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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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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.

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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.

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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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