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Witches Get Stitches (Stay a Spell) by Juliette Cross-dual review

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Witches Get Stitches (Stay a Spell) by Juliette Cross-dual review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 20,2021

Violet Savoie has a plan. A dream, rather. To open her own tattoo shop, which caters to supernaturals in need of permanent charms. As a powerful Seer, she has the potent magic to cast every kind of spell. Except the kind to give werewolves control over their beastly side. And her business partner Nico needs help in the worst kind of way.

Nico Cruz has a secret. A motive, rather. To subtly stalk and seduce Violet until she finally recognizes they are fated to be together. Ever since their heated encounter in Austin on New Year’s Eve two years earlier, he’s been dying to get his hands—and his tongue—back on her body. He knows a woman like Violet can’t be courted in the usual way. Luckily, Nico has no scruples about misbehaving to get what he wants.

But when his former pack roams into town, and an old friend is far too interested in Violet, his focus shifts to the threat venturing into his territory. Nico may come across as the quiet, broody one, but the intruders are about to regret stepping foot in New Orleans. And when Violet goes missing, no charm or spell can keep Nico’s wolf at bay.

•••••••

Sandy’s Review

WITCHES GET STITCHES is the third instalment in Juliette Cross’ contemporary, adult STAY A SPELL paranormal, romance series focusing on the Savoie sisters of New Orleans, Louisiana. This is witch /seer/tattoo artist Violet Savoie, and werewolf shifter/musician/business owner Nico Cruz’s story line. WITCHES GET STITCHES can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary but for back story and cohesion, I recommend reading the series in order.

SOME BACKGROUND: Hundreds of years earlier, a witch placed a curse on a man who would become the first werewolf. Fast forward to present day, wherein most of the supernatural community believes the werewolves are the lowest of the low, discriminating against an entire species.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Nico and Violet) WITCHES GET STITCHES follows the building romance and relationship between one-hundred and three year old werewolf Nico Cruz, and witch /seer Violet Savoie. Nico Cruz’s inner wolf knows Violet Savoie is their mate but Violet is a Tarot reader, and her cards revealed nothing but death and darkness for our story line couple, so our heroine kept Nico in the friend zone for a couple more years. Moving to New Orleans, and investing in Violet’s tattoo business brought Nico up close and personal with the woman that called to his heart but Nico’s former wolf pack, The Blood Moon Pack, needs something from our story line heroine, and Nico’s wolf is about to lose his control. What ensues is the slow building romance and relationship between Nico and Violet, and the potential fall-out as the history between the werewolves, and the other supernatural creatures is about to take center stage.

Violet Savoie believes she and Nico are destined to die. Her Tarot readings reveal nothing but darkness and doom for our storyline couple, therefore Violet keeps her distance from the man that stirs something deep within but Nico’s former Pack wants something from our heroine, something she has yet to develop or use. Nico Cruz wants nothing more than to claim Violet as his fated mate but Violet keeps her heart walled to the man with whom she will fall in love.

The relationship between Violet and Nico is a friends to lovers, workplace romance between two people fated by DNA and time. Violet and Nico’s jealousy of others proves that each wants what the other one is offering but Nico has yet to prove that he is worthy of our heroine’s love. The $ex scenes are intimate, passionate and intense but I dislike the use of a certain four-letter word.

Once again, there is a large ensemble cast of supernatural, magical and colorful secondary and supporting characters including Isadora’s sisters Evie and Mateo (Wolf Gone Wild #1), Devraj and Isadora (Don’t Hex and Drive #1) Jules, Clara, Livvy, Tia; grim reapers alka Grims Henry, Gareth, and Sean Blackwater; tattooists Lindsey Farmer, warlock Tom Bounyasang, and Zaire; ancient vampire and New Orleans’ overlord Ruben Dubois; Blood Moon Pack wolves Shane, Rhett and Ty; and humans and bartenders JJ and Charlie, who work for Violet at the family owned bar, The Cauldron.

WITCHES GET STITCHES is another story of family, friendships, relationships and love; of desperation and power, magic and control. The premise is exciting and entertaining; the romance is provocative and seductive- the sexual chemistry if palpable; the characters are sassy, energetic and often fun. WITCHES GET STITCHES is a wonderful, quirky, and delightful addition to Juliette Cross’ STAY A SPELL paranormal series.

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

Barb’s Review
Witches Get Stitches by Juliette Cross is the 3rd book in her fantastic Stay a Spell series. I loved the first two books in this series, and loved this one too.  Juliette Cross always gives us wonderful fun steamy romances, with a supernatural element. 

Witches Get Stitches focuses on Violet, who is one of the Savoie sisters, with Violet being a very powerful witch and seer. Violet is determined to open her own tattoo parlor for supernaturals, and she has the potent magic to cast spells. Two years ago in Texas, Violent met Nico Cruz, a werewolf and they had a very passionate encounter, but then she left to go back home to New Orleans. 

Nico could not get Violet out of his mind, and decides to find her, and eventually he becomes her partner at the Tattoo parlor, as they become best friends. Nico wants to win her over and become his lover, but Violet (erroneously reading her tarot cards that they don’t match) just wants to be friends. All Violet’s family and friends can see how Nico cares strongly about her, except Violet.  But soon that will change and their relationship turns into a wild steamy swoony romance, with their chemistry off the wall; and Nico’s wolf wants him to bond with her. One night at the bar, Nico spots one of his old pack, and knew there was going to be trouble. Nico also started to become jealous of all the men flirting with Violet, but soon she will realize that Nico is the love of her life, and the bond between them forms.  

Violet is determined to create a special tattoo spell that will give werewolves the ability to control their beast, and keep their calm.  He asks his friends to keep an eye out for Violet and her sisters, as he worries why the pack was here.  When Violet gets kidnapped, Nico knows his ex-pack wants the charmed tattoo, but little does he know that Violet is a very powerful witch, who can handle herself.

What follows is a fun, romantic, sexy and exciting story that had a bit of mystery, with a fantastic group of characters that Juliette always seems to give us. I loved seeing all the sisters, as well as Mateo and Evie; Isadora and Devraj, and other possible mates for the rest of the girls.  I look forward to learning more about the Grim, and what they can do.

Witches Get Stitches was a fun, magical and sexy romance in an amazing world with witches, werewolves, vampires and grims; not to mention written so very well 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.

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.

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Hunt of the Dragon by Juliette Cross-Dual Review & Tour

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Hunt of the Dragon (Vale of Stars 4) by Juliette Cross-Dual Review & tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 7, 2021

Photojournalist Krissa Nadeem ventures into the wilderness to record the destruction by the Larkosian army. When she captures on film the Morgon Guard’s top most wanted enemy in hiding, she sets in motion a journey that will change her life forever. Not just because of the secret she uncovers, but also because of the man who will become her protector. And more.

Bowen Huntergild, stealthy and deadly assassin, is at the head of the task force searching for the Bloodback witch who killed his sister in a blood sacrifice. When Krissa turns in her finding on film, he teams with her to discover the witch’s hideout in the wilds beyond Drakos. While he focuses on the job, his dragon stirs, warning him that destiny has more intimate plans.

What neither of them realize is that this one photograph could be the salvation or the doom of them all.

•••••••

Sandy’s Review: HUNT OF THE DRAGON is the fourth and final instalment in Juliette Cross’ adult VALE OF STARS paranormal/fantasy romance series focusing on a dragon hybrid species known as the Morgons. This is twenty-something photojournalist and human Krissa Nadeem, and forty-something Morgon assassin Bowen Huntergild’s story line. HUNT OF THE DRAGON 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 for back story and cohesion.

NOTE: There is a novella companion series entitled NIGHTWING (Soulfire #1 / Windburn #2) that introduces several of the characters and some background history into the war between the Morgons and humankind. I would strongly recommend reading the Nightwing companion series before starting the Vale of Stars series. This is not a series about dragon shifters but a hybrid species with specialized powers, wings and the ability to fly.

Told from three first person perspectives (Krissa, Bowen, Mykah) HUNT OF THE DRAGON focuses on the hunt for the person responsible for killing Bowen’s sister Lena. Krissa Nadeem is a human, a photojournalist who has captured the image of Bekkanine Bloodback, a murderer, a priestess who uses dark blood magic for evil gain, and as such Bekkanine has now given birth to something the Morgons have not seen in thousands of years. In an effort to capture the witch who took his sister’s life, Bowen enlists Krissa Nadeem to reveal the location of the priestess and her son but to Bowen’s surprise, Krissa is his mate, and his ‘soulfire’ burns with the need to claim our heroine as his own. What ensues is a cross country journey on the hunt for the priestess, and the potential fall –out as a war is on the horizon with Larkos Nightwing and the Larkosian army, a marauding army of soldiers, killers, rapists and slavers.

Bowen Huntergild never thought he would find the one woman that set his soulfire aflame. Flying our heroine on a cross country journey finds our couple up close and personal as they search for the priestess who took Lena’s life. Krissa Nadeem is best friends with Moira (Waking the Dragon) and Jessen, already mated to Morgan men, and as such our heroine is acutely aware of the Morgon’s soulfire and their need to mate but Bowen and Krissa are on a mission, a mission that will see a mating, and the recovery of a young boy whose existence is unlike anything anyone has ever seen.

The relationship between Bowen and Krissa is one of immediate attraction but begins as a working assignment to locate a killer. The sexual tension is palpable; the chemistry is sizzling and hot. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is as large ensemble cast of colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters including most of the previous story line couples from both series including Demetrius and Shakara, Moira and Kol, Conn and Valla, as well as Lucius and Jessen, and Lorian Nightwing (Nightwing series). We are introduced to Mykah, and the return of Bastien Silverback. Here’s hoping the author has plans for new spin off series.

HUNT OF THE DRAGON is a story of betrayal, revenge, power and control; a story of family, grief, vengeance and reflection. The character driven premise is complex, detailed and entertaining; the romance is passionate and seductive; the characters are dynamic, charismatic, strong and determined. HUNT OF THE DRAGON is a wonderful ending to a fantastic series.

Reading Order and previous Reviews

Nightwing Series

Soulfire
Windburn
Nightbloom

Vale of Stars series

Dragon Heartstring .5
Waking the Dragon
Dragon in the Blood
Dragonfire

_______

Barb’s Review:
Hunt of the Dragon by Juliette Cross is the 4th and final book in her fabulous Vale of Stars series.  I am a huge fan of Cross, having read most if not all her books.  She is an amazing author, who never fails to give us terrific exciting stories (paranormal world), with great couples, fantastic secondary characters, action filed and steamy. Hunt of the Dragon was a great addition to this series, and as always, I loved our wonderful couple.

Krissa Nadeem, our heroine, is a journalist who also excels in taking great photos. She just came back from secretly observing the evil Larkosian army destroying various towns and people. One of the pictures she took and thought was destroyed has gotten the attention Kol Moonring, who calls her to a meeting.  As nervous as she is, she is surprised to see Bowen Huntergild, one of the most powerful Morgons, also attending the meeting.  Seems one picture Krissa took was that of a witch and her son (who is a dragon), and both men want to know where she took it.  The witch in question is the one who killed Bowen’s sister, and the boy is a rare full dragon.  Kol tells Krissa that she will go with Bowen to find the place she had been, in order to find the witch and her son, who they want to protect.

Bowen Huntergild, our hero, works for Kol and the Moonring Guard, and is determined to enact revenge for his sister’s death, but he knows that the witch maybe able to help them turn the tables against the evil Larkos Nightwing; and the boy needs to be protected, as he is the only living full dragon, whom Larkos will try to kill.   Larkos is known as the Blood King, and he has brought about destruction across all cities, moving along the way to destroy the remaining Morgons.  He needs to be stopped, but so far, the good guys have not been successful.  Will the boy who is a dragon, Mykah be the one to save them all?

When Bowen and Krissa begin their journey, they both begin to sense something between them. He fairly quickly, knows she is the one for him, as he can feel the soulfire within.  Krissa was a great heroine, smart, savvy, and tough, but she also knows there is something between her and Bowen that pulls on her emotions.  Bowen was a fabulous hero, not only a great warrior, but he was so sweet with Krissa, and treated Mykah like a son. I really liked Mykah too, as we watched him slowly trust our heroes, as well as see how quicky he magically ages and becomes powerful.

What follows is a very exciting, action packed adventure that will bring back many of our favorites from the earlier books, as well as those from the original Nightwing series.  I loved seeing them all.   In a short time, Bowen and Krissa will succumb to the soulfire burning within, with each bonding together.  I will say they made such a great couple; I loved them together

Hunt of the Dragon was a fascinating read, from start to finish. To tell too much more would be spoilers, and since this is the finale, you do not want to miss a thing, as this was an amazing climax.  Juliette Cross has done an amazing job writing this story with a wonderful satisfying conclusion. Hunt of the Dragon was exciting, action packed, suspenseful and steamy romance.  If you have not read Juliette Cross, what are you waiting for?

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

 

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Don’t Hex and Drive by Juliette Cross-Dual Review

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Don’t Hex and Drive by Juliette Cross-Dual Review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 8, 2020

Notoriously bad at peopling, Isadora Savoie spends most of her time in the greenhouse or at the local animal shelter, using her Conduit powers of growth and healing. Content to remain in the background of the Savoie sister shenanigans, she’s reluctantly roped into the mystery of missing neighborhood girls. Now, she’s partnered with a flashy, flirty vampire to find them before it’s too late.

Devraj Kumar has seen and done it all. Three hundred years roaming the earth as a Stygorn—a legendary vampire warrior who operates in the shadows—has its perks. But ennui has set in. That is, until he has a run-in—literally—with an intriguing witch while on a new assignment in New Orleans. Fascinated by her resistance to his charms, Devraj can’t help but push her buttons in an effort to get to know the shy witch. Fortunately for him, she’s been recruited by the Lord of Vampires to assist Devraj on the case.

Between a Bollywood marathon, supernatural dating app, secret package, and sexy driving instruction, Isadora is in over her head. And Devraj? After just one taste, he’s playing for keeps.

••••••••

Sandy’s Review: DON’T HEX AND DRIVE is the second instalment in Juliette Cross’ contemporary, adult STAY A SPELL paranormal, romance series. This is witch Isadora Savoie, and vampire/Stygorn Devraj Kumar’s story line. DON’T HEX AND DRIVE 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 (Devraj and Isadora) DON’T HEX AND DRIVE follows the building relationship and romance between witch Isadora Savoie, and vampire/Stygorn Devraj Kumar. Devray Kumar is a vampire with special abilities, hired to uncover the person(s) responsible for a series of abductions and missing girls, potentially linked to a blood trafficking ring but literally running into his neighbor Isadora Savoie found Devray wanting something more from the witch, something he hasn’t thought about for a very long time. Isadora Savoie is a Conduit with the ability to heal herself and others but when Devray Kumar runs her over, Isadora takes an immediate dislike to our story line hero, a dislike based on first impressions and Bollywood good looks and ego to match. When the Ruben Dubois, the vampire overlord of New Orleans calls Devray for help, all bets are off, as Devray and Isadora work together, to take down the ring of potential vampire blood letters. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Devray and Isadora, and the potential fall-out as Devray’s time in New Orleans comes to a close, and Isadora’s struggles with issues of control.

Isadora Savoie is a powerful witch but struggles to ‘people’ and socialize in a world of social animals. Preferring to work in her garden or volunteer at the animal shelter, Isadora battles between head and heart when Devray makes her an offer, she cannot refuse. Devray Kumar suspects Isadora is his mate but our heroine refuses to give into her heart preferring to remain distant and aloof but when Devray offers a friends with benefits relationship, Isadora finds herself falling for a man who is about to break her heart.

The relationship between Devray and Isadora begins as an accidental meeting whereupon Isadora takes an immediate disliking to Devray Kumar. Believing our hero to be nothing more than a rich, stuck up albeit powerful vampire, Isadora battles her attraction but in the end, finds herself in love with a man who may not be willing to settle down. 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 supernatural, magical and colorful secondary and supporting characters including Isadora’s sisters Evie and Mateo (Wolf Gone Wild #1), Jules, Clara, Livvy, Violet and their cousin Tia; Mateo’s cousin Nico; grim reaper Henry Blackwater, and ancient vampire and New Orleans’ overlord Ruben Dubois. The requisite evil has many faces.

DON’T HEX AND DRIVE is a story of family, friendships, relationships and love; a story of betrayal and power, manipulation and blood. The premise is enchanting and imaginative ; the romance is sexy and spicy; the characters are flirty, spirited and sassy. DON’T HEX AND DRIVE is an energetic and sensual tale.

Click HERE for Sandy and Barb’s review of book one WOLF GONE WILD.

___________

Barb’s Review:
Don’t Hex and Drive by Juliette Cross is the 2nd book in her Stay a Spell series. I loved the first book in this series, and could not wait to read this book. As always with Juliette Cross, Don’t Hex and Drive was another fantastic addition to this series.  No surprise, as Juliette never fails to give us great stories in all her series.

Isadora Savoie, one of the New Orleans Savoie sisters, who are witches, is more of an introvert in comparison to her sisters.  Isadora is a Conduit witch, with healing powers, loves planting in her greenhouse and she is an animal lover, always going to visit the dogs at the shelter.  One evening, she is riding home on her bicycle, when she is slightly hit by a car, and when she tries to get up, she sees a gorgeous hot hunk, who is also a vampire.

Devraj Kumar, our hero, is a Sygorn vampire (powerful ancient with enormous powers), and a Bollywood super star, who is known for his reputation with the ladies.  When he jumps out of his car to help the girl he hit, she stubbornly pushes him away, but Devraj insists to help her.  Isadora has a fear of cars, but Devraj will take her home, and he learns she is one of the Savoie sisters, who will help heal her.  He also finds himself attracted to Isadora, who wants nothing to do with him and resists his charms, which is so very different then the norm for Devraj. He sets his sight on Isadora, and is determined to win her over.

Devraj is in town to help Ruben (Lord of the Vampires, whom we met in first book) find missing human girls being kidnapped, who are being used for blood.  A plan is set to try and catch the kidnappers, with Isadora being used as bait.  The relationship between Devraj and Isadora is slow build, as he continues to show up everywhere, and she begins to have feelings for Devraj; the chemistry between them was sizzling.

What follows is a fun, romantic, sexy and exciting story that had a bit of mystery, with a fantastic group of characters that Juliette always seems to give us.  Isadora and Devraj were great together, and you rooted hard for them to stay together.  I love all of the Savoie sisters, and the men they will all eventually mate with; with each sister having their own special skills. 

Don’t Hex and Drive was lighthearted and so much fun; not to mention so very well written by Juliette Cross.  To tell too much more would be spoilers.  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 cannot wait to see what Juliette has in store for us next.

Link to Read First 3 chapters: https://www.juliettecross.com/single-post/2020/08/06/Dont-Hex-and-Drive-Chapters-1-3

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

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Wolf Gone Wild (Stay A Spell #1) by Juliette Cross – Dual Review

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Wolf Gone Wild (Stay A Spell #1) by Juliette Cross – Dual Review

 

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Description:
What’s the worst thing that can happen to a werewolf? Unable to shift for three months, Mateo Cruz knows all too well. His wolf has taken up residence in his head, taunting him night and day with vividly violent and carnal thoughts. Convinced he’s cursed, he needs the help of a powerful witch before he literally goes insane.

​Evie Savoie has always obeyed the house rules of her coven–no werewolves. They’re known for being moody and volatile. So, when a distempered, dangerous werewolf strolls into the bar and almost strangles one of her late-night customers, she’s ready to bounce him through the door. But the desperation in his eyes when he begs her to help him softens her heart and convinces her to bend the rules.

​What Evie doesn’t know is that Mateo’s wolf has a mind of his own. And now that she’s in his sights, he wants only one thing. Her.

••••••••••••••

Sandy’s Review:

WOLF GONE WILD is the first instalment in Juliette Cross’ contemporary, adult STAY A SPELL erotic, paranormal romance series focusing on the Savoie sisters. This is witch, waitress and aspiring artist Eveleen ‘Evie’ Savoie, and werewolf/ metal sculptor Mateo Cruz’ storyline.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Mateo and Evie) WOLF GONE WILD follows the building relationship between witch, waitress and aspiring artist Evie Savoie, and werewolf/ metal sculptor Mateo Cruz’. Mateo needs help. Someone has cast a spell, and our hero is unable to shift thusly allowing his blood lust to build to extraordinary levels. Hoping the Savoie sisters of New Orleans are able to help, Mateo approaches the witches in an effort to get the ‘hex’ removed. Enter Evie Savoie, witch and Hex-breaker, and the woman with whom Mateo will fall in love. What ensues is the slow building romance and relationship between Mateo and Evie, as Evie and her sisters struggle to unravel the hex that has spelled Mateo into something he’s not.

Evie Savoie is a powerful Hex-breaker but struggles with the spell surrounding the man that she loves. Unable to break through the layers of magic, Evie, along with her sisters Jules, Clara and Violet go in search of something else, a book that quite possible holds the cure to what ails Mateo Cruz. Mateo Cruz is a renowned metal sculptor who owns his own gallery in New Orleans but someone or something has bound Mateo’s powers, powers that are slowly tearing him apart, from the inside out.

The relationship between Mateo and Evie begins as a business arrangement as Evie is forced to work with a man she considers dangerous and dark. Witches and werewolves do not get along but something about Evie calls to Mateo when his Alpha demands Mateo make Evie their mate. The $ex scenes are limited but intimate, erotic and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful secondary and supporting characters. We are introduced to three of Evie’s sisters Jules, Clara and Violet; their mother Serena Savoie; Mateo’s assistant Missy; his cousin Nico; fellow artist Sandra; ancient vampire and overlord Ruben Dubois; witch and seer Beryl; numerous employees at the family run bar the Cauldron; Bam, the comic store owner, as well as Mateo’s alter ego-the Alpha; Z and Fred the bow-time wearing rooster.

The world building introduces the Savoie sisters-their personalities, their powers, and the individual specialities, as well as the different supernatural beings that inhabit New Orleans, Louisiana.

WOLF GONE WILD is a story of power and control; of betrayal and vengeance; of family, friendship, romance and love. The premise is imaginative and engaging; the characters are sassy, fun and flirty-there is plenty of non-stop back and forth between Evie and her sisters, as well as between Evie and Mateo, and Mateo and the Alpha; the romance is heart warming and energetic. WOLF GONE WILD is an animated and sensual introduction to Juliette Cross’ STAY A SPELL paranormal, romance series.

_________

Barb’s Review:
Wolf Gone Wild by Juliette Cross is the 1st book in her new Stay a Spell series.  I cannot say enough about Juliette, who is one of my favorite authors.   She never fails…never ever…to give us a fantastic story in an equally fantastic series.   Did I like Wolf Gone Wild??  I loved it, and was thrilled to see a different kind of series for Juliette.  Loved all the witches and werewolves….awesome.

Mateo Cruz, our hero, is a wolf shifter and has not been able to shift to his wolf for over three months; his inner wolf has been driving him crazy with loud, snarky and violent comments. He knows something is wrong, that he is cursed; so, desperation drives Mateo to seek out a witch who is known to be a hex-breaker.  The problem?  Witches do not help werewolves.

Evie Savoie, our heroine, is the hex-breaker in her witch family, the Savoie sisters.  Evie is working at a local bar, where she meets with clients, and immediately notices Mateo.  She tries to avoid him, knowing the rules…no werewolves; but Evie sees the desperation in his eyes, not to mention her immediate attraction. To make matters worse, Mateo’s wolf (Alpha) is constantly yelling to him about his insatiable desire for the pretty witch.

Evie decides to help Mateo, and brings him home for her to plead her case to her sisters, each of whom have their own powers.  They all agree to help Mateo find out who has cursed him, even though they discover that he has been affected by a powerful witch. 

What follows is an exciting, intense, and sexy adventure to save Mateo.  Juliette’s addition of Alpha, was not only downright dirty, but a lot of fun too.  I loved Evie and Mateo together (with the added comments from Alpha); they did make a fabulous sexy couple with amazing chemistry.  No surprise here, as Juliette always comes up with fantastic couples.  The sisters were also great, especially Jules, Violet and Clara, just to name a few; I can’t wait to meet them all in the future books.

Wolf Gone Wild was so well written by Juliette Cross.  To tell too much more would be spoilers.  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.  I cannot wait to see what Juliette has in store for us next. 

Copies supplied for Review

Link to Read First 3 chapters: https://www.juliettecross.com/single-post/2020/01/04/Wolf-Gone-Wild-First-3-Chapters

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.

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Coldest Fire by Juliette Cross -Reviews, Excerpt & Giveaway

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Coldest Fire by Juliette Cross – Reviews, Excerpt & Giveaway 

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Description:
Archangel Uriel is hell bent on revenge on the demon prince Vladek. To get into the prince’s impenetrable fortress, he’ll have to fight in the pits of the underworld. And he’ll need the help of the last person he can trust––the demon witch Nadya.

There is no way Nadya, who spends her days taking care of others, expected to find Uriel on her doorstep. He seems no happier about being there than she does. But helping him means evening the scales against her backstabbing sister, and she’ll do whatever it takes to make that bitch pay.

Using the fight pit circuits in the demon underworld, Nadya helps Uriel combat his way to the arena at the castle in Russia. Only she isn’t what she seems. As a matter of fact, she may hold the key to his redemption…and to his heart.

Each book in the Dominion series is STANDALONE:
* The Deepest Well (prequel)
* Darkest Heart
* Hardest Fall
* Coldest Fire

 

Sandy’s Review:

COLDEST FIRE is the third and final full-length instalment in Juliette Cross’ post-apocalyptic, dystopian DOMINION fantasy, romance series focusing on the fight for control and power- the Great War- between Heaven and Hell. This is Archangel Uriel, and witch Nadya. COLDEST FIRE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. The Dominion series is a sequel to the Vessel Series

Told from dual first person perspectives (Uriel and Nadya) COLDEST FIRE follows the building relationship and romance between Archangel Uriel, and witch Nadya. For months Nadya had been imprisoned in Estonia by demon king Vladek, while Uriel found himself the prisoner and slave of a powerful witch known as Lisabette. Freed from his prison Uriel goes in search of Nadya, the witch he considers in league with the demons of hell.

Uriel is desperate to return to destroy the self-proclaimed demon king Vladek but his only way to Vladek is through the fighting pits with the help of a witch he doesn’t trust. After his tortuous months under the control of Lisabette, Uriel looks at all witches as a pock against the world. But Uriel needs Nadya’s help, and it’s with her help that Uriel will find himself falling for the woman that has stolen his heart.

The relationship between Uriel and Nadya begins as a business arrangement but our couple originally met when Nadya and Uriel were first imprisoned months before. Uriel needs Nadya’s connections but Nadya struggles with memories of torture and abuse at the hands of a demon Uriel is determined to destroy. As plans are made to get Uriel into the fighting pits, our hero finds himself falling for the broken witch. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without he use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of energetic and colorful secondary and supporting characters including demon king Vladek, Lisabette witch, high demon Yorick, and the high demon of Moscow Skaal. We are reintroduced to Kat and George (The Deepest Well .5), Anya and Dommiel (The Darkest Heart #1) and Xander and Carowyn aka Bone (Hardest Fall #2).

COLDEST FIRE is a character driven story of betrayal and revenge; of trust and forgiveness; of heartbreak and love. The premise is engaging, entertaining and thrilling; the romance is seductive, spicy and intense; the characters are sensitive, spirited and charismatic. Juliette Cross writes from the heart: her characters are enthralling, sexy and imaginative; her stories are brilliant and intense.

Barb’s Review:

Coldest Fire by Juliette Cross is the 4th and final book in her fantastic urban fantasy Dominion series.  I cannot say enough about Juliette Cross, and how each and every time I read one of her fantastic books, she grabs hold of me at the first page and never ever lets go until the very end.  Bravo, Juliette, as Coldest Fire was sensational, and now I have to grieve that this series is over.  ☹

Nadya is our heroine, whom we had met previously; she is a demon witch and has helped Dommiel and others in earlier stories.  This is now her turn, but she never expected to find it in the Archangel Uriel.  When Dommiel and Anya go to Nadya for her help, she is shocked to see Uriel arrive right behind them.

Uriel, having recently been freed from being tortured by the Demon King, Vladek and Lisabette (evil demon witch), is hell bent on revenge at any cost.  He wants to kill Vladek, and because he trusts Dommiel, he agrees that he needs the help of Nadya, but he doesn’t plan on trusting any witch. Uriel’s plan, especially now that he is healed and back in great shape, is to join the fighting pits, working his way to Vladek’s pit. 

Nadya is willing to help, but she has her own skeleton’s, and does not want to come close to wherever Vladek is.  She too was a prisoner of Vladek, who not only tortured her, but kept her as his concubine.  Lisabette (who was actually her evil sister), also helped put Nadya in harm’s way with Vladek, until she was able to escape and hide in a small-town helping others.

When Nadya goes with Uriel to meet with her demon friend Skaal, they work with Uriel on a plan to get him into the fighting pits.  In a short time, Uriel begins to see that Nadya is not what he thought she was as a witch, and slowly but surely as they spend more time together, he finds his cold heart beginning to melt.  Nadya also finds herself falling for Uriel, and his kindness in helping others, especially humans.

What follows is a fascinating story, as we follow Uriel and Nadya, as they travel to each of the fighting pits, with Uriel in dangerous situations, but also winning to keep him moving toward Vladek.  Nadya in disguise begins to become leery, as she sees someone from the past, who is one of Vladek’s men.  But she is determined to help Uriel, even if she is putting her own life in danger.  The romance between Nadya and Uriel was scorching hot, and they made such a great couple, especially since both never thought they would find love in each other.  I loved them both together.

It was great to spend time with all our favorites, such as Dommiel, Anya, George, Kat, Bone, Xander and Skaal. I also enjoyed Circe, Uriel’s dragon.   When the situation became threatening and lives on the line, they all teamed up with Uriel and Nadya to find a way to defeat Vladek. 

Coldest Fire was another heart stopping, pulse pounding, action packed, intense exciting thriller that Juliette always gives us.  I was unable to put the book down, as besides the intense emotional thriller, I loved watching Uriel and Nadya fall in love.  Coldest Fire was a fantastic story that needs to be read.  But please make sure you start with the first book in this series, as you do not want to miss a thing.   As always, thank you Juliette Cross for this wonderful series. I look forward to what she will be giving us next, especially since never fails to wow us. 

 

 

 

URIEL: Ludvik took my wrist in one hand and my opponent’s wrist in the other before announcing the standard, “Only body and blades in the ring. Fight till you die. Or survive.”
The voice of Yorick echoing through the speakers of the hall crooned over the masses. “Tonight, we have a special guest. To challenge our champion Mastok the Marauder, we have Uriel the Archangel!”
Sudden raucous yells erupted from the audience. I heard what I’d expected from some of the jeering crowd.
“Kill the angel!”
“Break his wings!”
“Take off his pretty head!” one demoness in the front row yelled with spittle flying.
Fuel to the fire, my friends. They had no idea what had been building inside of me since the day I’d been taken captive by Vladek and restrained by his putrid essence and by Lisabette’s blood rites and black magic. It would all be unleashed tonight.
“Let the games begin!” shouted Yorick, then the maestro waved his arms.
The orchestra swelled suddenly, joined by a chorus in the left balcony that I hadn’t noticed. A few of them were seraphs, but mostly humans. Throat collars with chains binding them one to the other kept them in place. All slaves to this bastard, Yorick.
“To the death,” grunted Ludvik, smirking at me before letting our wrists go.
The behemoth circled away from me, but I stood perfectly still.
I recognized the music building with spine-chilling accuracy. “O Fortuna” from the cantata Carmina Burana. The Latin voices and strings rang with staccato perfection. The haunting lyrics vibrated straight to my soul, opening it wide for the words to take on new meaning. Words penned by defrocked monks now long dead sang straight to my heart. Oh, yes. Lady Fortune had been undeservingly cruel, blasting me with one disaster after another, enslaving my soul with despair, bringing me to my knees and expelling me out of hell so that I could stand on this stage and take my revenge.
As my soon-to-be first kill continued to circle me like a menacing predator, his sinister grin having zero effect, I glanced one more time up to the top balcony, capturing her look of mingling worry and fear and another heady emotion no woman had ever held in her eyes for me. I pressed it all inside my chest and turned to the monster crouching for a strike.
Let it all begin.


 

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.

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Dragon Fire (Vale of Stars #3) by Juliette Cross-Review & Excerpt

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DRAGON FIRE (Vale of Stars #3) by Juliette Cross-Dual Review & Excerpt

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 30, 2019

A taste of heaven may drag him to hell…

Wounded, with a target still on his back, Kieren Moonring has been hiding in the last place his Morgon enemies might find him. In the human convent on the southern shores of Primus, his body heals quickly, but his soul is broken.

While Sister Liana tends to the recovering Morgon man hiding in their convent, she can’t stop or disguise her growing attraction. What disturbs her more is that he begins to uncover her past that is best kept buried.

Kieren fears his old enemies will find him, and then Liana. When his greatest fear comes true and she becomes their next mark…bloody hell, if he won’t murder the whole world to keep her safe.

•••••••••••••••

Sandy’s REVIEW:

DRAGON FIRE is the third instalment in Juliette Cross’ amazing adult VALE OF STARS paranormal, fantasy series focusing on a dragon hybrid species known as the Morgons. This is Morgon Kieren Moonring, and Sister Liana’s story line. DRAGON FIRE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and history.

NOTE: There is a novella companion series entitled NIGHTWING (Soulfire #1 / Windburn #2) that introduces several of the characters and some background history into the war between the Morgons and humankind. I would strongly recommend reading the Nightwing companion series before starting the Vale of Stars series.

Told from three first person points of view (Kieren, Liana, Dakian) DRAGON FIRE follows in the aftermath of an injury that almost killed our story line hero. Healing and in hiding at the Sisters of Saint Portia convent Kieren would meet his future, his mate in the guise of Sister Liana, a woman with secrets of her own. An attack by the Larkosians, a rogue group of Morgons, against the Sisters of Saint Portia finds Kieren and Liana on the run, hoping to find help along the way. What ensues is the building relationship between Kieren and Liana, and the potential fall-out as Liana becomes the obsession of the Blood King’s right hand man, obsession that burns with vengeance and retribution.

DRAGON FIRE is a story of power and control; destruction and obsession; family, friendship, and fated love. Liana struggles with the death of her father, and the revenge that forced our heroine into a life with the Sisters. Kieren knows it is only a matter time before his enemies discover his whereabouts but our hero has no idea that betrayal was but a dragon’s flight away.

The relationship between Kieren and Liana is one of immediate attraction but Kieren believes Liana is off-limits, a Sister of Saint Portia, a woman raised to serve and obey. A series of shared dreams and fantasies finds Kieren hoping for a future with the mate of his heart. 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 and strong, secondary and supporting characters including Demetrius and Shakara (Dragon Heartstring #.5), Kol and Moira (Waking the Dragon #1), Conn and Valla (Dragon in the Blood #2): Lucius and Jessen (Soulfire), Lorian and Sorcha (Windburn), Bowen, Craven: Bastien Silverback and his ‘bastards’ Madera and Rafe. The requisite evil has many faces including the Blood King Larkos, and Larkosian Lieutenant Dakian.

DRAGON FIRE is the prelude to war, a war between the Morgons and the Larkosians, a war meant to kill and destroy. DRAGON FIRE is also a story of discrimination and specieism, dominance and rule, authority and control. The Blood King Larkos is demanding his seat on the throne, and in doing so, sets out to destroy everyone and everything in his way, but most especially to rid the world of the human vermin. The fantastic premise is engaging and energetic; the romance is seductive and moving; the characters are strong, complex and spirited.

Reading Order and previous Reviews

Soulfire
Windburn
Nightbloom

Dragon Heartstring .5
Waking the Dragon
Dragon in the Blood

BARB’s Review:

Dragon Fire by Juliette Cross is the 3rd book in her Vale of Stars series.  I could not wait to get my hands on this book, as I have come to expect a fantastic story from Juliette Cross, every time.  I have read all her book, and each and everyone of them have been exciting, action packed, sexy and simply fantastic.  I am happy to say that I loved Dragon Fire.

In Dragon Fire, Kieran Moonring, our hero, is recovering from serious injuries he suffered when saving his brother’s mate in the last book of this series.  Kieran is a wanted man, having killed a powerful senator’s son and has been hidden at the Sisters of the Light convent, where he has been healing for many months.  Kieran knows he can never become involved with any of the sisters, though he finds himself very attracted to one of them.

Liana, has been the main caretaker for Kieran, and finds herself having difficulty in fighting off her attraction to him.  Kieran has decided it is time for him to return home and face the charges against him, as well as join the fight to stop the Blood King Larkos and his Larkosians. He also knows he can longer stay around Liana, as his dragon also wants to keep her as their mate.  Liana has dreams about Kiernan, which she does not know is part of his dreams too.

But before he leaves, all hell breaks loose as the Larkosians have attacked the convent, and Kieran was able to get Liana and himself to safety.  As he quickly grabs Liana, she sees the evil of these man who are brutally raping, killing or kidnapping the other sisters.  Kiernan gets help from one of his brother’s men, and he is able to bring Liana back to Kol’s (last book hero) house, in the safety of his Morgon family and friends.   Liana will learn the truths of the evil outside the convent; become friends with the mates from earlier books, as well as try to push Kiernan to succumb to their feelings.  The chemistry between them was scorching hot, and started burning the pages ( ok I do read on a kindle ?), especially with the  possible onset of soulfire.   I really loved them together.  Things do progress between them when Liana explains that she is not a true sister, but was forced to stay at the convent as punishment for killing the man who killed her father.

What follows is a very exciting, action packed adventure that will bring back many of our favorites from the first two books, as well as from the original Nightwing series.  I loved seeing them all.  Just when they face the senate to free Kiernan from the charges, the evil Blood King and his Larkanians attack to take over the senate.   As the Morgon men join hands to fight off the enemy, Liana’s finds herself in a horrific dangerous situation that will have us holding our breaths.  Will either Kiernan or Liana survive?

Dragon Fire was a fascinating read, from start to finish. Liana and Kiernan were a super couple, and it was great to spend time all the other super people we met previously This is a wonderful series that you should not miss. Juliette Cross has once again created another wonderful story that has a bit of everything; hot sexy couple; action, suspense, great secondary characters, evil villains and excellent writing.  Dragon Fire was wild, crazy exciting, action packed and steamy adventure.  If  you have not read Juliette Cross, what are you waiting for?

His promise eased the visceral fear ripping through my bones. I’d never
seen violence like that. Not even in my father’s line of work.

Kieren knelt suddenly and ripped at the bottom of my gown. He glanced up,
his eyes a burning blue, his pupils elongated into serpentine slits. Rather
than cause more panic, his dragon’s presence made me feel safer. “I’m
sorry. I need to bind you to me.”

“To…to fly?”

“Yes.” He finished ripping off material up to my thighs, then wove it into
one long strip. His gaze flickered down my legs. “We’ll need to find some
place to hide nearby. To get you proper clothes. You’ll go hypothermic if
we fly too long. It’s cold up there.”

Glancing back where a yellow haze lit the sky in the distance, I blurted,
“But my sisters. We have to go back—we have to—”

“Liana.” His voice was gruff and hoarse, either from the smoke or from
emotion. Or both. “If I could, I’d save *every* one of them. I can only
carry one without a harness and for any length of time. As it is”—he craned
his neck back to look up at the sky—“those Morgons are likely flying nearby
above the woods.” His gaze fell back to mine. “There’s a chance we may not
even make it ourselves.” His tone softened but sent an even colder chill
through me. “Especially if we stay here much longer.”

He eased forward. On instinct, I stepped back, my body reacting without my
brain. He paused, once more tilting my chin up so I’d look at him.

“I know you’re afraid, Liana.” He caressed the back of his fingers up
across my cheek. “I’d never hurt you. I’m not one of those men you saw back
at the Temple.”

“I-I know.” I swallowed hard. “I’m just—”

“It’s all right. I’m going to protect you.” He held out a hand. “Come
closer, Liana.”

Now his voice was a soothing, calm melody against the horror filling the
night in the distance. He offered me his hand, wanting me to feel safe, to
have the choice to take it. Of course, I knew he was safe. But my survival
instincts were running riot with the images of Sister Mandia and Sister
Janice. Gulping hard, I lay my hand in his, the warmth engulfing mine.

He pulled me close, chest to chest. “Wrap your arms around my waist.”

I did, pressing my cheek to his scarred pectoral. If I wasn’t so
horror-stricken, I would relish this moment. I exhaled a deep breath, the
terror shivers ebbing. He was so big and hard and warm. He quickly looped
the fabric around and around several times until he tied the ends in a knot.

“This obviously isn’t a proper harness,” he whispered above me. “And even
without it I’d never drop you, but it will keep you to me should I have to
fight mid-air.”

Gasping, I shot my head up. He was looking back toward the Temple, a yellow
haze beyond the woods.

“Fight mid-air?” I croaked.

He looked down, cupping my face with large, warm hands. Dropping his head
lower, his lips a scant breath from mine, he murmured low, “No one will
hurt you.” A soft, tender brush of his mouth over mine. “I’ll kill every
one of them.” Another soft sweep of his lips. A nip at my lower lip. “I’ll
tear them all to pieces before they touch you.”

More growl than words, I should’ve been more afraid. Of the dangerous
violence simmering just beneath the surface. But I wasn’t. I opened my
mouth against his and pressed closer. His answering groan rumbled from his
chest to mine as he slid his tongue inside with a predatory sweep. His kiss
became deep, devouring, invading, as he banded his arms around me,
squeezing my soft body against his hard one. He bracketed his legs outside
mine, hard thighs pressing against my hips, continuing to kiss me with
bruising intensity. When I’d loosened enough to slip my tongue inside his
own mouth, he snapped away. Pulling back, he studied me with those keen
eyes. I had no idea what I looked like to him—shaken, dazed, and panting,
but all for an entirely different reason than when I’d fled the Temple.

His arms wrapped all the way around me, his fingers gripping my ribcage and
waist. “Hang on.”
That was all the warning I had before he bent his knees, whipped open his
wings, and shot up into the night sky.

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

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Hardest Fall (Dominion #2) by Juliette Cross-Dual Review & Excerpt

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HARDEST FALL (Dominion #2) by Juliette Cross-Dual Review and Excerpt

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 25, 2019

The tattooed demoness, Bone, doesn’t like anything except the magical weapons she makes. But she has hidden talents few know about. When I was brought to her near death, she used her Seraph song to manipulate flesh and bone to save me. But she wasn’t happy about it.

Now I must return the favor. Even though she refuses to take sides in the apocalypse, there’s one job she’s not willing to do for the demon prince Rook. If she doesn’t, her head will end up on a spike. Of course, there’s a good chance we’re all going to die anyway, but I will do anything to protect this fierce woman—and not just because she saved me.

So now we’re both off to kill a demon—or three—and possibly save the world.

••••••••••

Sandy’s REVIEW: HARDEST FALL is the second instalment in Juliette Cross’ post-apocalyptic, dystopian DOMINION fantasy, romance series focusing on the fight for control and power- the Great War- between Heaven and Hell. This is demoness/former seraph Bone, and demon Xander’s story line. HARDEST FALL can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. Bone was first introduced in book one-Darkest Heart.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Xander and Bone) HARDEST FALL follows the building relationship between demoness/former seraph Bone, and demon Xander, and the ongoing war between Heaven and H*ll. Bone, the former angel, has an affinity to metal, and as such, is the creator of some of the most specialized weapons in the war between Heaven and H*ll but as a former Seraph, Bone also has a gift of song that heals, as well as influences those she wants to control. When high demon Dommiel brings a broken and battered demon into her private lair, Bone is asked to help save the life of the man with whom she will fall in love. Enter Xander, aka Alexander Godfrey the once human rake of Victorian England, and a demon who sides with the Angels and the human resistance fighters known as the Twelvers. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Xander and Bone, and the potential fall-out as Bone is commanded (or forced) to build a secret weapon for demon Prince Rook, a weapon whose power could destroy them all.

The relationship between Xander and Bone finds our hero falling for the demoness that calls to his heart. Bone refuses to take sides in a war between Heaven and H*ll but a war that pushes our heroine to side with the man she loves, and the people he will die to protect. The Sex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

HARDEST FALL is a story of good vs evil; Heaven vs H*ll; love vs hate. Bone and Xander struggle with sins of the past, sin that resulted in the demonic changes to our leading couple. The premise is inviting, complex and intense; the romance is seductive and spicy; the characters are sassy, spirited, playful and strong. Juliette Cross pulls the reader into a captivating, thought-provoking and thrilling ride between angels and demons, and the people they love.

 

Barb’s REVIEW: Hardest Fall by Juliette Cross is the 2nd book in her urban fantasy Dominion series. I am a big fan of Juliette Cross, as I have loved each and every book she writes.  Hardest Fall is no exception, as it was another fantastic book.  Once again, if you have not read Juliette Cross, and you like fantasy, paranormal, or romance, you are missing a gem of an author.

Bone, our heroine, whom we met in the previous book, was busy working on her unique ability to make powerful weapons, when Dommiel  (last book hero) rushes in bringing a severely injured man.  Bone takes one look at the man, and says she cannot help him, but Dommiel knows if anyone can save him, it is her; reluctantly, Bone agrees to try. 

Xander, is a demon hunter, and when he awakes he thinks that Bone used her essence to heal him, and Xander does not want any Demon essence inside him. But what he doesn’t know is that Bone is much more powerful, she is a former seraph (a fallen angel), who walked away and takes no sides between humans and demons.  Bone can forge metal into the deadly powerful  weapons she creates and sells to the highest bidder.  When Xander overhears Bone talking to the Demon prince, Rook and his brother Simian about creating a special unique crown, he decides he needs to find out  more about the weapon and what they want to use it for.  This opens the door for Xander and Bone to work together in trying discovering what the evil Demon prince is planning. 

What follows is a fascinating story, as we follow Bone and Xander, as well as the many members of the rebels determined to fight and defeat the demons.  It was great to spend time with Dommiel, Anya, George, Kat as they teamed up with Bone & Xander.  There are a number of times when they were in all in dangerous situations, which had us on the edge of our seats.   Most of all, I really enjoyed seeing both Xander and Bone begin to fall hard for each other; as their chemistry was off the wall, hotter than hell.  😉  As Xander pulls her into his world, Bone begins to change and learn to feel love with Xander, as well as knowing she needs to step up and take a side…helping the humans against the demons. 

Hardest Fall was a heart stopping, pulse pounding, action packed, intense exciting thriller that I was unable to put the book down, but it was the love between Xander and Bone, as well as the wonderful secondary characters that made this story so good. I do not want to give spoilers, as you really need to read this series and anything by Juliette Cross.   

Hardest Fall was fantastic story set in a post-apocalyptic world of Demons, Humans, and Angels, as well as pulling on our emotions throughout.    As always, thank you Juliette Cross for another sensational story which never fails to wow us.  

 

Click HERE for our review of book one DARKEST HEART

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

___________

 

 

The beat of the eighties anthem “Back in Black” pounded from within. Apparently, Axel was keeping the electricity up in this part of the city for the benefit of his club. Electricity was in sporadic use, like everything else. It always depended on the demon in charge of the territory.
“Looks like Axel’s band is playing a show tonight,” Xander said.
I exhaled a heavy sigh. “He never changes.”
That was the truth. If Axel had the power, he’d replay the 1980s over and over. He and his tribute band continued, even in the apocalypse, to keep those long-dead, big-haired, hard-rock bands alive.
He glanced down where, apparently, we were still holding hands, then brushed his thumb over my pulse. I pulled my hand roughly from his.
“Your heart rate is up, darling. Do I make you nervous?”
“Please.” I huffed and marched toward the club’s entrance. “You do not make me nervous.”
He followed in his swaggering, unhurried gait, and I could feel his eyes on my ass. “Well, you get mine up.”
I spun, standing in a pool of light that spilled from the one lit streetlamp on the entire darkened road.
“Really? Do I make you nervous?”
A definitive shake of his head. “Just anxious.”
“Anxious about what?”
“The possibilities.”
“What possibilities?”
“Between you and me.”
“There will be no you and me.”
Laughing, he practically crooned. “Ohhh, yes. There will be. There already is.”
Hands on my hips, eyes narrowed. “What makes you think so?”
“The way you look at me.”
“And how is that, exactly?”
“The same way I look at you.” He stepped forward, gaze roaming slowly down then back up. “Covetously.”
“You’re dreaming, hunter.”
“Of you…yes. In my bed.”
“You know?” I began matter-of-factly, tilting my head to the side. “Lust is nothing more than increased blood flow, sweat gland production, and release of the neurochemical dopamine, giving the body a natural high.” I gave him a self-satisfied smile. “Not unlike what drug users experience before their next fix.”
He inched closer. “Are you saying you’re addicted to me?”
“What? No.”
“Don’t worry, love.” He dipped his head lower, bringing our mouths within inches of each other. “I’ll give you a thorough Xander-sex-fest to take care of that itch.”
“You’re incorrigible.”
“As in persistent?”
“As in hopeless.” I spun and stormed toward the club, tossing over my shoulder. “Incurable!”
“Oh, there’s a cure, all right.” He followed, chuckling. “I’ll share it with you before long.”
Even as I pretended I didn’t hear that last bit, I shivered in hopeful anticipation.

 


 

Juliette lives in lush, moss-laden Louisiana where she lives with her husband, four kids, and black lab, Kona.

Multi-published author of paranormal and urban fantasy romance, she loves reading and writing brooding characters, mysterious settings, persevering heroines, and dark, sexy heroes.

From the moment she read JANE EYRE as a teenager, she fell in love with the Gothic romance. Even then, she not only longed to read more novels set in Gothic worlds, she wanted to create her own.

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Darkest Heart (Dominion #1) by Juliette Cross-Dual Review & Excerpt Tour

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DARKEST HEART (Dominion #1) by Juliette Cross-Dual Review & Excerpt Tour

DARKEST HEART
Dominion #1
by Juliette Cross
Release Date: August 20, 2018
Genre: adult, urban fantasy, post-apocalyptic, romance

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play/ iTunes

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 20, 2018

Wrong side of heaven…right side of redemption.

Anya—a stoic, blue-winged angelic warrior— was bitten by a demon prince in battle, and now she has precious little time to find a cure for his deadly venom. But the only archangel with the power to stop the dark poison from corrupting her body and soul is missing. She’ll have to trust her guide, the outcast high demon Dommiel, who is as handsome as he is dangerous if she has any hope.

An outcast of his own kind, high demon Dommiel stays under cover while the war between angels and demons rages on. But when the only person who ever showed him kindness asks for his help, he has no choice but to try to save the angel. Venturing back into the dens he has avoided for so long, Anya makes him want and feel things he never thought possible.

But Dommiel knows there is no way an angel can ever love a demon

•••••••••

SANDY’S REVIEW: DARKEST HEART is the first instalment in Juliette Cross’ post-apocalyptic, urban fantasy DOMINION paranormal, romance series focusing on the fight for control and power- the Great War- between heaven and hell. This is fallen angel/demon prince Dommiel, and guardian angel/warrior Anya’s storyline.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Anya and Dommiel) DARKEST HEART follows blue-winged angel Anya, as she goes in search of the Archangel Uriel believed to be held captive by a witch with demonic powers. Anya’s only chance to find Uriel, and save herself for the growing darkness within, is a fallen angel, a former archangel, a demon prince called Dommiel, and the man with whom she will fall in love. What ensues is the growing attraction and love between demon and angel, and the potential fall-out as Dommiel surrenders his life to save the woman he loves.

The relationship between Dommiel and Anya is one of the forbidden. Anya is the ambrosia to Dommiel’s poison; the demon prince whose very existence is now the heart and soul of a woman whose time is ticking, a secret she has yet to reveal to the man that she loves. The romance is seductive; the $ex scenes provocative and passionate.

DARKEST HEART is an emotional, dark and exquisite story between good and evil; hatred and love; vengeance and salvation. The colorful and charismatic secondary characters are brooding, intelligent and intense. A powerful story with passionate characters by a brilliant author. DARKEST HEART is spirited, mesmorizing and breath taking-Juliette Cross opens the heart to the mind’s eye of endless possibilities.

 

________

BARB’S REVIEW: Darkest Heart by Juliette Cross is the 1st book in her new urban fantasy Dominion series. I have said this a number of times that I am a big fan of Juliette Cross’ writing.  Each and every book she writes is totally fantastic, which I have come to expect from her.  She is such an awesome author whom you should be reading. Now to my review.

As Darkest Heart begins, we meet our hero (or antihero) Dommiel, who is a high demon, but is considered to be a traitor to his kind.  Dommiel no longer considers himself to be aligned with any side, and sells his help to the highest bidder; but he also helps save humans from other demons; this makes Dommiel different as demons care for no one.

Dommiel receives a call from Genevieve, a powerful vessel of light who can kill demons just by speaking and to whom he has a blood vow with. Genevieve is concerned that Uriel, the good archangel is missing, and wants Dommiel to work with Anya to find him.  But Dommiel isn’t too sure he wants to work with an angel. 

Anya was once a guardian angel for lost and helpless children, only to become a warrior to fight the demons and creatures. During a battle, Anya was bitten by a demon prince, whose poison is slowly growing inside her. She needs to find Uriel, who can remove the poison, or she will be fully pulled into the dreaded demon world.  Though she wants nothing to do with Dommiel, Anya abides by Genevieve’s request that he will be the best person to help her find and rescue Uriel.

What follows is an amazing story where Anya and Dommiel must enter a dark and dangerous world in an attempt to save the archangel.  While working closely together, in a short time, both Dommiel and Anya find their attraction to each other becoming stronger with each passing day.  Dommiel knows he shouldn’t become involved with an angel, especially one who is a virgin, but he is drawn to her like he has never been to anyone.  Anya also feels the lust developing between them, and though they are like night and day, she cannot resist him.  The bond they develop is strong and truly a beautiful love story. Is it possible for a demon to really love an angel? 

I loved Anya and Dommiel together.  At the start he was somewhat arrogant, but that changes when he knows he has fallen in love with Anya, something he never thought would be possible.  Dommiel turned out to be such a great hero, willing to do anything to protect and save ‘his angel’, even give up his own life. Anya was also a great heroine, being a tough warrior in her own right, and determined stand beside Dommiel, no matter the consequences. The chemistry between them was lethal, but the future was grim.   Will they survive a demon onslaught and save the archangel?  You will need to read this book to learn more.

Darkest Warrior was a heart stopping, intense, pulse pounding, action packed, exciting thriller that kept you glued to your seat, but it was the love between two people so different that was so heartwarming and beautiful.   Darkest Warrior not only pulled on all your emotions, but had an amazing couple that you rooted so hard for. 

As I have said before, if you have not read Juliette Cross, you are seriously missing a fantastic author, who never fails to wow us each and every time.  As always, thank you Juliette Cross for another sensational series that I will wait with abated breath for the next book.

Copy supplied for review

 

NOTE: The excerpt is intended for mature readers due to language and sexual content

I glanced up the street. Six cloaked figures strode in our direction, the mist curling around their billowing capes. High demons on the prowl with malicious intent. They moved as if they had a specific destination. But they’d derail plans in a heartbeat to pluck a pretty angel apart.
“Well, it’s worth a try.” Anya started toward the bridge.
Instinct gripped me hard. I stepped in front of her, covered her mouth with my hand, and pushed her back into a niche against the wall.
“Tighten your wings,” I commanded in a low whisper.
She did, making it easier to flatten them against the alcove wall behind her. I pressed my body hard against hers, minimizing our presence.
“Don’t make a sound.” I emphasized with force. “Not a whimper.”
Her violet-blue eyes widened, but she only nodded. I covered as much of her as I could, pressing my chest to hers, then cast illusion to hide her wings with a snapping summons of my power. She didn’t see the demons coming, and I had to hide her wings quickly. The shock of my dark touch, my invisible armor wrapping her in a hard grip, had her lips parting in a silent gasp. Our breath mingled in the frosty air as the gang of demons drew closer. They’d sense us and see us. I counted on my instincts being right. That they’d bypass a pair of lovers in the shadows. But if they’d seen her wings, they’d stop for a bit of sport with her.
Like I’d fucking let that happen.
“Play along,” I commanded again, hearing the grating dominance in my voice and expecting her to push me off.
Combing my hand into her hair, I reveled in the feel of the silky strands sliding over my skin before I gripped that black silk in a fist and leaned forward. A force not my own pulling me closer. Her eyes remained wide, her body stiff. But not as stiff as mine. Hell, I’d had a hard-on from the first moment she arched a defiant brow at me.
The need to get my mouth on hers drove me like a bullet train. I needed to know what she tasted like. Needed to feel the slide of my tongue past those full pink lips. Needed to get inside of her. But she wasn’t ready for me. Not yet. She was hard to read, my angel. But we could play pretend lovers for a minute.
Gripping her hip with my mechanical hand, I pressed harder against her body. My cock, like an iron rod, pushed against her pelvis. She flinched in my arms and stiffened but didn’t pull away. No. She softened, for fuck’s sake. And that was my undoing. I tilted my mouth toward her neck, breathing her in.
I sensed the sinister air surrounding the demons drawing closer, but I refused to give in to the urge to turn and draw a blade. The menace rolling off of them claimed they were not a group to overpower or escape quickly. If worse came to worse, I’d just sift us away. But something told me they were on the move. Better prey in mind. As long as they thought us harmless lovers, we were safe.
So I focused on Anya. Her grip on the lapels of my leather jacket tightened while her body melted against me. Pure, fucking heaven.
I grazed my lips against her soft throat, featherlight. Her desire—an innocent, fragile thing—flared hot when she let out a little moan. Christ. I was going to lose my mind.
I sensed the demons passing behind us. That danger drifted away but another kind took its place. Uncontainable lust had me in its iron grip. Unable to taste just a little, I flicked my tongue over the lobe of her ear. She flinched again, exhaling a breathy moan before she clamped her mouth shut.
Curling my hand into the collar of her leather jacket, I pulled it aside so I could taste her where her neck met shoulder. The soft patch of exposed pale skin lured me like a dying man in the desert to the coolest drink of water.
Fuck, the things I wanted to do to her. Dirty, dark, delicious things.
Her innocence was a beacon, a red flag waving in the breeze, and my bull wanted to charge. Right fucking now.
Feeling my control slipping, I scraped my teeth gently up the side of her neck, my beast jerking on the leash I was strangling him with.
I eased my lips off her skin, a new addiction that would surely cripple me, because that wasn’t nearly enough. A slight sound of protest escaped her lips. I lifted my gaze to hers.
“Not a whimper,” I said.
The urge to bind her and force every possible sound of pleasure from those luscious lips pushed me like a primal compulsion. A vibrating need I never saw coming threatened to choke the air from my lungs.
Her eyes—dilated with lust—trailed down to my mouth.
“Dommiel. Your teeth.” Her panting breath curled out in white puffs. “And your eye.”
That’s when I realized my beast had come to the surface. The monster I kept at bay so as not to frighten mere mortals. And sweet angels. He wanted to play. He wanted more.
Flicking my tongue over one canine, I backed up, removing my body from the achingly sweet alignment against hers. It would take a few minutes to simmer my blood, for my canines to recede. I turned away, facing the direction those night prowlers had gone, heaving in a deep breath of cold night air. I needed a dip in the Arctic to get my brain and my dick off the gut-punching pleasure one little taste of her had given me.


 

Juliette lives in lush, moss-laden Louisiana where she lives with her husband, four kids, and black lab, Kona.

Multi-published author of paranormal and urban fantasy romance, she loves reading and writing brooding characters, mysterious settings, persevering heroines, and dark, sexy heroes.

From the moment she read JANE EYRE as a teenager, she fell in love with the Gothic romance. Even then, she not only longed to read more novels set in Gothic worlds, she wanted to create her own.

Connect: Website| Facebook| Twitter| Pinterest| Amazon| Goodreads| Newsletter

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