Styxx

Dark-Hunter, Book 22

By: Sherrilyn Kenyon

Narrated by: Fred Berman

Length: 31 hrs and 7 mins

Publisher's summary

The most highly-anticipated novel in the Sherrilyn Kenyon's Dark-Hunter series since Acheron is here—the unforgettable story of Styxx, Acheron's twin brother and one of the most powerful beings on earth

Just when you thought doomsday was over . . .

Centuries ago Acheron saved the human race by imprisoning an ancient evil bent on absolute destruction. Now that evil has been unleashed and it is out for revenge.

As the twin to Acheron, Styxx hasn't always been on his brother's side. They've spent more centuries going at each other's throats than protecting their backs. Now Styxx has a chance to prove his loyalty to his brother, but only if he's willing to trade his life and future for Acheron's.

The Atlantean goddess of Wrath and Misery, Bethany was born to right wrongs. But it was never a task she relished. Until now.

She owes Acheron a debt that she vows to repay, no matter what it takes. He will join their fellow gods in hell and nothing is going to stop her. But things are never what they seem, and Acheron is no longer the last of his line. Styxx and Acheron must put aside their past and learn to trust each other or more will suffer.

Yet it's hard to risk your own life for someone who once tried to take yours, even when it's your own twin, and when loyalties are skewed and no one can be trusted, not even yourself, how do you find a way back from the darkness that wants to consume the entire world? One that wants to start by devouring your very soul?

©2013 Sherrilyn Kenyon (P)2013 Macmillan Audio

Critic reviews

“[A] publishing phenomenon . . . [Sherrilyn Kenyon is] the reigning queen of the wildly successful paranormal scene . . . Just one example of arguably the most in-demand and prolific authors in America these days.” —Publishers Weekly

“Kenyon's writing is brisk, ironic and relentless imaginative. These are not your mother's vampire novels.” —Boston Globe

Good listen if you like long books

I liked this one it's a great companion book to Acheron, telling the story from Styxx's point of view. The narrator never disappoints.

Never cried so much

A tale of tragedy, suffering, joy and loss. Full of emotions, the author has created a masterful piece of art that brings out every emotion. Never have I bawled so much while listening to an audiobook. The voice actor reading the novel did it complete justice. In my opinion, he adds much more depth with his brilliant portrayal of the characters, and their emotions. I want to listen to it again immediately after finishing it.

This book hurts a lot

Yes; dark hunters all have tragic backstories. It is how they became dark hunters, but this is really rough even for this series. It is up there with Acheron's and Zarek's stories and more of this book is dedicated to how Styxx was abused than either Acheron's and Zarek's books. So, it's a rough listen and may be triggering for people. I cried a lot. Also, Ryssa is even more stupid in this book than she was in Acheron's book. She just has zero aptitude for self-reflection or growth. Who needs enemies when you have a sibling like Ryssa?

Absolutely amazing!

This is 2nd favorite book, next to Acheron. I've read both, dozens of times. Listening in my car, the narrator brought the story to life. On to the next one!

She's done it again!

The main character suffered so much in his very supernaturally long life and the amount of trauma that he endured literally had me in tears, and while he was angry he never allowed the pain turn him into an uncaring person. He still tried to do what was right. As painful as this book was it was so beautifully written. the narrator also did a wonderful job and I honestly enjoyed his reading though his cajun accent needs a bit of work I can't be to upset with him over it, considering he's not cajun.

absolutely amazing voice acting!

I was do heart broken over the pain, manipulation, humiliation and suffering Styxx and his brother endured. I flet like I could rely on Styxx's perseverance to drive the story. There were some cringeworthy moments b uh t when you got throw it you couldn't stop listening.

the best year jerker ever

this story never bores me. I have read it and listened to it numerous times.

Wow

Wow! Riveting story. This rivaled Acheron. I was captivated the whole time. The best book ever. Very impressed indeed. Wow.

OMG! This is not what I thought it would be.

If you could sum up Styxx in three words, what would they be?

Oh My Goodness!!!

Who was your favorite character and why?

Styxx - his character - I don't know how he stayed to strong and forgiving. I know I would have a very difficult time if I had to endure what he did. I also would have killed long before he did and I am not a violent person.

What about Fred Berman’s performance did you like?

I have always liked Fred as a Narrarator he does a great job with this series.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

I definitely cried more than I did in Acheron's story. I had a different opinion of Styxx from his story. Boy was I wrong. Loved, loved, loved this story.

Any additional comments?

If you read Acheron and liked it - you really need to read this one - it will give you a whole new perspective on the relationship between these brothers. I also found myself really not liking their sister.

A loyal fan of Kenyon: Styxx was an emotional ride

What made the experience of listening to Styxx the most enjoyable?

My review contains SPOILERSWhat made Styxx so enjoyable for me was that everything came together in the end. Although Styxx was one of Kenyon's extremely emotional tormenting books, the relief of Acheron learning the truth was palpable. Seeing their relationship begin to heal gave me great joy. Although the love story of Bethany and Styxx left me shedding many tears, the story of Styxx and Acheron left me sobbing - literally.*I was almost afraid to read this book because some of the reviews warned that the story of Styxx was harder to read than Acheron. Honestly I almost skipped it. I am so glad that I did not skip reading Styxx. In my opinion the content of Styxx is no heavier than the content of Acheron. However, both books contain extreme content that are not for the light-hearted. However, those of us who are addicted to the Dark-Hunter series, attached to all the characters, and are expecting more than an "easy-to-read romance", will enjoy a heart-wrenching story with all of our tortured and beloved characters.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Styxx?

One of the most memorable moments of Styxx is after Acheron learns the truth of Styxx's past and he goes to see him in the desert. Acheron tries to show him a picture of his nephew and wants to apologize but doesn't know how. Styxx asks him to just leave. Styxx says he doesn't begrudge Acheron his happiness but he has just lost too much. When Acheron leaves and is walking away Styxx cries out a gut-wrenching, soul-tearing, emotionally-ragged bellow. The kind of soul cry that calls on Artemis for a chance to sell ones soul for revenge. I think that is the part where I started to sob. I read the novel over a week ago and I am still having flashbacks to that moment.

Have you listened to any of Fred Berman’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

I have listened to Fred Berman on many of the dark-hunter novels and some of the league novels as well. I definitely enjoy his narration!

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes and no. There were times at the beginning where I did have to put my kindle down and take a break from the agony of Styxx's early existence. However, Styxx's character as a human being kept me with him. I wanted to know that things were going to get better for him, and I believed in him as a human being (I know just a book - but books are my life).

Any additional comments?

Styxx is a book I will never forget. Thank you Sherrilyn Kenyon for your consistency throughout your novels. I am a huge fan and have enjoyed every Dark-hunter novel. I have just started the League series and I am now enjoying those books. I started with the Chronicles of Nick and I truly enjoy reading your books! I have read some reader reviews that the series has gotten repetitive and "boring". I completely disagree. I think your consistency is amazing and I love your writing. For readers who feel things are getting repetitive, I suggest taking a break from the DH series and reading something else. Kenyon continues to deliver excellent paranormal romance novels with a structure which I have enjoyed from the beginning. Every novel not only introduces us to new characters to love, but lets us know what is going on with characters we fell in love with long ago. I am completely enthralled with the world of Dark-hunters. Thank you again Kenyon for your consistency.