Step into the electrifying world of the Marked series, where celestial battles, forbidden romance, and a kick-ass heroine collide in a whirlwind of urban fantasy! Written by Sylvia Day under the pseudonym S.J. Day, this saga follows Evangeline Hollis, a woman marked by God and thrust into a gritty realm of demons, angels, and biblical brothers Cain and Abel. With its blend of heart-pounding action and moral dilemmas, Marked is a hidden gem for fans craving a fresh twist on paranormal adventure.
From the sun-soaked streets of California to the neon-lit chaos of Las Vegas, the series delivers a unique mix of contemporary settings and ancient lore. Whether you’re drawn to complex love triangles or epic showdowns between good and evil, Marked promises a ride you won’t forget.
How Marked Began
Sylvia Day, a #1 New York Times bestselling author known for her steamy romances, ventured into urban fantasy with Marked under the S.J. Day pseudonym. Launched in 2009 with Eve of Darkness, the series was born from Day’s desire to reimagine the Cain and Abel story in a modern, supernatural context. Published by Tor Books, Marked carved a niche with its bold fusion of biblical mythology and gritty fantasy, showcasing Day’s knack for crafting compelling characters and intricate worlds.
Day’s inspiration drew from her fascination with moral ambiguity and the eternal struggle between destiny and free will. By placing a strong, relatable heroine at the center, she created a series that balances high-stakes action with emotional depth, appealing to readers who love their fantasy with a side of sass.
The Heart of Marked
The Marked series spans three core novels—Eve of Darkness, Eve of Destruction, and Eve of Chaos—plus two novellas, Eve of Warfare and Eve of Sin City. In Eve of Darkness, Evangeline Hollis, a former interior designer, is marked by God and drafted into demon-hunting after a steamy night with Cain. Guided by Cain as her mentor and Abel as her handler, Eve navigates a world of infernal creatures and celestial politics. Eve of Destruction ramps up the stakes with a deadly field trip and Eve’s struggle to control her bloodlust, while Eve of Chaos pits her against Satan’s hellhound and a demon bounty on her head. The novellas dive into standalone adventures, with Eve tackling a rogue vampire in California and facing infernal chaos in Las Vegas.
The series shines through its themes of destiny, redemption, and the gray line between good and evil. Eve, a former agnostic, grapples with her role in a divine system, questioning God’s will while battling demons and her own desires. The love triangle with Cain and Abel adds spicy tension, blending dark romance with sibling rivalry. Set against vivid backdrops like Orange County’s suburbs and Sin City’s underbelly, Marked’s fast-paced style and witty dialogue keep readers hooked.
Day’s world-building weaves lycans, vampires, cherubs, and demons into a complex celestial hierarchy, making every page feel like a high-stakes chess game. Fans praise the series for its vibrant protagonist and unpredictable plot twists, which elevate it beyond typical urban fantasy fare.
Why Marked Resonates
Marked has left a lasting mark on urban fantasy fans, thanks to its bold reimagining of biblical lore and its fearless heroine. Readers on platforms like Goodreads laud its action-packed pacing and Eve’s fierce spirit, with some calling it a ‘keep-you-up-all-night’ read. Critics, like RT Book Reviews, have hailed its ‘dark, gritty, and sexy’ vibe, cementing Day’s reputation as a versatile storyteller. The series’ influence extends to Day’s Renegade Angels trilogy, set in the same universe, offering fans more chances to explore her dominion of angels and demons.
Despite its cult following, the series’ future remains uncertain, as Day has shifted focus to other projects. Yet, its passionate fanbase keeps the flame alive, with calls for more books echoing across forums. Marked’s blend of mythology, romance, and adventure ensures it remains a standout for those who discover its magic.
- Publication Years: 2009–2013
- Books: 3 novels, 2 novellas
- Genre: Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance
- Author: Sylvia Day (as S.J. Day)
Ready to hunt demons with Eve? Grab Eve of Darkness and dive into the Marked series’ thrilling world of angels, demons, and destiny!