Curled Synonym

HEED MY ADVICE, TO ALL WHO WILL LISTEN, THE FURY OF A WOMAN WHO LIVES ON REVENGE, EVEN IN THE FACE OF DEATH, IS A RECKONING THAT SPARES NO ONE. The Dukedom Heiress Luella Van-Rensselaer thought that by doing everything her family needed, she would have the beautiful and loving family she had always wanted. However, she ends up getting betrayed by her own twin sister and her fiancé. Having gotten fed up with her family and how badly they had put her through, Luella wishes for death, which her sister gives to her as she ends up dying in the hands of her sister and fiancé. Finally, finding the peace she had always wanted, she wakes up to when she was eighteen (18) years old as the funeral service of her father. And now filled with nothing but rage and memories of her past, she now aims to destroy the entire dukedom with its name. The Van-Rensselaer dukedom will end WITH her and BY her. ~+~ A MAN WHO LOVES HIS WOMAN WITH NO POWER OR WEALTH IS NOTHING BUT A DREAMER; BUT A MAN WHO LOVES HIS WOMAN WITH POWER AND WEALTH IS A PROTECTOR, WORTHY TO BE BY HER SIDE. And that was what Grand Duke Ozed Rhinelander was. A man who went to war for his woman, accumulated wealth for his woman, lives for his woman. And he would kill for his woman. When Luella decides to take revenge on her family, she goes to one person she fully trusts. ~+~ ~Fragment~ "Do you want this?" His voice was low, almost a growl, but there was a hint of something else beneath — something that made her heart skip a beat. She swallowed hard, her throat dry. The question hung in the air between them, heavy and tangible. "I… I don't know," She finally answered, her voice barely above a whisper. His lips curled into a smirk, a slow, dangerous smile that sent shivers down her spine. "Liar" he murmured, his voice a deep rumble that vibrated through her. "You want this. You want me." She opened her mouth to protest, to deny it, but he didn't give her a chance. His hand shot out, gripping her chin roughly, forcing her to look up at him. "Do you want me to prove it?" He asked, his voice dripping with challenge. ~+~ Tags: #Revenge #Strongfemalelead, #norape, #reincarnation, #Fakeidentity, #EdwardianEra, #VampireRomance #Smut #Supernaturalpowers #magic #darkfantasy #long-distance pining (The main characters are aware of each other's feelings but can't be physically be together yet. IN THE BEGINNING CHAPTERS). ~+~ Cover is mine. DO NOT USE ____ @AR

Born into the Thornhill family, Eliana should have been dealing with succession planning and heiress training. But instead, she’s dealing with the crocodile tears of her cousin Alexa. As if stealing her Fiancé wasn’t enough, she’s out to pin everything onto Eliana. Trust issues - Eliana. Popularity issues - Eliana. Landslide - Must be Eliana. In an attempt to end her cousin’s jealousy-ridden machinations, Eliana is forced into a relationship with a childhood disaster, Lucian Alder Sinclair, her most tempting nightmare. Lucian Sinclair has always been synonymous with perfection, at least to most people. But to his family, finding someone who could handle his aloofness has been the top priority. Forced to return to his home country at the behest of his grandfather, Lucian fortunately encounters Eliana who’s in need of a ready-made partner. Constantly up at each other's throats, then into each other’s arms, may the lies they’ve told hold up against discerning family members and unrelenting pursuers.

“First were the Gates, and now you’re saying the world has been invaded by Aliens and we’re soon going to be turned into livestock…? Great…” —---------------- *Ding!* [You have awakened with the Idle Evolution System!] “The wha—” Suddenly thrown into a magical parallel world of the Earth he once knew, Cassius was greeted with powerful beings known as Hunters and the terrifying Gates that plagued the world. Moreover, he received a message… [To Idle, one must stay proactive!] [Firstly, you require Character Development!] “Character Development…?” [You seem a bit (A lot) overweight, and you resemble that of a goblin! What say we start there!?] {[Daily Quest 1:]} _________________ [Daily Quest - To Idle, one must stay proactive.] GOAL [INCOMPLETE] PUSH-UPS — [0/100] [INCOMPLETE] SIT-UPS — [0/100] [INCOMPLETE] CURL-UPS — [0/100] [INCOMPLETE] SQUATS — [0/100] [INCOMPLETE] RUNNING — [0/10km] REWARD - [1 Point in Charisma, 1 Point in Agility, 1 Point in Strength, and 1 Point in Endurance] _________________ “Is this torture!?” shouted the ugly, obese transmigrator Cassius. *Ding!* [No, it’s Character Development! ^-^] —---------------- 100 years ago, Earth was suddenly overwhelmed with the appearance of Gates and the horrifying monsters within those mystical portals. That was the First Major Calamity. Now, one hundred years later, the next major calamity has arrived—the subtle invasion of an Ancient Alien species from deep into the Milky Way Galaxy. Its undercurrents spread far and wide, with the threat an apocalyptic one. Yet, that is but the 2nd of Three Major Calamities as per prophesied by the famed prophet, Baba Yaga. The Third Calamity, and the most dangerous of the Calamities, is one that will bring about the true END of the world, but only if the Second Calamity can be overcome by humanity… What does this Third Calamity detail, one might ask…? To know the answer to that, one would have to brave past the first Two Calamities and stare into the abyss, praying to all Gods known to man that the Abyss does not stare back also into you… ----------------- Discord: https://discord.gg/h8kPaEFt5D

Synopsis. What would happen if a genius martial artist transmigrated into the world of swords and magic? Will he become the Ruler of the new world? Or Will he become the prey to the strong like a side character? Leon, a genius martial artist, was struck by lightning when he was on his way home. When the doctor said he was paralyzed from shoulder to foot, all martial artists cheered in happiness and held a party. Leon was a candidate to be the Ruler, so they were thrilled when they found out that he could no longer be a martial artist because they were scared by his extraordinary and unreasonable talent. They wanted to continue to be bosses in their regions and become idols for everyone, so news of his condition was like a heavenly song to their ears. The world's cruelty to Leon did not stop there. When a powerful earthquake shook the hospital violently, none of the doctors or nurses tried to save him, leaving him with no choice but to accept his fate as walls and medical equipment collapsed on him. But when he thought he was dead, he found himself transmigrated into a parallel world where monsters and powerful people ruled the world. Getting a second chance to live again, Leon decides to pursue his dreams like before. "Hmm? You mean there are two classes for awakeners in this world, and I awaken both the Warrior class and the Mage class?" Leon said as he touched his chin with his right hand. [That's right, Host.] Leon's lips curled up into a smile. "I failed to achieve my dream in my previous life. In this life, I will make sure to become the Ruler. I will stand at the top of the hierarchy and make everyone bow their heads to me." Leon slowly lifted his head to look at the blue sky, remembering his previous life. "I will not let anyone or anything stop me this time. If the heaven tries to stop me again, I will make the heaven bow as well." Follow Leon as he embarks on his journey to become the Ruler of the new world. * MC is OP at the same rank, too OP. Additional tags: Beautiful female leads, handsome male lead, multiple identities, secret identity, war, elves, fox girls, dragons, etc. *** discord server= https://discord.gg/22hqV9gPn3 * remake of binding system novel without gods/goddesses. PS: I don't own the cover.

In a world where everyone is a slave, someone is born who cannot be controlled. At the same time, an unstoppable villain rises on a quest for revenge. But the truth is darker than he ever imagined, and now he must face an unbeatable enemy — including himself. *** Bruno was a young man born on Earth, the son of an influential modern Emperor. Despite having everything money could buy and receiving the best and most rigorous training to succeed his father, he chose the opposite path, defying his family’s ruthless rule. The price of his innocence? A merciless death and the complete erasure of his existence by the deity controlling his fate. On Earth, the law of the powerful was absolute; a slave could never rebel. But then, he wakes up again. He’s reborn in a world of cultivation, where freedom was promised to those strong enough to claim it. Now, he could soar like a free bird and carve his own destiny... or so he thought. The harsh reality of this new world soon showed him how insignificant he still was. He realized he had only changed masters. The freedom he sought was an illusion. The heavenly laws treated everyone as servants, and their rules were unbreakable. Bruno learned this bitter truth after losing everything that made him happy due to an unjust rule. But who was he to question? Hopeless, Bruno died... and was reborn as Alm, an unstoppable villain. With a soul poisoned by pain and vengeance, he sowed chaos across the universe. Planets were destroyed, countless lives taken, and his name became synonymous with terror. A hero rose to oppose him, wielding a sacred sword of hope. People from all corners of the universe united against Alm, raising their voices and weapons to stop the villain who defied the heavens. But Alm was no longer just fighting for revenge. He was challenging the heavenly laws that sought to control him, fighting fate and all living beings. And against all odds... the sacred sword shattered. The alliance of the entire universe was defeated. The villain won! Now, Alm found himself alone in the empty void of a dead universe, facing his own inner demons. Who could be more ruthless to him than himself? “What have I done?” At that moment, the doors of truth opened to him. Everyone was a puppet of a supreme figure, an entity that manipulated minds and even the heavenly laws. “I will find you, no matter where you are!” Thus, the last emissary of the true Heaven’s Will awakened. Alm, who once only relied on his sheer will and rage, now had a system to guide him. But his opponent was an immortal existence, above even the heavens. The villain who destroyed an entire universe now faced a new beginning. He discovered that the universe he devastated was just a tiny grain of sand in an infinite cosmos, where countless other universes existed. And so begins the legendary tale of the villain’s rise... and the Sacred Round God? A strange Duality of Shadows existed within one person. But this time, he wouldn’t be alone. *** To clear up any potential confusion or frustration, here are some key points about the story. I’ll avoid major spoilers, but a few things will be revealed. You might find this concerning at first, but just check the book cover—it shows the main character and his only partner. She first appears at 10 years old, but rest assured, there’s no inappropriate content or early romance. At around 13, SHE starts developing feelings for the protagonist, but he doesn’t respond until she’s an adult. With her determined personality, she tries to seduce him at 17/18, but it doesn’t work. Their relationship only happens much later. The book has nods to other works, with my own spin on them, and focuses on avoiding elements I find problematic in other stories. Lastly, the beautiful book cover was commissioned and created by HDIArt.

We were a peaceful people living in harmony with nature in the vast lands of Lyréanor. This world, if I had to sum it up in a few short sentences, was peaceful, joyful and painless, but this peace didn't last and has been cut short ever since our people were defeated by the black elves, ancient peoples, even more ancient than this world. It is said that they arrived in Lyréanor by boat and since their arrival, chaos has been unleashed. Proud of their obscure power, drawn from dark rituals, they have raised gigantic armies of monsters whose name is synonymous with terror: "Obscurus". They went on the rampage, and everywhere they went the grass didn't grow back, life died and disintegrated. Seven, there were seven of them. The seven dark elves known as the Lords of the Apocalypse. A single gesture from them was enough to strike us all down, a single gesture from one of them was enough to decimate us in blood and terror. We retreated to the last of our strongholds, once known as Fotiya (the last rampart), where our final battle would take place, where our story was to end, help arrived. A call, a voice resonated within each of us, calling us. We then discovered, inside our last bastion, a passage, a hidden door, built by our ancestors and forgotten by all for a long time. However, our hopes were quickly dashed...

Lu Weixi did the math in the morning. “Including today, you’ve been back a total of 10 days this month. We agreed when we got married five years ago that you’ll give me 50,000 a month, and that you’ll come home five days a month. You’ve exceeded that number. That'll be additional.” Qin Zhiyi curls his lips. “It’s too much of a hassle that way. How about we make it a lifelong deal?”

On a rainy night of July 15th, Qin Sisi brought home a shivering stray cat. Since then, her life underwent a profound change… "Come sleep with me." "No way!" "Didn't we always sleep together before?" "Back then you were just a cat." "I can still be a cat now." As the words fell, the tall figure vanished, leaving a black and sleek cat, lazily curled up at the head of the bed. Its deep, purple eyes slightly narrowed, it let out a lazy, adorable meow at her, “Meow…” Fan group: 817058766

When she woke up, she had transmigrated into An Jiuyue, a woman living with two young children on a mountain after her husband abandoned her. She was pushed to the ground, and now, there was a bloody wound on her head. With only a handful of rice left in the rice bag, she had relied on digging wild vegetables to satisfy their hunger every day. Her children were so often starved that they were all skin and bones. On top of that, a wicked woman threatened her to sell her son! If she refused, the woman would snatch him away forcefully. But An Jiuyue took a deep breath, revealed her sharp claws, beat the woman up, and threw her out of the house. She could show the woman she was not to be messed with! They were out of rice and vegetables now, but she was not afraid. Acquiring food using her spatial abilities was as easy as curling her fingers! Moreover, her spatial abilities were unlimited, and her medical skills did not deteriorate. She could no doubt earn money and raise her children well! As for her ex-husband… The prince, who had returned from the battlefield, smiled maliciously. "My beloved concubine, please calm down. I brought back a mountain of gold from the battlefield as a gift for you and our children."

Aurelia Holt had quietly sacrificed her career to be a stay-at-home wife for her husband, Blake Carson, so that he could work full time while also pursuing his dream of becoming a successful producer in the future. But on the night of their second wedding anniversary, she watched her husband come home with another woman in his arms. It was Stella, his first love whom he was never really over. “She is already upset, you don’t have to make her feel worse. Is it wrong to show care and concern for my friend?” He argued as he clenched his jaws and kept his gaze steady on my face. “She isn’t just your friend, she was your ex, your first love. And isn’t it so convenient that everytime she needs you or something happens whenever I just want to spend some time with you?” He had always chosen Stella over her, putting her needs and feelings above hers. And that night, she finally had enough. “All you ever care about is Stella!” I continued to yell so loudly that I could practically hear my voice ringing in my ears. “You always do this! You always choose her over me, you always put her feelings above mine.” I watched as a smirk tugged at Stella’s lips as she watched me argue with my husband over her. Blake walked to her side, wrapping his arm around her as she curled her fingers around his arm with a pitiful look. “Stop yelling, you are scaring Stella. Why can’t you be more understanding and stop being so self-centered? Not everything is about you!” The last thing she remembered was her running out into the pouring rain and the next thing she knew, she was asking a stranger to marry her. That stranger was Xavier Wilder, the billionaire CEO of one of the most successful companies in the country. But there was more to him that Aurelia didn’t know just yet, something he was hiding from her. Together, she vowed to make her ex-husband’s life a living hell. There were only two things he cared about the most―his reputation and his ego. And she planned to destroy it all, bit by bit.

In a world where magic thrives and mythical beasts lurk in the shadows, Tohgi Akura is born into the unforgiving southern district of Vandekar, a lawless land ruled by bandits and plagued by poverty. Despite his humble beginnings, Tohgi harbors an audacious dream: to achieve that dream he must become a Knight, a title synonymous with honor, power, and nobility. His raw talent rivals the elite, but his lack of noble heritage leaves him scorned by the privileged. Yet, Tohgi’s unwavering determination and resilience catch the attention of influential figures who see potential in the unrefined boy. With their assistance, Tohgi rises through the ranks, challenging a society built to keep people like him in the dirt. But ambition has its price. As Tohgi carves his path toward greatness, his defiance against the status quo ignites conflicts that spiral into devastating wars. In his quest to protect those he loves and what he stands for, Tohgi must grapple with the weight of his choices and the sacrifices demanded by his legacy. Will Tohgi Akura go down in history as a hero, a tyrant or just another man. His story is one of ambition, loyalty, and the unrelenting cost of dreams. Do not hesitate to comment your thoughts at any point in the story, it would bring me great joy to be able to interact with readers of my work. I hope to see you on the other side. PS: Bold text indicates the use of magic, parenthesis () indicates thought. Thank you! Enjoy! :)

**This book is a dark romance and contains abusive and mature content.** In a world where power and passion collide, Lily Anderson finds herself entangled in a web of deceit and desire with Ethan Blackwood, a man of enigmatic charm and ruthless ambition. Their tumultuous relationship is a battleground of wills and wits, where Lily struggles to maintain her dignity and autonomy against Ethan's domineering control. As they navigate through a series of encounters that test the limits of trust and betrayal, a question lingers in the air: Can love flourish in the shadows of manipulation, or will it wither under the weight of dark intentions? Throughout their journey, the dialogue between Lily and Ethan is peppered with moments of tension and revelation, offering a glimpse into the complex dynamics of their relationship: "I'm not finished," Lily glared at him defiantly, reaching for another bottle from the ice bucket. With a resounding crash, Ethan upended the entire bucket, his eyes darkening with barely contained fury. "Get the hell out of here, all of you!" He snarled, his face contorted with rage. How dare they ogle his woman like that? "You belong to me. Your body, your time, your very existence—all of it is mine to do with as I please," Ethan growled, his face mere inches from hers, asserting a claim that Lily vehemently resisted. "I don't belong to anyone," she spat, her voice trembling. "Least of all a monster like you." "You'll learn, Lily. One way or another, you'll learn your place," Ethan's lips curled into a cruel smile, promising a future of struggle and submission. "I'll do anything you want," Lily whispered, her soul fracturing with each syllable, as she made a choice that would change her life forever. "Because my name is Ethan Blackwood," he said, a statement that carried with it a weight of power and a promise of consequences yet to be seen.

[WARNING:18+ SCENES AHEAD] “In a world I have forsaken, you are my salvation…” Deep within the shadows of a forgotten cave lies Alaric, the most feared and powerful immortal the world has ever known—imprisoned for thousands of years. His name, long buried in the whispers of the supernatural, was synonymous with terror, a creature so ruthless he was thought to be nothing but a myth. Until now. Eric, a newly turned vampire with a thirst for survival, stumbles into the cave seeking refuge from the sun, he unwittingly awakens the ancient beast. As Eric’s blood spills onto an ancient symbol, the cave's walls ignite with eerie light, and Alaric emerges from his long slumber. The supernatural world reels in shock as the once-mythical-legendary creature returns, ravenous and unstoppable, hungering for both human flesh and dominion over all supernatural beings. Yet amidst the chaos and destruction, an unexpected twist unfolds: Alaric realizes that Eric is the reincarnation of Killian—his long-lost best friend, a soul he yearned for, more than a century and thought he'd never see again. Though Alaric is merciless and cruel, he finds himself drawn to Eric, confused by a mixture of hatred, obsession, and the remnants of a once unbreakable bond. As the world watches in horror, Alaric’s twisted infatuation with the young powerful vampire threatens to upset the delicate balance of power in the supernatural realm. With his hunger for destruction clashing with an unspoken longing for Eric, Alaric must confront his dark desires while navigating the complex emotions of their reincarnated connection. In this gripping tale of supernatural might, forbidden love, and dark desires, alliances are tested, and boundaries are shattered. Will Alaric's awakening spell doom for the world, or will the resurfaced bond with Eric—his reincarnated best friend—change the course of destiny for both supernatural and human alike?

"You can outrun many things, but fate will always find you, like your shadow in the light." . In the heart of Washington D.C., mafia heir Vaughn Volkov is on a mission that takes him far from the sun-soaked streets of California. The bustling city, with its imposing monuments and corridors of power, is a far cry from the palm-lined avenues of his home. Vaughn, however, is not one to be easily intimidated. His piercing blue eyes and commanding presence turn heads wherever he goes, a reminder that beneath his polished exterior lies a man accustomed to danger and control. Vaughn's path crosses with Eliza Monroe, a seemingly innocent college student whose gentle demeanor masks a resilience forged from her own turbulent past. Eliza, with her kind heart and determined spirit, is an enigma. She spends her days buried in books at the library, her nights working part-time to make ends meet. Her brown eyes, often hidden behind a cascade of dark curls, hold a depth that Vaughn finds both intriguing and unsettling. Their first encounter is anything but ordinary. Vaughn watches, intrigued by her fearlessness and the fire in her eyes. "You're not like the others," he remarks later, cornering her in the quiet corner of the library. His voice is a low, dangerous purr that sends shivers down Eliza's spine. "And you're not just the student here," she retorts, meeting his gaze with a mixture of curiosity and caution. "What do you want from me?" Vaughn's lips curve into a slow, dangerous smile. "Maybe I just want to get to know you." Despite her reservations, Eliza feels a strange pull towards Vaughn. His presence is intoxicating, a blend of danger and allure that she finds hard to resist. As they spend more time together, Eliza begins to see glimpses of the man beneath the mafia heir. Vaughn, too, finds himself drawn to Eliza in ways he never anticipated. Her kindness, her strength, and her unyielding spirit ignite something within him that he thought long buried. Yet, as their connection deepens, the shadows of their pasts loom ever larger. Vaughn's family business, shrouded in crime and violence, is never far from his mind. His enemies are ruthless, and his association with Eliza puts her squarely in their crosshairs. Eliza, too, harbors secrets. The dark forces that have shaped her life threaten to consume her, and Vaughn's world only amplifies those dangers. As their worlds collide, they must navigate a treacherous web of intrigue, passion, and forbidden desire. But with danger lurking around every corner, will their love survive, or will they be torn apart by the shadows of fate?

Ongoing~~ Thunder struck loudly admist the harsh rain, as Raven's killer slowly lifted his hood off his face. "Ryles?" Raven's voice held a note of surprise, as he looked up at the man in front of him, with a shock filled face. "Tell me, what are you doing here in Mythoria?" Ryles bent to his level to hear him speak, but Raven didn't attempt to Open his mouth. His vibrant green eyes, glowing in the dark, and reflecting the sillhouette of Ryles. Tension hung in the air, both dreading what was to come next. The occasional flash of lightning did nothing but enhance the menacing look of Ryles as he loomed over Raven. Raven was smart enough not to struggle, he instead remained as still as wood 'They wouldn't kill me right? , they still need me ' Raven thought to himself but even he realized how stupid that sounded. "why? " was all he breathed out, despite having so much to say. He was smart enough to understand that, Ryles showing up like this meant he was ordered to kill him. He just couldn't understand why... " Ask master himself" was Ryles' response as he drove a dagger into Raven's chest. His scream was accompanied by a loud thunder, and suddenly it was as if his strength had returned. He pushed Ryles' off with so much force that something like light blasted out of his hands and sent Ryles' flying to hit a tree. Blood spurted out of his mouth immediately as he curled in pain for a split second, his pupils dilated. Raven was beyond shocked as he didn't understand how he had come to posses such powers. It was like something deep within him was unlocked. Immediately getting up on his feet, he began sprinting with insane speed, despite the overwhelming pain coming from his chest. He didn't dare pull out the dagger as he was well accustomed with these type of poisoned weapons. Ryles' had also sprinted after Raven immediately, this time drawing out his sword as he didn't know what other dangerous trick the boy would pull again. Ryles couldn't deny that he was surprised, as he never knew Raven could be this powerful. The kid had hidden himself quite well. Maybe that was why master wanted him dead. The heavy rainfall made it hard to see or keep track of the boy, but Ryles' was well trained to use his other senses and he spotted Raven above, sprinting stealthily but slowly from tree to tree. " smart, aren't you?" Ryles smirked at the boy's intelligence. That was why it had been hard to track him, He leapt off the ground, flicking poisoned blades which accurately hit and cut him deeply across the shoulder Another pained cry filled the forest as Raven lost balance and fall with a thud, Ryles without wasting time descended on him and drove his sword into his gut. Thunder struck loudly, as a moment of silence passed with them holding each other's gaze. Blood slowly gushed out and flowed to the edge, dropping down into the deep waters below, reminding them both that they were at the edge of a cliff. " I'm sorry but you have to die" Was the last thing he heard......

Jemma accepted the bag from his hand giving him a suspicious stare ... " Why did you help me ... You could leave it there .. and I'll get it tomorrow.. " she said with a light frown and he just stood staring at her with his hands in his pockets ... His black curly hair giving him the perfectly handsome look " And you'll fail my test ??... " He raised his brow " That's not enough reason " she said sharply and he stared at her for a while The side of his lip curled up and he advanced towards her Jemma stood there daringly and he couldn't deny how much he loves her gutsy side ... He got so close to her , no distance between them and Jemma suddenly wished she had moved back .. She gulped down nothing gazing into his beautiful onyx balls ... He smirked and placed an arm around her waist " What..t.. are .. y..y..ou ..doing " she blinked looking cute with her sapphire orbs He placed another arm around her waist leaning close to her ears .. " Claiming what's MINE " Yh , Just like he said , She was his .. His and his alone ... She never expected him to be her lecturer , the guy ...nah ... She never expected that .. But then what she didn't expect the most was for her heart to beat for ... This Guy .. Trailing through a railway of emotions ... These two would come across obstacles that may keep them together orrrrr SEPARATE them FOREVER... What do you think will be the outcome of this .. Would they pull through..

What happens when a goddess falls in love with a shifter? Asara; the goddess of love, was punished by her father, the god of thunder. Her crime being falling in love with a mortal shifter Alpha. To pay for her sins she was reborn as Cassandra LeBlanc; a mortal Princess in the magical Kingdom of Speldaria. Her family and kingdom, except her middle sister, shunned her for she was born without any magical abilities and she had no recollections of her true identity. Her betrothed, the powerful mage commander of the Speldaria, was unbothered by her. He wished for someone strong. Cassandra’s life was toppled when she was gifted a warrior slave by the mighty Alpha of Dusartine. She was asked to take part in the Yearly Arena Event by collaborating with the warrior. Cassandra who hated ‘The Arena’ with her very breath. A place where blood flowed like wine and life was cheaper than the very air they breathed didn't understand her purpose in it. On top of that, the mysterious warrior affected her in unimaginable ways. His hypnotic gaze unsettled her. His rare essence overwhelmed her. His muscular bronzed body consumed her with sinful thoughts. Even the dreams of her past life plagued her. When ‘The Arena' began the hidden agendas and underlying truths came to light and Cassandra was played a hand of fate. She was left with no choice but to give in and choose a path. The question would be. How will Cassandra grapple once she learns of the curse placed on her? Will she be able to obtain her magical abilities and stand up to her father? Who will help her along the journey? ~Excerpt~ Then she felt him, all of him. All his ruggedness. The strength of his arm. The softness of his lips. The grip of his hand. The warmth of his breath. Every muscle in her body went taut at the implications of sleeping in a man’s arms. She had never slept in a male’s embrace before. Her whole skin tingled like tiny sparks dancing on the very parts that connected with him. The crevices of her brain had these memories which weren't hers. This touch somehow didn't seem foreign to her. She felt safe in his soothing embrace and didn't wish to push him away and yet she knew this was far from appropriate. Cassandra tried to wriggle out of his hold, his arms seemed to be built from iron for they wouldn't budge. The light garment she had worn had lifted from her milky thigh baring it as his bronzed muscular one was draped on it. And now she could sense something poking her back. Her eyes suddenly expanded from the realisation and Cassandra fully panicked. “Let go!” She voiced out, heavily. Siroos slowly lifted his leg and slackened his hold on her waist so she could shuffle away. He had awakened when she had stiffened for the first time but wished to behold what she would try. With eyes blown wide she stole a glance towards the man who had her wrapped in his embrace like a precious treasure, his treasure. His molten gold eyes had flickered open and there was this softness and want with which he stared at her. Those soft brown curls cascaded over his eyes as he forgot to blink, watching the timeless beauty that she was. Her one-of-a-kind fragrance was a torture to his senses. How he wished to grab her dainty ankle, pull her from it and have her sprawled underneath him. To kiss the very skin that oozed such scent which was driving him insane. Instead, he bent his arm and placed it under his cheek using it like a pillow to watch her with desire-filled eyes. The awkward lull between them prolonged as Cassandra cleared her throat. “Did you have to climb on me to sleep?” “It wasn't intentional but was certainly enticing and definitely won't be the last time.” His deeply hypnotic voice was even more alluring this early in the morning as it resonated all around her. The book cover is mine.

Roderic stepped forward, his expression a mix of irritation and wariness. "Lysandra's methods are unorthodox, but they're effective," he said, his tone clipped. "You'll find no one better at scouting or taking down a target." "I can see that," Alaric replied, his lips curling into a faint, smile. "Though I imagine her sharp tongue is just as deadly as her blade." Lysandra crossed her arms, her smirk returning despite the weight of the knights' stares. "You have no idea."

WARNING: Mature Content The story of a knight who has fallen in love with his queen. It was nothing but that, a simple plot for a fairytale, or was it? He stood proud at seven feet, everything looked minuscule in his sight. He towers above all knights who looked at him with disgust and alarm. He was one of the rebels not long ago, but for an undisclosed reason, he has betrayed his so-called 'brother at arms' for a seat at the round table. People murmured whenever he passes them by, the atmosphere itself was laced with terror as this all muscled barbarian held his head high. Panic in the hearts of many was evoked by his presence alone as he stood before the queen who was forced to face him. "My queen," he knelt before her, and even yet the queen had to look up from her throne to meet his eyes. The frail queen was very small compared to him, her fragile countenance barely reached five feet and her innocent face makes her look like a child. He took in the vision of her as she sat there, trying to look brave as she met his eyes. His queen, the reason why he risked it all and will risk it all again. She sat on the throne judging his motives and all the while fearing him. Was she disgusted by him too? He can't tell. The crowd disappeared and all thoughts from his mind were gone as he was faced with her. She has dark auburn hair that reached past her shoulders, small lips that curled into a thin smile, and eyes that expressed her immense disgust and anger for what she had labeled him in her mind - one of the reasons for the destabilization of her kingdom. He wants it all, all of what she offers. Her beauty, her brilliance, her frailties... at that moment he realized, he wanted all of her.

WARNING: Mature Content. Winner of WPC #197 (Silver) The handmaiden's hurried footsteps can be heard in the hallway, followed by a loud slamming of the door. When we were finally left alone, Rin's calm voice can be heard, "I don't like that maid of yours, I will have to get you a new one within the week." I nodded, by this time I am used to having my handmaidens changed. He took the comb and started combing my hair, his dark eyes looking straight into my eyes, the sheer perfection of his face in contrast to my ever-plain-looking face. I looked away, I can't bear looking at it, it reminds me of the book that I'm in and how this is not a fairytale. He held me by the shoulders and asked in a cold voice, "Why do you look away? Is the idea of us still so intolerable for you?" I don't know how to answer him so I just nodded and bit my lower lip. He carried me to bed as he kissed my hair. Then, he laid me on the bed, his eyes boring through mine. "I hate that you are afraid of me, and that the idea of us is unacceptable to you. But right now, the only thing making you stay with me is fear of what I'd do if I lose you, I have no choice but to hold onto it. Forgive me Maru, I have no choice but to cherish the fear I have inflicted on you." He disrobed me, his calloused hands rough against my skin, feeling, touching, and leaving warmth where it landed. I winced every time his fingers land on a bruise, or on some of the fresh marks he placed there last night. "Do you want this?" he asked me as his fingers curled against my breasts, pinching one taut nipple after the other. I nodded, unable to deny under his skeptical gaze, I moaned in pleasure when his lips replaced his touch. His tongue licked on a pinkish bud and then sucked so very gently. "Tell me, any time you want me to stop, Maru. One word, that is all I need," he whispered and I blushed as I was reminded that I never stopped his assaults. I was powerless against my own needs, in the modern human world, it seems I am a submissive. And right here taking me in for another torturous night, is my dominant. I am married to Rin Saito, the most powerful monarch this world has ever seen, and I... I think I may have found my master in him. "Raise your hands for me, raise them above your head, and clasp them together," he whispered, his mouth barely an inch from my ear. I obliged, my body trembling from desire and fear combined, anticipating his next orders and feeling my body give in to his control. He took a silky rope he has been keeping on the drawers of the bedside table, and smiling, bounded up my wrists. "Tighter?" his sadistic smile made him a bit more benevolent in my eyes. I trembled from excitement as I nodded my head. He tightened my bind and leveled his head with mine, then he dipped his head, claiming my lips as I squirm helplessly against him. He opened my lips and slid his tongue inside my throat, my own saliva dripping down my neck. "Beautiful, my beautiful Maru," I heard him whisper as his hands continued to travel down, stroking and sliding gently down my skin until it reached my undergarments. "You shouldn't even bother with this, you know of my appetite. I told you not to wear them at night, my love, do you really want to be punished that badly?" I moaned, his lips curving in a proud smile. "I like it when you lose yourself in shameless pleasure. I like it when I can sully the princess and turn her into my queen," he claimed my lips more possessively.

Being the daughter of a famous dragon hunter has its perks and annoyances. One perk Everscent likes is that she has access to things other people normally wouldn't. For instance, getting noticed by the Dragon God Chaos and receiving his blessing, giving her access to the system. There's no way she would have drawn the attention of a shadow god if she wasn't related to her parents. A second perk is getting one on one sparring sessions and being able to afford a tutor to help her control her blessing. At least, if they can find one strong enough to handle the powerful darkness she wields. An annoying perk would be all the expectations that are put on her shoulders. "Your mother is a strict Headmistress for the number one academy in the world and your father is an anointed Hunter to a High Lord who won the national tournament. How powerful are you?" Only she is powerful, she just can't control it so she doesn't use it. Often, at least. Well, only when it's convenient. However, now that Everscent is twenty years of age, she can go with her older brother to the academy to follow her family legacy. To join the tournament and become a dragon hunter. Well, just as soon as she masters the rest of her blessing. However, one mistake makes her entire first year tense and unforgettable. No one likes a pissed off King breathing down their neck, Ever especially. Not when her brother is starting to act weird. Not when demons are sneaking into the academy, and not when dragons are attacking with the Dra'koni. Is it just her or does everything just have bad timing? *** Two daggers sit atop a white marble pillar, protected by a dome of glass. While the hilts and crossguards match, the blades are different. One is made of a pale, shiny metal, while the other is crafted from dark obsidian. At the center of their hilts are round opal stones. Everscent leans closer, her hands pressing against the glass as she gapes at the lovely weapons. "What are you doing?" The deep, quiet voice makes her yelp and she jumps away from the dragon-blessed item. Everscent spins around and finds a dark figure leaning against the doorframe leading to the room she's in. Is he here to steal it too? Has word already gotten out about it being transferred here already? That's so annoying… Ding [Profile blocked from viewing.] Everescent's eyebrows furrow as she averts her eyes from her system screen to her new guest. How strong does he have to be to do that? A low grade wouldn't have been able to get past the Honeycomb Barrier. Everscent narrows her eyes. If he truly is that strong, can he see her profile window? He isn't giving anything away that he does. "Wha–" Her voice cracks, and she cuts herself off to clear her throat. Dang it. "Me? What about you?" The guy doesn't respond at first, then he hums. He gazes up at something behind her and taps a finger against the fabric of his pants. Then he pushes himself off of the doorframe, and with his hands shoved into his pockets, steps closer. "I asked you first," he shrugs. She tilts her head, why does he seem so familiar? "I got curious." She glares at him. She takes him in from head to toe. "I wanted to see it." "Seeing doesn't require touching, now does it, little thief?" She can hear smugness in his tone. Ever's hands curl into fists. Who the hell is this guy? "It's your turn," she snaps, nodding at him. "Why are you here?" "Just," he pauses, and reaches up to scratch the top of his head and then sighs, "doing some old man a favor." Old man? Her eyebrows furrow. "What–" He cuts her off. Suddenly, he's inches away from her, his eyes squinting as he smiles wide from beneath his mask. His eyelashes are so long. "You talk too much." He murmurs softly.

"You said....you would always treasure me," the grandmaster smiled weakly, blood gurgling in his mouth as he gripped the blade that was firmly embedded into his chest. "Do...you like destroying the things you treasure, Chi Cheng?" Chi Cheng's eyes blazed with murderous intent, his lips curling into a snarl as he twisted the blade further into the Grandmaster's chest. "In all your perfections, dear Grandmaster, loving me was your greatest flaw." ************* Jing Ling was a celestial beast who was on the run from his brethren and had been banished by the Celestial Realm for his crimes and treason against the supreme courts. He sought refuge in the body of a deceased child from the Chi Clan in the mortal realm. Raised in the identity of the child, currently known as Chi Chengxin, he faces challenges related to his complex cultivation skills after seventeen years. Thus, Chi Chengxin sought solace in the affections of Han Yijun, a senior disciple of the Northern Ice Sect, despite the rumors about his lack of aptitude and the shame he brought to his clan during his new life. Chi Cheng's father enlists him as an Ice Sect pupil in the hopes that the Grandmaster of Ice will see his potential. And the idea of being with Han Yijun at last brings him joy. However, the charming and kind Han Yijun gives in to the pleasure of another, and on the first day of his arrival, he is betrayed and suffers heartache. But the Grandmaster, who is charmed by Chi Cheng but constrained by his oaths and obligations, has a sense of affection that heals his damaged heart. And Chi Cheng, using the Grandmaster's favour and love to his advantage, is more eager than ever to get revenge on Han Yijun. But Chi Cheng's nightmarish past become linked with his drive for vengeance and his mischievous actions that put him in danger. When he learns of the Grandmaster's true intentions, Chi Cheng becomes conflicted between his heart and mind. Is the Grandmaster a man he should love in the first place? But how can one love the man who intends to kill them? Read the story to find out! ********* Note: The story doesn't follow an omegaverse trope but there is a factor of mpreg much later in the story. join my discord server to chat with me: find link under my profile cover picture is ai made by me

"I can't be your meal..." Jacquelyn pleaded, trying to reason with the man who was supposedly her husband. His grin widened, curling into a mischievous smile, revealing his razor-sharp fangs. "And why is that?" he asked. Jacquelyn knew she had to use her brain with this one. "I am your wife... you can't eat me," she said, hoping to appeal to whatever humanity was left in him. "Makes it even better," was his cold response. Jacquelyn's legs trembled; she couldn't think of any culture or tradition where it was acceptable for a husband to eat his own wife. "And...." "And?" He prompted, with an encouraging sweet smile. "And I'm wet..." -------- Long, long ago, when Creatures of the Night ruled supreme and stood at the top of the food chain, a princess, Jacquelyn Avignon lived in the isolated part of the palace. Away from humans and even her own family. Cursed, they said. Queen killer, they called her. Bad omen, they crowned her. Until she was sent to be the bride of the Vampire King. A vampire king who enjoys his own peace and twisted sense of humor. Living life as the supreme sovereign, finds a princess who knows nothing about his supremacy at his doorstep, claiming to be his little wife. What happens when a cursed princess, afraid of blood, desperate to be with her family and to be loved back, crashes into the peaceful world of a vampire king? Her first target, turn her husband into a vegetarian. What about when Jacquelyn realizes that the world around her is more than just sunshine and good sleep but that hell is empty and the devils are here... in human form? She has to watch her back! For fans of; Forbidden love, dark fantasy, ancient curses and prophecy, strong willed and resilient female leads, grey men, dark humor, betrayals, marked mates, and star-crossed love, this book is for you. Other works by the same author: 1. Kitanna (Completed) 2. A Royal Mismatch: The Trouble With Prince Charming (Spin-off of Kitanna, Completed) 3. The Hitman's Sunshine (Completed)

The world around me lay in ruins, a haunting reminder of what once was, my hand squelched in the thick, dark liquid that stained the cracked pavement—blood, pooling from the fallen, a testament to the chaos that had unfolded. Buildings, once towering symbols of human achievement, now stood as skeletal remains, their shattered windows resembling empty eyes staring into the abyss. The air was heavy with the stench of decay and despair, mingling with the acrid smoke that still curled from the remnants of pink fires still burning brightly . Strangely everywhere was silent, as i searched for a sign of life in this hellish landscape, searching for any sign of life or hope. Every shadow felt like a threat, and every sound made my heart race. In this world, weakness was the greatest sin. As I looked down at my chest only to see it peirced by a metal rod and my leg twisted as if ensuring i wouldn't try to walk, i was filled with so much pain that i couldn't think straight as my mind was filled with the death of my parents and the destruction that seems to echo around me. Only the remnants of my humanity and the pain that I was feeling that was judging my presence in this broken reality. I wanted to stay alive i truly did, but the weight of the image of my blood-soaked dead bodies of my parents lingered in my mind, a constant reminder of the fragility of life and the darkness that had consumed us all. Thinking back I thought 'what has led to this.'

"I WILL MAKE THEM ALL REGRET THE DAY THEY MET ME! I WILL MAKE THEM WISH THEY WERE NEVER BORN! AND I WILL MAKE THEM HATE THE DAY THEY THOUGHT OF BETRAYING ME!" "You will, Sweetie. And I'll help you with that..." Those were the last words Avery spoke and heard before passing out in her bloody red wedding gown, on the same day she was supposed to marry her boyfriend from senior high school. ~~ Avery McCallum, the sole heiress and president of the McCallum Group of Companies, had her whole family wiped out on her wedding day. Framed for her grandfather's murder and stripped of her position, Avery vows to take revenge on those who wronged her. But her powerless state seems to mock her determination. Enter Archibald Donovan. She used to hate the devilishly hot and narcissistic chairman of the A² Corp who also happened to be her older brother's best friend, but when consumed with the need to take revenge, she begged him to marry her in return for fulfilling a long list of conditions. Archie agrees, and a month later, Avery re-emerges as Ava Donovan, a rising actress and the wife of the most powerful man in the country. With her newfound status, Avery systematically destroys her adversaries, uncovering dark secrets and hidden agendas along the way. But as she navigates the treacherous landscape of her new life, she must confront the truth about her family's past and at the end of it all, come back to him. She owed him after all... ~ EXCERPT Archie's eyes darkened when he saw her stumbling out of the wine cellar, a bottle of wine in one hand and her night robe, in the other. She was literally half naked. "Hey..." her greeting came out in a slur, and that was all he needed to know she was drunk. Very drunk, at that. "Why?" he asked simply, knowing she would interpret his question as she usually did. "I...I visited them today. The flowers on their stones were already wilted and...and...it broke me. I wanted to be happy and at the same time, I wanted to cry," Avery replied, inhaling short wisps of air before she continued, "Then I found the cellar." "Did it work?" She shook her head slowly in reply, lifting her head up in time to see a mischievous smirk curl on his lips. "Don't be sad, Baby girl. I happen to know a way to make you cry and keep you excited at the same time," he said. "Really?" "Wanna try it, Mama?" Avery nodded, slowly but firmly as he closed the distance between them. As he promised, she did cry...in pleasure. Note: This book is participating in the Cupid's Quill Contest. Your support is highly appreciated!

[No turning back to old love + single female lead + daily sweetness + no system, no Golden Finger + relaxation & healing + long-lasting romance] "Xie Xiao, you can't just stop wanting me after being so good to me for three years and getting me used to it. What do these three years between us amount to?" Zhou Mianmian looked at Xie Xiao with tears blurring her eyes and a pitiful expression. "Consider it my bad luck," Xie Xiao said indifferently with a glance at her. "Are you mad at me because I didn't agree to be with you?" Zhou Mianmian reached out to grab his hand, her voice pleading, "Then let's be together now, okay?" "You deserve someone better than me," Xie Xiao dodged her hand, pulling the beautiful girl by his side into his arms, "Wife, let’s go." Now that I'm reborn, let someone else be the lovestruck fool. Xie Xiao just wants to live a sweet life holding the tsundere treasure of a girl he overlooked for years~ ---- In his past life, Xie Xiao was blind, unable to tell the difference between a scheming girl and a treasure. To buy milk for the scheming girl, he got hit by a car and was paralyzed in bed for three years. In the end, the scheming girl turned around and went with another lovestruck fool. Instead, there was a proud and cute girl by his side... Until her accidental death... Xie Xiao closed his eyes in despair... If only time could be turned back...

[The 34th Galaxy Award for Best Online Novel] [The No.1 on the Science Fiction Literature IP Adaptation Value Potential List (2023)] [The Best Chinese Science Fiction Online Novel] … Have you heard? When the night is deep and silent, if you open your music player, put on headphones, curl up under the covers, and cover your head, listening to the same song on loop. After the loop has played forty-four times and you fall asleep, if you're unlucky, when you open your eyes again, you will no longer be lying in your own bed, but will have entered a bizarre space completely isolated from reality. That space... on the surface, it appears to be places we commonly see, such as one’s own bedroom, the living room at home, the underground garage, the bathroom, the basketball court, construction sites, etc., but if you observe carefully, you'll realize that everything is different...everything. ==== This is the story of an ordinary person, named Common, who after acquiring supernatural abilities, gradually transforms and grows in an alternate world, ultimately reaching the pinnacle of their experience.

Excerpts~ Her blood is a curse—a sweet, deadly curse that I can’t stop tasting. It coats my tongue, warm and heady, like it was made to undo me. I hate her for how good it feels. Hate myself more for not stopping. She doesn’t pull away. No, she’s watching me, her lips curving like she’s already won. Her pulse pounds against my mouth, steady and unafraid, and it makes me want to devour her whole. “Enjoying yourself?” she asks, her voice soft, taunting. I don’t answer. Can’t. My grip tightens around her wrist as I pull back, her blood still burning on my lips. She tilts her head, mockery gleaming in her eyes, and I know she’s baiting me. “Does it bother you,” she whispers, “how easily I let you take it?” The words cut deeper than they should. Before I can think, I shove her back against the wall, my body caging hers. Her smirk doesn’t falter. It dares me. Push harder. “You really don’t know when to stop,” I growl, my voice rough, guttural. “Neither do you,” she murmurs, her gaze dropping to my mouth. And then I snap. I crush my lips to hers, tasting blood and defiance and her. She gasps against me, her fingers curling into my shirt like she’s torn between pushing me away and pulling me closer. Every ounce of self-control I had shatters as I press harder, deeper, desperate to consume her completely. She shouldn’t feel this good. Kissing her should be a mistake. But the way she responds—the way her mouth moves against mine—feels like I’ve just ignited something I’ll never be able to extinguish. **** His kiss is fire. A raw, scorching blaze that steals the breath from my lungs and sets every nerve in my body alight. It’s unexpected, wild, and completely reckless—like him. For a moment, I freeze, my hands against his chest, ready to push him away. I should stop this. I need to stop this. But the heat of his mouth, the way his hands grip my waist like he can’t let go, makes it impossible to move. “Damn it, Killion,” I whisper against his lips, trying to muster the strength to pull back. But then he groans—low, desperate—and it unravels me. He kisses me harder, deeper, and I’m drowning in him. My fingers curl into his shirt, dragging him closer, even as my mind screams at me to stop. This is dangerous. He’s dangerous. But right now, I don’t care. His hands slide to my hips, gripping me like he’s afraid I’ll vanish. I hate how good it feels. Hate how much I want him in this moment, even when I know it’s a bad idea. When he finally pulls back, his breath ragged, his lips are swollen and red. His eyes lock on mine, dark and stormy, and I know we’ve just crossed a line we can never uncross. “You really don’t know when to quit,” I say, my voice shaky, trying to sound composed. His lips twitch, a shadow of his usual smirk. “Neither do you.” ***** In a world where power is the only currency and betrayal is a shadow at every corner, the fae and the demon must navigate a dance of lies and desires, where every touch is a weapon and every secret could shatter their fragile alliance. But as their game of cat and mouse spirals into something more dangerous, they'll discover the line between love and hate is thinner than they ever imagined. And in the Undercity, where hearts burn and, passion can be the deadliest weapon of all. Will she find the truth she seeks, or will she be consumed by the very darkness she's trying to escape?

She hadn’t expected to be cornered like this, not here, not now. His tall frame loomed over her, blocking any escape as he stood inches from her, pinning her to the wall with his presence alone. His hand rested just above her head, his fingers brushing the cool surface of the locker, creating a barrier that trapped her in place. Her breath caught, her heart thundering in her chest as she realized how little space was left between them. His eyes were dark, full of something she couldn’t decipher but desperately wanted to understand. He stared at her, not saying anything at first, just letting the silence stretch between them. She could feel her pulse race, her face flushing, her body frozen, even though she wanted to push him away. “What are you going to do about it?” he asked, his voice smooth, teasing, and filled with a challenge. There was something in the way he spoke, something that made her stomach twist with a mixture of confusion and excitement. She opened her mouth to say something—anything—but the words wouldn’t come. Her hands hung at her sides, unsure whether to push against his chest or hold herself back. She couldn’t tell if she wanted him to step closer or if she just wanted to run far away from the intensity that radiated from him. “Stop…” she murmured, but the word felt too weak, too powerless against the gravity pulling them together. “What do you want from me?” His lips curled into a small, almost predatory smile. “I want you to stop pretending you don’t feel it,” he said softly, his gaze never leaving hers. His closeness was suffocating, but in the most intoxicating way. The tension between them was palpable, like a storm ready to break. She could feel the heat of his body against hers, could hear the steady rhythm of his breathing as if they were the only two people in the world. She wanted to fight back, wanted to be strong and resist, but something in her—something deep inside—kept her rooted to the spot. He was her classmate, the guy everyone knew, the one with that effortless confidence that made all the girls swoon. And now here he was, making her feel things she wasn’t sure how to deal with. Her hands trembled, caught between pushing him away and giving in to the wild, dizzying pull she felt toward him. She was terrified, but there was also a spark of curiosity, of something she couldn’t quite control. “I’m not… ready for this,” she whispered, though her voice shook with uncertainty. “I don’t even know what you’re doing.” He didn’t answer right away, his gaze softening just enough to let her know that he was listening, that he wasn’t in a rush. He leaned in slightly, his breath brushing against her cheek. “I think you do,” he murmured. “You just don’t want to admit it yet.” Amidst the whirlwind of school friendships, and the pressure. Can anyone dare to be open to the possibility with someone who seems so unreachable?

Synopsis of Echoes of an Empire Echoes of an Empire is a historical novel chronicling the rise, dominance, and eventual decline of Pakistan’s most influential business empires. Spanning over a century, it tells the intertwined stories of six prominent business families: the Adamjee Group, Hashwani Group, Saigol Group, Fateh Group, Kohinoor Maple Leaf Group, and Ittefaq Group. Each of these families played a pivotal role in shaping Pakistan’s economic landscape, their successes symbolizing the nation’s industrial progress and their struggles reflecting its political and social turbulence. Echoes of an Empire is a gripping historical novel that chronicles the rise and fall of Pakistan’s most influential business empires: the Adamjee, Hashwani, Saigol, Fateh, Kohinoor Maple Leaf, and Ittefaq groups. Spanning over a century, the novel weaves together the personal struggles, family conflicts, and ambitious dreams of these business dynasties as they navigate the country’s shifting political and economic landscape. From the Adamjee Group’s pioneering role in the textile and jute industries to the Ittefaq Group’s dominance in steel and their complex ties with politics, the novel captures the highs and lows of entrepreneurial ambition. With political upheavals, nationalization, and internal family rivalries threatening their legacies, these families face immense challenges as they strive to maintain their empires. At its core, Echoes of an Empire is a tale of resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring impact of these industrial giants on Pakistan’s economy. It offers a compelling exploration of ambition, legacy, and the intricate relationship between business and politics, leaving readers to ponder the cost of power and the legacy of those who shaped the nation’s industrial future. --- The Hashwani Group: Building a Hospitality Empire Next, the novel delves into the journey of Sadruddin Hashwani, a dynamic entrepreneur who transformed his modest cotton trading business into a hospitality powerhouse. The Hashwani Group became synonymous with luxury through its Pearl-Continental and Marriott hotel chains, redefining Pakistan’s tourism industry. Set against the backdrop of political instability and terrorism in the 1980s and 1990s, the Hashwani family’s resilience shines through. The narrative captures their ability to navigate crises while maintaining their business integrity, symbolizing Pakistan’s potential for perseverance and excellence. --- The Saigol Group: Innovators in Industry The Saigol Group emerges as a beacon of industrial innovation. Originating in the early 20th century, the family expanded from textiles into chemicals, electronics, and power generation. Their establishment of Pak Elektron Limited (PEL) marked a significant milestone in Pakistan’s industrialization. Through the Saigol family’s story, the novel examines the balance between tradition and modernization. Internal family dynamics, generational clashes over business strategies, and the challenges of staying competitive in a rapidly evolving market are central themes. The Saigols’ narrative underscores the importance of innovation and adaptability in sustaining long-term success. --- The Fateh Group: Titans of Textile The Fateh Group, founded by Haji Mohammad Ilyas, became a leading textile manufacturer in the 1950s, contributing significantly to Pakistan’s export economy. Their commitment to quality and innovation allowed them to dominate the textile sector for decades. However, financial mismanagement and external economic pressures in the 1990s led to their decline. The novel portrays the family’s struggle to maintain their legacy amidst mounting debts and internal disagreements. It serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of over-expansion and the importance of strategic foresight in business. --- The Kohinoor Maple Leaf Group: Masters of Diversification The Kohinoor Maple Leaf Group, spearhead