray barbarians. A group of “Beasts” struck back by burning the town down, killing most the men and taking the women. It was harsh and brutal and hard to read. By the end of the book I had softened towards their leader, Rune, but I still wasn’t won over.
Wynne seemed to have the worst of luck. The women of this world were basically all slaves, citizens or not. Born a slave after her citizen mother was captured, she finally made it back to her mother’s family only to be betrayed by them. She goes to Brighthelme to clear her name and is kidnapped by the beasts. She was strong, intelligent, and never gave up even when the odds were against her. I liked her, but her one track mind set on clearing her name got on my last nerve. It was a seriously miserable existence she was living before being kidnapped, so I thought she needed to spend a lot more time focusing on her present instead of her seriously whacked need to clear her name so she could go back to her really crappy relatives.
With their boat burned Rune has to get his men and their captives across the continent, making sure everyone is fed and stays alive. I ended up liking him. He was unbelievably smart and resourceful and he seemed to have some honor. He saw Wynne as a strong, brave, compassionate leader among the women even if those same women reviled her and believed the accusations against her.
Again, this was a brutal book but a page turner. There were undercurrents throughout that needed to be paid attention to. The ending felt unbelievably rushed which really sucked. All of a sudden everything was wrapped up in a tidy little bow. This did not work for me and I ended up feeling a cheated. Again, when I finished I wasn’t sure I liked the book but it definitely kept my attention.
Spice’s Rating: 3.5 Decent but Not For The Faint Of Heart Stars.
For this review and more, check out EDGy Reviews
May 26, 2016
In the mythical, Medieval town of Brighthelm, Wynne is trying to clear her name of a false accusation when the town is attacked and sacked by a group of men known as The Beasts. They take a number of females hostage, including Wynne, the plan being to return them for ransom...after having their way with them...but plans never go as expected.
AJ has a good solid style that speeds you through the story, nicely. Wynne is the center of the piece but her non-stop interactions with Rune, the Beast who chooses her as his bed-partner, make him almost as important as her. The characters, overall, are defined enough to be seen as different personalities, and the attitude that women are good for nothing but to have sex with was probably right for the time...tho' maybe not quite this casual. I'm really an M/M kind of guy, but the erotic moments between Wynne and Rune, and their growing attraction to each other, were believable.
Sometimes AJ got carried away with moving the story forward and didn't let moments really happen...like when the girls lose one of their group to death...and when Wynne finally sees the reality of a woman's lot, not only for herself but all women, in Brighthelm. But it was a nice, quick read. Well-done.
AJ has a good solid style that speeds you through the story, nicely. Wynne is the center of the piece but her non-stop interactions with Rune, the Beast who chooses her as his bed-partner, make him almost as important as her. The characters, overall, are defined enough to be seen as different personalities, and the attitude that women are good for nothing but to have sex with was probably right for the time...tho' maybe not quite this casual. I'm really an M/M kind of guy, but the erotic moments between Wynne and Rune, and their growing attraction to each other, were believable.
Sometimes AJ got carried away with moving the story forward and didn't let moments really happen...like when the girls lose one of their group to death...and when Wynne finally sees the reality of a woman's lot, not only for herself but all women, in Brighthelm. But it was a nice, quick read. Well-done.
May 23, 2016
Wynne and Rune were HOT! I wasn't sure I would really like this one since I really prefer contemporary romance to fantasy...but in the age where shows like Viking and Game of Thrones rule...this one became very interesting as the story progressed. Women were treated as less than dogs by these Beasts and used to trade/barter for weapons and food.
Beast was steamy, violent, crude and filled with so much wild behavior and lustful scenes, that I was swept away by the action and engrossed in the love story.
Very different but fans of dystopian/sci-fi and fantasy will love this one.
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
**** 4 **** "stay calm and breathe and everything will be alright" stars
Beast was steamy, violent, crude and filled with so much wild behavior and lustful scenes, that I was swept away by the action and engrossed in the love story.
Very different but fans of dystopian/sci-fi and fantasy will love this one.
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
**** 4 **** "stay calm and breathe and everything will be alright" stars
August 11, 2017
A.J.Adams is a new author to me.
I spent the morning reading this 3.5 star book and I have to admit at first I wasn't overly impressed as I found it hard to get in to. The story didn't grip me at first but towards the last 3rd of the book I really started to enjoy it and was routing for Wynne and Rune.
Rune was a complete Beast and Wynne was very brave,selfless and extremely clever.
The book was written very well and once I got into it the story flowed and hooked me in and it actually left me wanting more of their story.
It was just a slow starter for me.
I do want to read other books by A.J.Adams and see what else she has to offer.
I spent the morning reading this 3.5 star book and I have to admit at first I wasn't overly impressed as I found it hard to get in to. The story didn't grip me at first but towards the last 3rd of the book I really started to enjoy it and was routing for Wynne and Rune.
Rune was a complete Beast and Wynne was very brave,selfless and extremely clever.
The book was written very well and once I got into it the story flowed and hooked me in and it actually left me wanting more of their story.
It was just a slow starter for me.
I do want to read other books by A.J.Adams and see what else she has to offer.
August 8, 2024
I will post triggers at the end.
Hmm... Definitely not as good as I thought it would be. It's really too short and the story not fleshed out well enough. You will get what's going on, but the world building could have been better. Rune and his men are The Skaelings. Sea people. Humans who are referred as Citizens here call them Beasts. The lead FMC described them as giants which had me questioning how big they were. Who knows 🤷. Similar to Vikings I would think. Are the humans living in this town tiny? The description sounded other worldly because they were obviously very big. But I wish we had more description here. Anyways, Rune and his men got cut off from where his people reside now and have left them no way back. The ocean path they need to cross has frozen over leaving them no way to get back to their people. They've made a place for themselves in this new world, but need to trade with the Citizens to survive. Of course the humans backstab them during a trade and they lose their shit and start killing almost everyone and keeping many of the young women. Which they treat horribly right until the end. There's a lot of the patriarchy is bad here and I concur. It is bad in this story. Women are treated like shit. Rune and his Beasts in the end turn out to be not too bad, and everything gets tied up nicely with a bow. Not my style and definitely too quick.
I wasn't too convinced of the MMCs love for one another. Rune apparently was love at first sight. And Wynne had no choice basically. In the end she started to care, but this story is too short to see an actual relationship develop. It's definitely more captor and prisoner vibe.
Triggers: this isn't a nice warm romantic book. It's the opposite actually. Lot's of raping going on. Girls dying from being mistreated during their rape and being raped too often. The women are passed around except for Wynne which Rune keeps for himself stating she is his. BUT he rapes her the first time they're together.
Overall the story was just ok for me. Something was just missing
Hmm... Definitely not as good as I thought it would be. It's really too short and the story not fleshed out well enough. You will get what's going on, but the world building could have been better. Rune and his men are The Skaelings. Sea people. Humans who are referred as Citizens here call them Beasts. The lead FMC described them as giants which had me questioning how big they were. Who knows 🤷. Similar to Vikings I would think. Are the humans living in this town tiny? The description sounded other worldly because they were obviously very big. But I wish we had more description here. Anyways, Rune and his men got cut off from where his people reside now and have left them no way back. The ocean path they need to cross has frozen over leaving them no way to get back to their people. They've made a place for themselves in this new world, but need to trade with the Citizens to survive. Of course the humans backstab them during a trade and they lose their shit and start killing almost everyone and keeping many of the young women. Which they treat horribly right until the end. There's a lot of the patriarchy is bad here and I concur. It is bad in this story. Women are treated like shit. Rune and his Beasts in the end turn out to be not too bad, and everything gets tied up nicely with a bow. Not my style and definitely too quick.
I wasn't too convinced of the MMCs love for one another. Rune apparently was love at first sight. And Wynne had no choice basically. In the end she started to care, but this story is too short to see an actual relationship develop. It's definitely more captor and prisoner vibe.
Triggers: this isn't a nice warm romantic book. It's the opposite actually. Lot's of raping going on. Girls dying from being mistreated during their rape and being raped too often. The women are passed around except for Wynne which Rune keeps for himself stating she is his. BUT he rapes her the first time they're together.
Overall the story was just ok for me. Something was just missing
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2016
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Title: Beast
Author: A. J. Adams
Category: Fantasy, Dark Romance
POV: Heroine's POV
Characters: 4.5
Plot: 4.5
Scorching Level: 5
HEA: Not telling
The author takes us on a journey in the fantasy world of Prydain.
There, we meet Wynne of the Vale, a young woman struggling to be free after being a slave along with her mother. Fighting for justice she will find herself amongst chaos.
When the town is ravaged by the barbarians, known as Beasts, Wynne's world will be forever altered.
She is taken as a hostage and her hard journey begins. When Rune, one of the warriors comes forth and claims her as his own, she isn't sure if it is for the best because he awakens odd feelings in her.
Follow Wynne as she fights for her life and freedom. Watch her fall under Rune's spell...
"You were made for me. You're mine."
Watch her as she tries to remain distant, trying to focus on an escape plan. When Wynne realizes that no one is saving her or any of the girls the Beasts have taken, she will have to make a choice; escape and die or stay and make a life out of Rune's claim on her.
The imaginary is very vivid and since I love the author's work, I am amazed to see how talented she is at creating a new fantasy world for her strong characters.
I loved how spunky Wynne was. She never gave up and she had so much knowledge to offer.
Rune was the perfect stoic hero. Tall, dark and handsome, with rippling snake tattoos that captivated our heroine...and me.
The writing is fantastic with the proper amount of twists, sensuality and plot. I enjoyed it thoroughly and I finished it in 24 hours.
Fantastic premise and execution! If you love a little spice in your fantasy, then do not miss this book.
4.5 Stars
May 25, 2016
So, this was DIFFERENT from my usual reads. Beast was my very first fantasy romance, so a thank you to AJ Adams for popping that cherry. Being that I was out of my comfort zone, it did take a me a bit to conform to the setting of this story, BUT I was able to and it allowed me to immerse myself with the characters. That being said, it was a bit dark; which isn't a problem for me. I love a great dark read and there are aspects of the story that could put people off, so fair warning...if this isn't you're cup of tea...don't drink it!
Once I was able to get into the story, it went pretty well. It's fast paced from the start so the story hits the ground running. Make sure you have a good pair of sneakers on, because you'll be running along to keep up. Now it was a good fantasy and if this is your genre and you like a bit of dark, then this is for you. But, for me? I couldn't connect with the story or the characters. I didn't fall in love with Rune. There were times that he seemed like some barbaric neanderthal... and I'm not talking about the desirable alpha characteristic we all seek, I'm talking about when he spoke to Wynne. Then there were times when he spoke with his people he sounded like a diplomat. It was weird. I couldn't get a good read on him and that made it hard for me to want him for myself. That aside, he wasn't a beast (pun intended). He was gentle with Wynne but stayed firm with her around his people. He maintained his strength and power as chief of their people. He was a good leader. Smart and considerate without being weak.
I wasn't much of a fan of any of the other characters. They didn't do anything for me. The only one I enjoyed was the heroine of this story, Wynne. She was freaking awesome! She was a fighter, a survivor, full of stubbornness through and through.
She fought for her freedom at every opportunity and didn't let fear deter her from that. She new how to pick her battles and use her head. Wynne is the reason for this four star rating. It's rare I get to see a truly strong female and not some waif waiting for a man to claim her and save her from the dangers in life. Sure she didn't choose her predicament, but she made the best of it. *Girl Power*
Overall, it was a good story with a little bit of steamy passion thrown in.
Once I was able to get into the story, it went pretty well. It's fast paced from the start so the story hits the ground running. Make sure you have a good pair of sneakers on, because you'll be running along to keep up. Now it was a good fantasy and if this is your genre and you like a bit of dark, then this is for you. But, for me? I couldn't connect with the story or the characters. I didn't fall in love with Rune. There were times that he seemed like some barbaric neanderthal... and I'm not talking about the desirable alpha characteristic we all seek, I'm talking about when he spoke to Wynne. Then there were times when he spoke with his people he sounded like a diplomat. It was weird. I couldn't get a good read on him and that made it hard for me to want him for myself. That aside, he wasn't a beast (pun intended). He was gentle with Wynne but stayed firm with her around his people. He maintained his strength and power as chief of their people. He was a good leader. Smart and considerate without being weak.
I wasn't much of a fan of any of the other characters. They didn't do anything for me. The only one I enjoyed was the heroine of this story, Wynne. She was freaking awesome! She was a fighter, a survivor, full of stubbornness through and through.
She fought for her freedom at every opportunity and didn't let fear deter her from that. She new how to pick her battles and use her head. Wynne is the reason for this four star rating. It's rare I get to see a truly strong female and not some waif waiting for a man to claim her and save her from the dangers in life. Sure she didn't choose her predicament, but she made the best of it. *Girl Power*
Overall, it was a good story with a little bit of steamy passion thrown in.
May 25, 2016
Wow, not what I was expecting with this book. The best is a giant of a man, norse maybe? Definitely viking like. They had come to town to trade, but something bad happened, and they declared the merchants traitors. What happened after that to the men and the women? What happened to the town? Who took exception and why? Who ends up taking our lovely young Vale girl. The outlook they have on the gods and what they can and can't do and how each of the seven cities has a different god that they look to is quite interesting. The sex scenes in this book with Wynne and Rune are very erotic. What happens that we find out why the beast named Rune has ultimately taken Wynne and the other girls in the first place? When Wynne figures it out, what happens? What does or doesn't she do about it? Wait until you see what happens when the Patriarch shows up with the Steward, looking for one thing and one thing only and with silver and other wares to trade for that one thing. Wynne truly makes things known. She gets retribution for all the other girls have done to her during the trip and how they acted towards her. It is glorious!
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M.Brennan.
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M.Brennan.
May 21, 2016
I have read several books by A. J. Adams and this was a new genre from her that I have read. I Loved “Beast”! I was intrigued with this fantasy world of Prydain. It is a rough and crude world and this story is Wynne of Vale and Rune’s (The Beast). The Beast’s raid where Wynne lives. And, Wynne is captured and Rune claims her. I am not going to say anymore because I try not to do any spoilers and you can read A. J. Adams synopsis. Also, read the warning!
“Beast is set in Prydain, an imaginary place that combines Anglo-Saxon England with Medieval England, the Teutonic Kingdom and the Viking Age. This story contains kidnapping, dubious consent and graphic violence, however, it is a love story rather than a dark romance. It is a standalone novel; no cliff-hangers.”
As I said earlier that I have read most of A. J. Adams books and I LOVE reading her books. I know that this book is a standalone but, I am hoping she writes more of this genre!
I received a complimentary copy of Beast for an honest review. I give Beast 5 STARS and I can’t wait to read more from A. J. Adams
“Beast is set in Prydain, an imaginary place that combines Anglo-Saxon England with Medieval England, the Teutonic Kingdom and the Viking Age. This story contains kidnapping, dubious consent and graphic violence, however, it is a love story rather than a dark romance. It is a standalone novel; no cliff-hangers.”
As I said earlier that I have read most of A. J. Adams books and I LOVE reading her books. I know that this book is a standalone but, I am hoping she writes more of this genre!
I received a complimentary copy of Beast for an honest review. I give Beast 5 STARS and I can’t wait to read more from A. J. Adams
May 28, 2016
This book is everything I would expect from this author. You get an intriguing story, interesting characters, and lovely dark sexy bits.
A deal gone bad leaves a group described as Beasts set on retribution, and a girl named Wynne fighting for her life. Who would have thought going into town to clear her name would have landed her captured by the Beasts, and especially not falling in love with one.
There was one thing that threw me off, and that was Rune. As much as I loved the hotness building between Wynne and Rune, I found myself going back and forth with this character. One moment Rune was barbaric and the next he was the civilized level headed one. There is another character in the book that seemed to take it to the extremes too, and I’m looking forward to seeing if there will be stories for the other characters.
I really enjoyed this read. I will definitely be anxiously waiting for AJ Adams next, as always. The Color of Ink received a copy of this recommended read in exchange for an honest review. Enjoy!
A deal gone bad leaves a group described as Beasts set on retribution, and a girl named Wynne fighting for her life. Who would have thought going into town to clear her name would have landed her captured by the Beasts, and especially not falling in love with one.
There was one thing that threw me off, and that was Rune. As much as I loved the hotness building between Wynne and Rune, I found myself going back and forth with this character. One moment Rune was barbaric and the next he was the civilized level headed one. There is another character in the book that seemed to take it to the extremes too, and I’m looking forward to seeing if there will be stories for the other characters.
I really enjoyed this read. I will definitely be anxiously waiting for AJ Adams next, as always. The Color of Ink received a copy of this recommended read in exchange for an honest review. Enjoy!
August 9, 2017
I received this as an ARC in return for an honest review. When I read the blurb I really thought no way was I going to like it. I didn't even think I would finish it as fantasy, medieval type books are really not my scene but it just goes to show how wrong one can be. Once I got into it, I was enthralled. I liked the main character of Wynne who had led a very unfortunate life as a slave but was full of character and feisty. I also ended up really liking Rune leader of The Beasts. This book is definitely not for the faint hearted as it features rape and violence but in the context of the story it did make sense., not that I'm condoning it! I thought it was cleverly written as my opinion of the Beasts, especially Rune did change during the story. Wynne style of speech was a tad disconcerting initially but I even grew to like that as well by the end. I'm giving it 5 stars as I honestly didn't think I would finish it let alone really like it so that has impressed me. I would definitely read more from this author
June 19, 2016
This story was really cool. I loved the setting of the story and the main characters were hot! Loved Rune and Wynne. I loved that Rune wasn't the brute that he appeared to be in the beginning and that the relationship between him and Wynne grew throughout the story. The sex scenes were hot and the story was good. I wish there had been more! I feel like this could become a series that's how good the story was. A really good book.
August 10, 2017
This is a new author for me and if I'm honest when I first started reading it I was a bit unsure, but I persevered and can honestly say I'm glad that I did.
I loved how feisty Wynne was and she was a perfect Match to the beast Rune. She kept him on his toes and put the other beasts in their place.
This is set in a fictional time and if you give it a chance hopefully you will enjoy it.
I loved how feisty Wynne was and she was a perfect Match to the beast Rune. She kept him on his toes and put the other beasts in their place.
This is set in a fictional time and if you give it a chance hopefully you will enjoy it.
August 30, 2019
AMAZING! A fantastic, well written read. An intense storyline that holds your attention as you get caught up in the fierce twists and hot chemistry. Plenty of excitement and emotionally heartfelt. A thrilling must read.
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.
August 15, 2017
Enjoyed this story of Rune the Beast and Wynne. Taking me for a ride through a make believe world, where things aren't always what they appear to be. Wynne can run all she wants, but deep down she knows that being with Rune is the real home she's been fighting to have.
September 25, 2017
This was a fantasy barbaric read and I really enjoyed it.It was very descriptive and dark in places with warnings,The plot was great and the characters had super strength and nothing is as it seems as you engage into this life.I voluntarily read a readers copy of this book
April 6, 2016
AJ Adams writes a dark fantasy story that holds you captivated through out the book. Totally enjoyed it!
March 18, 2022
I enjoy this author’s mafia romance so I thought I’d give this book a try. Trigger warnings galore about dubious consent and rape. I did enjoy this book. I liked Rune’s character. He grew on me throughout the book. I liked Wynne’s tenacity but her inner monologues and naivety about wanting to prove her innocence wore on me a bit. I liked that Rune was so loyal from the beginning. I didn’t mind the dubious consent given the historical context. The Vikings raped and pillaged and I’m sure some romance came out of the violence IRL. It’s an entertaining read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
April 1, 2018Dnf at 41%
Bored and annoyed.
Bored and annoyed.
April 7, 2016
I loved this book, but it fell just short of amazing. I'm at about 4.5 stars.
I loved this fantasy world of Prydain. (I cut my reading teeth on Lloyd Alexander's Chronicles of Prydain. Which is neither here nor there, since this Prydain is nothing like Alexander's...I digress.) I loved it precisely because there isn't much to love about the situation in the 9 cities and the people in them. They're messed up. They're at war with each other. They judge each other, fail to listen to each other, and they're greedy jerks to each other. Especially to their women. It feels awfully in tune with current times.
Then we put all these folks into a mish-mash of cultures and watch what happens.
Wynne is a fascinating woman. She's an innocent, but she's seen the worst of people. She doesn't take any guff lying down (unless she's literally being sat upon) yet she doesn't sit idly by while others are in danger. She's a fighter, she's tough, and she's smart.
The author asked me to suspend my disbelief for this fantasy, and for the most part I could. The thing that I just can't seem to get around is Wynne's physical reaction to Rune. I have just enough doubt in that scenario, that this is where most of that lost half star comes into play.
Rune was tricky for me. As are many of this author's male main characters. It is hard to get around the fact that It's pretty hard to forgive. He has his reasons, and I love a lot of the things about him. He's smart, gentle and levelheaded, but also a great warrior who is respected by his tribe. He's a forward-thinker, and uncompromising when it comes to his people's safety and survival. But there's that 'but', and it's a big one. That is where the rest of the lost half star comes from.
I thought the other characters were pretty well developed--as developed as they can be when seen through the narrow field of vision of a hostage. As Wynne relaxes more and begins to focus on more than just escape, the minor characters come to life, so the POV--while limited by her focus--is true to the circumstances.
The story was a steady build to a conclusion that was somewhat predictable, but still enjoyable, with a slight twist or two that kept it from being run-of-the-mill. I'll be curious to find out if there will be more stories set in Prydain. I will definitely read them.
I loved this fantasy world of Prydain. (I cut my reading teeth on Lloyd Alexander's Chronicles of Prydain. Which is neither here nor there, since this Prydain is nothing like Alexander's...I digress.) I loved it precisely because there isn't much to love about the situation in the 9 cities and the people in them. They're messed up. They're at war with each other. They judge each other, fail to listen to each other, and they're greedy jerks to each other. Especially to their women. It feels awfully in tune with current times.
Then we put all these folks into a mish-mash of cultures and watch what happens.
Wynne is a fascinating woman. She's an innocent, but she's seen the worst of people. She doesn't take any guff lying down (unless she's literally being sat upon) yet she doesn't sit idly by while others are in danger. She's a fighter, she's tough, and she's smart.
The author asked me to suspend my disbelief for this fantasy, and for the most part I could. The thing that I just can't seem to get around is Wynne's physical reaction to Rune. I have just enough doubt in that scenario, that this is where most of that lost half star comes into play.
Rune was tricky for me. As are many of this author's male main characters. It is hard to get around the fact that It's pretty hard to forgive. He has his reasons, and I love a lot of the things about him. He's smart, gentle and levelheaded, but also a great warrior who is respected by his tribe. He's a forward-thinker, and uncompromising when it comes to his people's safety and survival. But there's that 'but', and it's a big one. That is where the rest of the lost half star comes from.
I thought the other characters were pretty well developed--as developed as they can be when seen through the narrow field of vision of a hostage. As Wynne relaxes more and begins to focus on more than just escape, the minor characters come to life, so the POV--while limited by her focus--is true to the circumstances.
The story was a steady build to a conclusion that was somewhat predictable, but still enjoyable, with a slight twist or two that kept it from being run-of-the-mill. I'll be curious to find out if there will be more stories set in Prydain. I will definitely read them.
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