Tag Archives: Juliette Cross

The Reading Cafe 6th Anniversary Celebration Giveaway with Juliette Cross

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The Reading Cafe 6th Anniversary Giveaway Celebration with Juliette Cross

NOTE: All giveaways require a comment to qualify

Juliette Cross is graciously offering an ebook copy of THE BLACK LILY and THE RED LILY to one commenter.

There will be ONE (1) winner: ONE (1) commenter will receive an ebook copy THE BLACK LILY and THE RED LILY

GIVEAWAY is open INTERNATIONALLY

Click HERE to find Juliette Cross and more about the fabulous VAMPIRE BLOOD SERIES.

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9. Giveaway open INTERNATIONALLY

10. Giveaway runs until February 24-28, 2018

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The Emerald Lily (Vampire Blood #4) by Juliette Cross-Dual Review and Excerpt

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The Emerald Lily (Vampire Blood #4) by Juliette Cross-Dual Review and Excerpt

THE EMERALD LILY
Vampire Blood #4
by Juliette Cross
Genre: adult, paranormal, fantasy,
Release Date: January 29,2018

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 29, 2018

When Princess Vilhelmina Dragomir is awakened from her hellish sleep with a blood kiss from a handsome stranger, she learns that much has changed while she’s been away. The armies of the Black Lily and the vampire Crown have amassed and are on the brink of war.

No romantic entanglements, no family. Mikhail Romanov, Captain of the Bloodguard, took a vow when he joined the Bloodguard. But he never planned for the gut-punching attraction he would feel for the untouchable princess. He must keep his focus, though. In order to avenge his family, it’s essential he help Mina claim her crown and keep his damn hands off of her.

But Mina sets her heart on the elusive captain, and keeping his focus on the great battle ahead becomes harder and harder. While they’re making plans, the evil King Dominik has been making some of his own. This time, he will show no mercy to the Princess…

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
The Black Lily
The Red Lily
The White Lily
The Emerald Lily

••••••••••••

Sandy’s REVIEW:

THE EMERALD LILY is the fourth and final instalment in Juliette Cross’s adult VAMPIRE BLOOD paranormal /fantasy, romance series. This is Princess Vilhelmina ‘Mina’ Dragomir, and Mikhail Romanov, Captain of the BloodGuard’s story line. THE EMERALD LILY can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading the series in order for backstory and cohesion.

SOME BACKGROUND: The Black Lily is an underground movement that is attempting to take down the royal vampire family, and their army of Legionnaires who are obliterating village after village in a frenzied blood madness known as the sanguine furorem. As Prince Dominick and his mother, Queen Morgrid of Izeling continue their evil reign, The Black Lily begin to amass an army as they venture towards war and a final showdown against the current ruling vampire family-a family of murderous, power hungry vampires who are determined to destroy and control all of the humans.

WARNING: THE EMERALD LILY contains scenes of graphic violence and sexual situations that may be triggers for some more sensitive readers.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Mina and Mikhail) THE EMERALD LILY is the culmination of four story lines and a plan set into motion to take back the throne, and bestow it to the rightful heir. With Princess Vilhelmina Dragomir forced into the bloodless sleep of a starving vampire, the Bloodguard mount a rescue of the rightful heir to the Arkadian Kingdom, of Briar Rose. Enter Mikhail Romanov, Captain of the Bloodguard-an army of vampire warriors who have sworn fealty to the rightful heir- and the man with whom Mina will fall in love. What ensues is the back and forth, yin and yang of unrequited attraction, and the fall out when Mina is recaptured by the Prince, facing a future without the man that she loves.

Mikhail has sworn an oath as Captain of the Bloodguard, and in doing so forsakes all manner of family and a happily ever after but rescuing Mina Dragomir stirs something deep within our story line hero, something that calls to his hardened heart. Mikhail has a secret, that once revealed, may change the course of history including the rightful ascension to the vampire throne.

The relationship between Mina and Mikhail is one of immediate attraction; a visceral reaction that Mina wants to explore but Mikhail refuses to acknowledge or accept. His duty is to the Bloodguard, and all that it means, and with the approaching war, falling in love is a weakness our hero never would have imagined. The $ex scenes are intimate and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

Like all of the previous story lines in the Vampire Blood series, THE EMERALD LILY touches on and is loosely based upon a fairy tale, and in the case of The Emerald Lily the retelling of the story of Sleeping Beauty, the evil queen, a kiss to awaken, and the fiery conclusion befitting a powerful reclamation of power and the throne.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including all of the previous story line couples; Brennalyn’s seven orphaned children; and an assortment of Bloodguard warriors who have vowed to protect Mina with their lives. The requisite evil has many faces including Prince Dominck, and his mother, the self-proclaimed Queen Morgrid.

THE EMERALD LILY is a story of betrayal and revenge; of family and blood; of passion and promise. The premise is action packed, complex and imaginative; the characters are dynamic, colorful, and charismatic; the romance is consuming, inspiring and dramatic. THE EMERALD LILY is a stunning conclusion to an incredible series that adds a twist or two to our favourite fairy tales.

______________

Barb’s Review

The Emerald Lily by Juliette Cross is the 4th book in her wonderful Vampire Blood series. I am a big fan of Juliette Cross, and having loved the first three books in this series, I could not wait to read The Emerald Lily. As I have come to expect with Cross, this book turned out to be equally fantastic.  What an awesome author, who if you are not reading, you should be.  Now to my review.

In each book of this series, the lead female character is based loosely on a fairy tale theme.  The previous books were Cinderella,  Red Riding Hood, Snow White and now Sleeping Beauty.   We met Princess Vilhelmina Dragomir (Mina), our heroine in the first book, but now she is in her homeland, forced (by the villains in this series, King Dominik and Queen Morgrid) into a bloodless sleep.  Mikhail, our hero, who is the Captain of the Bloodguard, comes to rescue Mina, and awakens her from her deep sleep.  He immediately feels the strong attraction, and forces himself to not act on his feelings.  When Mina awakens, Mikhail and his Bloodguard swear allegiance to Mina, who is the rightful Queen of Arkadia. 

Mina is a strong heroine, who is determined to become Queen, and then offer her army to help The Black Lily defeat the evil Queen and King.  Mina has also felt the strong attraction Mikhail, and though he tries to stop them going too far, their chemistry burns through the pages.  There are some secrets and twists that answer our questions later on.  One thing we learned early on is that when Mina was born, a good witch bestowed her with something that would stop the evil Queen Morgrid, who had cursed her at birth.  Will Mina learn what and how to use this legend?

Just when we think all is well, a surprise attack will destroy some of those supporting the revolution, including the kidnapping of a young girl.  Mina will fall into a trap that will put her in terrible danger, and force the teams (The Black Lily, Arkadia & Bloodguard armies), to move fast to rescue Mina and the child and find a way to save the world as they know it.  To say too much more would be spoilers, and you really need to read this book.

What follows is a very exciting intense adventure that will have Mina, Mikhail, his men, the previous books heroes, attempt a rescue that will put their lives in danger. As we raced to the pulse pounding climax, I loved seeing all those we met in the first three books to join the battle.  I loved Mikhail and Mina, as they were an awesome couple.     

The Emerald Lily was a heart stopping, pulse pounding slam bang of a last half of the book, that kept you glued to your seat.  Every book in the Vampire Blood series  was emotional, heart wrenching, intense, exciting, suspenseful,  action-packed  thriller; with a sexy & amazing couple.   I must say I absolutely loved the epilogue, especially since this book ends the series.  🙁

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.  I do not know what Juliette has upcoming, but I will be there, as I will never miss any of her books.

Copy supplied for review

Mikhail had heard direct tales from survivors of the bloodless sleep. The dark agony of sensing everything going on around oneself but never able to speak or open one’s eyes or make any move at all. And all the while, an aching pain stabbed the sleeper’s gut, ricocheted out and rattled bones.
Sitting on the edge of the bed, he lifted a lock of her silken hair, sliding his fingers till it fell away. The sensual caress striking a vulnerable cord in his chest. He clutched his fist together. Her beauty made him breathless. The fact that she lay imprisoned in her own body cut through the tough veneer of the captain to the man beneath. No way in hell would he leave her in such a state of agony a second longer.
Awakening a victim from a bloodless sleep was a precarious job. He must be gentle, careful not to overpower her system and jolt her body to full wakefulness. She could likely go into shock. Friedrich had suggested the best known method—the blood kiss.
Leaning close to her ear, he whispered, “Princess. If you can hear me, listen well. I must awaken you from this deep slumber. Pardon the intimacy and have no fear. I mean you no harm.”
His canines fully extended, he bit into the fleshy part of his palm and smeared his lips with his own blood. Wrapping his other hand behind her slender nape, he leaned close, inhaling the fragrant scent of white jasmine and sunshine. He paused, faltering at the sweetness of her, an unexpected punch to his senses.
With tight control, he swept his lips over hers, wetting them with his blood and coaxing them apart. The slightest relaxing of her mouth gave him entry. Raising his palm, he licked a swathe of his own blood across his tongue then angled his mouth over hers with firm possession, delving in to awaken her starving body. Sliding his tongue over and against hers, he slicked her thoroughly.
His pulse pounded an erratic beat. He heard hers quicken in timing with his own. Her senses stirred.
Unexpected arousal crashed through him, hardening every inch of his body. His fangs extended to their most painful length, demanding succor.
Bloody hell!
He’d come to offer his own lifeblood, not take what little she had. And yet his body trembled with bone-shaking hunger.
Stifling his rebellious body’s needs, he sucked a few drops of blood from his palm-wound and pressed his mouth to hers once more, letting the blood seep inside and down her throat. He couldn’t help delving back in, licking the delicious taste of her onto his tongue.
A low moan emanated from her throat. He jerked away, remembering himself. By God, his thoughts spiraled down a dark, wayward path when his mouth was on hers. Panting, he leaned farther away, giving himself some distance.
She lifted a slender hand, her brow furrowing as she moaned a second time, rousing from her deep, paralyzing sleep. Her eyes shot open and she sucked in a deep lungful of air. Her wide-eyed gaze landed directly on his. Mikhail was sure he’d slipped and fallen off a cliff, flailing helplessly.
Fathomless pools of blue, burning brightly. His father used to take him to the ocean shore during the summers as a boy. They’d walk along the sandy beach collecting shells. Once, he’d found the most beautiful clear gem washed upon the sand. Sea glass, his father had told him. A broken piece of bottle or jar that the ocean had tumbled and smoothed into the clearest, purest blue he had ever seen. That was what he thought of when he looked into the eyes of this princess who smelled like sunshine and tasted like heaven.
“Welcome back, Princess Vilhelmina.” Steel clashed against steel on the battlement above. Footsteps pounded on the staircase leading to the tower. “Time to go.”


 

Excerpt supplied by the publisher

Juliette CrossJuliette is a multi-published author of paranormal and fantasy romance and lives in lush, moss-laden Louisiana where she lives with her husband, four kids, and black lab, Kona. 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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The White Lily (Vampire Blood #3) by Juliette Cross-Reviews, Excerpt & Giveaway

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The White Lily (Vampire Blood #3) by Juliette Cross-Reviews, Excerpt & Giveaway

The White Lily Banner

THE WHITE LILY
Vampire Blood #3
by Juliette Cross
Release Date: October 23, 2017
Genre: adult, paranormal, romance, vampires

The White Lily

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 23, 2017

To the north of the Varis empire, a mysterious faction spreads propaganda against the vampire monarchy. Friedrich Volya, the Duke of Winter Hill, seeks to discover who they are before his uncle finds them first. King Dominik will punish the traitors with brutal force.

Local schoolteacher, the raven-haired Brennalyn, is on her own mission—to spy on the duke and discover what she can for the Black Lily. She longs to help the commonwealth and bring justice to the many orphans left behind from the ravages of the blood madness, like the children she lovingly keeps in her care. What she doesn’t plan for is the heart-pounding attraction she feels for the duke, enemy to the Black Lily.

But when Brennalyn’s secret puts her life and the life of her children in danger, Friedrich steps in as her protector, she finds out there’s more to the duke than she thought.

•••••••••

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
The Black Lily
The Red Lily
The White Lily

Sandy’s Review:

THE WHITE LILY is the third installment in Juliette Cross’s adult, paranormal VAMPIRE BLOOD romance series (formerly known as The Tales of the Black Lily series). This is vampire Friedrich Volya, Duke of Winter Hill, and schoolteacher Brennalyn Snow’s story line. THE WHITE LILY can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty although I recommend reading the series in order as there is an ongoing premise throughout.

SOME BACKGROUND: The Black Lily is an underground movement that is attempting to take down the royal vampire family, and their army of Legionnaires who are obliterating village after village in a frenzied blood madness known as the sanguine furorem.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Friedrich and Brennalyn) THE WHITE LILY continues to search for supporters of The Black Lily, and to prove the existence of a new threat known as The White Lily. Brennalyn Snow is a human female; a twenty three year old schoolteacher who is the foster mother to seven orphans ranging in age from preschool to late teens. But Brennalyn has a secret identity that if revealed would threaten her life and the lives of the children she loves. Enter Friedrich Volya, the Duke of Winter Hill, and a member of the reigning royal vampire family. What ensues is the building relationship between Friedrich and Brennalyn, and the potential fall out when Brennalyn’s true identity is revealed.

Friedrich Volya is no stranger to the people of Terrington, a small village of humans under the Duke’s rule but Brennalyn Snow has caught the eye of the handsome vampire Duke-a Duke who is willing to do anything to make Brennalyn his mate an his own. Brennalyn knows that once her true identity is revealed, the Duke will have no choice but to punish the woman with whom he is falling in love. What Brennalyn doesn’t know is that the Duke is also estranged from the ruling vampire family-a family of murderous, power hungry vampires who are determined to destroy and control all of the humans.

THE WHITE LILY brushes and tugs snippets of fantasy ala Snow White and The Seven Dwarves with the inclusion of vampires, wolf-shifters, huntsman and poisonous fruit. Brennalyn ‘Snow’ and her seven little children will fall victim to the evil Queen, when a magical mirror reveals all to the other side.

THE WHITE LILY is a story of adventure; of action, forbidden romance and the ongoing war between human and vampires. The ruling elite are determined to control the embittered humans of the surrounding territories but some of their own are slowly taking up arms to battle on the side of The Black Lily against the family in control. The premise is entertaining and engaging; the characters are sexy, strong willed and charismatic; the romance is seductive, energetic and provocative.

Barb’s Review:

The White Lily by Juliette Cross is the 3rd book in her fantastic Vampire Blood series. I loved the first two books in this series, and was amazed how Juliette Cross just keeps on giving us another fantastic story.  Seriously folks, if you have not read Juliette Cross, you are missing a wonderful author, who never fails to wow us each and every time.

 In the first book of this series, The Black Lily, the themed fairy tale background was Cinderella; in The Red Lilly it was Red Riding Hood,  and in The White Lilly, it is Snow White.  We meet our wonderful sweet heroine, Brennalyn Snow, who is a school teacher in Terrington, and she also has adopted 7 homeless children.  Brenna has been visiting the lands of the Duke of Winter Hill to spy on him.  Why? She is a supporter of The Black Lily, but unbeknownst to everyone, she is secretly The White Lily, who prints out propaganda against the vampire monarchy. 

Friedrich Volya, is the Duke of Winter Hill and our hero.  One day he has one of his men bring Brenna to him, to find out why she is spying on him; he is suspicious as to who she supports.  Friedrich, whom we met in the last book, is a full supporter to the Black Lily, and hates his evil uncle, King Dominik; but he has to put on an act that he supports the monarch or he will be marked as a traitor.

Despite their suspicions of each other, in a short time their attraction becomes something neither can avoid.  Brenna does not want any relationship and knows she does not fit with the Duke for long term.  Friedrich finds himself besotted with the beautiful sweet Brennalyn, and is determined to make her his.  Friedrich knows he must protect Brenna, since the King is looking for the White Lily, and he moves her to his mansion, with her 7 children.  I have to say, I adored the children, which was such an excellent added element to the story.   Watching them with Friedrich or his men was sweet, and it also helped bring Brenna and him together.

What follows is a very exciting adventure that will have Friedrich, his men (The Bloodguard) and Brenna attempt a rescue that will put her life in danger, as well as all of them.  As we raced to the pulse pounding climax, I loved seeing those we met in the first two books join the battle.  I loved Friedrich and Brennalyn together, as they had great chemistry together, and made such a great couple.  Juliette Cross has given us wonderful characters in all three books, as well as flawlessly moving the story along cohesively. 

Vampire Blood is a fantastic series, and so very well written by Juliette Cross.  The White Lily was another fantastic ride.  I can’t get enough of this series, with so many great characters, sexy couples, and bad villains.  You need to be reading this series, if you have not done so yet. 

Excerpt

 

On the next turn, he pulled her close, till her breasts brushed his chest. The friction, as brief as it was, rasped her nipples. She gasped then quickly clamped her mouth shut, trying to put some distance between them. But he was in full control, his large frame engulfing her, his intimidating presence swallowing her with each turn.

“Your dress is quite beautiful on you.” He ignored her question entirely. “So much more appealing than your gray frocks.”

“What is wrong with my frocks?”

“They’re hideous.”

She gasped. “My frocks are entirely suitable to a woman of my role in society.”

“And what role is that? An old crone?” She caught his mischievous smile. He was goading her. And it was working.

“An unmarried woman. The town’s schoolteacher.”

He scoffed, slowing their waltz. “You think yourself a spinster at three and twenty? I think not. I’m going to burn every one of them when I get the chance.”

“Your Grace. You will do no such thing. You have no right to destroy any of my possessions.”

He grinned and slowed their forward movement to a stop, drawing her even closer. She tried to step from his embrace, but he held her good.

“Your Grace?”

“I’m not quite sure you know what’s happening between us, Miss Snow. But let me be clear. Those hideous rags are not worthy of your luscious body. Not worthy of you. You may try to hide your beauty behind drab colors and formless frocks and tight buns. But I see what’s beneath. And I want—no, I will have you in all your glory. Therefore, prepare yourself to be draped in silk quite soon.”

She saw the lion in the man, gazing down at her with steadfast calm and confidence. All of which was breathtaking and alluring. She spent the majority of her life trying to order and control her surroundings, only to find her world tilted at every turn. She wondered how the duke would feel to lose his control.

“It must be very difficult,” she said.

“What must be difficult?” He swept her away from clumsy Mr. Powell, who nearly barreled into them with his dance partner.

“Believing that you own everyone you meet.”

“You wound me. I don’t believe that at all.”

“Really? You just stated as if it were a decree that I’d be draped in silk. What if I don’t like silk?”

His smoldering smile made her knees buckle. “Come now, Miss Snow.” He leaned close to her ear, his lip brushing the shell as he whispered on the turn, “If not a silk dress, how about silk sheets?”

She laughed, his naughty teasing bringing a heated flush to her face. “You’re most improper for a royal duke.”

“Thank you,” he said with a smirk. “I do my best.”

“It wasn’t a compliment.”

“It most certainly was.”

She narrowed her gaze. “Well, whatever you may believe, I’d like to clarify that you do not own me, Your Grace.”

“I don’t want to own you, kitten. I want to possess you.”

“There is no difference.”

“Indeed. There is.”

Eyes darkening and hooded in shadow, she caught them drifting over her face before they landed on her mouth. His own parted slightly.

“Your Grace,” she warned, “if you are making plans to kiss me on the dance floor, let me tell you that it will not be welcome.”

“All right. Will it be welcome in my carriage on the way home?”

She arched her brow. “Are you always so forward with ladies you’re trying to woo?”

“No. Indeed not. I’m usually much more charming, but you seem to bring out the beast in me, Miss Snow. I’d rather skip all the games and get straight to the prize.”

>


 

About The author

Juliette CrossJuliette is a multi-published author of paranormal and fantasy romance and lives in lush, moss-laden Louisiana where she lives with her husband, four kids, and black lab, Kona. 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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The Black Lily (Tales of the Black Lily # 1) by Juliette Cross-Dual Review and Book Tour

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THE BLACK LILY (Tales of the Black Lily #1) by Juliette Cross-dual review and book tour

The Black Lily Banner

THE BLACK LILY
Tales of the Black Lily #1
by Juliette Cross
Genre: adult, paranormal, romance
Release Date: March 27, 2017

The Black Lily

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon. uk / Amazon. au / B&N / KOBO / BAM / ibooks

Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2nkfIaD

ABOUT THE BOOK: RELEASE DATE March 27, 2017

Cinderella like you’ve never seen before…

With the threat of the vampire monarchy becoming stronger every day, the Black Lily must take drastic measures. As the leader of the underground resistance, Arabelle concocts the perfect idea to gain the attention of the Glass Tower. Her plan? Attend the vampire prince’s blood ball and kill him. Fortunately for Prince Marius, her assassination goes awry, and Arabelle flees, leaving behind only her dagger.

Marius is desperate to find the woman whose kiss turned into attempted murder, hunting for the mysterious assassin he can’t push out of his mind. But what he uncovers could change the course of his life forever…

••••••

SANDY’s REVIEW: THE BLACK LILY is the first installment in Juliette Cross’s TALES OF THE BLACK LILY adult, paranormal/fantasy series. This is one hundred year old vampire Prince Marius, and peasant girl Arabelle’s story line.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Arabelle and Marius) THE BLACK LILY follows the struggles of the human population; the underground movement setting up a coup to take down the royal vampire family-vampires who now threaten the lives of everyone they love. Enter peasant girl Arabelle, a young woman, head of a group known as The Black Lily, and a woman determined to rid the world of bloodsuckers-one vampire at a time starting with the youngest royal heir-Prince Marius. The time has come to select a new concubine for the royal Prince, and Arabelle is determined to seduce the Prince to his death. What ensues is the building romance between Arabelle and Prince Marius, and the search for the vampires responsible for taking too many lives.

THE BLACK LILY is the retelling of Cinderella only Cinderella’s happily ever after comes with a caveat-the Prince is a vampire, and a man who is desperate to make Arabelle his own. While Arabelle struggles with her attraction to a man she believes is killing her people, Marius searches for the truth and doesn’t like what he is about to find.

We are introduced to a large number of secondary and supporting characters including Marius’s best friend and vampire Nikolai; Marius’s parents the King and Queen of the vampires; Arabelle’s friends Deek and Mary, as well as our heroine’s evil ’step mother’ and two wicked ‘step sisters’. On the run Arabelle befriends a woman known as Sienna, whose connection to the wolves is magical and mysterious.

The world building looks at the prejudice between human and vampire; the potential eradication of the species; and a romance between a human and a vampire that pushes all of the boundaries for our leading couple.

THE BLACK LILY is an engaging, lively and spirited retelling of Cinderella. The premise is creative and electrifying; the characters are animated, colorful and passionate; the romance is fated and uplifting. THE BLACK LILY is a wondrous start to a new series that will leave you breathless and wanting more.

Reviewed by Sandy

____________

Barb’s Review:
The Black Lily by Juliette Cross is the first book in her new Tales of the Black Lily series.  I have been a big fan of Juliette Cross, since I started reading her Nightwing series; her stories are always captivating, exciting, adventurous, sexy and pure fun to read.  The Black Lily is no different and after I finished this book, Juliette Cross once again rises up on my list of books and authors I MUST read.  I loved loved The Black Lily; it was a fantastic ride from start to finish, with a couple that blew us away with so much chemistry.  Now for my review.  🙂

The Black Lily has a slight take on the Cinderella fairytale, but it is nothing like it.   Arabelle, our heroine, lives as a peasant, with a woman and two daughters, who treat her miserably.  But Arabelle is the leader of The Black Lily underground resistance that is trying to rebel against the vampire kingdom that rules the Glass Tower.  Humans are dying, having been found murdered and drained blood dry. Arabelle devises a plan to kill the Prince, at the upcoming ball, in order to make the King and Queen listen to their grievances. 

Prince Marius, our hero, dreads going to the ball, but he needs to pick a woman who will become his next blood concubine; especially in a matter of days he will be getting married to a princess he has never met.  At the ball, he becomes mesmerized by a beautiful young woman dressed in Gold, and after a dance, he whisks her away for a tour of the Glass Tower.  He finds her irresistible, and when he makes advances on her, which she encourages,  Marious is shocked when she plunges a knife to his chest. 

Arrabelle, thinking she killed her target, manages to escape, but leaving behind a gold pointed knife (no there is no slipper here).  Marius, after he drinks blood and is healed, goes with his best friend, Nikolai to search for the woman who has a tattoo on her shoulder. During the search, he will notice the fear in the folks in town, as well as those working at the Tower.  Marius will also discover that the missing servant in the house is the one he is looking for, but sees the condition of how she lives.  This will open his eyes as to the conditions that surround the lands his family runs, which was not as he was led to believe.  After a few times of catching up with Arrabelle, Marius knows she is a handful, but she is a handful he cannot resist.  Arrabelle, despite thinking Marius as the enemy is also unable to resist his charms.  Arrabelle will begin to trust Marius, and tell him about the murders, forcing him to investigate with Nicolai to find out what is happening behind the scenes. Marius knows he loves Arrabelle, and knows he must do everything in his power to protect her against his mother and father’s determination to have her killed. 

What follows is a fantastic exciting story that will have you either on the edge of your seat or swooning over their hot sexy romance.  Arrabelle was such a wonderful heroine, strong, beautiful, and determined to fight for her friends.  Marius was not only a great hero, but also very charming and sexy; and they were so good together.  The wildly exciting climax was so tense, suspenseful, with non-stop action, that we were left breathless.  I also want to point out that I loved two of the secondary characters; Sienna and her wolves; as well as Nicolai. The Black Lily was such an amazing book, as well as steamy, and  very well written by Cross.  Bravo to Juliette Cross for giving another sensational new series.  I cannot wait for the next book.

Reviewed by Barb

 

Copy supplied for review.

The Black Lily Teaser 2

 

Excerpt

 

Standing, he summoned her with a hand.
“Come. Get out of the pool.”
Her mouth dropped. “I’m not getting out of here with you standing there. I’m…I’m naked.”
“Of which I’m well aware.” His voice dropped low and deep. “Come out.”
“No!”
“Then I’ll come in after you.”
He took one step. She splashed backward.
“All right!” She huffed. “Turn around.”
He shook his head, unable to keep a smile from his face. “Not on your life. I’m not letting you out of my sight.”
“You expect me to—”
“Yes. I do. Now, come out.”
She snapped her mouth shut. Flustered, her pale cheeks flushed pink. Marius was thankful for his vampire eyesight to see the pretty blush crawl up her neck. What he wouldn’t do to chase that path with his mouth.
Arabelle’s expression shifted, her brow smoothing, eyes narrowing, lips parting. She slowed her breathing and uncrossed her arms, standing with poise from the water, revealing the sensual gifts nature had given her. Marius swallowed hard, but his mouth had gone dry. Thirsty. He was so thirsty.
She moved unhurriedly through the water into the shallows, emerging like a goddess who knew her power. Marius actually stepped backward as she stood on the ledge in front of him—completely bare and utterly beautiful.
“I’m here now, Your Highness. What will you do with me?”


 

About The Author

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

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Dragon Heartstring (Vale of Stars .5) by Juliette Cross-Dual Review and Excerpt Tour

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DRAGON HEARTSTRING (Vale of Stars .5) by Juliette Cross-Dual Review and Excerpt Tour

Dragon Heartstring

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 25, 2016

Demetrius Cade has long since let go of his prejudice against Morgonkind, the dragon hybrid race his father taught him to hate. But what he never saw coming was the Morgon woman who would finally teach him to love.

Shakara Icewing has watched Demetrius Cade from afar for years. Known as the most eligible bachelor and emotionally unavailable in all of Gladium Province, she sees him as the aloof, arrogant brother of her dear friend. But when they finally meet, she isn’t sure she can handle how deep and how fast they both fall.

An old enemy resurfaces and once more threatens those Demetrius loves. When Shakara plans to speak before Parliament against business tycoon Aron Grayson, she puts her own life in the line of fire. Demetrius will stop at nothing to protect the woman he can no longer live without.

••••••

Sandy’s Review: DRAGON HEARTSTRING is the prequel story line in Juliette Cross’s adult Vale of Stars amazing and complex fantasy series focusing on a dragon hybrid species known as the Morgons. This is Morgon healer Shakara Icewing, and human businessman/billionaire Demetrius Cade’s story line.

NOTE: There is a companion novella 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. Demetrius is Jessen Cade-Nightwing’s brother. Jessen was first introduced in Soulfire (Nightwing #1).

Told from dual first person perspectives (Demetrius and Shakara) DRAGON HEARTSTRING follows Morgon healer Shakara Icewing as she prepares to go before the Gladium Province Parliament in the hopes of pushing the ban for the weapon known as the Volt gun-a weapon designed to kill Morgons-but the designer of the Volt gun wants to ensure that Shakara never has the chance to speak before the Gladium Parliament. Enter Demetrius Cade –the son of a bigot with tightly held prejudices against the human/hybrid Morgon . What ensues are Demetrius’s attempts to protect the woman with whom he is falling in love; and the search for the person(s) responsible for the threats against Shakara’s life.

Demetrius is considered the most eligible bachelor in Gladium Province. A billionaire businessman with no known girlfriends but a man who has caught the eye of the Morgon healer. Shakara knows that it is rare for a Morgon female to find her mate amongst the human population but our heroine knows that the pull of the ‘Heartstring’ whenever in the presence of Demetrius Cade can only mean one thing-that Demetrius is her fated mate.

The world building continues to focus on the tepid but strained relationship between the humans and the Morgons-the animosity, prejudices, specieism, bigotry and discrimination aimed at the hybrid species of dragon and man. We learn a little more about the background as to the how and why of the Cade family’s prejudices.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Jessen and Lucius Nightwing (Nightwing),and their three year old son Julian; as well as Lucius’s brother Lorian and his mate Sorcha (Windburn). The requisite evil comes in many forms as the Grayson family continues to push for the integration and use of the Volt gun –a weapon they helped design and manufacture.

DRAGON HEARTSTRING is an engaging tale of fated mates; an encouraging story about one woman’s efforts to bring about change, and the man who is tied to her heart. The premise is imaginative; the characters are passionate and inspiring; the romance is seductive and provocative. Juliette Cross will captivate your imagination with her fascinating world of the Morgons of Gladium Province.


Barb”s Review:
Dragon Heartstring by Juliette Cross is a novella that is part of her Vale of Stars series.  I have become a big fan of Juliette Cross’s writing and having read her Nightwing series, and the first two books of Vale of Stars, I have come to expect each new book to be another fantastic exciting story.  Though Dragon Heartstring is not a full length novel, this book was another exciting, sexy, enjoyable fast read.

Demetrius Cade, who is Jessen’s brother, is our hero.  Demetrius is a powerful and wealthy member of the Cade family.  Over the years, Demetrius has changed his feelings about Morgonkind, having learned from his sister, and nephew that they are not bad, even if they are not human.  Especially after watching a Grayson almost kill his sister.   Demetrius makes it his business to visit Jessen and her family to become more comfortable with the Morgons, as well as to enjoy his nephew. 

Shakara Icewing, is a powerful Morgon woman, who helps run her family’s business, and is a healer.   She sees Demetrius on occasions, during events, and sees him as a loner, arrogant and a handsome eligible bachelor, whom she only looks from afar.  

When Demetrius hears Shakara and Jessen discussing trying to ban a dangerous weapon that kills Morgankind, he pushes himself into the conversation.  Demetrius wants to help, as he remembers how close Jessen came to death from one of those guns.  He begins to spend more time with Shakara, as she plans her speech to the Parliament.  Slowly, they both find themselves very much attracted to one another, as their chemistry is off the wall.  

Demetrius becomes more and more involved in Shakara’s life, since he fears her life is in danger, as is Jessen’s.  The Grayson family will fight the ban, as they stand to lose their business if the ban passes.  We all remember that it was Aron Grayson, who tried to kill Jessen with that weapon.  Demetrius will use his friends, and money to help protect those he loves.  Shakara has fallen hard for Demetrius, and learns along the way he is indeed her mate.  Shakara is a strong heroine, who is independent and stubborn, not allowing herself to listen to Demetrius’s fears for her safety, and finds herself in a terrible death defying situation.   Will Demetrius be able to save her?  Will Shakara allow herself to mate with a human?

Even though Dragon Heartstring was a shorter story, I loved every moment of it.  Juliette Cross has a wonderful writing style that keeps us on the edge of our seat, not to mention a sexy romance.   I have noted before in my reviews, that having likeable characters helps make the story that much better.  In her series, Juliette Cross always has such great characters, as well as evil villains.  If you have not read anything by Juliette Cross, it is time to start now.


Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Nightwing Series
Nightwing
Windburn
Nightbloom

Vale of Stars
Dragon Heartstring
Waking the Dragon
Dragon in the Blood

Copy supplied for review

 

 

excerpt

 

There were already a few couples taking advantage of the private rooftop. We stopped at the corner and looked out over downtown Gladium. Glittering like stars, the city lights lit up the night.
“Isn’t it beautiful?” I asked, leaning on the railing, the warm summer breeze lifting my hair.
“Yes. Quite.”
I glanced over to find him staring at me, not the city. I smiled. “Do you know it’s rude to stare like that?”
“I’m sorry. I can’t help it. You are quite beautiful,” he said with sincerity.
I arched a brow. “Even with the wings?”
“Especially with the wings.” His gaze flicked to them. “You know, Shakara. You seem to have a misguided notion that I dislike Morgons, but the truth is far from it.”
“Well, if I may be so frank, your past proves you’ve had—I don’t know how to say it—issues with Morgonkind.”
His heavy gaze never left me. “Some of us learn from our past mistakes. And we change. At least we should anyway.”
His intense expression and bold statement were a challenge. One I wasn’t sure I was ready to explore. The conversation had turned from casual to serious in a heartbeat. And I realized in this, he was right and I was wrong. We should learn from our mistakes.
Changing the subject was my only escape. “So. What were you talking to Lucius about?”
He loosened his tie and pulled it off, folded it end over end then stuffed it into his inside jacket pocket. “You were watching me?”
“Yes.”
“So you lied,” he said, leaning forward with both forearms on the balcony wall, his left arm brushing mine.
“Did I?” I focused on steadying my voice.
“You said you didn’t know I was here at the party when I walked up to your table.”
“Oh, yes. I did lie.” I felt him staring but continued to gaze out at the city. “I didn’t want you to think I was stalking you or something.”
He laughed, leaning left, his shoulder grazing mine. On purpose, for sure.
My senses amped up. “You’re avoiding my question.”
“Am I?”
“Yes, tell me. I want to know what Demetrius Cade, who never speaks to his brother-in-law even at his nephew’s birthday party, could possibly have to say in a little one-on-one conversation.”
“You have been stalking me.” He smirked and pressed closer.
I arched a brow at him and whispered, “Tell me.”
“It was about you actually.”
“Me?”
“The hearing coming up.”
“Oh.” The wind lifted my hair in the night air. I tucked a strand behind one ear. “What about it?”
“As I mentioned at lunch yesterday, I’m afraid this hearing may bring some negative attention your way. Perhaps, even danger.” His frown was back. His lips tightened into a line as he studied me.
“I think you might be worrying too much.”
“No, I’m not. Which is why you might notice someone from Nightwing Security watching out for you at the clinic. And maybe elsewhere.”
“Wait. I’m going to have a bodyguard?”
“Yes. And don’t say you don’t want one. It’s necessary to be cautious about this. At least until the hearing is over.”
I couldn’t help but be a little surprised that Demetrius of all people would take the initiative to protect me. My father and aunt were bringing up clan members for the hearing itself, but they hadn’t prepared for any threats beforehand.
Before Demetrius’s scowl could deepen further, I made a bold declaration. “So what you’re saying is you’re worried about me.”
Just like that, his stiff shoulders rolled forward as if a weight had been dropped. He angled his body toward me, leaning one elbow on the banister and answered my teasing question more directly than I’d anticipated. “Yes. I certainly am.”
My nerves rattled inside me like marbles in a jar. It was all because of Demetrius. I was fine with him in crowds and loud clubs and chatty birthday parties. But alone with the heady mix of his cologne and his masculine scent swirling around me and with those dark eyes tracking my every move, my dragon wanted to stretch out for him and purr. The woman, the part of me who was confident in the clinic but shy in the bedroom, wanted to retreat and hide. As soon as I’d thought it, my wings twitched, brushing against him.
I gasped and pulled them tight again, “Sorry.”
“Don’t be.”
The air shifted, and I felt like I did that day in the elevator—breathless and trapped and extremely aroused at his nearness.
“Shakara,” he said softly.
“Yes?”
“May I take a closer look at your wings?”
“Yes.”
I turned for him, inhaling a deep breath, and opened them partway, keeping one hand on the banister.
“May I touch them?” he asked softly.
“Yes.”
I didn’t want to tell him how sensitive I was to touch on my wings. Some Morgons weren’t at all. But when Demetrius’s hands slid up the arches, sending a sensual shiver through my body, I thought I might come undone. When his fingers caressed along the side edge and back down, I gripped the banister tight.
“They’re quite beautiful,” he said. He had to notice my tremulous state. If he did, he made no note of it.
“Thank you.”
“You’re quite beautiful.”
When he moved his body closer, I could feel the heat of him at my back. He trailed his fingers along the underside of my wings where they were especially soft. He nuzzled his mouth close to my ear. “I want to touch you.”
Needing to hold onto something, I gripped the banister with both hands. I couldn’t breathe. I shouldn’t be behaving this way with him of all men. I felt as if I were stepping into enemy territory, venturing into places I wasn’t meant to go. And yet, he turned me on beyond reason.
“May I?” he asked.
“Yes,” I whispered, unable to resist him.
He swept my hair over one shoulder then proceeded to kiss his way up one side of my neck. One hand spanned my waist. He glided the other hand over the curve of my shoulder and down my arm, then laced his fingers through mine atop the banister. Yearning for his lips on my skin, I dropped my head back so he could have better access. He took full advantage, brushing feather-light kisses down the column of my throat.
“You know, there are many who would object to this kind of behavior.” He pressed an open-mouthed kiss to that tender spot between my neck and shoulder.
“What, what kind of behavior? There are others doing the same in their own corner of the rooftop.”
“No, couples like us.”
“You mean a Morgon and a human?” I asked, trying not to sound as breathless as I was.
“Yes.” He nipped up my neck with teeth. The sensation flushed me with heat.
“Do you care if people object?”
He stopped and turned me around by the waist.
“Does it bother you?” I repeated.
His voice dropped lower with an edge of strain. “I don’t know.” His fingers banded tighter at my waist. “But not enough for me to stop.”
Before I could form another thought, his lips were hard and determined on mine. The world be damned, for there could be no misunderstanding what he wanted now.

 

 

About The Author
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.

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Dragon in the Blood (Vale of Stars #2) by Juliette Cross-dual review

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DRAGON IN THE BLOOD (Vale of Stars #2) by Juliette Cross-a dual review

Dragon in the Blood

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N /

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 26, 2016

While all seems quiet in Gladium Province, the Morgon Guard—the global justice force for the dragon hybrid race—knows their enemy is rebuilding its forces in the underground.

Valla Moonring, an assassin for an order of the Morgon Guard, is ordered to join an expedition through the Wastelands of Aria, a formidable, icy wilderness fraught with all manner of dangers, including outlaws, deadly weather, and big-game predators.

To her great distaste, she’s partnered with a Nightwing Security operative, Conn Rowanflame, a Morgon with the aggravating ability to get under her skin. While she takes her mission seriously, Conn’s confident charm throws her off balance, a dangerous place to be in conditions like these. Especially when cold nights require close contact.

Sensual attraction binds them ever closer, igniting a passion of unexpected force—soulfire. But when the hunters become the hunted, their bond could prove perilous. Even fatal

••••••••••••••••••

Sandy’s REVIEW: DRAGON IN THE BLOOD is the second installment in Juliette Cross’s adult Vale of Stars amazing and complex fantasy series focusing on a dragon hybrid species known as the Morgons. This is Morgon’s Guard/Nightwing Security Conn Rowanflame, and Officer of the Assassin’s Order Valla Moonring’s story line. DRAGON IN THE BLOOD can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order for backstory 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 several first person points of view including Valla, Conn and the priestess, DRAGON IN THE BLOOD focuses on the hunt for the Blood King- a beast of a Morgon believed to be descended from the original dragon Larkos, and a man who has amassed an army of Larkosians that rape, pillage, and sacrifice human females in the name of power and control. As three trusted members of the Morgon Elite, Conn, Valla and Bowen Huntergild are sent out to find the Syren Sisters Coven to seek out the whereabouts of the Blood King and his priestess, while searching for Bowen’s missing sisters who had been abducted by the Blood King’s men. What ensues is the building romance between Conn and Valla; a journey through harsh lands and wicked cold; and the introduction of Bastien’s Bastards-a group of outlaw Morgon’s who have promised Conn their allegiance in return for protection from future prosecution for sins of the past.

Valla is Conn’s soulfire-his mate- but our heroine does not recognize the burning need and desire between the couple. Valla was raised by her brothers, and is determined to be one of the best Morgon guards, and has no time for relationships or men. Throughout the story, Conn’s ‘burn’ for Valla increases, and yet, he too, has a difficult time recognizing his soulfire mate. The sexual attraction and heat is palpable. There is no denying the dance of want and need. The limited $ex scenes are intimate and intense.

There is a large ensemble cast with several secondary and supporting roles including many of the previous story line characters (Kol, Paxon, Gisa, Lucius) as well as Bowen-a Morgon hunter-who is searching for his sisters Serena and Lena; Bastien Silverback-an outlaw Morgon who has been accused of horrendous crimes against his family; the Priestess whose magical powers call forth the ancient rites and rituals, as well as her lover and confidant Decimus. There are a number of Bastien’s ‘Bastards’ who play secondary roles including Kera, Madera, Rafe, and Lyla. Madera will challenge Conn to a dual with Conn as her prize if she wins. And we cannot forget about the bar owner Orlik; and Brother Silvanus-a man who helps our trio on their journey towards the Syren Sisters Coven.

DRAGON IN THE BLOOD is a wondrous tale of betrayal and revenge; romance and fated mates; fantasy and drama. The icy journey through Aria finds Conn, Valla, and Bowen facing more than the cold but a pack of beasts known as the wulving, and the Larkosian army sworn to defend their master and leader. The premise is intense and impassioned; the characters are enchanting and dynamic; the romance is a story of fated mates whose soufire burns for no one else. Juliette Cross’s imagination with captivate and arouse your senses.

 

Barb’s Review:
Dragon in Blood by Juliette Cross is the 2nd book in her Vale of Stars series.  I have read two of her series and I have loved both of them; her Nightwing and Vale of Stars series are amazing.  Most of you may not know of Juliette Cross, but after reading this book, I will say it time to discover her and her fantastic exciting stories.

In Dragon in Blood, we have two amazing main characters, and will still get to see some of those from the previous books.  Valla Moonring, is our heroine, who is the sister of Kol, the captain of the Morgon Guard and our last book hero.  Valla is not only beautiful and independent, but she is also a valued member of the Morgoan Guard.  Kol sends Valla on assignment to meet with the Syren Sisters, to gain information about the Blood King, whom we met in the last book.  At first Valla is happy, until she finds out that Conn Rowenflame, a Nightwing security expert, will be her partner on this assignment.  Valla hates Conn, since he is arrogant, cocky and always teases her.  Having been brought up by her serious brother, Valla wants nothing to do with an Alpha, like Conn.  Bowen, another warrior, who is looking for his two kidnapped sisters will lead the mission.  The three of them will travel through dangerous territory, which will include the Larksonians, who belong to the Blood King; an evil witch, monsters, and a gang of thieves.  Despite all of this, the hardest part for both Valla and Conn, is trying to control their attraction for each other, as they spent a lot of time working closely.  Conn is determined to win Valla, but at the same time does not want a permanent relationship, as he has too much fun chasing all women. Easier said than done, as Conn begins to see that Valla is indeed his mate, and he must fight the Soulfire within him to not scare Valla off

What follows is a very exciting adventure that will bring in some very nice new characters, and well as some evil.  Each step of the way, they meet danger and must fight together to reach their destination.  Another pov is the evil witch, who has her own plans that do not include the Blood King.  As we race to the finish, Cross keeps us on our toes, with so much action, dangerous situations, not to mention a romance that that becomes hotter and hotter, until it reaches the heat of soulfire.  Will Valla and Conn ever get past their own independence?  Will they survive?

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 in Blood was wild, crazy exciting, action packed and steamy adventure.  Do yourself a favor, discover Juliette Cross.

 

Copy supplied for an honest review

 

about the author

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

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Nightbloom by Juliette Cross – Review, Blog Tour & Giveaway

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Nightbloom by Juliette Cross – Review, Blog Tour & Giveaway

 

Nightbloom Button 300 x 225

Nightbloom
Nightwing series – Book #3
by Juliette Cross
Genre: Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance
Release Date: September 1, 2015

NightbloomAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

Description
All her life, Ella Barrow has allowed others to make her decisions. Forced to stifle her artistic talents and stay in a loveless relationship with Clayton Kerrington, the man her mother believes to be her perfect match, Ella’s life may be safe—but it’s not her own. Paxon Nightwing, on the other hand, is anything but the safe choice.

A charming and alluring Morgon, Paxon sees Ella for the woman she truly is. His bold confidence and protective nature ignites a passion she’s never felt before. But a dark family tragedy forces their secrecy—until Clayton makes it impossible to hide their clandestine affair. Will Ella be strong enough to fight for herself at last? Or will she succumb once more and risk losing the only man she’s ever loved?


Review:

Nightbloom by Juliette Cross is the 3rd book in her terrific Nightwing series. All the books in this series are novellas, or a bit more. I love this series, and whenever I find out a new one is coming, I cannot wait to get my hands on it. These are perfect fast reads that you devour in one sitting…exciting, action, sexy couples, and scorching hot….did I say hot, hot. When I discovered Juliette Cross in the first book, Soulfire, I knew then she would become one of my favorite authors, and nothing has changed that opinion.

The Nightwing series is about Morgan men, who are all totally irresistible, and the woman who will become their mates. Ella Barrow is our heroine, as we met her in the earlier books, since Ella is best friends with Scorcha and Jessen, our earlier heroines. Ella is smart and a talented artist, but her mother has put the fear of Morgon men into her life since she was a child. Ella is dating Clayton, her family’s choice as the perfect man, but Clayton is not a nice man, as she will soon find out.

Paxton Nightwing has been watching Ella from afar, but her shyness and fears keeps him from attempting to get to know her. Until one night when her boyfriend offers her to kiss anyone who wins a wager. Paxton, in trying to protect her, enters the battle and wins a kiss.   She has always found Paxton enticing, someone forbidden, and now the kiss has changed her, especially after she finds Clayton having sex with a waitress. It is here that Ella will change, begin to drop the veil she has lived under for so long, and allow her feelings for Paxton to rise up in a blaze of fire. That is how hot their chemistry was.   I thoroughly enjoyed watching Ella come out of her shyness, and go after what she wants….Paxton.

It was a beautiful and totally hot relationship between them. I loved both Paxton and Ella together, and enjoyed her marvel when he flies her to places. Morgon men are Dragons, and can fly. Most of all, I loved Paxton’s devotion to Ella, as well to protect her against the evil Clayton and to help her face her family to prove all Morgon men are not always bad. It was an emotional moment when mother and daughter finally came face to face again.

Juliette Cross has done it again with another sensational story in this fabulous series. The story is beautifully done, the sex is scorching hot, and the couple are super great together. If you have not read this series, you are missing a gem. I am happy to say that I have discovered Juliette Cross, and I am not missing anything she writes.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

excerpt

I blotted my Petal Pink lips on a piece of memo paper and capped the lipstick.

“Dangit!”

Trying to retrieve the tube with the tip of my open-toe heel, I only succeeded in pushing the lipstick farther away. “Ugh.”

Unable to bend that far in my pencil skirt, I hiked the hem up to my thighs and crawled on all fours, shimmying my behind, then stretching my arm till my fingers finally gripped my favorite lipstick.

That’s when I heard a low, masculine whistle from someone standing behind me.

Scooting back, I shot off the floor and slid my hemline back to my knee, all under the steady gaze of Paxon Nightwing, silhouetted by the sunlight that filtered into the foyer of Linden and Burke.

Towering above me with jet-black hair and matching sharp-edged wings, wearing a charcoal button-down, black slacks, and a devilish smile, his voice crooned when he spoke. “Now that’s what I call a warm welcome.”

“I, um, well, I…”

He extended a bronzed hand. I reached out with my right, nearly dropping the lipstick again. I shifted it to my left hand. “I like pink.”

I like pink? I like pink! For God’s sake, Ella. How old was I? Five?

His extended hand engulfed mine, then he drew our bodies closer. Grinning wide and stroking his thumb across my knuckles, his melodious voice sounded sultry and sinful.

“So do I.”

I blinked stupidly till my brain started functioning again. He didn’t say a word, mesmerizing me with ridiculously deep brown eyes.

“I’m, uh, Ella Barrow.”

“Paxon Nightwing. Pleasure to meet you. But I think we’ve met before.”

I tugged on my hand. He didn’t let go, tightening his hold.

“Uh, well, I’m friends with Sorcha and Jessen.”

“Yes.”

I knew this guy was a player, the kind to make a girl swoon with a glance and charm the pants right off her. Literally. Jessen had even kissed him in a club once. And while his carousing behavior should make me want to run away, I couldn’t forget that Jessen had said on a scale of one to ten, his kiss was a ninety-nine.

He still held my hand, angling his body closer. “I’ve also seen you at the Vaengar games. With Kerrington.”

“Yeah. We’re, um, dating.”

“That’s a shame.”

I tugged again.

He released me. “I have an appointment with Sorcha Nightwing.”

“Yes. I know.”

Pulling myself together, I pressed the comm device on my desk and cleared my throat. “Mr. Nightwing is here.”

“Thanks, Ella. Show him to my office, please.”

Rounding behind the desk, I gestured down the hall. “This way.”

“After you.” A sly grin.

I tilted up my chin, pretending I wasn’t afraid of him, then led him toward Sorcha’s office. I was good at pretending.

As soon as I stepped in front of him, a primal shiver vibrated through my bones.
His eyes were on me. I felt his gaze, as if his gaze were a caress, brushing up my legs, curving over my behind, rounding my hips to the dip of my waist and finally settling on the blond waves that fell past my shoulders. By the time we reached the door to the office, my heartbeat hammered in my throat.

Gesturing for him to enter, I kept my eyes on the floor, trying desperately to regain control. He stopped in front of me, but I held my gaze until I realized I was fixated on his crotch. I jerked my head up. Amusement flickered across chiseled features. He was about to say something, but I didn’t give him the chance. I marched back up the hall to the receptionist area.

 

 

About The Author

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.

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Waking the Dragon by Juliette Cross – a Review

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Waking the Dragon by  Juliette Cross – a Review

 

Waking the DragonAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM

Description:
The Gladium Province is on the verge of civil unrest as humans and Morgons, the dragon-hybrid race, clash once more. But amid disorder can also arise passion.

When the bodies of three human women are discovered in Morgon territory—with the DNA of several Morgon men on the victims—it’s just a matter of time before civil unrest hits the Province. But for ambitious reporter Moira Cade, it’s more than just a story, and it may mean risking her own life.

Descending into the dark underworld of Morgon society, Moira is paired with Kol Moonring, Captain of the Morgon Guard, for her protection. Fiercely independent, Moira bristles at his dominance, and defies his will at every turn. Yet resistance proves futile when passion flares between them, awakening powerful emotions within both, body and soul. But as the killings continue, can their fiery newfound bond survive an even greater evil—one that threatens all of humanity, Morgonkind, and Moira’s very soul?…

 

 

Review:

Waking the Dragon by Juliette Cross is the first book in her new Vale of Stars series. Upon reading the description of this book, I thought this would be a good story for me. I was so wrong, it was an AWESOME book. I am thrilled to add this fascinating world to my must reads, and to have discovered Juliette Cross. I will make one recommendation, when you start this book (and you must read it). There are two novellas that should be read first… Soulfire and Windburn, which is part of her NightWing series. These fast reads are also great, and they will introduce you into this world. The characters in the first two books are a big part of this new series. Trust me when I say these two novellas were equally as awesome.

Moira Cade is our heroine and I loved her from the start. Moira is human, but strong, smart, savvy, independent and the youngest daughter of the rich and powerful Cade family. Moira is Jessen’s sister (the heroine in Soulfire), and an ambitious journalist, who heads her school’s newspaper. Moira is determined to find out who is abducting and violently killing young human women in what looks like a rogue group of Morgon men, and in doing so, she puts herself right in the middle of danger.

Kol is our hero, whom we met in the Nightwing series. He is a powerful dragon hybrid, who is the captain of the Morgon Guard (special forces), and is asked to protect Moira. Not only is Kol a loner, he is fierce, dangerous, arrogant, but he is also a hot gorgeous hunk, even with a scar on his face.

Right from the start, the both of them clashed, each being stubborn and independant, unwilling to bend; but the chemistry between them was intense and in a short period the sparks began to fly. With Moira putting herself in danger as bait to draw out the cult group, Kol finds himself unable to control his feelings for her. Moira herself feels the heat and attraction to Kol, but is determined not to become involved. Once she comes too close to the dangerous and horror situation, her feelings for Kol becomes full force into an intense sexual onslaught that will bring their connection to something neither can deny. Their sexy scenes together were sizzling and burned up the pages (or kindle). I loved them together.

Though their love was getting hotter and hotter, the danger threatens to separate them. Moira will find herself in a couple of situations that had us sitting on the edge of our seats, in fear for her life. The last 1/3 of the book was action-packed, very tense, exciting, nerve-wracking and breathtaking. Will Moira survive? Will Kol be able to bond with Moira?

Waking the Dragon was a fascinating read, from start to finish. Moira and Kol were a super couple, and it was great to spend time with other couples (Lucius & Jessen & Lorian and Scorcha) from the first two books in Nightwing. This is a wonderful series that you should not miss. Thank you, Juliette Cross for bringing me into your wonderful world.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

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