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Myth of Omega #7
Own To Obey
He took her from her home and now she must survive him.
Sheltered from the world’s troubles, Shaya finds joy in the quiet gardens of her home and the simplicity of her life.
But when she makes the choice to save her sister, she becomes the possession of a savage, tribal warrior who refuses to speak her language, and takes her from her home and into his bed.
Alone and with no way to communicate, Shaya tries to overcome his harsh treatment, while enduring a culture she doesn’t understand.
And his wild, possessive touch sparks a consuming passion that cannot be satisfied.
As tribe leader, Kardos has much to prove to his people. And his possession of a rare omega, especially one so stunningly beautiful and demure as Shaya, is an achievement no other can claim.
As they sail across the seas toward home, he teaches her the way of his culture and the new reality she must accept.
But when he finds himself fiercely captivated by his new treasure, it’s clear it will be a harrowing journey ahead, for them both.
Buy now and jump straight into this sinful, tribal journey. For fans of faithful alpha anti-heroes and captive romances. Cliffhanger included however this series is complete. Includes dark romance situations. See author website for full warnings
Sheltered from the world’s troubles, Shaya finds joy in the quiet gardens of her home and the simplicity of her life.
But when she makes the choice to save her sister, she becomes the possession of a savage, tribal warrior who refuses to speak her language, and takes her from her home and into his bed.
Alone and with no way to communicate, Shaya tries to overcome his harsh treatment, while enduring a culture she doesn’t understand.
And his wild, possessive touch sparks a consuming passion that cannot be satisfied.
As tribe leader, Kardos has much to prove to his people. And his possession of a rare omega, especially one so stunningly beautiful and demure as Shaya, is an achievement no other can claim.
As they sail across the seas toward home, he teaches her the way of his culture and the new reality she must accept.
But when he finds himself fiercely captivated by his new treasure, it’s clear it will be a harrowing journey ahead, for them both.
Buy now and jump straight into this sinful, tribal journey. For fans of faithful alpha anti-heroes and captive romances. Cliffhanger included however this series is complete. Includes dark romance situations. See author website for full warnings
285 pages, Paperback
First published February 6, 2019
654 people are currently reading
1432 people want to read
About the author
Zoey Ellis
31 books1,851 followersZoey Ellis is a Dark Romance author who unites Omegaverse and Epic Fantasy into intensely primal romances. With her signature blend of high steam, dark angst, and magical worlds, her work satisfies a thriving international community of bold-hearted, antihero lovers.
She lives in London, England, and spends most of her free time with family, collecting pretty fountain pen inks, and wrangling her TBR pile.
She lives in London, England, and spends most of her free time with family, collecting pretty fountain pen inks, and wrangling her TBR pile.
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March 15, 2025Own To Obey is LIVE!
She was taken. She is owned. But she will not break.
Introducing the first book in the Own trilogy. For fans of barbarian Alpha anti-heroes, sweet Omega heroines, epic fantasy worlds, and captive romances. Don't miss out!
AMAZON
APPLE BOOKS
GOOGLE PLAY
KOBO
NOOK
She was taken. She is owned. But she will not break.
Introducing the first book in the Own trilogy. For fans of barbarian Alpha anti-heroes, sweet Omega heroines, epic fantasy worlds, and captive romances. Don't miss out!
AMAZON
APPLE BOOKS
GOOGLE PLAY
KOBO
NOOK
September 26, 2020
LOVED it.
Four full smut stars.
Full trilogy review HERE.
Four full smut stars.
Full trilogy review HERE.
December 11, 2024
Own To Obey (Myth of Omega, #7 ) starts a new chapter and a new Alpha/Omega pairing.
Visiting tribe leader Kardos who we previously met was promised an Omega to take back to his lands: that Omega is Shaya who has been hiding in plain sight.
So book Seven in this series starts exactly where we left off in its predecessor and almost immediately here I was engrossed and committed to the unfolding drama.
Shaya after willingly trading herself in place of her sister is determined to stay strong and not be broken by her new circumstances in life: but it's not long before the reality of her new situation really starts to hit home.
So, this was quite savage and brutal at times and I really felt for Omega Shaya: her confusion and bewilderment of her current situation all made much worse by the language barrier and treatment she is receiving from tribe leader Kardos.
He, in turn, thinks that he needs to do this to help her accept her fate and place with his people: that he is training her in the ways of his tribe and culture.
There were certainly times here that I hated Kardos just as much as poor Shaya.
It was such a struggle at times to really comprehend his true feelings towards Shaya: beyond the obvious that is.
He was also king of the mixed messages and as soon as I realised what he actually intended when he reached home I was just then just waiting heart in mouth for the dreaded and expected fallout.
My heart was breaking for poor Shaya when she finally realised what he had done and I wanted to personally knock Kardos out for being such a bloody turd.
I was engrossed from start to finish here and read this in one entire sitting.
Really can't wait to read the next book here so much did I enjoy this.
On a final note please be aware that this story is very dub-con in nature and please do avoid if this is a tall an issue for you.
I voluntary reviewed an Arc of Own To Obey (Myth of Omega, #7).
All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
October 2, 2020
Spoilers ahead
The review for the entire trilogy will be contained within, y'all should know by now when I rant I curse like a sailor😂 be warned!
Spoilers
I looked at the overall rating for this trilogy and I cringed at the high rating tbh.
Sooooo
Kardos is from the Southern Lands, we met him in the previous book as her journeyed to Malloran's lands to trade with him. Due to an insult to one of his people a deal was struck granting Kardos an Omega.
Shaya is a sheltered 19 year old, she was raised by her sister Kyus who is an Omega spy but Shaya doesn't know much about life as an Omega at all. She lives quietly with her gardens and her potions....until Malloran offered her sister to Kardos and Shaya demanded that she take her sister's place. Kardos immediately hustles the Omega to his ship as and they set sail for his home.
Thus begins a painful and heartbreaking journey to their HEA
***********
Firstly I'll say I had some issues with the previous books, Drocco did some stuff that pissed me off including dub/con.... Malloran did some things that pissed me off including manipulating and refusing to communicate with his Omega.....but I rolled with it because I enjoyed the stories overall. HERE??? There's no fucking redemption to be found!!!!!!!!!
1) On the I believe,first time they're alone together Kardos rapes Shaya. This wasn't fub/con but was dressed up as an Alpha in a rut but he was brutal to a 19 year old sheltered virgin who had no clue what to expect. Fuck you Kardos!
From there he decided to start preparing her for the harsh environment of his Lands and the unfamiliar language of his people. How does he do that? Well for one he refuses to speak the common tongue with her only his language and he's passed the message on to the only person she's allowed contact with! He instructs her to learn the language immediately. Fuck you Kardos!
Then he has her cleaning pipes on the ship, for hours upon hours days in a row! A sheltered Omega who's never experienced ANYTHING like this! Then she damages her hand, she's in pain and tries to communicate this to him ONLY the SOB refused to listen!!! He fucking acted like he didn't understand her language! Just ignored her and when she messed up because of the injuries to her hand he locked her in a dark room! Sensory deprivation for a sheltered fucking Omega who should've been cherished! She further damaged her shoulder trying to escape and was horribly traumatized because of this! Fuck you Kardos!
All this in addition to him using her mouth nightly!!! And because her body betrays her she enjoys him touching her when he starts taking her to see the ocean after locking her in the room scared her so bad!!! Fuck you Kardos
Eventually they reach his Lands, she's barely learned the language, exposed to a culture and people she has no idea how to deal with and he acts as if she SHOULD know what's going on!!!! Then she tries to take her power back in the ONLY move available to her and that causes so much drama she eventually regrets it!
Oh all that ill treatment was him training her expecting that she'd be given to another Alpha. He only desperately wanted an Omega to secure his power as High Chief over his Lands. Throughout this, that was his main priority and he treated her horribly to get his position
Anyway so they're bonded in a one way claim and he goes about his duties and she's just lost, that doesn't prevent copious amounts of sex that I couldn't even enjoy because he's a gigantic fucking asshole
Then after one too many betrayals and cold shoulder and an attack by his ex bed buddy that emotionally scarred her she finally manages to escape and he's infuriated at her disobedience
He journeys to the other Lands to track her down, gives some shitty explanation for his behavior and suddenly we're in loveeeeeeeee. We get a bit of treason, more harsh weather and a bit of time with them as a couple
Epilogue with baby which I loved
********
For me the H wasn't redeemed at all, especially as his reasons were so ridiculous. Preparing her for his culture did not need to be so harsh especially as others within his tribe spoke the common tongue! WTF!!!!
I hated him almost as much as I hated Keaton and y'all know that's an everlasting hatred that still burns brightly to this day! Fuck you Kardos
********
I like this author's writing style and her imagination but I hope she NEVER delivers another needlessly cruel Alpha such as this one. The fact that the h wasn't a spy with magic as the previous Omegas made his cruelty that much worse. Fuck you Kardos!
The review for the entire trilogy will be contained within, y'all should know by now when I rant I curse like a sailor😂 be warned!
Spoilers
I looked at the overall rating for this trilogy and I cringed at the high rating tbh.
Sooooo
Kardos is from the Southern Lands, we met him in the previous book as her journeyed to Malloran's lands to trade with him. Due to an insult to one of his people a deal was struck granting Kardos an Omega.
Shaya is a sheltered 19 year old, she was raised by her sister Kyus who is an Omega spy but Shaya doesn't know much about life as an Omega at all. She lives quietly with her gardens and her potions....until Malloran offered her sister to Kardos and Shaya demanded that she take her sister's place. Kardos immediately hustles the Omega to his ship as and they set sail for his home.
Thus begins a painful and heartbreaking journey to their HEA
***********
Firstly I'll say I had some issues with the previous books, Drocco did some stuff that pissed me off including dub/con.... Malloran did some things that pissed me off including manipulating and refusing to communicate with his Omega.....but I rolled with it because I enjoyed the stories overall. HERE??? There's no fucking redemption to be found!!!!!!!!!
1) On the I believe,first time they're alone together Kardos rapes Shaya. This wasn't fub/con but was dressed up as an Alpha in a rut but he was brutal to a 19 year old sheltered virgin who had no clue what to expect. Fuck you Kardos!
From there he decided to start preparing her for the harsh environment of his Lands and the unfamiliar language of his people. How does he do that? Well for one he refuses to speak the common tongue with her only his language and he's passed the message on to the only person she's allowed contact with! He instructs her to learn the language immediately. Fuck you Kardos!
Then he has her cleaning pipes on the ship, for hours upon hours days in a row! A sheltered Omega who's never experienced ANYTHING like this! Then she damages her hand, she's in pain and tries to communicate this to him ONLY the SOB refused to listen!!! He fucking acted like he didn't understand her language! Just ignored her and when she messed up because of the injuries to her hand he locked her in a dark room! Sensory deprivation for a sheltered fucking Omega who should've been cherished! She further damaged her shoulder trying to escape and was horribly traumatized because of this! Fuck you Kardos!
All this in addition to him using her mouth nightly!!! And because her body betrays her she enjoys him touching her when he starts taking her to see the ocean after locking her in the room scared her so bad!!! Fuck you Kardos
Eventually they reach his Lands, she's barely learned the language, exposed to a culture and people she has no idea how to deal with and he acts as if she SHOULD know what's going on!!!! Then she tries to take her power back in the ONLY move available to her and that causes so much drama she eventually regrets it!
Oh all that ill treatment was him training her expecting that she'd be given to another Alpha. He only desperately wanted an Omega to secure his power as High Chief over his Lands. Throughout this, that was his main priority and he treated her horribly to get his position
Anyway so they're bonded in a one way claim and he goes about his duties and she's just lost, that doesn't prevent copious amounts of sex that I couldn't even enjoy because he's a gigantic fucking asshole
Then after one too many betrayals and cold shoulder and an attack by his ex bed buddy that emotionally scarred her she finally manages to escape and he's infuriated at her disobedience
He journeys to the other Lands to track her down, gives some shitty explanation for his behavior and suddenly we're in loveeeeeeeee. We get a bit of treason, more harsh weather and a bit of time with them as a couple
Epilogue with baby which I loved
********
For me the H wasn't redeemed at all, especially as his reasons were so ridiculous. Preparing her for his culture did not need to be so harsh especially as others within his tribe spoke the common tongue! WTF!!!!
I hated him almost as much as I hated Keaton and y'all know that's an everlasting hatred that still burns brightly to this day! Fuck you Kardos
********
I like this author's writing style and her imagination but I hope she NEVER delivers another needlessly cruel Alpha such as this one. The fact that the h wasn't a spy with magic as the previous Omegas made his cruelty that much worse. Fuck you Kardos!
August 28, 2024
Re-read Aug 24 as I never did read books 8 & 9. Still enjoyed this and definitely want to complete the series.
A steamy, twisty and sometimes dark start to the series
Whilst this is the 7th book in the Myth of Omega series, you can read this without having read the previous books. It does end on a cliffhanger, so if you hate them it could be worth waiting until Kardos and Shaya's story is complete.
Own to Obey is a captivating story, that has a new dynamic compared to the previous two stories. Shaya doesn't go into a Haze, nor is truly a captive, as in the first 3 books, and Kardos is at heart a kind and caring man, unlike King Malloron in the previous 3 books.
Shaya is much more of an innocent, both figuratively and literally, but there is also strength in her quietness. She is a very easy to like heroine and chapters from her perspective draw you emotionally into the story. Kardos is somewhat of an enigma at times, occasionally he appears quite cruel, though this is more due to cultural differences than any genuine barbaric intent.
This book totally left me desperate to know what happens next, Shaya is facing an unknown future with the potential for some dark times. Kardos is struggling to reconcile his current emotions with his long terms plans. Bring it on, I can't wait!
A steamy, twisty and sometimes dark start to the series
Whilst this is the 7th book in the Myth of Omega series, you can read this without having read the previous books. It does end on a cliffhanger, so if you hate them it could be worth waiting until Kardos and Shaya's story is complete.
Own to Obey is a captivating story, that has a new dynamic compared to the previous two stories. Shaya doesn't go into a Haze, nor is truly a captive, as in the first 3 books, and Kardos is at heart a kind and caring man, unlike King Malloron in the previous 3 books.
Shaya is much more of an innocent, both figuratively and literally, but there is also strength in her quietness. She is a very easy to like heroine and chapters from her perspective draw you emotionally into the story. Kardos is somewhat of an enigma at times, occasionally he appears quite cruel, though this is more due to cultural differences than any genuine barbaric intent.
This book totally left me desperate to know what happens next, Shaya is facing an unknown future with the potential for some dark times. Kardos is struggling to reconcile his current emotions with his long terms plans. Bring it on, I can't wait!
February 18, 2019
There were lots of triggers in this book, however I need to read a cruel hero. Lol. I hate cliffhangers so I probably won’t read the next book but for readers who don’t mind them, it would be a good reading experience.
Bye the way, I really appreciated heroine’s act at the end. Go girl!
Bye the way, I really appreciated heroine’s act at the end. Go girl!
February 7, 2019
Shinno Kardos successfully negotiates with King Malloron for ownership of a rare and coveted Omega, a coup that should prove his worth to the High Chief of the Southern Isles and tribes as they haven't had possession of an Omega in over one hundred years. As the only shinno who is able to provide this feat, it should all but guarantee he be named heir apparent.
Nineteen year old Katashaya made the ultimate sacrifice when she volunteered to be the Omega given to Kardos in place of her sister Kyus. Knowing little about the Southern Isles other that they are barbarians, sheltered Shayla goes knowing that because of her sacrifice, her sister will have a life of happiness. A small price to pay for all Kyus' done for her.
Owning an Omega isn't enough as his culture dictates an Omega be accomplished in behavior, protocol, and skills. He will have less than one month to teach her all that will be expected of her to succeed or face ridicule by his High Chief and fellow shinnos.
* * *
WARNING: Not for the faint of heart, this is a dark epic fantasy erotic romance that may serve as triggers for those sensitive to non-dub con, sexual and physical abuse, and violence. While technically not a capture fantasy read (heroine volunteered to leave with hero), it was done under duress and for that reason I categorize it as capture fantasy and thus may push comfort levels. Consider yourself warned.
While this is the 7th installment in the "Myth Of Omega" series, it features a different couple (the third couple) so could be read as a standalone. The overall series, however, builds off previous installments so proceed with caution in reading this installment (if you haven't read previous) knowing that. And. It does end in a cliffhanger.
Kyros & Shayla. A parallel to the 'Me Tarzan, You Jane' mindset, Kyros is a tribal chieftain who is better than other chieftains but still an ass wipe (author has gone on record to as saying her heros are 'possessive, tortured heros' that readers will start out hating) sort of guy. Kayla is a sheltered virginal people pleaser naive character who has no idea of what's to come. Normally this is a promising match up premise in the 'opposites attract' spectrum.
Secondary characters. New secondary characters as this book features a new couple, new location, and new story line. Treska, Rozalia, Anata, Zoltan, and others. Of the ones named, one of them doesn't belong....... like seriously a knife or gun should be used to remove one of them from the story. lol
Honestly. I read this book in one sitting. Like stayed up super late to read it because it was that good, that engaging, that freaky. Cliffhanger ending resulted in quite a few verbal outbursts not heard by anyone but myself as it was the middle of the night. However. I had major issues with this story on the whole. Domestic abuse. I just couldn't stop paralleling this story. Did the story cross the lines in what I constitute as dark fantasy vs taboo red line. Vague random thoughts: repeated dub-non con; actions that result in broken/bruised bones with follow up 'Honeymoon' behavior; consequences for failure to perform; isolationism; drugs; Stockholm syndrome. I totally own that my feelings are my own and that I'm hoping I'm wrong in those feelings but they're there. Does this story cross lines.... My strongest feeling though is in regards to the cliffhanger ending with this vague mythical thought: what would cause a woman to break when she loses hope and what is allowed when she feels no other option is available? I guess with all that being said ..... is such a situation and character (male) salvageable? Does he or should he deserve redemption?
My final feeling is that I appreciated this series on the whole and, while previous installments have pushed the envelopes, the end result for previous couples in the series so far support the journey to get there. I'm on the fence with this one and thus neutral to recommend. I've just shared my feelings and why leaving the final decision to read it or not up to you, the potential reader.
Nineteen year old Katashaya made the ultimate sacrifice when she volunteered to be the Omega given to Kardos in place of her sister Kyus. Knowing little about the Southern Isles other that they are barbarians, sheltered Shayla goes knowing that because of her sacrifice, her sister will have a life of happiness. A small price to pay for all Kyus' done for her.
Owning an Omega isn't enough as his culture dictates an Omega be accomplished in behavior, protocol, and skills. He will have less than one month to teach her all that will be expected of her to succeed or face ridicule by his High Chief and fellow shinnos.
* * *
WARNING: Not for the faint of heart, this is a dark epic fantasy erotic romance that may serve as triggers for those sensitive to non-dub con, sexual and physical abuse, and violence. While technically not a capture fantasy read (heroine volunteered to leave with hero), it was done under duress and for that reason I categorize it as capture fantasy and thus may push comfort levels. Consider yourself warned.
While this is the 7th installment in the "Myth Of Omega" series, it features a different couple (the third couple) so could be read as a standalone. The overall series, however, builds off previous installments so proceed with caution in reading this installment (if you haven't read previous) knowing that. And. It does end in a cliffhanger.
Kyros & Shayla. A parallel to the 'Me Tarzan, You Jane' mindset, Kyros is a tribal chieftain who is better than other chieftains but still an ass wipe (author has gone on record to as saying her heros are 'possessive, tortured heros' that readers will start out hating) sort of guy. Kayla is a sheltered virginal people pleaser naive character who has no idea of what's to come. Normally this is a promising match up premise in the 'opposites attract' spectrum.
Secondary characters. New secondary characters as this book features a new couple, new location, and new story line. Treska, Rozalia, Anata, Zoltan, and others. Of the ones named, one of them doesn't belong....... like seriously a knife or gun should be used to remove one of them from the story. lol
Honestly. I read this book in one sitting. Like stayed up super late to read it because it was that good, that engaging, that freaky. Cliffhanger ending resulted in quite a few verbal outbursts not heard by anyone but myself as it was the middle of the night. However. I had major issues with this story on the whole. Domestic abuse. I just couldn't stop paralleling this story. Did the story cross the lines in what I constitute as dark fantasy vs taboo red line. Vague random thoughts: repeated dub-non con; actions that result in broken/bruised bones with follow up 'Honeymoon' behavior; consequences for failure to perform; isolationism; drugs; Stockholm syndrome. I totally own that my feelings are my own and that I'm hoping I'm wrong in those feelings but they're there. Does this story cross lines.... My strongest feeling though is in regards to the cliffhanger ending with this vague mythical thought: what would cause a woman to break when she loses hope and what is allowed when she feels no other option is available? I guess with all that being said ..... is such a situation and character (male) salvageable? Does he or should he deserve redemption?
My final feeling is that I appreciated this series on the whole and, while previous installments have pushed the envelopes, the end result for previous couples in the series so far support the journey to get there. I'm on the fence with this one and thus neutral to recommend. I've just shared my feelings and why leaving the final decision to read it or not up to you, the potential reader.
Want to read
January 11, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/11/2020)! 🎁
June 12, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this one! Had a lot of my favorite elements.
~NonCon
~DubCon
~Innocent, virginal heroine that wasn't easily persuaded to fall for the hero
~OTT, possessive, morally grey, literal ALPHA Hero
~Omegaverse
The only thing I wasn't such a fan of was the cliffhanger where it was revealed that he would possibly have to turn his woman he'd been happily bangin' over to his dad for him to bang her instead...
So I hurried to purchase the second one, so I could find out what would happen next ASAP.
~NonCon
~DubCon
“Strip.” The Omega’s face dropped. “What?” “Take off your clothes,” he ordered. She stared at him for a long moment, horror beginning to form on her face.
~Innocent, virginal heroine that wasn't easily persuaded to fall for the hero
"Her eyes remained on the ocean as her mouth trembled. She hated him. She hated everything that he had made her do, everything he put her through. He wouldn't let her explain anything, he wouldn't speak to her in her own language, and he made her suffer just because she didn't understand."
~OTT, possessive, morally grey, literal ALPHA Hero
“Did he fucking touch you, Shaya!” he bellowed. “Who?” she breathed, her voice so small against his. His eyes flashed. “The Alpha that had his hand up your tunic when I entered the room.” Oh,” she said, confused. “He touched my leg. He hadn’t reached…” “Your pussy.” The shinno’s jaw clenched. “No, he didn’t touch… my… pussy.”
~Omegaverse
“You knotted her?” Kardos frowned, confused by her surprise. “Of course. She was in her Haze, no matter how mild, and I was in a rut. I knotted her. Multiple times.”
Regardless, Kardos had never knotted anyone before, and to feel Shaya around him so tightly, so securely, it had been a thrill and satisfaction that had no comparison.
The only thing I wasn't such a fan of was the cliffhanger where it was revealed that he would possibly have to turn his woman he'd been happily bangin' over to his dad for him to bang her instead...
“If she is deemed an Omega, the selection process for her pairing will begin immediately… if I decide not to take her for myself.” Kardos forced himself to remain still as an uncomfortable feeling twisted in his stomach.
So I hurried to purchase the second one, so I could find out what would happen next ASAP.
November 13, 2021
Book is rather boring.
I'm not thrilled with the story and the very quick pace it's taken, with little world building, and anticlimatic events: . This hero appears to have little depth and appears to be clingy already, same old, same old with this author. He hardly qualifies as a real anti-hero. I rather he be a bit more nonredeemable at first.
The setting just confuses me. The world building needs a lot of work. Shaya comes from what appears to be "western" medieval times. Shaya dresses in very concealing european type garb. And she covers her hair. We find out in the last chapter that it's a wrap. I couldn't picture her head covering until the last chapter! And remember, she comes from a western medieval world, not even a middle eastern sort of setting. Shaya is brown and has tightly coiled puffy raven coloured hair. But it is Kardos who is from the "southern isles." He is sort of a viking, but not really. I can't get the idea in my head that he's from the south or the isles...like a pirate. Would you wear this if you were from the south? a strange-looking fitted tunic dress made with coarse material, a fur overthrow, thick boots, and undergarments. That's what Shaya has to wear now. And just look at his image on the book cover, he looks like Rollo (Ragnar Lothbrok's brother), although Kardos supposedly has blonde hair. His culture is unrecognizable. It's sort of like the author didn't know what to pick so she chose it all. It is very difficult to picture anything in this book.
Then, some illogical events take place. Like Zolt This is what we call pointless drama and a necessary pause to build "anticipation." Towards the end, we learn that their culture is a bit barbaric, maybe Dothraki x Viking, and it's acceptable to barge into people's rooms. But reading this scene at the beginning of the book leaves you confused.
I can see why people see this a bit boring. Some risky moves can ruin a book, same as some safe moves can do the same. The book is confusing. It makes it difficult to picture people and the world.
I'm not thrilled with the story and the very quick pace it's taken, with little world building, and anticlimatic events: . This hero appears to have little depth and appears to be clingy already, same old, same old with this author. He hardly qualifies as a real anti-hero. I rather he be a bit more nonredeemable at first.
The setting just confuses me. The world building needs a lot of work. Shaya comes from what appears to be "western" medieval times. Shaya dresses in very concealing european type garb. And she covers her hair. We find out in the last chapter that it's a wrap. I couldn't picture her head covering until the last chapter! And remember, she comes from a western medieval world, not even a middle eastern sort of setting. Shaya is brown and has tightly coiled puffy raven coloured hair. But it is Kardos who is from the "southern isles." He is sort of a viking, but not really. I can't get the idea in my head that he's from the south or the isles...like a pirate. Would you wear this if you were from the south? a strange-looking fitted tunic dress made with coarse material, a fur overthrow, thick boots, and undergarments. That's what Shaya has to wear now. And just look at his image on the book cover, he looks like Rollo (Ragnar Lothbrok's brother), although Kardos supposedly has blonde hair. His culture is unrecognizable. It's sort of like the author didn't know what to pick so she chose it all. It is very difficult to picture anything in this book.
Then, some illogical events take place. Like Zolt This is what we call pointless drama and a necessary pause to build "anticipation." Towards the end, we learn that their culture is a bit barbaric, maybe Dothraki x Viking, and it's acceptable to barge into people's rooms. But reading this scene at the beginning of the book leaves you confused.
I can see why people see this a bit boring. Some risky moves can ruin a book, same as some safe moves can do the same. The book is confusing. It makes it difficult to picture people and the world.
July 14, 2020
I’m giving this 2-2.5 starts. I had a really tough time reading this and reviewing it. I was horrified with Kardos’ treatment of Shaya throughout the first 3/4 of the book. I have read all of the other books in this series and I gave each one a 5 star rating. The first book in this series has some parts that were rapey and involved physical abuse of Cailyn by Drocco, but it wasn’t as bad as this book.
Not only is this book rapey, but Kardos is BEYOND cruel. He literally breaks Shaya’s hands, ties her arms up above her head so that she passes out from pain, throws cold water on her face just so that he can continue to torture her, then locks her in a tiny closet even though she is seasick and claustrophobic. The parts where he is torturing her are told from Shaya’s perspective, a few chapters later we finally get a glimpse into Kardos as the POV switches, and he only feels bad for locking her in a box, not for severely damaging her arms and shoulder. Not to mention that he is basically grooming her so that he can give her as a “gift” to the high chief. What a gentleman! I hated him so much. I honestly don’t understand how Shaya could ever forgive him and I hated her when she would spread her legs for him with minimal effort on his part.
I also hated that I couldn’t understand anything that Kardos was saving to Shaya. He speaks to her in his language and she has no idea what he is saying and neither does the reader. At the beginning of the book the author explains that this is done on purpose to allow the reader to fully immerse themselves in Shaya’s experience, but honestly I just found it frustrating and annoying.
The last 1/4 of the book is better than the first 3/4’s. After Kardos decides to drug Shaya to make her go into her Haze (again... what a gentleman!) he starts to treat her a little bit better. But for me, it was too late by the point!
So far this is my least favourite book in this series.
Not only is this book rapey, but Kardos is BEYOND cruel. He literally breaks Shaya’s hands, ties her arms up above her head so that she passes out from pain, throws cold water on her face just so that he can continue to torture her, then locks her in a tiny closet even though she is seasick and claustrophobic. The parts where he is torturing her are told from Shaya’s perspective, a few chapters later we finally get a glimpse into Kardos as the POV switches, and he only feels bad for locking her in a box, not for severely damaging her arms and shoulder. Not to mention that he is basically grooming her so that he can give her as a “gift” to the high chief. What a gentleman! I hated him so much. I honestly don’t understand how Shaya could ever forgive him and I hated her when she would spread her legs for him with minimal effort on his part.
I also hated that I couldn’t understand anything that Kardos was saving to Shaya. He speaks to her in his language and she has no idea what he is saying and neither does the reader. At the beginning of the book the author explains that this is done on purpose to allow the reader to fully immerse themselves in Shaya’s experience, but honestly I just found it frustrating and annoying.
The last 1/4 of the book is better than the first 3/4’s. After Kardos decides to drug Shaya to make her go into her Haze (again... what a gentleman!) he starts to treat her a little bit better. But for me, it was too late by the point!
So far this is my least favourite book in this series.
March 20, 2019
AMAZING! This is my favorite book by this author, I’ve loved nearly every word that she’s written but this book spoke to me on a different level. Shaya is my kind of heroine, she’s sweet with a kick. Kardos is hard but shows a different side with Shaya at times that makes me swoon. There is a language barrier (one of my favorite tropes), and Shaya stubbornly refuses to learn the ways of her new people until she’s forced to accept her new situation. I would recommend this book to omegaverse lovers and anyone who enjoys an angsty push and pull dark romance.
February 6, 2019
I love her books but this book was boring.
February 9, 2019
DNF, it's boring and hard to get through. I guess this is where the Myth of Omega ends for me.
February 11, 2020
I couldn't put this down until the end, one of the best books in the Myth of Omega series, IMO. Shaya is a sweet and sheltered omega who never experienced much in life, less of all her natural responses to an Alpha. Kardos is a complex character, he can be tender but also ruthless, and he's also discovering with Shaya Alpha instincts he never experienced before. He took Shaya as part of a deal with King Malloron, an omega as a tribute, and he's going to taker her to the Southern Islands, the first omega in over a hundred years.
What kept me so enthralled were the glimpses into the culture of the Southerners, they keep mentioning the harshness of life conditions there, how important was to fit in (it reminded me of the vikings).
I will say no more about the plot, just that the cliffhanger was cruel! Noooooo!!! The ending left me on edge, avid to continue reading. Zoey Ellis writes in such a way that it makes for an easy and compelling read, it submerges you in a different world, making you excited to know more about it. I would highly recommend this book, you can also read it even if you haven't read the other books in the series.
What kept me so enthralled were the glimpses into the culture of the Southerners, they keep mentioning the harshness of life conditions there, how important was to fit in (it reminded me of the vikings).
I will say no more about the plot, just that the cliffhanger was cruel! Noooooo!!! The ending left me on edge, avid to continue reading. Zoey Ellis writes in such a way that it makes for an easy and compelling read, it submerges you in a different world, making you excited to know more about it. I would highly recommend this book, you can also read it even if you haven't read the other books in the series.
February 1, 2019
Oh. My. Word.
I have devoured this book in a matter of hours. I COULD NOT put this book down! This is my first Zoey Ellis book and it will be far from my last!
This painful love story left me speechless, emotionally shaken and almost numb that it was over...
I need more!
The intensity of this book is breathtaking, heart-wrenching and delicious all rolled into one - just like the fabulous, strong, sexual Alpha!
Kardos, The Alpha: Dangerous, powerful, barbaric anti-hero and he is amazing... Delicious was actually the word that kept popping into my head as I thought about what I wanted to say in this review. Kardos has his own goals, and challenges but he is consistent with his motivations. I did start to feel for this character. I needed to understand him, just as Shaya sought to do.
Shaya is an Omega: Strong willed, passionate and loyal. She was a solid lead who grew into her own role and who went through the necessary "learning pains."
The character development and the evolution of this relationship was so intense and .. my word.. the feelings - oh the FEELINGS I experienced while reading this book!! Love. Hate. Fear. Happiness. Anger. Pain. Hope. Betrayal. Heart Break. . . Numbness... Joy.
Nearing the end of the book - my level of suspicion, trepidation and hope all rolled into one was soo strong! I was praying for a HEA for both Kardos and Shaya.... and I was actually nervous for Shaya and the path she was unknowingly headed down. I appreciated that as a reader, I learned Shaya's fate at the same time she did. But man ... the Heartbreak and the Betrayal of how her destiny was laid out to her was just down right powerful.
As I got to the last page.. my heart was pounding and I was practically salivating for MORE - More Kadros, more Shaya, more of this fascinating world that is mystical and dark.
This story killed me - it was amazing, and I can barely catch my breath from this fabulous read that left me delirious.
I finished this book practically screaming "YEESSS GURL - YAASSS!!!"
So please... heed the warnings if you are triggered by dark situations, as some of it is sensitive.
But if you want a book that will take you on a roller coaster of emotions... you've found it!
Thank you for Zoey Ellis and Hidden Gems for the opportunity to read an ARC for my honest review.
I have devoured this book in a matter of hours. I COULD NOT put this book down! This is my first Zoey Ellis book and it will be far from my last!
This painful love story left me speechless, emotionally shaken and almost numb that it was over...
I need more!
The intensity of this book is breathtaking, heart-wrenching and delicious all rolled into one - just like the fabulous, strong, sexual Alpha!
Kardos, The Alpha: Dangerous, powerful, barbaric anti-hero and he is amazing... Delicious was actually the word that kept popping into my head as I thought about what I wanted to say in this review. Kardos has his own goals, and challenges but he is consistent with his motivations. I did start to feel for this character. I needed to understand him, just as Shaya sought to do.
Shaya is an Omega: Strong willed, passionate and loyal. She was a solid lead who grew into her own role and who went through the necessary "learning pains."
The character development and the evolution of this relationship was so intense and .. my word.. the feelings - oh the FEELINGS I experienced while reading this book!! Love. Hate. Fear. Happiness. Anger. Pain. Hope. Betrayal. Heart Break. . . Numbness... Joy.
Nearing the end of the book - my level of suspicion, trepidation and hope all rolled into one was soo strong! I was praying for a HEA for both Kardos and Shaya.... and I was actually nervous for Shaya and the path she was unknowingly headed down. I appreciated that as a reader, I learned Shaya's fate at the same time she did. But man ... the Heartbreak and the Betrayal of how her destiny was laid out to her was just down right powerful.
As I got to the last page.. my heart was pounding and I was practically salivating for MORE - More Kadros, more Shaya, more of this fascinating world that is mystical and dark.
This story killed me - it was amazing, and I can barely catch my breath from this fabulous read that left me delirious.
I finished this book practically screaming "YEESSS GURL - YAASSS!!!"
So please... heed the warnings if you are triggered by dark situations, as some of it is sensitive.
But if you want a book that will take you on a roller coaster of emotions... you've found it!
Thank you for Zoey Ellis and Hidden Gems for the opportunity to read an ARC for my honest review.
March 22, 2019
Right, before you jump down my throat for hating this much-loved book, let me explain. This book sits firmly in the genre of dark erotica, and I get that. Zoey Ellis’s other books have also included domineering, angry alphas with violent streaks. And she writes well, even if I find it a bit extreme. So there is an aspect of “it’s not you, it’s me”
But this instalment takes everything TOO FAR.
Rationalizing within the genre is not enough to make up for this “hero”. Sure he’s touted as a cruel hero in the synopsis, but cruelty - especially between lovers - has its limits. He’s unfairly cruel to Shaya, even if his motivation is to help her integrate and prepare her for worse. He’s alpha, yes, but he descends into brutal physical abuse when she doesn’t understand, and even - no matter how you paint this - rape. They drug her into going into a haze, for crying out loud. I don’t care what his reasons were; you cannot beat a girl’s hands with a stone for making tea wrong, then expect her to scrub pipes, then string her up with rope because she can’t use her mangled hands, then lock her in a sensory deprivation box, and then make her perform oral sex - all while yelling at her in a language she can’t understand (even though you both speak another language). Don’t get me started on the date rape.
There is nothing redeemable about this hero.
But this instalment takes everything TOO FAR.
Rationalizing within the genre is not enough to make up for this “hero”. Sure he’s touted as a cruel hero in the synopsis, but cruelty - especially between lovers - has its limits. He’s unfairly cruel to Shaya, even if his motivation is to help her integrate and prepare her for worse. He’s alpha, yes, but he descends into brutal physical abuse when she doesn’t understand, and even - no matter how you paint this - rape. They drug her into going into a haze, for crying out loud. I don’t care what his reasons were; you cannot beat a girl’s hands with a stone for making tea wrong, then expect her to scrub pipes, then string her up with rope because she can’t use her mangled hands, then lock her in a sensory deprivation box, and then make her perform oral sex - all while yelling at her in a language she can’t understand (even though you both speak another language). Don’t get me started on the date rape.
There is nothing redeemable about this hero.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2019
Omega verse – Myth of Omega Book 7 – Own to Obey
Our story begins where we left off in book six of this amazing world that the author has created for us in the ‘Myth of Omega’ series. The starting point being the Western lands of Alpha King, Malloron and his Omega Queen, Amara.
Our leading Alpha for this trilogy is Kardos. He has chosen Shaya, a sheltered and self-sacrificing young Omega as payment for the assistance he gave in the recent civil wars that plagued the Western lands and threatened to overthrow King Malloron.
Shinno Kardos, Alpha Prince of the Southern lands and leader of his tribe, The Nyek is not your average Alpha. Even set against the uncompromising standards of the Alphas in the preceding two trilogies of the ‘Myth of Omega’ series! From the very first pages, we can sense that Kardos is something else. Something different. Something darker, wilder and even more untamed. Something brutal. With his mind set on achieving his own desires for the future of his tribe, Kardos’ character jumps off the pages with such forcefulness that it’s hard not to feel his single-minded tenaciousness! He’s a driven ‘Diamond in the Rough’ by any Alpha standard. He’s the Alpha that other Alphas secretly envy! The Alpha that Omega females dream about and long to be owned by. He is quite simply, MAGNIFICENT! *gasps*
Shaya, our naive little Omega. Her beautiful perfection so entranced Kardos that he knew from his first sighting of her, even before Shaya’s true Omega dynamic was ever revealed to him, that he must possess her. In every way that a male possesses a female. His desire for her coursed through him, shockingly unabated! And what a prize Shaya reveals herself to be! *deep breaths*
As she begins her journey on board the ship that carries her and the Nyek Tribe back to their home in the Southern lands, Shaya struggles to come to terms with the cruel and unsympathetic new culture thrust upon her. Remembering she has sacrificed herself willingly to save her sister, Shaya braces herself against the harsh treatment meted out by Shinno Kardos. The Alpha who now owns her leaves Shaya reeling but determined to not to break. Shaya’s sense of self-preservation is strong, but will it be strong enough to withstand the onslaught of unrestrained fury unleashed when she disobeys the commands of her Alpha?
This first instalment in the ‘Own’ trilogy is one wild ride! The author picks you up and shakes you all about from the first chapter. Yet this is no game of hokey-pokey!!! For it is within the first paragraph that the intent of the Alpha, and hence the entire tone of the book, is revealed! The intimate scenes are written with such finesse that your empathy for the helplessness of the Omega against the ruthlessness of the Alpha rises from the pages in wispy tendrils that seep in to your psyche. *fans self*
The character development is excellent as always with this author and the attention to detail in world building is brilliant! The journey of our Alpha/Omega couple surges through the pages with such fluidity that we don’t see the shattering climax in the cliff hanger ending until it is upon us! Will the burgeoning relationship between Kardos and Shaya continue along on its current reckless path to an obvious conclusion? Or will fate and the tribe intervene?
I can hardly wait for the next instalment from author Zoey Ellis to find out!
I gave it five stars!!!
I received an advanced reader copy of this book to review.
Our story begins where we left off in book six of this amazing world that the author has created for us in the ‘Myth of Omega’ series. The starting point being the Western lands of Alpha King, Malloron and his Omega Queen, Amara.
Our leading Alpha for this trilogy is Kardos. He has chosen Shaya, a sheltered and self-sacrificing young Omega as payment for the assistance he gave in the recent civil wars that plagued the Western lands and threatened to overthrow King Malloron.
Shinno Kardos, Alpha Prince of the Southern lands and leader of his tribe, The Nyek is not your average Alpha. Even set against the uncompromising standards of the Alphas in the preceding two trilogies of the ‘Myth of Omega’ series! From the very first pages, we can sense that Kardos is something else. Something different. Something darker, wilder and even more untamed. Something brutal. With his mind set on achieving his own desires for the future of his tribe, Kardos’ character jumps off the pages with such forcefulness that it’s hard not to feel his single-minded tenaciousness! He’s a driven ‘Diamond in the Rough’ by any Alpha standard. He’s the Alpha that other Alphas secretly envy! The Alpha that Omega females dream about and long to be owned by. He is quite simply, MAGNIFICENT! *gasps*
Shaya, our naive little Omega. Her beautiful perfection so entranced Kardos that he knew from his first sighting of her, even before Shaya’s true Omega dynamic was ever revealed to him, that he must possess her. In every way that a male possesses a female. His desire for her coursed through him, shockingly unabated! And what a prize Shaya reveals herself to be! *deep breaths*
As she begins her journey on board the ship that carries her and the Nyek Tribe back to their home in the Southern lands, Shaya struggles to come to terms with the cruel and unsympathetic new culture thrust upon her. Remembering she has sacrificed herself willingly to save her sister, Shaya braces herself against the harsh treatment meted out by Shinno Kardos. The Alpha who now owns her leaves Shaya reeling but determined to not to break. Shaya’s sense of self-preservation is strong, but will it be strong enough to withstand the onslaught of unrestrained fury unleashed when she disobeys the commands of her Alpha?
This first instalment in the ‘Own’ trilogy is one wild ride! The author picks you up and shakes you all about from the first chapter. Yet this is no game of hokey-pokey!!! For it is within the first paragraph that the intent of the Alpha, and hence the entire tone of the book, is revealed! The intimate scenes are written with such finesse that your empathy for the helplessness of the Omega against the ruthlessness of the Alpha rises from the pages in wispy tendrils that seep in to your psyche. *fans self*
The character development is excellent as always with this author and the attention to detail in world building is brilliant! The journey of our Alpha/Omega couple surges through the pages with such fluidity that we don’t see the shattering climax in the cliff hanger ending until it is upon us! Will the burgeoning relationship between Kardos and Shaya continue along on its current reckless path to an obvious conclusion? Or will fate and the tribe intervene?
I can hardly wait for the next instalment from author Zoey Ellis to find out!
I gave it five stars!!!
I received an advanced reader copy of this book to review.
February 6, 2019
I am going to start off this book with a warning. There are situations in this book that will trigger people. There are situations that will make people upset. If you have triggers, then don’t read the book. If not and you can look past the beginning few chapters, then read it.
Now that is out of the way, let’s get onto the review!!
I enjoyed reading Own to Obey, even though it was the 7th book in the Myth of Omega series. I do not like picking up a book mid-series. 9 out of 10 times, I am left with a “WTH” feeling as I read. I did get a small sense of that when I started reading Own to Obey. I was confused with who the characters were and why Kardos needed an Omega. But, the author did a fantastic job of explaining everything.
I will admit that I wasn’t a fan of the first few sexual scenes of the book. The author did a great job of having Kardos explain why he did what he did. But still. It was hard to read. But, as Shaya’s feelings for Kardos grew, the sex scenes got hotter. By the time Shaya went into her Haze, the sex was steaming hot. I was a little confused about the knotting at first. But it was explained in the book and then it made sense. Survival of the fittest.
I did like Kardos even if I didn’t understand his reasoning sometimes. It drove me nuts. He should have talked to Rozalia sooner. If he did, some of the hurt that Shaya went through could have been avoided.
I felt awful for Shaya. She had been ripped away from everyone she loved and was given to a leader who was determined to make her into one of his people. She tried so hard those first days. As traumatized as she was, she tried. And what did she get? A shinno who’s way of teaching her things involved pain and a hurt shoulder. I would have acted the same way she did if in that situation. Except for the orgy she walked into. I would have noped right out of there instead of staying…lol.
The end of the book was interesting. It showed a lot more of Kardos’s peoples culture. It explained the hierarchy on the island and how an Omega was going to change everything. It explained Kardos’s role in that hierarchy. It showed the depth of feelings that Kardos had for Shaya. Those last scenes said it all. I can’t wait to read book 8!!
I would give Own to Obey an Adult rating. There is explicit sex. There is language. There is violence There are triggers. I am not going to say what they are because they are spoilers to the plot. I will say that I recommend that no one under the age of 21 read this book.
I would reread Own to Obey. I would also recommend this book to family and friends.
I would like to thank the publisher and the author for allowing me to read and review Own to Obey.
All opinions stated in this review of Own to Obey are mine.
**I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book**
Now that is out of the way, let’s get onto the review!!
I enjoyed reading Own to Obey, even though it was the 7th book in the Myth of Omega series. I do not like picking up a book mid-series. 9 out of 10 times, I am left with a “WTH” feeling as I read. I did get a small sense of that when I started reading Own to Obey. I was confused with who the characters were and why Kardos needed an Omega. But, the author did a fantastic job of explaining everything.
I will admit that I wasn’t a fan of the first few sexual scenes of the book. The author did a great job of having Kardos explain why he did what he did. But still. It was hard to read. But, as Shaya’s feelings for Kardos grew, the sex scenes got hotter. By the time Shaya went into her Haze, the sex was steaming hot. I was a little confused about the knotting at first. But it was explained in the book and then it made sense. Survival of the fittest.
I did like Kardos even if I didn’t understand his reasoning sometimes. It drove me nuts. He should have talked to Rozalia sooner. If he did, some of the hurt that Shaya went through could have been avoided.
I felt awful for Shaya. She had been ripped away from everyone she loved and was given to a leader who was determined to make her into one of his people. She tried so hard those first days. As traumatized as she was, she tried. And what did she get? A shinno who’s way of teaching her things involved pain and a hurt shoulder. I would have acted the same way she did if in that situation. Except for the orgy she walked into. I would have noped right out of there instead of staying…lol.
The end of the book was interesting. It showed a lot more of Kardos’s peoples culture. It explained the hierarchy on the island and how an Omega was going to change everything. It explained Kardos’s role in that hierarchy. It showed the depth of feelings that Kardos had for Shaya. Those last scenes said it all. I can’t wait to read book 8!!
I would give Own to Obey an Adult rating. There is explicit sex. There is language. There is violence There are triggers. I am not going to say what they are because they are spoilers to the plot. I will say that I recommend that no one under the age of 21 read this book.
I would reread Own to Obey. I would also recommend this book to family and friends.
I would like to thank the publisher and the author for allowing me to read and review Own to Obey.
All opinions stated in this review of Own to Obey are mine.
**I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book**
February 11, 2019
First off, let me say that this is a DARK ROMANCE, heed the author's warning and do not read this if you aren't into the darker, edgier side of romance. Zoey Ellis pushes the boundaries right from the first chapter - you are warned! As for me, I enjoy a well written dark romance, so I can honestly state that this was a 5-star read for me. I am beyond addicted to this series, this is book number 7, start of a new trilogy and new couples’ story and I absolutely LOVED it!!
The shinno Kardos is definitely an anti-hero, an alphahole and comes across as being really cruel, especially at the start. Katashaya, aka Shaya, may seem to be quiet and meek but has a strong will and promises herself that she will not break no matter what Kardos has her do or does to her. (Warning here again as Kardos can be quite mean and forced seduction does take place.)
Having read the previous books in the Myth Of Omega series, as well as the first chapter of this book, I was waiting and dreading the inevitable - for them to reach the Southern Isles and for Kardos to give Shaya away. (Do you need to read the previous books in this series before this one – No. Would I recommend reading all the books in the correct order – Yes.) However, with Zoey Ellis there is always some sort of twist and once again, she does not disappoint. Yes, we find out why Kardos NEEDS Shaya and why he intends to give her away, as well as what her reaction is, but the book does end in one hell of a cliffhanger though. It had me pulling my hair in frustration knowing there will be a long wait for the next book.
Summary: Daringly dark, wonderfully erotic Omegaverse. Very well written from a dual pov, with an easy flow to it that makes is impossible to put down. Jealous possessive anti-hero with no cheating. Ends on a cliffhanger. 5-star rating!!
I received an ARC of this book (and purchased my own copy) and this is my honest review.
The shinno Kardos is definitely an anti-hero, an alphahole and comes across as being really cruel, especially at the start. Katashaya, aka Shaya, may seem to be quiet and meek but has a strong will and promises herself that she will not break no matter what Kardos has her do or does to her. (Warning here again as Kardos can be quite mean and forced seduction does take place.)
Having read the previous books in the Myth Of Omega series, as well as the first chapter of this book, I was waiting and dreading the inevitable - for them to reach the Southern Isles and for Kardos to give Shaya away. (Do you need to read the previous books in this series before this one – No. Would I recommend reading all the books in the correct order – Yes.) However, with Zoey Ellis there is always some sort of twist and once again, she does not disappoint. Yes, we find out why Kardos NEEDS Shaya and why he intends to give her away, as well as what her reaction is, but the book does end in one hell of a cliffhanger though. It had me pulling my hair in frustration knowing there will be a long wait for the next book.
Summary: Daringly dark, wonderfully erotic Omegaverse. Very well written from a dual pov, with an easy flow to it that makes is impossible to put down. Jealous possessive anti-hero with no cheating. Ends on a cliffhanger. 5-star rating!!
I received an ARC of this book (and purchased my own copy) and this is my honest review.
February 6, 2019
MyOhMy. Wow! Words cannot do justice to this newest book in Zoey Ellis’s Omegaverse. You’ve been warned: this is very dark—if you have triggers this is not the story for you. That being said it was amazing. This is the third trilogy in the series and it does stand alone. You won’t want to miss the first two trilogies but this is a new couple, in a new land with a new dynamic.
Shaya is an Omega who has been living in plain sight. She seems soft and gentle but has a backbone of steel and is stronger than even she knows.
Kardos is a tribal leader in a brutal and ferocious land. He is determined to return Shaya to his land and earn the recognition he deserves. But Shaya is too soft and gentle for his homeland so he’ll have to break her, even though she is everything he could ever want.
Major cliffhanger but worth every dark, dramatic second of reading, this is a page turner and I’m now eagerly awaiting the next book in the trilogy.
Sit down with plenty of time but you’ll be at the end before you know it. The story lures you in, then grabs you and doesn’t let up for an instant. Tightly written, intense and moving, you’ll be hoping for help for Shaya and want to beat Kardos even as you see him changing. You’ll realize that they are just what the other needs as they learn and grow. Yes it’s dark but one of the things I love the most about Zoey Ellis’s characters is they are true to themselves. They truly believe they are in the right and you can understand their motivation based on what you know of them. It’s also nice to see them change and grow, learning from each other as time goes on. Hurry and write faster, I need book 2 NOW! (I voluntarily reviewed an ARC).
Shaya is an Omega who has been living in plain sight. She seems soft and gentle but has a backbone of steel and is stronger than even she knows.
Kardos is a tribal leader in a brutal and ferocious land. He is determined to return Shaya to his land and earn the recognition he deserves. But Shaya is too soft and gentle for his homeland so he’ll have to break her, even though she is everything he could ever want.
Major cliffhanger but worth every dark, dramatic second of reading, this is a page turner and I’m now eagerly awaiting the next book in the trilogy.
Sit down with plenty of time but you’ll be at the end before you know it. The story lures you in, then grabs you and doesn’t let up for an instant. Tightly written, intense and moving, you’ll be hoping for help for Shaya and want to beat Kardos even as you see him changing. You’ll realize that they are just what the other needs as they learn and grow. Yes it’s dark but one of the things I love the most about Zoey Ellis’s characters is they are true to themselves. They truly believe they are in the right and you can understand their motivation based on what you know of them. It’s also nice to see them change and grow, learning from each other as time goes on. Hurry and write faster, I need book 2 NOW! (I voluntarily reviewed an ARC).
November 13, 2021
The “Own To” trilogy is by far my favorite of the 3 in the series! I enjoyed the world-building so much, and the characters were so much more likable than the ones we’ve known before. Also, the H wasn’t a giant fucking asshole like the previous 2, so that helped 🙃 both MCs really get you invested in their HEA and the plot is super interesting too.
If you’re interested in reading Zoey/this series and are put off by starting or looking into the first 6, you can definitely get by just reading these last 3 and I recommend it! You can probably extrapolate anything you’re missing, and it’s pretty removed from the last 2 trilogies.
If you’re interested in reading Zoey/this series and are put off by starting or looking into the first 6, you can definitely get by just reading these last 3 and I recommend it! You can probably extrapolate anything you’re missing, and it’s pretty removed from the last 2 trilogies.
October 22, 2022
This is definitely a departure as far as setting and culture from the first two books and I'm enjoying the change. I'm also appreciating how the author is turning the typical themes of this genre around and putting the feelings that are usually experienced by the h on the H instead. When I'm reviewing this I'm already well into the second book, but I think that was beginning to be seen in this first of the series as well. Good stuff, though I always have to take a break from Ellis's writing. I'll go through a few books then need a break from the intensity, but I always come back.
March 6, 2019
arc review I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Wow what fascinating story . When omega (shaya) katashaya 19 yrs old is given to the alpha Prince tribe leader kardo from king malloron instead of her sister. He doesn't know why he is drawn to her. I can't wait to read the next part .
May 29, 2019
All through this book I keep saying out loud...He's mean, He's mean to her. I'm not sure if I'm liking him, but I don't know much about him, I just feel Shaya should be treated better, she doesn't even understand his language and culture. But I will read the next one because what an ending:))
February 6, 2019
This is a new to me author and I can’t get enough of her! I have not read the previous 6 books yet I didn’t feel lost. I completely devoured this book in one sitting, I just couldn’t put it down! Will Kardos, the dark Alpha be able to hold onto his Omega Shaya? I absolutely had to know what happened but alas it ends in a cliffhanger. Not to fret I will definitely continue the series. I highly recommend this book!
May 5, 2021
Def a dark omegaverse. He’s cruel and very antihero! Heroine is basically a kitten.
February 9, 2019
Good Book
This is not my favorite book in the series. It's a combination that the Omega is truly naive and week unlike other Omegas we know and Kardos is just boneheaded.
This is not my favorite book in the series. It's a combination that the Omega is truly naive and week unlike other Omegas we know and Kardos is just boneheaded.
July 3, 2024
Brutal, raw and not your typical Viking-esque read. It had a very different plot setup and tons of smut. I was left hanging as I quickly downloaded book 2.
July 31, 2019
THIS THIRD INSTALLMENT WAS MAGNIFICENT AS THE LAST! I DO SO LOVE THE ETHNIC & ISLAND SETTING. THE AUTHOR REALLY INTRODUCED US A WHOLE NEW WORLD THAT IS DIFFERENT FROM THE PREVIOUS ALPHAS' STORIES.
HERO has much to learn about what it means to treat an Omega. When he demanded an Omega from Malloran, the timid but beautiful Shaya volunteered to go in her sister's stead. Due to how he was raised, the prejudice against his fair colouring and the harsh environment of his home, Shinno Kardos isn't a gentle man. He knows how to survive, fight and win a battle. He doesn't in any way know how to treat a woman unless you are talking about bedroom activities. It was interesting to read about Kardos's life and how he struggled as the High Chief's son. It certainly doesn't work like how we always know royalty to pass down the throne to their heir but for the Nyek tribe, it's all about who you are and what you can achieve as a singular leader. When Kardos brings back a true Omega, it only makes his position precarious because Shaya doesn't understand their ways or the language. Kardos believes that one can learn well through punishment and sometimes I wished he had been more lenient with Shaya,instead of making her walk through every trial with a literal blindfold.
HEROINE was amazing. I'd say so because of every shitty thing she had to endure, learn and conquer in the harsh tribe of Nyek. The Alpha who sort of owns her is harsh and he treats her poorly, forcing her to learn their ways with nary a hint but just by showing. Shaya makes a good sport because her spirit is strong and it's only a matter of time before she breaks.
OVERALL the aspects that you can expect from this series and which is what makes it so amazing was present. You can count on the Alpha Omega bond, the knotting during sex, the hero being an ass and the heroine being a resilient, strong character. I am definitely looking forward to the next couple of the series.
PLEASE ZOEY ELLIS, MAKE MY DAYS BETTER BY RELEASING A NEW STORY I CAN SERIOUSLY APPRECIATE AND GUSH OVER!!
HERO has much to learn about what it means to treat an Omega. When he demanded an Omega from Malloran, the timid but beautiful Shaya volunteered to go in her sister's stead. Due to how he was raised, the prejudice against his fair colouring and the harsh environment of his home, Shinno Kardos isn't a gentle man. He knows how to survive, fight and win a battle. He doesn't in any way know how to treat a woman unless you are talking about bedroom activities. It was interesting to read about Kardos's life and how he struggled as the High Chief's son. It certainly doesn't work like how we always know royalty to pass down the throne to their heir but for the Nyek tribe, it's all about who you are and what you can achieve as a singular leader. When Kardos brings back a true Omega, it only makes his position precarious because Shaya doesn't understand their ways or the language. Kardos believes that one can learn well through punishment and sometimes I wished he had been more lenient with Shaya,instead of making her walk through every trial with a literal blindfold.
HEROINE was amazing. I'd say so because of every shitty thing she had to endure, learn and conquer in the harsh tribe of Nyek. The Alpha who sort of owns her is harsh and he treats her poorly, forcing her to learn their ways with nary a hint but just by showing. Shaya makes a good sport because her spirit is strong and it's only a matter of time before she breaks.
OVERALL the aspects that you can expect from this series and which is what makes it so amazing was present. You can count on the Alpha Omega bond, the knotting during sex, the hero being an ass and the heroine being a resilient, strong character. I am definitely looking forward to the next couple of the series.
PLEASE ZOEY ELLIS, MAKE MY DAYS BETTER BY RELEASING A NEW STORY I CAN SERIOUSLY APPRECIATE AND GUSH OVER!!
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