Tag Archives: Juliette Cross

THE WRAITH KING by Juliette Cross-dual review

Posted on by
15

THE WRAITH KING (The Rise of Northgall 1) by Juliette Cross-dual review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 24, 2024

A brutal, bloody war against the ruthless Wraith King has cost the light fae more than innocent lives. Una Hartstone, Princess of Issos, learns the price the Wraith King demands to end the war once and for all. Her. In exchange for the safety of her people, she agrees to give her life-and her body-to her greatest enemy.

Gollaya Verbane is determined to fulfill his destiny and his god’s prophecy. When his seer points to the Princess of Issos as the key to the rise of the dark fae, he demands her submission. But when she finally yields, he realizes Una is much more to him than a priceless weapon.

A mystery that has haunted Una for years awakens when she is abducted and dragged back to Näkt Mir. The palace hides many dark secrets…and at least one traitor. A traitor determined to take King Goll’s throne-and all he possesses. What he doesn’t know is that Una’s magick is more powerful than he can imagine, and that Goll will burn the whole world to save her.

••••••

Sandy’s Review: THE WRAITH KING is the first instalment in Juliette Cross’ adult THE RISE OF NORTHGALL paranormal, fantasy romance series. This is soon to be King, Prince Gollaya ‘Golla’ of Northgall, and Princess Tiarrialuna ‘Luna’ Hartstone Verbane’s story line.

Told from three omniscient third person perspectives including Luna and Golla, THE WRAITH KING follows in the wake of the forced relationship between our story line couple. Approximately five years earlier, moon Fae Princess Luna was a prisoner of the Wraith King, a spoil of war but her would-be rescuer would eventually become both her enemy and lover. Fast forward five years, Luna is once again a prisoner of the Wraith King but in the wake of his murder, his son Gollaya would ascend to the throne, claiming Luna as his Mizrah, his future bride. To avoid the annihilation of her people, who have already been ravaged by the plague, Luna agrees to Gollaya’s terms, facing a lifetime of hatred for a man she will never love. Leaving behind her ailing father and brother Baelyn, Luna must endure the humiliation accorded to all Wraith King MIzrah’s, a ceremony meant to ensure the King lay claim to mother of his future children but all is not well within the Northgall Kingdom, a traitor has set sites on our story line heroine.

The world building is detailed and complex with numerous supernatural and paranormal creatures ; ancient gods and goddesses; myths and mythology; madness and murder.

The relationship between Luna and Golla is a forced relationship ; an enemies to lovers relationship predicated upon the spoils of war. Luna struggles in the face of surrendering for the good of her people while Golla is determined to provide an heir for the Northgall people. As Golla struggles to keep his distance, Luna will discover that her fate has been decreed by the gods. Golla knew the moment he met Luna that she would be his destiny, his fate but never expected to force our heroine into a life she knew nothing about.The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, magical and destructive secondary and supporting supernatural characters: fae, sprites, demons, dragons, and an assortment of mythical beasts and gods all with special abilities and powers.

THE WRAITH KING is a story of war and survival, secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, acceptance and love. The multi-layered premise is detailed, complex and enchanting; the romance is fated and seductive ; the characters are determined and dynamic. THE WRAITH KING ends on a bit of a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

 

________

Barb’s Review: The Wraith King by Juliette Cross is the first book in her Romantasy series, The Rise of Northgall. We meet our heroine, Una (Princess of Issos), who was captured by the evil King, who had her imprisoned and tortured. An old woman, on death’s bed, gave her some of her magical powers; and Una managed to escape.  In another part of the wing, Goll (his father had him captive in a cage), also escapes, and helps the young girl escape with him; as he carried her to freedom, Goll brings her close to her home, and moves on.  Both Una (princess of light fae); Goll will discover each other again 5 years later.

Una once is again captured by the evil Wraith King. Goll has been builting his own army, to defeat his father, the evil King.  When he learns that the young girl, he rescued 5years ago, was captured, he is determined to save Una, and kill his father.  Now King Goll (dark fae king), combines Northgall and Lumera under his control, forcing Una to become his Miszar (wife), and produce him an heir.  She finally agrees, to save her people from war, especially with a bad plague affecting those in Lumera.  In a short time, when they consummate their marriage, love will soon follow, as they both open hearts; with a prophecy and quests that lead to their destiny.

I loved Una and Goll together, they made such a wonderful unique couple.  Una turned into a fantastic heroine, always caring about her people, generous, loyal and her powers evolving. Goll was also very good, being strong, independent and totally in love with Una. Drakmir, (Goll’s Dragon) was wonderful, with Una loving him.  I also loved all the wonderful secondary characters that were part of Goll’s group, who were all great; especially I adored Hava. We did discover that a traitor was within their team, a bit closer to the end.   To say too much more would be spoilers.

The last half of the book was an exciting adventure, filled with many quests to find the missing ‘words’ to reveal the truths to bring the light and dark fae together; with the final climax a wild ending.  The Wraith King was a fantastic story, with non-stop action, twists, betrayal, as well as having gods, goddesses, myths and mythology. The Wraith King was so very well written by Juliette Cross.  If you enjoy a romantasy story line, filled with intrigue, prophecy, violence and sexy, you need to read The Wraith King.

 

Copy supplied for review

Juliette calls lush, moss-laden Louisiana home where the landscape curls into her imagination, creating mystical settings for her stories. She has a B.A. in creative writing from Louisiana State University, a M.Ed. in gifted education, and was privileged to study under the award-winning author Ernest J. Gaines in grad school. Her love of mythology, legends, and art serve as constant inspiration for her works. From the moment she read JANE EYRE as a teenager, she fell in love with the Gothic romance–brooding characters, mysterious settings, persevering heroines, and dark, sexy heroes. Even then, she not only longed to read more novels set in Gothic worlds, she wanted to create her own.

Juliette is a multi-published author, including her Nightwing series with Kensington Publishing and The Vessel Trilogy with Samhain Publishing.

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Pinterest / Amazon Author Page / Newsletter

Share

Peaches and Dreams by Juliette Cross – Dual Review

Posted on by
13

Peaches and Dreams (Green Valley Heroes 4) by Juliette Cross – Dual Review

Amazon / B&N / Kobo / Bookbub

 

Description:
Marly Rivers is not crazy. No matter what everyone says. They may think her dream is foolish, but she plans to prove them all wrong—one jar of moonshine at a time.

Single dad Wade Kelley is just fine. No matter what his best friend Jed says. He doesn’t need a woman in his life. But when his son Jake breaks a jar of moonshine, he sets something in motion that neither Wade nor Marly are prepared for.

A friendly favor turns into late nights, long dinners, and a romp in the woods. And in a deer stand too. By the time Wade realizes he’s fallen hard and deep for Mad Marly, it may be too late to tell her. When she falls into real and sudden danger with poachers, he may not even be able to save her.

 

Barb’s Review: Peaches and Dreams by Juliette Cross is her 2nd book in the Green Valley Heroes series.  We meet Marly Rivers at the start, as she works at a moonshine store, as well doing a podcast with her friend, Lola.  Marly is known in town as ‘Mad Marly’, since she is always outgoing, wild, fun and rambunctious; with many people thinking of her as a bit crazy. At the store, a young boy accidently breaks something, Marly tries to protect the boy, but his father saw what happened, and came across to Marly as a bit arrogant.

Wade Kelley comes across as grumpy, he is a single father, who loves his son, Jake; making sure to be the best dad and make his son happy.  Wade is a wildlife resource officer, and he has a great family that will do anything to help out Wade and Jake.

Marly is determined to win this year’s moonshine competition and open her own moonshine distillery.  She approaches Wade, if she can talk to his grandfather to learn more about what she needs to do in the upcoming competition. Wade does agree to connect Marly with his grandfather, who offers her his old cabin to use for her various flavored moonshine. Wade does finds her wild ways unnerving, but that will change in a short time. 

Wade took Marly to the woods where the cabin is, and explains that she needs to be careful and leave before dark; since getting lost in the woods is dangerous.  The more time they spend together, and with Marly constantly flirting with Wade, as he does help fix the cabin up, Wade soon begins to have feelings for her.  He cannot resist her charming and fun ways, and loved how close she had become to Jake. Marly was perfect for Wade, helping him come out of his comfort zone; with the sparks between them sizzling. I really ended up loving Marly and Wade together, as well as Jake being so adorable.

The last quarter of the book was intense and exciting, as Marly found herself in danger, with poachers, as well as getting lost in the wilderness. Can Wade save her?

I really liked Marly, as she was so wild and different, though very early on I found her a bit annoying, but she grew on me throughout the rest of the book.  Peaches and Dreams was a fun, heartwarming, passionate story in a wonderful small town. The secondary characters were all great; I also did love Scooter and Pooter. Once again, Juliette Cross gives us a wonderful romance, which was very well written. I really enjoyed this book.

Sandy’s Reviews:

PEACHES AND DREAMS by Juliette Cross is the fourth instalment in the contemporary, adult, multi-authored GREEN VALLEY HEROES romance series, set in Penny Reid’s Green Valley Universe. This is Wildlife Resources Agent and single dad Wade Kelley, and moonshine distiller and business woman Marly Rivers’ story line. PEACHES AND DREAMS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Wade and Marly) PEACHES AND DREAMS follows the building romance and relationship between Marly and Wade. Wade Kelley is a single father; a grump of a Wildlife Resources Agent but finds himself attracted to our story line heroine. Marly Rivers is determined to open her own distillery but is in need of some up to date equipment. An accident at the place where she works, brings Marly up close and personal without story line hero, an accidnet that sets into motion Wade and Marly’s happily ever after. With the help of Wade Kelley, and Marly’s grandfather ‘pops’ Marly sets up shop in a cabin in the woods but all is not well as Wade is struggling to find one or more poaches, hunting black bear, poaching out of season. As Marly and Wade’s relationship begins to build, Marly finds herself struggling with a place in Wade’s life, and the less than welcome reception of the father she loved. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Marly and Wade, and the potential fall-out as Marley battles between head and heart ; and finds herself the target of some out of town hunters.

The relationship between Wade and Marly begins acrimoniously as Marly struggles with Wade’s grumpiness and over lack of enthusiasm when it comes anyone else but Wade is unable to sit by and watch Marly endeavor to begin her own business without some ‘muscle’ he is willing to provide. As their relationship grows, Marly begins to fall in love with Wade’s son Jake, hoping one day to see herself as somebody’s mom. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate but I dislike the use of a certain four-letter word.
We are reintroduced to Lola and Jed (Parks and Provocation 2), as well as the introduction of Wade’s son Jake, and Marly’s grandfather, and estranged father.

PEACHES AND DREAMS is a story of family, friendships, relationships and love; trust and understanding. The premise is captivating and delightful; the romance is provocative and seductive; the characters are determined, dynamic and energetic.

 

 

Juliette calls lush, moss-laden Louisiana home where the landscape curls into her imagination, creating mystical settings for her stories. She has a B.A. in creative writing from Louisiana State University, a M.Ed. in gifted education, and was privileged to study under the award-winning author Ernest J. Gaines in grad school. Her love of mythology, legends, and art serve as constant inspiration for her works. From the moment she read JANE EYRE as a teenager, she fell in love with the Gothic romance–brooding characters, mysterious settings, persevering heroines, and dark, sexy heroes. Even then, she not only longed to read more novels set in Gothic worlds, she wanted to create her own.

Juliette is a multi-published author, including her Nightwing series with Kensington Publishing and The Vessel Trilogy with Samhain Publishing.

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Pinterest / Amazon Author Page / Newsletter

 

Share

GRIM AND BEAR IT (Stay a Spell 6) by Juliette Cross-dual review

Posted on by
14

GRIM AND BEAR IT (Stay a Spell 6) by Juliette Cross-dual review

 

 

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 9, 2023

Not even Death can take her from him.

Clara Savoie is so confused. She is absolutely positive that Henry Blackwater is practically in love with her. But for some strange reason, he won’t even ask her on a single date. Time to take matters into her own hands.

When Clara shows up on his doorstep with an unusual invitation, tempting cupcakes, and naughty innuendo, Henry has no choice but to say yes. Now he’s the newest member of the High Tea Romance Book Club. While Clara learns the haunting secrets of her broody grim, Henry shows her what commitment from a necromancer truly means.

But when his father is arrested for murder, Henry is dragged back into the nightmare he’s been avoiding all his life. When he steps back into his father’s world, he isn’t just endangering himself but also the bright, beautiful woman he can no longer live without. But he just might have to.

••••••

SANDY’S review: GRIM AND BEAR IT is the sixth (and final?) instalment in Juliette Cross’ contemporary, adult STAY A SPELL erotic, paranormal romance series focusing on the Savoie Sisters of New Orleans. This is grim /necromancer Henry Blackwater, and witch Clara Savoie’s story line. GRIM AND BEAR IT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but for back story I recommend reading this series in order as Clara and Henry’s story begins at the beginning of the series

Told from dual first person perspectives (Clara and Henry) GRIM AND BEAR IT follows the building romance and relationship between grim/ necromancer Henry Blackwater, and witch Clara Savoie. From the first time they met Clara knew Henry would be the man to steal her heart but Henry, a quiet and shy introvert, always kept his distance, until the day Clara arrived at his doorstep with cupcakes and an invitation to her weekly book club. The proposal was Henry’s ‘invite’ into Clara’s heart but all was not well in Henry’s past, and his ‘grim’ was paying the price for the sins of the father. When Henry’s father is arrested for the murder of his girlfriend, Henry must use his abilities to uncover the truth. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Henry and Clara, and the potential fall-out as our couple are targeted when Henry gets too close to the truth.

Henry Blackwater prefers to keep to himself in the aftermath of a betrayal by his own father. As a young grim Henry was forced to face the dangers beyond the vale, a danger that changed Henry into something else. Clara has been attracted to Henry from the first day that they met but Henry appeared unaffected by every attempt by Clara at seduction and flirting.

The relationship between Clara and Henry is a friends to lovers in which Clara is the first to make a move on the man with whom she is falling in love but as Henry reveals the secrets from his past, Clara refocuses her heart on the man and their future. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters most of whom we have met in the previous instalments including all of Clara’s sisters and their significant others: Evie and Mateo (Wolf Gone Wild #1), Devraj and Isadora (Don’t Hex and Drive #2), Nico and Violet (Witches Get Stitches 3), Gareth and Livvy (Always Practice Safe Hex 4), Jules and Ruben (Resting Witch Face 5), their mother Serena, as well as their growing families; Henry’s young brother Sean, their father Silas Blackwater, human bartenders JJ and Charlie; wolf shifter from the Blood Moon Pack Alpha Shane. I am hoping the author has plans for a series focusing on the wolves or a second generation series following the numerous children of the Savoie Sisters-plenty of baby fever for everyone.

GRIM AND BEAR IT is a story of betrayal and vengeance, jealousy and obsession, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is captivating and enchanting; the romance is seductive and provocative; the characters are magical and mystical.

 

BARB’s Review:
Grim and Bear It by Juliette Cross is the 6th book in her wonderful Stay A Spell series. I am a big fan of Juliette Cross, having read all of her books, and I have loved them all.  She is an amazing author, who gives us fantastic stories, as well as wonderful characters; totally enthralling us in each and every book. Needless to say, I loved loved Grim and Bear It.  I am sad that this is the finale of the Stay A Spell series, and our wonderful Savoie family.

Grim and Bear It centers on Clara and Henry, who we have been waiting for their story.  Clara Savois has always been attracted to Henry Blackwater, and knows he also has feelings for her. We have watched over the last few books how they keep circling around themselves, with most of the family knowing they were meant for each other.  Clara decides to take matters in her own hands, going to Henry’s house and bringing cupcakes; and she convinces him to join her High Tea Romance Book Club (he loves books). In a short time, Clara professes her feelings to Henry, and he finally expressed how much he loved her.  It was so sweet to see how much love Clara and Henry had for each other; she was his ray of sunshine, and he was so romantic to her.  I did get a kick out of the family seeing them finally together. 

Henry had a number of issues, being a grim, but Clara was always there for him, using her Aura, and lighting his darkness.  When Henry’s father is arrested, Henry must put aside the distance between them over the years, and find a way to prove his innocence.  He must use his grim abilities to enter a portal for the dead, bringing back nightmares from when he was a child; Clara will be instrumental in helping Henry.

What follows is an exciting, romantic and steamy story that had me unable to put the book down, which is no surprise, as I am always hooked on Juliette’s books. To say too much more would be spoilers.  I loved spending time with all our previous heroines and heroes, who all played a large part of this book. Jules showed up later, and it was so heartwarming to see all the Savoie sisters, how they support and love each other.   The epilogue was fantastic.

Grim and Bear It was so well written by Juliette Cross; as it was another fantastic story in this wonderful series. This was a great series that was a joy to read throughout, with so much love, wonderful sisters and their mates, fun, sexy, heartwarming and a perfect end to the series.  If you enjoy a paranormal romance, exciting, action, witches, family, great secondary characters, and sexy, you should have been reading this entire series.

 

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Wolf Gone Wild
Don’t Hex and Drive
Witches Get Stitches
Walking in a Witchy Wonderland 3.5
Always Practice Safe Hex
Resting Witch Face

Copies supplied for review

________

 

 

Juliette calls lush, moss-laden Louisiana home where the landscape curls into her imagination, creating mystical settings for her stories. She has a B.A. in creative writing from Louisiana State University, a M.Ed. in gifted education, and was privileged to study under the award-winning author Ernest J. Gaines in grad school. Her love of mythology, legends, and art serve as constant inspiration for her works. From the moment she read JANE EYRE as a teenager, she fell in love with the Gothic romance–brooding characters, mysterious settings, persevering heroines, and dark, sexy heroes. Even then, she not only longed to read more novels set in Gothic worlds, she wanted to create her own.

Juliette is a multi-published author, including her Nightwing series with Kensington Publishing and The Vessel Trilogy with Samhain Publishing.

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Pinterest / Amazon Author Page / Newsletter

Share

Resting Witch Face (Stay A Spell 5) by Juliette Cross-dual review

Posted on by
13

Resting Witch Face (Stay A Spell) by Juliette Cross-dual review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 31, 2022

Twelve years ago, Jules Savoie ended her relationship with the vampire overlord of New Orleans, Ruben Dubois. For good reasons. A woman in power must often make sacrifices to protect others. She knows the truth of it down to her aching heart.

When Ruben watches his best friend Devraj get married, a stinging realization hits him hard…he’s done waiting. They say time heals all wounds. In this case, it merely sharpened the pain and made one fact crystal clear. Jules Savoie is his soulmate, and nothing would keep him from her. Not anymore.

Forced to work side by side to fight for the werewolf cause, they campaign together at covens from New Orleans to London. The reignited spark burns hotter than ever before. But when a power-hungry vampire sets his predatory sights on Jules, will their love be strong enough against black magic? Or will he lose her again? And this time, maybe…for good.

••••••

Sandy’s Review: RESTING WITCH FACE is the fifth instalment in Juliette Cross’ contemporary, adult STAY A SPELL erotic, paranormal romance series. This is syphon witch and NOLA enforcer Juliana ‘Jules’ Savoie, and vampire overlord of NOLA Ruben Dubois’s story line. RESTING WITCH FACE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary but I recommend reading the series in order as Ruben and Jules’ story develops throughout.

Told from dual first person perspective (Jules and Ruben) RESTING WITCH FACE follows the rebuilding relationship between syphon witch and NOLA enforcer Juliana ‘Jules’ Savoie, and vampire overlord of NOLA Ruben Dubois. Twelve years earlier Juliana Savoie ended her love affair with vampire overlord Ruben Dubois fearing a type of madness some blood donors develop in the wake of feeding a vampire. Fast forward twelve years, and Ruben knows it is time to reclaim the woman he lost by escorting our heroine as she journeys to convince the high covens to allow werewolves onto the supernatural governing councils but all does not go according to plan when betrayal threatens the life of the woman Ruben loves. What ensues is the rekindling romance and relationship between Ruben and Jules, and the potential fall-out when Jules is targeted for her power and her blood.

The relationship between Jules and Ruben is one of second chances. Ruben was destroyed when Juliana pushed him out of her life but Ruben gave Jules several years to come into her powers, to accept who she was, and the man with whom she was meant to be. Ruben knew Juliana is and was the only woman that called to his heart but convincing our heroine meant walking alongside when things began to spiral out of control. Juliana has watched from the sidelines as her sisters fell in love and began families of their own but Juliana struggled with what happened in the past, knowing she broke the heart of the vampire with whom she had fallen in love. The $ex scenes are erotic and intense but I dislike the use of a certain four-letter word in my ‘romance’ story lines.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, powerful, often arrogant and energetic secondary and supporting characters including Jules’ sisters and their mates, their parents, grandmother, as well as Ruben’s mother and father; his entourage Gabriel, Sal and Roland; powerful witch Clarissa; and the UK coven of vampire Edmund Stonebridge, his consort Tatiana, and UK werewolf alpha Magnus Sutherland.

RESTING WITCH FACE is a story of betrayal and vengeance, power and control, obsession and magic, sacrifice and love. The premise is intriguing, exciting and twisted; the characters are animated, strong and dynamic; the romance is imaginative and spirited.

 

Barb’s Reviews:
Resting Witch Face by Juliette Cross is the 5th book in her wonderful Stay a Spell series. Juliette Cross is one of my favorite authors, who never ever fails to give us wonderful fun, exciting and steamy stories/series.  The Stay a Spell series has become one of my favorite series, but then again, I love everyone of Juliette’s series.

I have been waiting patiently for Jules and Ruben’s story, and was thrilled to learn that Resting Witch Face belonged to them.  Juliana (Jules) Savoie is a very powerful syphon witch and enforcer, who is always the one who protects her family. Ruben Dubois is a vampire overlord and also very powerful.  The story opens with a flash back to 12 years earlier, with Jules and Ruben having a steamy and strong relationship, until Jules decides to break up with him, fearing the vampire toxic blood. Over time, they developed a friendship, working together on various political paranormal issues.  Jules and Ruben agree to take a trip to meet with the High Guild councils in America and UK to approve werewolves to have a place on the board.  Jules has proof that with her sister’s tattoo spell, werewolves are no longer being dangerous, with major drops around the world. As they get ready to leave on their trip, Ruben tells Jules ‘it is time’; and Jules knows that he plans on winning her back.

Jules has convinced the council to approve the addition of the werewolves to the board, but she and Ruben know that it will be tougher when they go to UK.  In a short time, Jules and Ruben begin to feel their connection again, with their chemistry off the wall, not to mention ultra-steamy.  Ruben has waited all these years, and now they are together again, with Jules happy to have a partner who will help her, as well as protect her.  I loved them together, as they were awesome.

Danger escalates in Europe, as a master vampire, Edmund, has his eyes on Jules, and despite her love for Ruben, he is determined to make her his; using black magic.  Both Ruben and Jules suspect something strange is going on, with howling, shadows, and masquerade that is out of hand.  Edmund is the main villain in this story, with another surprise. In the last 3rd of the story, I held my breath, as Edmund and his consort forced Jules into a dark and horrible situation. I feared she wouldn’t survive; it was real a dark and scary situation. Will Ruben be able to find her and save her?

What follows is an exciting, tense, action, romantic and sexy story that had me unable to put the book down. To say too much more would be spoilers.  I really enjoyed Jules’ friendship with Ruben’s guards, as they were fun, and also protective; there were also some excellent secondary characters. I loved seeing all the sisters.

Resting Witch Face was so well written by Juliette Cross; as it was another fantastic story in this wonderful series.  If you enjoy a paranormal romance, exciting action, surprise twists, great secondary characters, and a couple that has sizzling chemistry; you need to read this book. 

 

Copies supplied for review

Juliette calls lush, moss-laden Louisiana home where the landscape curls into her imagination, creating mystical settings for her stories. She has a B.A. in creative writing from Louisiana State University, a M.Ed. in gifted education, and was privileged to study under the award-winning author Ernest J. Gaines in grad school. Her love of mythology, legends, and art serve as constant inspiration for her works. From the moment she read JANE EYRE as a teenager, she fell in love with the Gothic romance–brooding characters, mysterious settings, persevering heroines, and dark, sexy heroes. Even then, she not only longed to read more novels set in Gothic worlds, she wanted to create her own.

Juliette is a multi-published author, including her Nightwing series with Kensington Publishing and The Vessel Trilogy with Samhain Publishing.

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Pinterest / Amazon Author Page / Newsletter

Share

Bright Like Wildfire by Juliette Cross-dual review

Posted on by
10

BRIGHT LIKE WILDFIRE by Juliette Cross-dual review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au / B&N paper

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 12, 2022

Bennett has no idea why Betty Mouton hates him.

Other than the time he accidentally hit her boobs with a glitter bomb in their community theater performance of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” he’s been nothing but helpful and accommodating. But that notorious “incident” happened years ago. Time for the gorgeous redhead to get over it and admit to the real chemistry between them, not just the on-stage kind.

Betty is in trouble.

She may have gotten her dream role in a production by her favorite playwright, but there’s a big problem. Her romantic lead is that cocky, annoyingly hot know-it-all Bennett Broussard. And when the fake touching and fake kissing start to feel way too real, Betty realizes one thing. She better act her heart out or finally admit that Bennett has stolen hers.

••••••

Sandy’s REVIEW: BRIGHT LIKE WILDFIRE by Juliette Cross is a contemporary, adult, erotic, romance story line focusing on businessman/grocer Bennett Broussard, and twenty-six year old, high school teacher Betty Mouton.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Betty and Bennett) BRIGHT LIKE WILDFIRE focusing on the enemies to friends to lovers relationship between businessman/grocer Bennett Broussard, and twenty-six year old, high school teacher Betty Mouton. Approximately twelve years earlier Betty Mouton was humiliated by our story line hero, a humiliation she has yet to forgive in the face of teenaged angst and embarrassment. Fast forward to present day, Betty Mouton has returned to her home town to teach high school English but auditioning for the female lead at the local community theatre brings Betty up close and personal with her teenaged nemesis. Enter grocer/businessman Bennett Broussard, and the man with whom Betty will fall in love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Betty and Bennett, as our couple work side by side as the leads in the play, and the potential fall-out as painful memories from the past trigger a need for our heroine to run.

From the outside Bennett Broussard appears to have everything from good looks to money, a successful business and a wonderful extended family but looks are deceiving, and Bennett struggles with his own demons including the how and why of Betty’s inability to let go of the past. Betty Mouton has never forgiven Bennett for the ‘glitter bomb’ that drew attention to our heroine’s assets, attention she would have rather ignored as the humiliation was more than she could handle.

The relationship between Betty and Bennett begins acrimoniously as Betty struggles to forgive and forget. With the opening of a new ‘bougie’ grocery store with fancy wines and high end baked goods, Betty battles between head and heart believing Bennett is showing off with old family money. Once Bennett gets past Betty’s wall of ice, our couple begin a romantic relationship that is threatened by jealousy and heart break from the past.The $ex scenes are intimate, passionate and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text. Bennett likes to talk dirty in the bedroom, and spanking is often on the night time menu.

We are introduced to Betty’s best friend and fellow teacher Finley ‘Finn’ Fontenot, as well as her mother, and sister Emma; Bennett’s brother Hale, and their parents Peter and Beth Broussard, as well as Officer Griffin Dugas, and several students, locals, and members of the theatre group. Here’s hoping the author has plans for Emma, Hale, and Griffin.

BRIGHT LIKE WILDFIRE is a story of family and relationships, struggle and acceptance, romance and love. The premise is engaging and endearing; the romance is seductive and energetic; the characters are charismatic and dynamic.

______

 

Barb’s Review: Bright Like Wildfire by Juliette Cross is a fun standalone small-town romance, that is set in Beauville, Louisiana.   We meet our heroine, Betty Mouton, who has returned home and is a high school English teacher.  Betty is thrilled to receive a text that she has been selected to be the lead role in the town’s play, Barefoot in the Park; the only problem she doesn’t like the male lead. 

Bennett Broussard, our hero, is not only a popular and well-liked hunk, who also comes from a wealthy family that runs many things in Beauville.  When Betty shows up for practice, Bennett can’t keep his eyes off her, as she is beautiful; but he can’t understand why she hates him?

We learn that 12 years ago, during a high school play, Bennett was involved in a glitter bomb catastrophe, which embarrassed Betty, since all the glitter was all over her and her boobs.  She has not forgotten the incident, and considers him arrogant and conceited, but she forces herself to play her part to perfection, which includes kissing.    Bennett goes out of his way to be nice to Betty, always helpful, but she continues to be sarcastically frank toward him.  Bennett will eventually find out that she still holds a grudge from that incident years ago, and is determined to win her over.

Betty is very independent and strong, and despite her attitude towards him, she slowly begins to fall hard for Bennett; especially since he has been totally sweet, caring and showing his feelings towards her. I really rooted for Bennett to win Betty over. By the last half of the book, the chemistry between them is off the wall sizzling, including their practices, which also becomes steamy.

I did enjoy when Betty was with her students, being a great teacher, and always looking out for the kids in her class.  There was also some humor with her neighbor’s goat (Gilbert) who always found ways to get into her house.  I loved the times when they were practicing their performances, and the secondary characters working with them, not to mention their private sessions that were erotic. I will say that this was the spiciest book by Cross, which was beyond steamy.

Bright Like Wildfire was a wonderful contemporary small-town romance, great couple and excellent secondary characters.  It was fun to watch their practice and theater performances, as Barefoot in the Park was one of my favorite old movies. Bright Like Wildfire was very well written by Juliette Cross.

 

 

Juliette calls lush, moss-laden Louisiana home where the landscape curls into her imagination, creating mystical settings for her stories. She has a B.A. in creative writing from Louisiana State University, a M.Ed. in gifted education, and was privileged to study under the award-winning author Ernest J. Gaines in grad school. Her love of mythology, legends, and art serve as constant inspiration for her works. From the moment she read JANE EYRE as a teenager, she fell in love with the Gothic romance–brooding characters, mysterious settings, persevering heroines, and dark, sexy heroes. Even then, she not only longed to read more novels set in Gothic worlds, she wanted to create her own.

Juliette is a multi-published author, including her Nightwing series with Kensington Publishing and The Vessel Trilogy with Samhain Publishing.

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Pinterest / Amazon Author Page / Newsletter

Share

Always Practice Safe Hex by Juliette Cross-dual review

Posted on by
12

Always Practice Safe Hex (Stay A Spell 4) by Juliette Cross-dual review

 

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 24, 2022.

Livvy Savoie is a people person. Not only does she have the magical gift of persuasion, but her natural charisma charms everyone she meets. She hasn’t met a person she didn’t like. Until her annoyingly brilliant competitor walks through the door. No matter how hard she denies it, loathing isn’t the only emotion she feels for him.

Grim reaper Gareth Blackwater is rarely, if ever, moved beyond his broody, stoic state. But the witch he’s partnered with in the public relations contest is destroying his peace of mind. He’s convinced that the flesh-melting attraction he feels for her is merely her witchy magic at work.

But forced proximity proves there is more than magic sparking between them. Livvy learns this enigmatic grim’s abilities are beyond any supernatural she has ever known. And when Livvy becomes the obsessive target of a dangerous warlock, Gareth proves just how powerful he truly is. Because no one is going to hurt his Lavinia.

••••••••

Sandy’s Review

ALWAYS PRACTICE SAFE HEX is the fourth instalment in Juliette Cross’s contemporary adult STAY A SPELL erotic, paranormal, romance series. This is witch Livvy Savoie, and Grim reaper Gareth Blackwater’s story line. ALWAYS PRACTICE SAFE HEX can be read as a reminder stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Livvy and Gareth’s story begins in YOU’RE A MEAN ONE MR. GRIM in the author’s WALKING IN A WITCHY WONDERLAND anthology.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Gareth and Livvy) ALWAYS PRACTICE SAFE HEX is a frenemies to lovers story line focusing on witch Livvy Savoie, and Grim reaper Gareth Blackwater. Livvy and Gareth are two of the three finalists in a public relations contest where the winner will receive money to help start up and promote a cause near and dear to their heart. From the outset Gareth’s cause comes out on top, a cause in which every supernatural lineage will have respect but the man overseeing the project has targeted our story line heroine, and Gareth’s inner ‘monster’ refuses to back down where our heroine is concerned. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Gareth and Livvy, and the potential fall-out as the true nature of the beast becomes the executioner when Livvy is attacked by the man in charge.

Gareth Blackwater is a powerful grim reaper, a ‘grimlock’ with abilities that are rare, dangerous and dark. Having grown up in foster care, Gareth knows the pain of a supernatural caught up in a system ill-prepared for a magical child. Along with his cousins Seth and Henry, Gareth has had to hide his true nature, his unenviable powers, powers that often threaten his very own existence. Livvy Savoie grew up in a loving family, and has watched from the sidelines as her sisters fell in love but Livvy never expected to find her own happily ever after in a man she had always thought deadly and cold.

The relationship between Gareth and Livvy is one of immediate attraction but an attraction neither one had expected. Gareth’s inner ‘beast’ was demanding Gareth claim Livvy as their own but Gareth was desperate to keep his dark side hidden from the woman he loved believing Livvy would never accept the man and beast together. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense with some scenes of bandage and discipline.

There is a large ensemble cast of supernatural, magical and colorful characters including Lavinia aka Livvy’s sisters: Evie and Mateo (Wolf Gone Wild #1), Devraj and Isadora (Don’t Hex and Drive #2), Violet and Nico (Witches Get Stitches 3) Jules, Clara, ; grim reapers aka Grims Silas, Henry, and Sean Blackwater; ancient vampire and New Orleans’ overlord Ruben Dubois; several Blood Moon Pack members including wolf Shane; and human bartenders JJ and Charlie, who work for Savoie’s at their family owned bar, The Cauldron; Victor Garrison, sponsor of the PR contest, and overseer Richard Davis.

ALWAYS PRACTICE SAFE HEX is a story of power and control, betrayal and obsession, family, friendships, relationships and love. The fast paced premise is riveting and captivating; the characters are charismatic; the romance is seductive

Barb’s Review:
Always Practice Safe Hex by Juliette Cross is the 4th book in her fantastic Stay a Spell series. I loved the first three books in this series, and loved this one too.  Juliette Cross always gives us wonderful fun steamy romances, with a supernatural element. She is one of my favorite authors, who never fails…never ever…to give us a fantastic story in all of her wonderful series. 

Livvy Savoie, our heroine, is always sweet and charming to everyone she meets; as she uses her magical gift of persuasion, along with her charisma to win everyone over.  There isn’t anyone Livvy doesn’t like, except one person…. Gareth Blackwater, the Grim Reaper. 

Gareth, our hero, is usually tense, with most people, even the supernatural’s afraid of him.   Gareth had a difficult and dark childhood, and looks at himself as being evil due to the demon inside of him.  He moved around in various foster homes, and considers his two cousins and his aunt as his only family. 

When Livvy and Gareth are chosen with another person to win a campaign to help supernatural orphans, they are forced to spend a lot of time together.  Gareth begins to have strong feelings for Livvy, suspecting she is using her magical ability on him, but in a short time, he knows she is the one for him.   Livvy also begins to feel strong desires for Gareth, and slowly, as they work together, she begins to see a different side to Gareth. The chemistry between them is off the wall sizzling, as this turns into a wonderful steamy enemy to lover’s romance.  Did I say steamy….whew.

As their relationship escalates, Livvy gets Gareth to open up about his past, and she listens to much of the horror of his childhood.  Livvy is always kind and caring, and now her feelings for Gareth get stronger and steamier each passing day; with seeing how soft and vulnerable he is.  Livvy also learns more about Gareth’s amazing abilities, which she will help him control them.  Livvy will express her feelings to Gareth, showing him her love and allow him to open himself fully to her.  There was an evil villain, who was a threat to Livvy, and I loved how Gareth was there to protect Livvy.

As much as I loved Livvy and Gareth together, I loved see all the sisters together, as well as their significant others.  They were all so much fun, such a wonderful family. I am sure we will get to see Clara and Henry have their own story soon. 

What follows is a fun, romantic, steamy and exciting story that had a bit of suspense, with a fantastic group of characters that Juliette always seems to give us.  As noted previously, I loved Livvy and Gareth together, and their wild chemistry that sizzled.  I love all of the Savoie sisters, and the significant others, and those that they will all eventually mate with; with each sister having their own special skills.

Always Practice Safe Hex was a fun, magical and sexy romance in an amazing world with witches, werewolves, vampires and grims; not to mention so very well written by Juliette Cross. If you enjoy a fun romance, exciting action, great secondary characters, and a couple that has great chemistry; you need to read this book.   I look forward to read the remaining Savoie Sisters’ stories, as each of the books have been fantastic.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Wolf Gone Wild
Don’t Hex and Drive
Witches Get Stitches
Walking in a Witchy Wonderland

Copies supplied for review

 

Juliette calls lush, moss-laden Louisiana home where the landscape curls into her imagination, creating mystical settings for her stories. She has a B.A. in creative writing from Louisiana State University, a M.Ed. in gifted education, and was privileged to study under the award-winning author Ernest J. Gaines in grad school. Her love of mythology, legends, and art serve as constant inspiration for her works. From the moment she read JANE EYRE as a teenager, she fell in love with the Gothic romance–brooding characters, mysterious settings, persevering heroines, and dark, sexy heroes. Even then, she not only longed to read more novels set in Gothic worlds, she wanted to create her own.

Juliette is a multi-published author, including her Nightwing series with Kensington Publishing and The Vessel Trilogy with Samhain Publishing.

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Pinterest / Amazon Author Page / Newsletter

Share

Parks and Provocation by Juliette Cross – Review & Excerpt Tour

Posted on by
11

Parks and Provocation by Juliette Cross – Review & Excerpt Tour

Amazon / B&N / Google Play / BAM / Book Depository

 

Description:
Lola Landry stares through the window of her locked car with the keys in the ignition and the radio blaring Beck’s “Loser.” While standing there and sweltering in the soupy Tennessee humidity, she wonders how her orderly life had crashed and burned so badly. Then her high school nemesis saunters up in all of his tall, strapping, fireman-to-the-rescue glory, slapping her with the humiliating proof that it can always get worse.

When the uber-confident Jedediah Lawson requests a date in return for popping her lock, a lightbulb goes off. Revenge is sweet. He would make the perfect victim—guest, that is—for her next podcast episode on Kiss and Tell. What shocks her is the casual way he not only agrees to the post-date interview on air, but ends up hijacking her audience and wooing them with his swoony, southern charm. Not even a low score on the date-o-meter can dissuade the man or keep her fans from demanding more of the charismatic Jed.

What’s worse, she secretly wants a second date with this man who is so different from his teenage self. His unwavering patience and dimpled smile erodes her will, until she breaks the Kiss and Tell rules by agreeing to a second…and a third date. It’s a disaster. Not the date. They’re wonderful. The disaster is that she is falling for a man she once dubbed Jockstrap Jed.

 

Barb’s Review:
Parks and Provocation by Juliette Cross is the 2nd book in her Green Valley Heroes series.  Lola Landry, our heroine, return home to Green Valley, after losing her job.  Lola is working at a restaurant and doing a Podcast (Kiss N Tell) with her bff, Marley. When she was filling up her gas tank and realized she locked herself out; someone from her past comes to her rescue.  Jed Lawson, our hero, is a firefighter and when he comes to her rescue, they are both in shock, when they recognize each other. Lola and Jed were nemesis to each other back in the school days, but everything is about to change.  Especially when Jed asks Lola out on a date, for payback after getting her car open.

Lola agrees to go out with Jed, if he will agree to be on her Podcast and discuss first dates. I really did enjoy the podcast, and thought her friend Marley was a riot.  It was a lot of fun, especially after a few more dates, the chemistry between them is scorching hot. I loved seeing how Jed would take her different places, and the banter between them was so much fun.  Jed was a hunk, but so sweet and swoon worthy, and I loved him from the start, and his determination to win Lola permanently.  Lola was a wonderful heroine, as she was sweet and fun, who found herself falling hard for Jed; but despite their steamy relationship, Lola was bent on leaving Green Valley and getting a good job.

What follows is a wonderful sweet romance, in a small town, with a fantastic couple that was destined to be together, as well the wonderful secondary characters.  We did root hard for them, despite some glitches along the way.  Parks and Provocation was a quick read that was well written by Juliette Cross.  I suggest you read this book, as it was a joy to read.

 

Sandy’s Review:

PARKS AND PROVOCATION by Juliette Cross is the second instalment in the contemporary, adult, multi-authored GREEN VALLEY HEROES erotic, romance series set in Penny Reid’s WINSTON BROTHERS world in Green Valley Tennessee. This is firefighter Jedediah Lawson, and marketing and communications director/ podcaster Lola Landry’s story line. PARKS AND PROVOCATION can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalment is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Lola and Jed) PARKS AND PROVOCATION follows the building romance and relationship between former high school frenemies firefighter Jedediah Lawson, and marketing and communications director/ podcaster Lola Landry. Ten years earlier Lola Landry left Green Valley Tennessee for bigger and better things but a disastrous PR campaign, and a company downsizing found Lola Landry crawling back to Green Valley, where she was currently working as a café waitress. Locking her keys in the car, Lola calls her best friend and fellow podcaster Marly for help, only to come face to face with her high school crush, and the boy that broke her heart and destroyed her self esteem. Enter fire fighter Jedediah Lawson, the man with whom Lola will fall in love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Lola and Jedediah, and the potential fall-out as Lola’s time in Green Valley comes to a close.

Jedediah Lawson has been in love with Lola Landry for as long as he can remember but something happened in high school, something Jed knew nothing about. A prom rejection, and a good bye hug left Jed feeling alone for close to ten years but with Lola’s return to Green Valley, Jed saw his opening for a second chance, a second chance that apparently came with an expiry date and another good bye. Lola Landry’s return to Green Valley was never in the plans but with her proverbial tail tucked between her legs, Lola accepted work at the local café while co-hosting a podcast about her attempts to reenter the world of dating. Reconnecting with Jedediah was completely unexpected, having no idea that Jedediah was now working and living in their mutual hometown.

The relationship between Lola and Jed is one of frenemies to lovers, a second chance of sorts, for two people who relationship never began due to misunderstanding, miscommunication, hurt feelings and low self esteem. Lola hopes she is only in town for a limited time, Jed is hoping for a happily ever after with the woman who ran away. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to Lola’s best friend Marly; her parents Frank and Ellen, and Aunt Polly, as well as Jed’s father John Lawson, and Jed’s large extended family of siblings and kids.

PARKS AND PROVOCATION is a story of second chances; miscommunication and misunderstanding; family and friendships, relationships and love. The fast paced premise is engaging, entertaining and inviting; the romance is seductive and impassioned; the characters are spirited, sassy and energetic

Copies supplied for review

“Fancy meeting you here,” he said when I finally reached him.
“Fancy that,” I sassed back.
I tried monumentally hard to force my eyes to behave, but they were currently mapping the extensive breadth of his chest without my permission. As a matter of fact, they’d found their newest obsession, tracking the descent of a drop of water that looped around his navel and froze midway down his happy trail.
“What brings you here, Cola?”
I jerked my gaze back to his mischievous grin, contemplating ways to torture my best friend.
I was also debating whether leaning forward and licking him would be inappropriate. “Um, learning fire safety?”
His bark of laughter and dimpled smile detonated somewhere inside my chest and melted my insides into warm goo. Which, of course, drew my attention to his beautiful mouth and the fact that he intended to kiss me with that mouth on our next date.
“Let me guess,” he finally said, amusement still prevalent in every word. “Marly?”
“So, I’ve been wondering if stretching her on a rack would be forgiven by local law enforcement. Do you think they’d give me a free pass, considering,” I waved my hand at him and the surrounding scene behind him, “all this?”
“By this, you mean dragging you to watch a dozen firemen strut around without their shirts on?”
“So y’all do know that half of Green Valley’s womenfolk are gawking at you from across the street, right? Only half of which are actual moms of the scouts? If that.”
He nodded and exhaled a sigh, but that wicked smile remained in place. “Chief McClure said it’s a local tradition, and the fine ladies of Green Valley also donate generously to our annual fundraiser, so we just do as we’re told.”
“Basically, this is a Magic Mike show, minus the actual lap dances, where you get your tips at a later time.”
He edged closer, my eyes betraying me once again to dip down along his beautiful body, realizing that delectable drop of water had slipped down into the holy land.
“I’ll give you a lap dance for free if you like, Lola.”

Juliette calls lush, moss-laden Louisiana home where the landscape curls into her imagination, creating mystical settings for her stories. She has a B.A. in creative writing from Louisiana State University, a M.Ed. in gifted education, and was privileged to study under the award-winning author Ernest J. Gaines in grad school. Her love of mythology, legends, and art serve as constant inspiration for her works. From the moment she read JANE EYRE as a teenager, she fell in love with the Gothic romance–brooding characters, mysterious settings, persevering heroines, and dark, sexy heroes. Even then, she not only longed to read more novels set in Gothic worlds, she wanted to create her own.

Juliette is a multi-published author, including her Nightwing series with Kensington Publishing and The Vessel Trilogy with Samhain Publishing.

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Pinterest / Amazon Author Page / Newsletter

Share

Walking in a Witchy Wonderland by Juliette Cross-dual review

Posted on by
11

Walking in a Witch Wonderland Anthology (Stay a Spell 3.5) by Juliette Cross-dual review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 5, 2021

Getting hexy for the holidays!

Bewitch You A Merry Christmas: Always the peacemaker, Evie conjures Christmas magic between a hexed hottie and his witchy neighbor, while Mateo and Alpha plan to do whatever it takes to get some alone time with their girl.

Rockin’ Around The Hexmas Tree: A Dirty Santa gift with a very special hex boosts Devraj and Isadora’s sex life from sizzling hot to scorching.

Jingle Bell Jock: On New Year’s Eve, a new man puts the moves on Charlie. Tired of pining for his best friend, he’s ready to move on. Fortunately, JJ’s jealousy is just the right ingredient to move them well out of the friend zone.

You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grim: Her first glimpse of grim reaper Gareth Blackwater evokes a major case of insta-hate in Lavinia. In that same moment, Gareth is hit with insta-lust. Fate is playing with them both, and neither one is happy about it.

Jingle Spells: Nico and Violet laugh their way through their first babysitting adventure. But laughter turns to lust when Nico’s “dad” vibes tug on Violet’s maternal heartstrings.

••••••

Sandy’s review : WALKING IN A WITCHY WONDERLAND is a collection of contemporary, erotic, paranormal short stories set in the author’s STAY A SPELL series focusing on the Savoie Sisters of New Orleans in and around the Christmas holidays.

BEWITCH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS focuses on Evie Savoie as she is tasked with reversing a hex placed on Marcus Romano, a human businessman , who caught the ire of the witch next door, a witch whose interest in Marcus goes more than ‘magically deep’. Meanwhile, werewolf Alpha Mateo is hoping for some one on one time with his mate but the celebration for Evie’s twin sisters Clara and Violet is on the schedule, and time with his mate is put on the back burner.

ROCKIN’ AROUND THE HEXMAS TREE focuses on Isadora and her vampire lover Devraj, and a Christmas gift exchange wherein our couple were not the intended recipients of a magical Christmas gift, a gift with the power of sexy lust. As Devraj and Isadora unknowingly take full advantage of the power of the gift, the intended recipients Violet and Nico.

JINGLE BELL JOCK is an MM story line focusing on the unrequited love between human best friends bartender Jeremy ‘JJ’ Breaux, and Event Manager Charlie. A New Year’s Eve party finds Charlie kissing another man, unknowingly breaking the heart of his best friend JJ but JJ is desperate and devises a plan to seduce his best friend, the man with whom he had fallen in love.

YOU’RE A MEAN ONE MR. GRIM follows grim reaper Gareth Blackwater and Lavinia Savoie when a advertising competition places our couple in direct competition with one another. Lavinia despises the sullen and quiet grim reaper but Gareth finds himself insanely attraction to our story line heroine. In the end, a three way tie, forces our couple to work together…the story line has yet to be told.

JINGLE SPELLS finds werewolf Nico, and his mate Violet as they are tasked with babysitting Mateo and Evie’s fifteen month old triplets, a task of which they thought were prepared but to their surprise the triplets powers begin to manifest shocking not only Nico and Violet but Mateo and Evie as well. At the end of the day, Violet and Nico look to the future, for a family of their own.

WALKING IN A WITCHY WONDERLAND is a collection of fun, sexy, spirited and tender holiday stories about family and friendships, relationships and love. Gareth and Lavinia’s short story has yet to evolve, while JJ and Charlie act on their attraction to one another

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Wolf Gone Wild
Don’t Hex and Drive
Witches Get Stitches

 

Barb’s Review:  Walking in a Witchy Wonderland is an holiday anthology that is part of her wonderful Stay a Spell series.  This is a holiday short stories featuring different Savoie Sisters (witches) and their steamy relationships.  I will break this down for each story, which are quick reads

Bewitch You A Merry Christmas: This story revolves around Evie and Mateo (a wolf), with Mateo’s inner wolf Alpha also playing a big part in this story.  Seems Mateo/Alpha is not happy that Evie has been very busy, especially with the holidays, and they are determined at any cost, to get alone time with her.  But Evie must remove a hex another witch put on a customer, and find the witch who put that curse on. Of course, once she removes the hex, Evie is whisked away to spend some very steamy time alone with Mateo (& Alpha)


Rockin’ Around The Hexmas Tree: This one is centered around Isadora and Devraj (a vampire). It is Christmas season, and the sisters have a party exchanging gifts, and one ornament ends up with Isadora.  What they didn’t know was the ornament had an added lust hex, that made for mind blowing steamy sex, which neither could stop.  A wild time was had before they realized what was causing the super-hot enhanced desires.

 
Jingle Bell Jock:  JJ is the bartender at the Savoie Sisters place. Charlie has lusted over his best friend JJ for a long time, with no reaction.  On New Year’s Eve, he meets another guy, who expressed interest in Charlie, and they decide to go out with each other.  When JJ sees his buddy dating someone else, his jealousy arises, and he realizes that he wants Charlie for himself.  When JJ finally makes a move on a confused Charlie (JJ never expressed interest, other than as a friend), the hot chemistry between the two of them escalates into a wild steamy lustful desires, filled with the love they felt for one another.


You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grim: Livvy meets the grim reaper, Gareth Blackwater, and immediately dislikes him.  Gareth comes across as cold, but at the same time, he feels a major case of lust toward Livvy.  She also feels the attraction to Gareth, but will she allow herself to be involved with a Grim. We know very little about the mysterious Gareth, which I’m sure a book about them should come soon enough. 

Jingle Spells: This was a riot, as we get to see Nico and Violet babysit Mateo and Evie’s triplets.  The babies are already hard to handle, but though it is fun and challenging, it was lots of laughs.  Nico and Violet start feeling maternal instincts, as they think about what will be in the future. By the time Evie and Mateo come home, everything is in order, and they are exhausted. LOL

Walking in a Witchy Wonderland was a fun and steamy anthology, with 5 great short stories revolving around our wonderful Savoie Sisters.  Juliette Cross always blows us away with her fantastic and hot romantic paranormal stories, and I absolutely love this Stay a Spell series.

 

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Juliette calls lush, moss-laden Louisiana home where the landscape curls into her imagination, creating mystical settings for her stories. She has a B.A. in creative writing from Louisiana State University, a M.Ed. in gifted education, and was privileged to study under the award-winning author Ernest J. Gaines in grad school. Her love of mythology, legends, and art serve as constant inspiration for her works. From the moment she read JANE EYRE as a teenager, she fell in love with the Gothic romance–brooding characters, mysterious settings, persevering heroines, and dark, sexy heroes. Even then, she not only longed to read more novels set in Gothic worlds, she wanted to create her own.

Juliette is a multi-published author, including her Nightwing series with Kensington Publishing and The Vessel Trilogy with Samhain Publishing.

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Pinterest / Amazon Author Page / Newsletter

Share