Insistent Synonym

When the world ended, Zoe didn’t panic—she brewed coffee. The zombie apocalypse wasn’t the future Zoe envisioned when she took a job at Perkatory, a quaint little coffee shop in her quiet city. But when the undead began to rise, and chaos swept through the streets, Zoe stayed behind the counter, brewing lattes and pouring cold brews for the few survivors brave—or desperate—enough to wander in. For Zoe, the coffee shop becomes more than a job—it’s her fortress, her community, and her tether to the humanity slowly unraveling outside. With a dry sense of humor and a knack for creating the perfect cup of coffee, she navigates this new world of shambling corpses and eccentric survivors. Her regulars include an ex-military survivalist who insists on black coffee, a teenage gamer who livestreams his zombie kills over the shop's Wi-Fi, and a mysterious stranger who pays for his cappuccino in scavenged ammo. But Zoe’s life becomes more complicated when she discovers her coffee shop holds a secret. Hidden beneath the building is a bunker with supplies, a mysterious journal, and evidence of a government experiment gone terribly wrong—one that may have caused the zombie outbreak in the first place. Now, Zoe must decide whether she’ll step out from behind the counter to confront the horrors outside or keep brewing coffee in the eye of the apocalypse. In a world where the undead are relentless and survival is bitter, *Brew of the Dead* asks: can the little rituals of normalcy—like a warm cup of coffee—keep hope alive?

The day of the Mass Awakening changed everything. Across the world, ordinary people woke to find extraordinary powers coursing through their veins. Chaos erupted, governments crumbled, and society was thrown into disarray. For Elara, a quiet librarian with a penchant for solitude, it was the beginning of a nightmare—and an awakening she never asked for. Gifted with the ability to control the wind and summon devastating storms, Elara struggles to contain her newfound powers. She hides from a world consumed by fear and power-hungry factions, determined to live in the shadows. But her life is upended when Damien—a rogue with a dark past and monstrous strength—steps into her world. His presence is both a challenge and a lifeline, as he insists they must join forces to uncover the truth behind the Awakening. As Elara and Damien journey across a fractured world, they find themselves drawn into a deadly web of secrets. They discover that the Awakening was no accident, but the result of a shadowy organization’s plan to reshape humanity. Worse still, the abilities come with a price: the more people use them, the closer they edge toward losing their humanity. Amidst the chaos, Elara’s connection to her powers grows stronger, revealing her as someone far more significant than she imagined—a key to either saving the world or unleashing its ultimate destruction. Torn between fear and duty, she must decide whether to embrace the storm within her or let it consume her entirely. But Elara is not alone. As she and Damien face trials that test their strength and will, an undeniable bond forms between them. In the midst of chaos, their love becomes a fragile sanctuary, though the storms around them threaten to tear it apart. Together, they must navigate a world on the brink, uncover the truth behind the Awakening, and confront a final choice: save humanity or let it fall to ruin. In a world of chaos, secrets, and unimaginable power, Elara: Whispers of the Storm is a story of love, resilience, and the whispers of a storm that may yet bring salvation—or destruction.

-WARNING - ADULT AND MATURED SCENES WERE DEPICTED IN THIS BOOK In the game of love, these two players don't intend to win. *Dual POV:* *Richard Wellington's Story* Born with a weak heart, billionaire Richard Wellington has always shielded himself from love, fearing the risk of heartbreak. But when his parents insist he chooses a wife from a selection of 15 high-society candidates, Richard must confront his deepest fears. *Sofia Blake (Reed)'s Story* Fashion enthusiast Sofia Blake has been burned by love and believes it's a fool's game. Desperate to escape her cruel stepmother and evil stepsisters, Sofia accepts a job as Richard's personal assistant and judge for his wife search. But as she navigates the treacherous waters of high society, Sofia finds herself drawn to the one man she's supposed to resist. As Richard and Sofia work together, their initial disdain for each other slowly gives way to a forbidden attraction. But with their past heartaches and fears threatening to tear them apart, can they find a way to heal and open their hearts to each other? Will the Wellington Empire's legacy be secured, or will Richard and Sofia's love be the downfall of everything they hold dear?" What happens when these two individuals who hate each other and are unreceptive to love, starts growing feelings for each other?

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.

“Where do you think you are going with those bags?” Xander interrogated as soon as he cornered her. “Of course, I’m leaving you!” She said, standing her ground, despite the fear in her eyes. “Why?” “You forgot to mention how dangerous you were.” Xander let out a deep throaty chuckle. “Sweetheart, you didn’t ask.” “I don’t care! I don’t want to be a part of this anymore!” She insisted. Xander shook his head. “Too late. We are already married. You now belong to me, and divorce is out of the question.” — Aurora Swift’s world shatters when Owen—her boyfriend of five years—breaks up with her via text. The betrayal deepens when she finds out he’s also getting engaged to her half-sister, Olivia Swift on the same day. Heartbroken and filled with rage, Aurora has a one-night stand with Xander Scott, Owen’s enigmatic uncle and the youngest billionaire in the country. When the fling leads to a marriage proposal from Xander with a promise to help her get her revenge, Aurora finds it hard to refuse. However, Aurora soon realizes that this is anything but a whirlwind romance. Xander Scott hides more secrets than Aurora knows, and the dangers that follow his mysterious identity soon bring about complications in their marriage. When Xander’s secret identity comes to light, will Aurora choose to remain in the marriage as her love for him has grown in depth, or let it drive them apart?

When the rebellious youngest son of a multi - million dollars company in the city gets sent to another city in the country - hours from home to complete his high school education as punishment, meets his orphaned and maltreated long lost childhood sweetheart, and saviour, barely managing to survive and continue her education with a partial memory loss and a horrifying past that made her fear almost every one, the bumpy road to winning her trust and love begins. How is Michael going to deal with the truth of his family having a hand in her parents' death and their insistence on her not being good enough for him, with them being keen on keeping them apart? Is he going to continue with his rebellion and keep protecting her from his family and other enemies that kept rising along the journey? Or give up on his love? How will he keep Stella when she regains her memories and remembers he had ignored her pleas for his help when her mother had been lying in her own blood, dying from when his older brother had knocked her over with his car? With the final blow of the unexpected truth of his birth and inheritance rights, will he be able to find his biological parents and his twin sisters?

After a car accident, I woke up as the villain in an urban fantasy novel. All I need to do is lay low until the finale, collect my reward, and return to the real world. But why are all these stunning women ignoring the protagonist and clinging to me instead? Are they trying to get me killed faster? Stop wearing stockings and uniforms—go flirt with the overpowered hero instead! Fine, if fate insists on messing with me, I might as well challenge the protagonist head-on. Who says he’s the main character? The title’s still up for grabs!

[WARNING: MATURE CONTENT] "...I have to choose a King Consort right now?!" No sooner did the young woman from Earth awake in the body of Empress Isabelle of Nevremia than she was informed she'd have to choose a King Consort to keep her throne. While she was still trying to get used to her new body, new world, and new position, her advisors insisted she marry some stranger to retain her power. "But don't Empresses get to make the rules?" As Isabelle Von Nevremia. not only is she the revered empress of a powerful country, but she has access to a special status system, which allows her to read people's names, skills, moods, and even their kinks. As well as that, there's some kind of mysterious 'challenge' system that awards her 'skill points' for successfully completing challenges. ...But all the challenges are just seducing people. How tacky... "...If I'm going to be Empress, then I won't have a king! I'm going to have a harem!"

Li Xuan found himself in a predicament after transmigrating without the luxury of a system or plug-ins. To evade notice, he took refuge in a small mountain village. However, one day, he was mistaken for a reclusive expert, he was forcefully adopted as a master by an eager disciple who refused to take no for an answer. Struggling with his moral compass, Li Xuan initially rejected the disciple's proposal due to his commitment to honesty. Yet, faced with persistent insistence and tempting offers, he reluctantly crafted fictional cultivation techniques. Much to his astonishment, the disciple not only embraced these fabricated teachings but successfully cultivated with remarkable prowess. Witnessing his disciple's thunderous muscles, resilient bones, and potent vital force, Li Xuan couldn't fathom the inexplicable success. Bewildered, he exclaimed, "I fabricated it all! How did you manage to cultivate so successfully? What kind of monster are you?" To add to the perplexity, a mysterious Golden Finger manifested: "Your disciple mastered the technique you invented from scratch. Your flawless completion of the technique has enhanced your strength a hundredfold compared to others at the same level!"

[Recommended New Book by the Author: "Rebirth of a Powerful Figure with Many Masks"] An Xiaomian was pregnant. She wanted to get an abortion, but the father of her little bun suddenly showed up at her doorstep, forcefully invading her life, insisting that she give birth to the child. She didn't want to, yet the man fiercely confined her and monitored her 24 hours a day.

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! :)

Awakened Talent — Temptation of the Dead: All ghosts naturally have an increased favorability towards him. "The Terrifying Game Has Arrived." Yi Bai awakens a unique talent in a twisted nightmare survival game. His new ability? The power to increase the favorability of ghosts and monsters. But as he ventures deeper into this eerie world, things begin to unravel in ways he never expected… A ghostly supermodel nurse, IV bottle in hand, demands Yi Bai administer her fluids. An aristocratic vampire countess insists that only Yi Bai’s blood can satisfy her thirst. A shape-shifting spirit, with countless faces, relentlessly hunts him, craving the perfect human skin to wear. An ethereal bride, drifting out from an ancient painting, waits for him—her soul bound by a thousand years of sorrow. And then there’s the bulletproof zombie princess, who has her own immortal ideas about what’s truly eternal. As Yi Bai tries to survive in this deadly game, where his charm may be both his greatest weapon and his most dangerous flaw, he must navigate a terrifying world where the dead have their own desires—and they’re not afraid to claim him as their own.

TRIGGER WARNING: THIS BOOK CONTAINS MATURE CONTENT, VIOLENCE. Losing your virginity to a stranger who doesn't care might feel like the biggest mistake you could ever make especially when you have a boyfriend. But then your boyfriend cheating on you becomes a nightmare that haunts you after the hurtful words he says when he does. Well, that's how Zoey felt only that, the mistake turned out to be the best thing that happened to her because she later gave birth to a young baby girl despite her young age and still in college. What will happen when Zoey meets the stranger who she lost her virginity to and now who is the father of her child? She realizes the father of her child, is his boss, the richest person in the city with quite a bad reputation for being involved with some bad gangs. "You have a kid?"Roy asked and I panicked. How does he know that? No...this can't be happening. I vowed to keep my daughter away from him, he can't know about her. "I'm not talking about this with you Roy. You make me work my ass off the whole day, denying me most of my rights. I don't feel like talking about my personal life with you, you are a bully."I said. Roy looked at me."I want an answer Zoey, do you have a kid or not?" he insisted and this time his voice was so cold. "What are you going to do when I don't answer? Let me guess, make me work overtime like you always do. Go on, I'll do the overtime work I'm used to..... " He cut me off."Don't you dare say anything else Zoey." he roared and then pinching the area between his eye eyebrows, he looked at me with a soft gaze."Why? Why do you always have to provoke me huh? I'm going to kiss you again if you continue being this sassy around me, trust me." he said it like a promise as well as a threat.

Commander Herman is celebrated as one of the world's elite soldiers, known for his unmatched combat skills and sniper precision. After a grueling deployment, he finally takes a well-deserved vacation to a serene beach, seeking relaxation and escape from the chaos of warfare. As he swims in the crystal-clear waters, an inexplicable force suddenly pulls him under, and darkness envelops him. When Herman opens his eyes, he finds himself surrounded by a bizarre assembly of creatures: beasts with human-like features and animal ears. Confusion floods his mind as a talking wolf steps forward, explaining that they have summoned him for help. "Human," it declares, "we use our remaining power to summon you. We need your strength to protect us." Herman struggles to process the situation. Is this some elaborate prank? As he questions his surroundings, another creature growls in frustration, lamenting their choice of summoning a mere human instead of a powerful dragon or god. Disoriented and skeptical, Herman begins to explore this strange new world, grappling with the reality that he is no longer on the beach. The wolf leader insists that despite being human, Herman possesses something special that could turn the tide in their battle against looming threats. As tensions rise among the summoned beings, Herman realizes this is no dream—it's a desperate plea for help from creatures who believe he is their last hope. With doubts swirling in his mind and a sense of duty igniting within him, Commander Herman must decide whether to embrace this unexpected calling as their protector or find a way back to his previous life. Little does he know that this new world will challenge everything he thought he knew about strength and survival.

I can't help falling for you. you've unraveled me in ways I never thought possible... -------------- Imagine you go to work like every other day, but you never expected to confront an agent of death, an event that will change your life forever. Natasha, a rebellious and sharp_tongued lady accidentally saw something she was never supposed to see, she comes across an agent of death, an immortal grim reaper cursed with endless existence and no emotions. Drogen is convinced that Natasha holds the key to ending his curse, and because of that, he does something forbidden, he revives her after death. Bound to him by a blood pact that he made with her out of impulse, she begins experiencing flashes of a forgotten past that tie her to him in ways she can't explain, and their connection deepens into something forbidden. A meeting that started with fear and death soon transforms into a sweet, passionate love experience that neither of them could resist. She finds herself helplessly falling in love with this mysterious being. But there is one thing they both don't know, they were never supposed to meet again. Excerpt: Drogen's expression softened as he stared down at her lips, a rare glimpse of raw desire shining in his eyes. "You know," he began, his voice dropping to a whisper, "I've been desperately wanting to do this since you hugged me." Before she could protest, his lips claimed hers, soft but insistent, catching her completely off guard. Her breath hitched as his tongue teased hers, coaxing a response. She froze for a moment, her heart racing wildly, but as his warmth enveloped her, she gave in, kissing him back. Her hesitation melted away as his touch deepened, slow and gentle, yet ignited sparks through her whole being. His hands found her waist, pulling her closer until there was no space left between them. She gasped softly when she felt his bulge pressed hard against her, her cheeks heating in response. He didn't seem to care—if anything, it turned him on even more. His grip tightened as though he couldn't get enough of her, his kisses growing bolder, more demanding, yet still carrying an undeniable tenderness. Her fingers gripped his shirt for balance, holding on as the intensity of his touch left her breathless. He kissed her like he was savoring her, like every second mattered, and it sent a thrill through her. Every brush of his lips, every press of his body against hers, made her forget where she was. All she could feel was him. Finally, he pulled back, their foreheads resting together as they tried to catch their breath. His voice was low and rough, full of longing. "You're driving me crazy, Nat." Her lips were still tingling from his kisses as she met his gaze, her own voice trembling but steady. "Then don't stop." His dark eyes blazed with desire, and a faint smile touched his lips. "You don't know what you're asking for," he murmured, his hand slipping lower, his touch firm yet careful, as if she might disappear if he wasn't careful. "Maybe I do," she whispered, a small smile playing on her lips despite the way her heart pounded in her chest. Something in his expression softened, but the hunger in his eyes remained. She had undone him completely, and for once, he didn't want to fight it. Whatever this was, he wasn't letting go, and neither was she. For fans of forbidden love, a rebellious heroine, steamy romance, dark fantasy, a tragic past life and happy endings, this book is for you TRIGGER WARNING: This book contains R18 scenes, detailed descriptions of violence, cruelty, murder and death.

[Warning: This book contains Strong Language and Mature Content] On her eighteenth birthday, Ravenna felt the weight of exile as she was outlawed from her home because she could not shift to a werewolf, a mark of shame in their world that revered power. Away from all the ridicules and hate, she had at least a more peaceful life, until a beautiful storm knocked at her door. Deceived by its enchanting waves, Ravenna welcomed it with open arms until she was swept away into the deepest depth of the ocean of love. Being a daughter of an alpha, that was not supposed to happen even if she was not living in the pack anymore. Falling in love with the king of darkness. Alaric! He is the epitome of danger. But then, she turned his life upside down. From a heartless man to an obsessive lover. All he wished was to keep her with him. Even if it meant chaining her to himself. Whether what he felt was infatuation, desire or... he just would never ever let her go. Let no man or beast separate him from what he had claimed and marked; else they would face his unceasing wrath. **************** "Am of no use to you, why do you still insist on keeping me?" She just wanted to hear him say it. That he loved her as much as she did. She was becoming more desperate as days went by, maybe more than desperate to the extent of destroying herself in this love. Alaric paused and kept his laptop aside. He held her hand and brought her in front of him before pulling her to his lap. Silently, he sniffed her neck and licked it, then replied, "Because I want to." He continued his actions, and his hands were already moving under her dress caressing her thighs. Ravenna took a deep breath trying to stop herself from diving into pleasure as always. "Will you ever say it?" Her voice came out as a low yearning plead and with his advanced hearing ability, Alaric did not miss a word. "Say what?" His hand reached her pant ready to tear it apart. "That you love me." Her words made him pause abruptly before looking at her. As usual, his eyes were blank with no hint of emotions making Ravenna feel like she was just fooling herself. For how long could she endure this? "Do I?" He asked not tearing his gaze away from her eyes that were already tearing up. _________________________ This book is in the viral competition. Support Author by adding to library, gifting power stones and golden tickets.

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... Until one day : [*Ding* System Activation]

Before they got married, Laurent already knew that Dave Washington had another woman in his heart, yet she still chose to marry him because Dave had always been the one she loved. She loved Dave, but his heart belonged to another woman. It was said that this woman loved another man, who happened to be Dave's illegitimate half-brother. Laurent believed that having a child would secure their shaky marriage. Until one day, the woman Dave loved finally told him, "Actually, the person I love is you." Laurent had devoted her youth and energy to this sensational and messy love story, only to helplessly watch it collapse. Heartbroken, she chose to divorce. She thought Dave's infidelity would make her easily give up on the house, car, and property during the divorce, with the only request being custody of their daughter. But to her surprise, Dave insisted that she was unfit to raise their daughter and refused to give her custody. In order to fight for her daughter, she embarked on a long and exhausting legal battle. She said to him, "You're so persistent—aren't you worried your lover is waiting for you anxiously?" Dave smiled and replied, "If you have time to worry about her, you might as well get a new lawyer." In a fit of rage, she threw a cup of water in his face. "Dave Washington, you're despicable!" Yes, every lawyer she hired was bought off by him with large sums of money. Finally, disheartened, she gave up custody of their daughter and decided to leave the country to heal. But he sent someone to intercept her at the airport...

Twin brothers Jacender and Aleximus Ashfield train hard in the Axis, the dimension in which they were raised. They dream of one day leaving to explore the outside world, much to the dismay of their uncle and younger sister, who insist it's dangerous. But when evil forces invade the Axis, the boys' dreams are realized in the worst way possible.

[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?

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

In the world of winged creatures, those born wingless are doomed to become invisible and forgotten. Hawk, Raven, Eagle, Vulture—each spirit determines the fate of its bearer. The ruling winged beings soar high in the sky above mere mortals, their dominance unshakable. Among the supreme avian spirits, Mirabella Flamire, nicknamed “Little Egg” by her captain, was born as a humble sparrow. Aboard the Primrose, she ferried spices across the kingdoms, far from the talons of larger predators. However, her life took a fateful turn when her crew received orders to escort the Hawk King Eros La Velle back to his kingdom after attending the Everdale Crown Prince’s wedding. The shameless king claimed the little sparrow stole his virtue and was hell-bent on insisting they build a nest together. The sparrow, now labeled a promiscuous peacock by the folks: “-_-” Enter an epic tale of fire and flight, where the truth buried beneath the sand is revealed, testing love and loyalty beyond the skies.

FORBIDDEN ROMANCE WITH MY BOSS. __________ “Why didn’t you tell me?” Marietta’s voice cracks, her chest heaving with the weight of the truth. “I had no idea, Marietta,” Cassian says, his voice rough, his hands curled into fists at his sides. Marietta stumbles back a step, her arms wrapped around herself. She shakes her head, tears blurring her vision. “You’re my brother, Cassian. My brother. And we…” Her voice trembles, the words too horrifying to say aloud. Cassian’s shoulders sag, his voice barely a whisper. “It doesn’t change how I feel—” “But it changes everything!” _______ Marietta Hawthorne never imagined her life would fall apart any more than it already had after her ex-boyfriend, Ryan, dumps her. At 29, she is a single mother struggling to raise her fourteen-year-old daughter. When her parents pass away and she’s excluded from their will, she discovers a devastating truth—she was adopted, a secret they kept hidden her entire life. Matters get worse as she loses her job. Several bills pile up, her rent is due, and she has nothing. All she wants is to forget her troubles for one night, but when she wakes up in a stranger’s bed, her life takes a tragic turn she never expected. The one-night stand is a mistake she’s determined to forget…until she is offered a job as a secretary and discovers that her boss is none other than Cassian Wexford. Cassian Wexford is everything Marietta never imagined encountering—powerful, dominating, and unattainable. But fate isn’t done with her. As they work together, their bond deepens into an intimate relationship, but just as Marietta begins to imagine a new future with Cassian, she discovers a terrifying secret. Cassian isn’t just her boss. He’s her brother. What choice will Marietta make when Cassian insists on having a future with her?

Aveline, the daughter of a Beta, is heartbroken when her mate, Gabriel, the young Alpha of their pack, is believed killed by their rival pack. Years later, she discovers he’s alive—but as a leader of that same rival pack. Gabriel claims he’s returned for her and wants peace, but Aveline suspects he’s working under the Alpha who attacked their lands. When a long-buried conspiracy is revealed, Gabriel admits he staged his death to protect her. But with war on the horizon and Aveline’s loyalty to her family tested, she must decide whether to join Gabriel or expose his lies. Blurb: Aveline is devastated when her mate, Gabriel, the Alpha of her pack, is reported dead in a violent attack by their rival pack. But years later, she finds him alive—and as the new Alpha of their enemies. Gabriel claims he faked his death to protect her, yet she’s torn between love and anger. When a dark conspiracy is revealed, Aveline must decide if she can trust him again, even as the packs edge closer to war and hidden secrets resurface. Exposition: Aveline mourns the loss of Gabriel, her mate, believed killed in an ambush. Now a respected warrior, she has grown strong and dedicated to her pack. Her world is upended when she finds Gabriel alive but now allied with their enemy pack. The packs remain on the edge of conflict, with tensions high and trust in short supply. Inciting Incident: During a diplomatic gathering, Aveline and Gabriel cross paths. She is stunned to see him alive and now the Alpha of their rival pack. Gabriel reveals that he staged his death for her safety, insisting that it was the only way to protect her from the darker forces at work in both packs. Aveline is torn between her anger, her lingering feelings, and her pack’s demands to spy on him. Rising Action: Aveline reluctantly agrees to spy on Gabriel to uncover his motives and loyalties. She spends time in his pack, and they both confront past wounds and lingering feelings. As they work together to investigate the conspiracy threatening both packs, Aveline uncovers more secrets about Gabriel’s “death” and his knowledge of a hidden enemy. Meanwhile, Cassian, Gabriel’s ambitious second-in-command, plots to use Aveline’s presence as leverage to take control of both packs. Climax: Cassian’s plan to expose Gabriel’s secrets and start a war between the packs is revealed. During a heated confrontation, Aveline realizes the depth of Gabriel’s sacrifices and the true threat they face. Gabriel and Aveline must work together to stop Cassian’s coup, even as battle erupts between their packs. Their bond is tested to the breaking point as they face life-and-death decisions, revealing whether they truly trust each other. Denouement: With Cassian defeated, Aveline and Gabriel successfully prevent the packs from going to war. They reveal the hidden conspiracy to both packs, exposing the elders who were involved. Gabriel and Aveline commit to rebuilding their packs and uniting them while working to earn their pack members’ trust. Together, they establish a fragile but hopeful peace and look forward to a future defined not by betrayal, but by love and understanding.

"Forced to Be Yours, Mr. Devil" In the cutthroat world of business, Rudra Singhaniya, a powerful and enigmatic CEO, is known for his cold demeanor and ruthless decisions. But behind the successful facade lies a man burdened by past wounds and a life dictated by duty. Unbeknownst to the world, Rudra enters into a secret marriage with Anaya Malhotra, a young and innocent woman caught in the web of family expectations and societal pressure. Anaya, just twenty years old, finds herself thrust into a life she never imagined. Her marriage to Rudra is shrouded in mystery, known only to a select few, and kept hidden from the prying eyes of the public. While Rudra maintains a cold distance, Anaya struggles to navigate her new reality, torn between the fear of her husband’s icy exterior and the growing confusion of her feelings. As the media frenzy erupts over Rudra’s supposed single status and the shocking revelation of his broken engagement with Nisha Ahuja, the Singhaniya family must navigate the delicate balance of protecting their reputation while managing the fallout. The situation becomes even more complex as it is revealed that Nisha herself is secretly married to another man, Raj Chauhan, adding another layer of scandal to the already chaotic narrative. Within the walls of the Singhaniya estate, family dynamics shift as secrets are unearthed and alliances are tested. Komal Singhaniya, the matriarch, strives to maintain order, insisting that Anaya embrace her new role and move into Rudra’s room—a symbolic step towards accepting her marriage. However, not everyone is on board with this union. Aarav, Rudra’s younger brother, openly rejects the marriage, while Mr. Dev Singhaniya, the family patriarch, and Rudra’s grandmother stand firmly in support of the decision, believing in the strength of family unity. As the couple begins their life together, Anaya and Rudra are forced to confront the reality of their marriage. Sharing a room but not a bed, their interactions are marked by a tense coldness and unspoken emotions. Yet, beneath Rudra’s frosty exterior, there are glimpses of vulnerability and a hidden attraction towards Anaya that he refuses to acknowledge. Anaya, on the other hand, is confused and intimidated by Rudra’s aloofness, yet she finds herself drawn to him in ways she cannot explain. Amidst the turmoil, Anaya must find her footing in a world of power plays and hidden agendas. Will Rudra ever open up to her, or will his dark past keep him locked in a world of solitude? And can Anaya break through the barriers that surround her husband’s heart, or will their marriage remain a hollow contract bound by duty and secrecy? "Forced to Be Yours, Mr. Devil" is a gripping tale of love, power, and the complexities of human relationships. Set against the backdrop of high society and corporate intrigue, it explores the journey of two souls bound by circumstances, yet yearning for something more—a love that can heal old wounds and bring light to even the darkest of hearts.

In the heart of the empire, House Velcraven stood as a legend of power, feared for their dark blood magic and ruthless might. Their name was synonymous with strength, their red eyes a mark of nobility, and their rituals a gateway to unearthly force. At the center of their bloodline was Katherine, the youngest heir, born under a prophecy that declared her the future of her house. Her birth was marked by tragedy: her mother perished in childbirth, a sign of strength according to Velcraven tradition, for to kill in birth was to claim dominion. Yet this triumph was short-lived. When Katherine completed her Rite of Passage—drinking the blood of her ancestors—she gained the power of twenty men, but at a price: her very life would now depend on the blood she drained from others. No longer could she live in peace; she must feed or succumb to death. But the day of her ascension brought more than just power. She began seeing visions—cryptic whispers from the past, a woman shrouded in shadows, who seemed to be her long-dead ancestor. The woman shows her a vision of destruction, and of a war that would tear her house apart. Before Katherine could warn her family, the great houses of the empire, in league with the emperor himself, set their treacherous scheme in motion. Stormhold, the Velcraven ancestral castle, was engulfed in flames. Her father, seeing her gift as a sign of ancient power, managed to send Katherine away in secret, safeguarding the last hope of the Velcraven bloodline. But her family stayed behind to face the slaughter, their names lost to the ravages of war. Alone in a foreign land, Katherine must learn to survive, to feed, and to rebuild her house to its former glory. The blood of her ancestors courses through her veins, guiding her path as she seeks vengeance against the cowardly houses that betrayed her—and the emperor who plotted her house’s downfall. With visions haunting her every step and the weight of her lineage upon her shoulders, Katherine will carve her way through a world that knows nothing of House Velcraven and everything of its wrath.

Alison Gray thought she was just another ordinary girl struggling to make sense of her life. That illusion shatters the night she is kidnapped and thrown into a world of shadows and secrets—a world where wolves walk as men, and destiny isn’t something you choose but something that claims you. Kane, the enigmatic and cold leader of the wolf pack, insists that Alison is no ordinary human. She is the last of the White Tigers, a bloodline thought to be extinct—a lineage tied to unimaginable power and unspeakable danger. For Kane, Alison is the key to survival. For their enemies, she is the ultimate weapon. Caught in the crossfire between warring factions of wolves and deadly hunters, Alison struggles to reconcile the truth about her identity with the choices she must make. As her latent powers begin to awaken, so do the stakes: trust the wolves who have taken her, or risk falling into the hands of those who would use her for destruction. But even as her connection with Kane deepens—tangled in a web of mistrust, attraction, and betrayal—Alison realizes that her greatest battle isn’t with the enemies surrounding her. It’s with the truth buried within her. She can restore what was lost. Or destroy what remains. Will Alison embrace her destiny, or will the weight of it break her? One thing is certain: nothing will ever be the same.

Twenty-eight year old Delilah Sterling, has perfected the art of being a respectable realtor by day, and a professional gold digger by night. Delilah believes she has her double life under control. Her meticulously crafted life crumbles when she wakes up one morning with a wedding band on her finger, a marriage certificate on the table, and a sinfully gorgeous man claiming to be her husband. To make matters worse, he is broke and jobless, making her feel trapped in a surreal nightmare. Desperate for escape, Delilah demands a divorce, but the stranger—insisting he wants to stay married—thwarts every attempt. Frustration and confusion mount until Delilah hatches a new plan: she proposes they team up to con her next target, the elusive billionaire, Hunter Quinn. What Delilah doesn't realize is that her "broke husband" is actually Hunter Quinn himself. Billionaire CEO, Hunter Quinn, having discovered Delilah’s intentions to con him, had decided to outplay her at her own game. Hunter agrees to the partnership, and together they plunge into a high-stakes game of deceit. As they plot and scheme, the lines between pretense and reality blur. Their forced proximity ignites an unexpected chemistry, leading to moments of vulnerability and genuine connection neither anticipated. Caught in a whirlwind of deception, passion, and power plays, Delilah grapples with their growing feelings. As their con deepens, she must confront the ultimate question: Can she open her heart to love and trust again? ****Exerpt**** Delilah’s eyes darted to the marriage certificate again, the official seal glaring back at her. Her fingers itched to tear it apart, to make this nightmare disappear. But deep down, she knew that wouldn’t change anything. “I don’t remember,” she whispered, more to herself than to him. “I don’t remember any of it.” Blake nodded as if he had expected this reaction. “That is expected. You had a lot to drink last night.” he fished out a phone from the back pocket of his trousers, opened it. “Here, this is us celebrating, after we got married last night,” he said, showing her a picture. Delilah’s breath caught in her throat as she stared at the photo. It was indeed her. “How?” she whispered, her voice barely audible. “I don’t remember any of this.” “It was a wild night,” he said softly. Perhaps she had married Blake because he was wealthy. That would be the only logical reason for her to make such a blunder. There was hope, she thought, as she clung to the possibility of salvaging something from this disaster. Turning to him, she forced a smile, “Is this your house? Are we in your house?” She asked, looking around the bedroom. Blake shook his head, “No. This is a hotel,” he said, and she nodded. “I see. It looks like quite an expensive hotel,” she observed, “What do you do for a living?” she asked, trying to keep her voice steady as she searched his eyes for any hint of affluence. Blake hesitated, his confident demeanor faltering for the first time. He looked away, rubbing the back of his neck. “I’m... in between jobs,” he stuttered, avoiding her gaze. Delilah’s heart sank, disappointment crashing over her like a wave. “In between jobs?” she echoed, her voice tinged with disbelief. Blake seemed to sense her dismay. “I know it doesn’t sound great,” he said quickly, trying to reassure her. “But I’m working on a few things. I just need a little more time.” “You’re jobless,” she muttered to herself as reality sunk in. “How did you pay for this room? For the wedding bands?” She asked, and he winced. “I didn’t. You did,” he said, and she collapsed on the bed. (PS: Cover photo isn’t mine. Credit to the real owner)

Gu Shan had always been into girls. Being a lucky guy,he was handsome,rich, intelligent and most importantly had a girlfriend of his choice. His first misfortune in his life was finding his girlfriend in bed with another man. Out of anger he allowed himself to explore something else by getting involved sexually with Li Yunxi the same man his girlfriend had cheated with. What was supposed to be one time thing with no strings attached developed into something lasting and truthful when fate brought Gu Shan and Li Yunxi together . ----------------------------------------------------------------- "Yunxi...um,"Gu Shan moaned gasping for breath. "I prefer it when you call me Yunxi gege,"Li Yunxi spoke lowering his voice to a sexy timbre dragging the syllables sexily. "When did you become so bossy?"Gu Shan teased him. "Call me Yunxi gege,"Li Yunxi insisted in his sexy voice. "Okay as you wish. Yunxi gege,"Gu Shan said sexily,his cheeks flushed red with embarrassment but Li Yunxi could barely notice it in the dimly lit background. Gu Shan still couldn't believe he would submit to another man and be completely smitten with him.

[Mature Content] "Please, call me Christian," he insists. "And I know this might be intrusive, but I can't help but wonder if there's anything I can do to help. Professionally or personally." Surprised by his offer, Marilena considers the possibilities. Here is a man she barely knows, the boss of the man who just broke her heart, extending a helping hand. Perhaps in the storm of her emotions, a strategic alliance could be forged. "Well," she begins, a spark of determination igniting in her eyes, "there is one thing you could help me with, Christian." With a newfound determination, Marilena approaches Christian with a proposition. "Help me show him what he's missing," she says, her eyes sparkling with a blend of mischief and resolve. Christian's lips curves into a wry smile. "I'm in, Marilena. Let's make him regret ever letting you go." _______ In "The Boss's Persuasion," delves into the captivating world of Marilena Chauque, a resilient woman who, after a heart-wrenching breakup with her boyfriend, finds herself entangled in a web of unexpected emotions. Desperate to make her ex-fiance jealous, Marilena enters into a fake relationship with none other than her former lover's charismatic and influential boss, Christian Ngale. As Marilena navigates the complexities of their faux romance, the lines between reality and pretence blur, leading her to question her true feelings. Christian, known for his charm and enigmatic presence, proves to be an unexpected ally in her quest for revenge and self-discovery. As the charade deepens, Marilena is forced to confront the consequences of her actions and the unexpected twists of a game that initially seemed harmless. "The Boss's Persuasion" is a tale of love, deception, and the transformative power of unexpected connections, as Marilena grapples with her emotions and the possibility that her fake relationship may lead to a truth she never anticipated. Will Marilena's pursuit of revenge ultimately become a journey of genuine love, or will the intricacies of her plan unravel in ways she never imagined?