Release Day Review: Family Lies by Karen Rose

Family Lies is Book #4 in The San Diego Case Files series by Karen Rose!

This romantic suspense series centers around detective Kit McKittrick, her adoptive family, and love interest Dr. Sam Reeves.

Family Lies is an explosive, gripping page-turner!

Get your copy today! 

About the Book

The fourth nerve-shattering installment of the San Diego Case Files from New York Times bestselling author Karen Rose sees Kit McKittrick’s sister caught in a maelstrom of deadly family secrets.

As an infant, Kit McKittrick’s foster sister Akiko was abandoned at a firehouse. Now 32, Akiko has received an unsettling phone call from a woman who says that she knew her birth mother but refuses to divulge any details except in person. Akiko is nervous but also thrilled at the prospect of finally learning about her blood relations.

Kit has a bad feeling about this and insists on accompanying Akiko to meet the woman. Sure enough, as they stand on Mary Sherman’s doorstep, shots are fired and Kit is hit…and inside the house is a corpse: Mary Sherman herself.

Although she’s on medical leave and forbidden to work the case, Kit cannot rest. With police psychologist Sam Reeves, she undertakes a covert investigation into the mysterious Mary Sherman. Was she Akiko’s birth mother? Why did she reach out after all these years? And who had a motive to kill her?

As more bodies pile up, Kit starts to put together the pieces of the frightening puzzle that is Akiko’s birth family, and she’ll come to wonder whether some secrets should stay buried after all.

My Review

“O what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive.” – Sir Walter Scott

Family Lies is an explosive mystery that’ll keep you up bleary eyed into the wee morning hours until your curiosity is fully satisfied.

The story begins with a bang and quickly entangles readers in a dangerous web of lies, intrigue, and betrayal! 

There are so many mysteries! Each question answered raises even more questions.

We learn so much more about Kit’s adoptive sister Akiko, where she came from and how she ended up with the McKittricks. The McKittricks are a husband and wife who have a large home and even larger hearts and have been fostering, loving, and adopting kids for decades.

The fabric of the story is enriched by the complexities of the characters and the relationship dynamics each character has with the others. A beautifully broken melting pot of humanity.

I absolutely love the found family aspect of the storyline, not just within the McKittrick household but also at Kit’s job. Despite Kit’s stoic, prickly and standoffish persona, her fellow detectives and CO have claimed her as well. 

But even though I absolutely love this book, my love for this series wasn’t always so apparent. I admit I was frustrated with the author because the first book didn’t end in an HEA, nor did the second or third books. Where is my HEA?!!?!?!?!?

I am finally understanding and enjoying this large story arc format centered around a detective as she protects people daily, helps support her adoptive parents and their foster kids while trying to discover who murdered her sister and left her in a dumpster 17 years ago. 

And then here comes this do-gooder police psychologist with a heart of gold and the patience of a saint who sees to the heart of Kit, who’s claimed her quietly and who believes it’s an honor to hold the trust of the surly and guarded detective. 

Throughout the series as Kit and her department protect and serve, each book has Kit coming closer to finding her sister’s murderer, and opening her heart to Sam.

I really like this format because the romance is not instalove and theirs is a slow courtship where trust can be earned, appreciated, and given space for love to blossom.

Family Lies is a gripping read! I was on the edge of my seat the whole time and I couldn’t read this book fast enough! I devoured the pages and had to restrain myself from skipping ahead! I could not put this book down. And definitely do not sleep on the epilogue! 

I highly recommend the entire series!

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily read a copy of the book generously provided by the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my thoughts or feelings about the book or the content of my review.

Purchase Links*

Penguin Random House

About the Author

Photo by Deborah Feingold Photography

Karen Rose is the award-winning, #1 international bestselling author of over twenty-five novels, including the bestselling Baltimore and Cincinnati series. She has been translated into twenty-three languages and her books have placed on the New York Times, the Sunday Times (UK), and Germany’s der Spiegel bestseller lists. Learn more at karenrosebooks.com

*Third party links to the publisher's website. May contain affiliate links.

Countdown Review: Archangel's War by Nalini Singh

On May 5, 2026, the series will come to a close with ARCHANGEL’S ETERNITY. 

I’m counting down the days until the final story is told by sharing my reviews for each book in the series.

ARCHANGEL'S WAR is Book #12 in Nalini Singh's Guild Hunter Series.

The Guild Hunter series is set in a world where angels and vampires exist among mortals. Where supernatural beings are ruled by the Cadre of Ten.

ARCHANGEL'S WAR picks up several months after the events of ARCHANGEL'S PROPHECY. 

ARCHANGEL'S WAR is exactly how it sounds. 

We're gearing up for a supernatural Battle Royale that has the power to decimate the world. 

The Archangel Lijuan has evolved into the Archangel of Death and is ready to usher in her Reign of Terror on earth.

It's going to take a lot more than Archangel Raphael, his consort Elena, and their allies to defeat this foe.

Readers, please prepare yourselves because this story–while exciting–is a tough read.

Grab your emotional support angel or vampire and let's get to it.

About the Book

Return to New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh’s darkly passionate Guild Hunter world, where human-turned-angel Elena Deveraux, consort to Archangel Raphael, faces a new challenge that threatens the balance of the world.

Wings of silver. Wings of blue. Mortal heart. Broken dreams. Shatter. Shatter. Shatter. A sundering. A grave. I see the end. I see. . . .

The world is in chaos as the power surge of the Cascade rises to a devastating crescendo. In furiously resisting its attempts to turn Elena into a vessel for Raphael’s power, Elena and her archangel are irrevocably changed. . .far beyond the prophecy of a cursed Ancient.

At the same time, violent and eerie events around the world threaten to wipe out entire populations. And in the Archangel Lijuan’s former territory, an unnatural fog weaves through the land, leaving only a bone-chilling silence in its wake. Soon it becomes clear that even the archangels are not immune to this deadly evil. This time, even the combined power of the Cadre may not be enough. . . .

This war could end them all.

My Review

10 Star Review!

Nalini Singh outdid herself in this one!

I must have said, "HOLY SH*T!!!" At least 20 times! There are so many surprises and jaw-dropping moments, I can’t really say anything without spoiling! 

Raphael and Elena’s relationship is put to the ultimate test!

I will say that the story is packed full of… stuff I can’t say because it will spoil it! Dang it! Alas my lips must remain sealed! 

I will say that I absolutely LOVED the book and I cannot WAIT to find out what Ms. Singh has in store for us next!

This is a pivotal book in the series! Be prepared to laugh, cry, yell, grieve, gasp, cheer, jeer, pray, and be stunned speechless!

Some advice for readers: Do not skip any chapter, page or sentence. You may miss something vital to the story and series!

ARCHANGEL’S WAR is an exhilarating read full of action, suspense, intrigue, danger, thrills, chills, and so many surprises. 

I can't recommend this series enough!

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily read a copy of the book generously provided by the publisher via Net Galley in 2019 in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my thoughts or feelings about the book or the content of my review.

Purchase Links*

Nalini Singh Website | Penguin Random House

About the Author

New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh is passionate about writing. Though she’s traveled as far afield as the deserts of China, the temples of Japan, and the frozen landscapes of Antarctica, it is the journey of the imagination that fascinates her most. She’s beyond delighted to be able to follow her dream as a writer.

She is the author of the Psy-Changeling novels, including Atonement Sky, Primal Mirror, and Resonance Surge. She is also the author of the Guild Hunter series, including Archangel’s Ascension, Archangel’s Lineage, and Archangel’s Resurrection, and four stand-alone thrillers: A Madness of Sunshine, Quiet in Her Bones, There Should Have Been Eight, and Such a Perfect Family. Learn more at nalinisingh.com

*Third party links to the publisher's website. May contain affiliate links.

Countdown Review: Archangel's Prophecy by Nalini Singh

On May 5, 2026, the series will come to a close with ARCHANGEL’S ETERNITY. 

I’m counting down the days until the final story is told by sharing my reviews for each book in the series.

ARCHANGEL'S PROPHECY is Book #11 in Nalini Singh's Guild Hunter Series.

The Guild Hunter series is set in a world where angels and vampires exist among mortals. Where supernatural beings are ruled by the Cadre of Ten.

ARCHANGEL'S PROPHECY stars Raphael and Elena and a prophecy so chilling, it threatens to unweave the tightly knitted fabric of their life together. 

Whatever you think you know about the Guild Hunter series and whatever expectations you have, throw all those things out the window because all bets are off in Nalini Singh’s ARCHANGEL’S PROPHECY!

You ready to find out more? Let's dig in!

About the Book

Return to Nalini Singh’s darkly passionate Guild Hunter world with this New York Times bestseller, where human-turned-angel Elena Deveraux, consort to Archangel Raphael, is thrust center stage into an eons-old prophecy…

Midnight and dawn, Elena’s wings are unique among angelkind—and now they are failing. The first mortal to be turned into an immortal in angelic memory, she’s regressing. Becoming more and more human. Easier to hurt. Easier to kill. 

Elena and Raphael must unearth the reason for the regression before Elena falls out of the sky. Yet even as they fight a furious battle for Elena’s very survival, violent forces are gathering across the world. In China, the Archangel Favashi is showing the first signs of madness. In New York, a mysterious sinkhole filled with lava swallows a man whole. In Africa, torrential monsoon rains flood rolling deserts. And in Elena’s mind whispers a haunting voice that isn’t her own. 

This time, survival may not be possible…not even for the consort of an archangel.

My Review

I absolutely could not put this book down! The story’s exciting and fast-paced with plot twists and turns that will give you whiplash! 

No words ever written are good enough to express the magnitude of what I’m feeling for this book. The characters are flawlessly and brilliantly crafted, the storyline is deeply complex and engaging and the fierce love between Raphael and his Elena is without equal!

There are so many wonderful, exasperating and unbelievable surprises in this book that I can’t really say anymore without giving things away. But what I can share is that the story takes place a few years after the events of ARCHANGEL’S VIPER. If you are not yet in love with Nalini Singh, you will be after this book!

I experienced so many emotions while reading the book. I laughed, I cussed up a storm, I cried, I cheered, I cussed some more and shed a lot more tears! I will say though, most of my cussing was because the story ends in a cliffhanger. 

I hope you don't see this as a spoiler but as a heads up. As a reader, I know I'd rather be forewarned than blindsided. However, this ending doesn't take away from how magical, wonderful and exciting the story is. Thankfully, the next book is already published so you don’t have to wait long to find out what happens next!

Hands down, ARCHANGEL’S PROPHECY is the BEST book I’ve read this year (in 2018). And while this book is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. I’d definitely recommend checking out the rest of the series too because it’s amazing! No one writes romance like Nalini Singh!

Get your copy today!!!

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily read a copy of the book generously provided by the publisher via Net Galley in 2018 in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my thoughts or feelings about the book or the content of my review.

Purchase Links*

Nalini Singh Website | Penguin Random House

About the Author

New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh is passionate about writing. Though she’s traveled as far afield as the deserts of China, the temples of Japan, and the frozen landscapes of Antarctica, it is the journey of the imagination that fascinates her most. She’s beyond delighted to be able to follow her dream as a writer.

She is the author of the Psy-Changeling novels, including Atonement Sky, Primal Mirror, and Resonance Surge. She is also the author of the Guild Hunter series, including Archangel’s Ascension, Archangel’s Lineage, and Archangel’s Resurrection, and four stand-alone thrillers: A Madness of Sunshine, Quiet in Her Bones, There Should Have Been Eight, and Such a Perfect Family. Learn more at nalinisingh.com

*Third party links to the publisher's website. May contain affiliate links.

Countdown Review: Archangel's Viper by Nalini Singh

On May 5, 2026, the Guild Hunter series will come to a close with ARCHANGEL’S ETERNITY. 

I’m counting down the days until the final story is told by sharing my reviews for each book in the series.

ARCHANGEL'S VIPER is Book #10 in Nalini Singh's Guild Hunter Series.

The Guild Hunter series is set in a world where angels and vampires exist among mortals. Where supernatural beings are ruled by the Cadre of Ten.

ARCHANGEL’S VIPER features Venom, the youngest member of Archangel Raphael’s Seven and is just as unique and as rare as Naasir!

I’ve enjoyed Venom’s snarky banter and his ruthless wit throughout the series. 

He’s forbidden fruit and could tempt the most divine immortals to fall. 

He may look like a gorgeous supermodel you’d happily be seduced by, but beneath Venom’s skin lies a lethal creature with poison so virulent, you’ll be begging for death.

So... are you ready to discover the mystery that is Venom?

About the Book

Enter New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh’s breathtakingly passionate Guild Hunter world with the story of a woman who isn’t a vampire or an angel…or human… 

Once a broken girl known as Sorrow, Holly Chang now prowls the shadowy gray underground of the city for the angels. But it’s not her winged allies who make her a wanted woman—it’s the unknown power coursing through her veins. Brutalized by an insane archangel, she was left with the bloodlust of a vampire, the ability to mesmerize her prey, and a poisonous bite.

 Now, someone has put a bounty on her head…

Venom is one of the Seven, Archangel Raphael’s private guard, and he’s as infuriating as he is seductive. A centuries-old vampire, his fangs dispense a poison deadlier than Holly’s. But even if Venom can protect Holly from those hunting her, he might not be able to save himself—because the strange, violent power inside Holly is awakening… 

No one is safe.

My Review

He may be the youngest immortal in the archangel Raphael’s elite guard, but Venom is just as dangerous as the rest of the Seven. Having been Made by the Queen of Snakes (Archangel Neha), Venom is a unique and deadly creation. He’s also been a mystery to us and I’m so glad we finally have his book!

Holly was just a young and carefree twentysomething when she was kidnapped with several of her friends by a crazy madman. Having been tortured in unspeakable ways, Holly was changed on a fundamental level. 

Trying to find her new place in the world, she’s starting to be happy again. But she’s hiding a deadly secret. Not only that, Holly’s got this big asshole with stupid sunglasses who’s made it his life’s work to forever be a thorn in her side. Whether it’s calling her annoying nicknames or making fun of her “kitty fangs," Holly loathes Venom with every cell in her body. If only he’d find someone else to torture 😊

As with all Nalini Singh books, ARCHANGEL’S VIPER is captivating, thrilling and brilliantly put together! I loved every page of it! Holly and Venom love to hate each other and their constant ribbing had me laughing every single time. The ultimate antagonists, their banter was the comic relief that balanced the heavier aspects of the book.

I love Holly. She’s a survivor and I loved watching her grow into her maturity. She constantly battles adversity and NEVER stops fighting. Holly is a kick-ass heroine and I admired her greatly.

Venom is the same old Venom. He’s infuriating, aggravating and devastatingly sexy. Even though I’m not a big fan of snakes, Venom started to grow on me as the story went on. It was interesting to learn about his past and why he’s become a jaded, cynical vampire.

ARCHANGEL’S VIPER exceeds all my expectations and I never wanted it to end! However, I am looking forward to the next Guild Hunter book. Could it finally be Illium’s book? Or maybe Aodhan? Or maybe a secondary character gets a chance to shine… or it could be another Raphael and Elena book. Whichever way the series flows, you better believe I’ll be a ride-or-die reader until the end!

Well, now I know the next book will be a Raphael and Elena book and it will definitely be an amazing one! 

ARCHANGEL’S VIPER is an exciting read that’s funny, heart wrenching, and packed FULL of surprises! 

I whole-heartedly recommend this and every book by Nalini Singh!

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily read a copy of the book generously provided by the publisher in via Net Galley in 2017 in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my thoughts or feelings about the book or the content of my review.

Purchase Links*

Nalini Singh Website | Penguin Random House

About the Author

New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh is passionate about writing. Though she’s traveled as far afield as the deserts of China, the temples of Japan, and the frozen landscapes of Antarctica, it is the journey of the imagination that fascinates her most. She’s beyond delighted to be able to follow her dream as a writer.

She is the author of the Psy-Changeling novels, including Atonement Sky, Primal Mirror, and Resonance Surge. She is also the author of the Guild Hunter series, including Archangel’s Ascension, Archangel’s Lineage, and Archangel’s Resurrection, and four stand-alone thrillers: A Madness of Sunshine, Quiet in Her Bones, There Should Have Been Eight, and Such a Perfect Family. Learn more at nalinisingh.com

*Third party links to the publisher's website. May contain affiliate links.

Review: Bond of Passion by Larissa Ione

I am so excited to share my review of BOND OF PASSION with you today!

Larissa Ione and Blue Box Press have reissued the Demonica Underworld books (previously published under 1001 Dark Nights) with new covers, bonus material, and updated content previously left on the cutting room floor.

The Demonica Underworld series is a spinoff of the Demonica and Lords of Deliverance series. 

Every book in the Demonica Universe is an exciting, dangerous, sensually provocative and highly seductive grotesquerie with exceptionally clever dialogue and thrilling storylines.

This series is not for the faint of heart, but it is for those who like their romance spicy and supernatural. 

This is a world where demons, werewolves, vampires, and angels exist. Where Heaven and Hell are real places. Where not all demons are bad and not all angels are good. And where there is a demon-run hospital that takes care of all types of demons, angels, and otherworldly beings. 

Oh, and the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse are also real.

Are you excited yet?

BOND OF PASSION
Demonica Book

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About the Book

He was an assassin. She was his lover.

And his victim.

Now, years later, she’s back from the dead and looking for vengeance.

Thanks to an unexpected and fortuitous disaster, Tavin’s contract with the underworld’s Assassin Guild was broken decades early. But instead of freedom, he’s suffocated by guilt and regret. In many ways, he’s more trapped than he was before. In an attempt to numb his pain, he works at Underworld General Hospital, saving people instead of killing them. But nothing can diminish the memory of assassinating the female he loved…not even the knowledge that he’d done it to spare her an even worse fate.

Deja remembers all of her dozens of former lives, and she knows that she only found love in one of them…until her lover murdered her. As a soul locked inside the nightmarish boundaries of demon hell, she stewed in hatred until a single, fateful event gave her one more shot at life.

And at revenge.

Now another specter from the past is threatening them both. Can two damaged people overcome their history to save not only themselves, but a second chance at love?

My Review

I am a sucker for second chance romances but this one was totally bizarre, but actually right in line with the Demonica Underworld feels. 

Tavin is a seminus demon and an assassin. He is charged with killing an unusually empathetic Neethul demon–a violent, nasty breed of demon. But then he falls in love with her and she with him. Tavin does everything he can to prolong this contract being fulfilled. He tries to hide her, make her disappear. He kills another assassin who’s tasked with doing the job he won’t. Tavin is tortured for not completing the contract on time. And waits until finally he has no choice but to kill his love. Oooo I am mad at him! Tavin’s got A LOT of explaining to do!

With the events that happen in REAPER, Sheoul-gra is destroyed by Azagoth and demon souls are released back into the world and put back into the bodies they died in. Thankfully Deja was one of the lucky ones… and she’s ready for vengeance. Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned. And she is VERY scorned.

What a crazy and wild ride this story is! Deja is a complex character with a pocket full of revenge, but I’m not sure she’ll be able to take it when the time is right. She just doesn’t have the killer spirit and I really love that about her. I love her complexities and the feelings she struggles with. Deja is a dynamic character with a lot of heart.

Tavin has been in the series for a while now and has got the shaft a lot. He made a bunch of mistakes when he was younger and ended up beholden to the Assassin's Guild in Sheoul (Hell realm). I loved watching Tavin grow and mature and my heart squeezed as I watched him work as a paramedic for Underworld General (demon hospital) serving his penance. I didn’t want to like this guy but he somehow won me over.

What I really loved about the story was seeing all the guys from the first books in the Demonica Series. Seminus demon brothers Eidolon, Shade, and Wraith along with half-siblings Lore and Sin and a whole bunch of other familiar faces! 

BOND OF PASSION is a freaky second chance romance set against a vibrant hellscape with incredible world building and fascinating characters who tantalize and titillate! 

If you love sci-fi fantasy reads with dynamic world building, vibrant landscapes, irreverent humor, engaging plot twists, plenty of debauchery, and fascinating characters with fully fleshed out storylines, then the Demonica series is exactly what you need.

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily read a copy of the book generously provided by Blue Box Press in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my thoughts or feelings about the book or the content of my review.

Purchase Links*

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Apple Books

Kobo | Google Play

About the Author

Air Force veteran Larissa Ione traded in a career in meteorology to pursue her passion of writing. She has since published dozens of books, won numerous awards, and hit several bestseller lists, including the New York Times and USA Today. When she isn’t writing, she’s traveling overseas or in her RV, playing on her VR headset, or watching Big Bang Theory reruns. She believes in celebrating everything and would never be caught without a bottle of Champagne chilling in the fridge…just in case. She currently lives in Wisconsin with her retired U.S. Coast Guard husband, her son, and her very own rescued hellhounds, a Belgian Malinois named Duvel, and a Belgian Tervuren named Draak. Learn more at larissaione.com

*Third party links may contain affiliate links.

Review: Bond of Destiny by Larissa Ione

I am so excited to share my review of BOND OF DESTINY with you today!

Larissa Ione and Blue Box Press have reissued the Demonica Underworld books (previously published under 1001 Dark Nights) with new covers, bonus material, and updated content previously left on the cutting room floor.

The Demonica Underworld series is a spinoff of the Demonica and Lords of Deliverance series. 

Every book in the Demonica Universe is an exciting, dangerous, sensually provocative and highly seductive grotesquerie with exceptionally clever dialogue and thrilling storylines.

This series is not for the faint of heart, but it is for those who like their romance spicy and supernatural. 

BOND OF DESTINY
Demonica Book
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About the Book

Sold into slavery mere hours after his birth to werewolf parents, Tracker spent decades in service to cruel underworlders. Then the fallen angel Harvester transferred his ownership to a human woman who gave him as much freedom as the unbreakable bond would allow. Still, thanks to his traumatic past, he’s afraid to trust, let alone feel love. But when an acquaintance shows up at his door, injured and in need of help, he finds himself longing for a connection. For someone to touch. For someone to care.

Stacey Markham has had it bad for Tracker since the day her best friend, Jillian, was forced to hold his slave bond. At first, the fact that he’s a werewolf seemed weird to Stacey, but hey, her best friend was married to one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, so weird is definitely a matter of perspective. Stacey knows the depths of Tracker’s trauma, and she longs to help him even as he helps her, but breaking through his walls isn’t easy.

And it only gets harder when the only blood family he has, the pack that gave him away, lays claim to him…and everything he loves.

My Review

BOND OF DESTINY is a heartbreaker of a story. 

We first meet Tracker in ETERNAL RIDER, the first book in the Lords of Deliverance series about the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Tracker’s name was known as Whine back then. His pack, his parents SOLD HIM INTO SLAVERY at birth! As a freakin’ baby!?!?!? You can only imagine the horrors he’s seen, faced, and endured. OMG I am SO mad at them! I hope karma gets them good!

Between then and now, Tracker’s slave bond has been transferred a couple times and now resides with Jillian, mate to Reseph (Pestilence) one of the Four Horsemen. She doesn’t want it but she had no choice in the matter. Long story and a lot of Sheoulic (Hell realm) red tape and demon politics. 

Stacey is Jillian’s best friend. She’s a human currently working for DART, the newly minted Demonic Activity Response Team that has been put together with a mix of humans and otherworldly beings to help wrangle the bad demons after the events of REAPER. And business is booming!

Stacey gets a wild idea to run an errand during a snow storm and ends up in a car wreck and in a lot of pain. Thank goodness Jillian lives close by. Stacey makes it to the property and passes out into the arms of Tracker, the werewolf she’s been secretly pining for. 

Stuck in close quarters until the bad weather passes, Stacey and Tracker try to navigate their new friendship. Between the occasional flirting (from Stacey) and dodging emotional landmines, they discover things about each other, and themselves. 

Tracker is finding it so hard to reconcile this new life with freedom from his sheltered, painful past as a slave in Sheoul. His story is truly heartbreaking and watching him struggle is gut-wrenching. This poor, poor male who deserves nothing but kindness and love but has been shown neither, just awful!

BOND OF DESTINY is an amazing story of struggle, survival, and courage. So much courage and strength. And is an absolute tear-jerker! 

Despite the emotional turmoil, I highly recommend the whole series. 

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily read a copy of the book generously provided by Blue Box Press in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my thoughts or feelings about the book or the content of my review.

Purchase Links*

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Apple Books

Kobo | Google Play

About the Author

Air Force veteran Larissa Ione traded in a career in meteorology to pursue her passion of writing. She has since published dozens of books, won numerous awards, and hit several bestseller lists, including the New York Times and USA Today. When she isn’t writing, she’s traveling overseas or in her RV, playing on her VR headset, or watching Big Bang Theory reruns. She believes in celebrating everything and would never be caught without a bottle of Champagne chilling in the fridge…just in case. She currently lives in Wisconsin with her retired U.S. Coast Guard husband, her son, and her very own rescued hellhounds, a Belgian Malinois named Duvel, and a Belgian Tervuren named Draak. Learn more at larissaione.com

*Third party links may contain affiliate links.

Review: Cipher by Larissa Ione

I am so excited to share my review of CIPHER with you today!

Larissa Ione and Blue Box Press have reissued the Demonica Underworld books (previously published under 1001 Dark Nights) with new covers, bonus material, and updated content previously left on the cutting room floor.

The Demonica Underworld series is a spinoff of the Demonica and Lords of Deliverance series. 

Every book in the Demonica Universe is an exciting, dangerous, sensually provocative and highly seductive grotesquerie with exceptionally clever dialogue and thrilling storylines.

This series is not for the faint of heart, but it is for those who like their romance spicy and supernatural. 

This is a world where demons, werewolves, vampires, and angels exist. Where Heaven and Hell are real places. Where not all demons are bad and not all angels are good. And where there is a demon-run hospital that takes care of all types of demons, angels, and otherworldly beings. 

Oh, and the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse are also real.

Are you excited yet?

CIPHER
Demonica Underworld Book 7

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About the Book

It’s been seven months since Cipher, an Unfallen angel who straddled a razor thin line between good and evil, woke up in hell with a new set of wings, a wicked pair of fangs, and a handler who’s as beautiful as she is dangerous. As a laid-back cyber-specialist who once assisted guardian angels, he’d been in a prime position to earn back his halo. But now, as a True Fallen forced to use his talents for malevolence, he must fight not only his captors and his sexy handler, but the growing corruption inside him…before the friends searching for him become his enemies and he becomes his own worst nightmare.

Lyre is a fallen angel with a heart full of hate. When she’s assigned to ensure that Cipher carries out their boss’s orders, she sees an opportunity to take revenge on those who wronged her. All she has to do is appeal to Cipher’s burgeoning dark side. But the devastatingly handsome fellow True Fallen has other ideas — sexy ideas that threaten to derail all Lyre’s plans and put them in the path of an approaching hell storm.

Danger and desire explode, even as Cipher and Lyre unravel a sinister plot that will fracture the underworld and send shockwaves into Heaven itself…

My Review

OMG! Cipher is one of my favorite characters. He’s an Unfallen angel, an angel that was booted out of Heaven for breaking a law, losing his wings and powers. He is earthbound until he can either get redemption and win his wings back or enter Sheoul (Hell) and become a True Fallen angel and get hellish wings and evil powers. Hard pass. 

Cipher has been fighting for his life since his expulsion and has been safely ensconced in Sheoul-gra–Grim Reaper’s realm–where he’s been helping Azagoth (Grim Reaper), Hawkyn (his BFF), and the rest of the Memitim (Grim Reaper’s children). Cipher is a computer genius with unbelievable hacking/programing skills. He is a gifted asset, a tool for destruction and comic relief for many.

In the previous book HER GUARDIAN ANGEL, Cipher steps out of Sheoul-gra to earth to help Hawkyn’s sister fight a big nasty demon but just as they are declaring victory, Cipher is kidnapped by several fallen angels and dragged to Sheoul. It broke my freakin’ heart! 

Can Hawkyn and the gang find Cipher in time before evil fundamentally changes him forever or is Cipher doomed to serve a big douche canoe Fallen angel with delusions of grandeur and trapped in Sheoul forever? 

What a freakin’ good story! Cipher is so much fun to read about. His sense of humor is often his saving grace as he faces dire circumstances… until it isn’t. To reclaim some semblance of freedom, Cipher makes a decision that has irreparable consequences. Doing the wrong thing for the right reasons still makes it wrong. Unfortunately, Cipher hasn’t learned that lesson yet.

Lyre is a True Fallen who’s not very powerful and not at all like most fallen angels. She’s not as cruel or as vindictive and she’s definitely not as jaded, despite her need for vengeance. Cipher thinks her “goody two-shoes” act is a ruse to get him to let his guard down, he’s been betrayed by a True Fallen before. They have no reason to trust each other and everything to lose by not. 

Can they find a way out of this prison while wreaking as much havoc as possible or will they be doomed to a fate far greater than death? I know which one I am hoping for!

Cipher and Lyre’s chemistry is explosive! They work well together, they “play” well together, and they kick ass together! 

Lyre is a quintessential badass. She thinks she’s pretty powerless but Cipher makes her realize that she’s stronger than she knows. I love an encouraging and supportive MMC!

CIPHER is an exciting read with strong characters, exciting storyline, and fiery love story worth fighting for.

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily read a copy of the book generously provided by Blue Box Press in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my thoughts or feelings about the book or the content of my review.

Purchase Links

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Apple Books

Kobo | Google Play

About the Author

Air Force veteran Larissa Ione traded in a career in meteorology to pursue her passion of writing. She has since published dozens of books, won numerous awards, and hit several bestseller lists, including the New York Times and USA Today. When she isn’t writing, she’s traveling overseas or in her RV, playing on her VR headset, or watching Big Bang Theory reruns. She believes in celebrating everything and would never be caught without a bottle of Champagne chilling in the fridge…just in case. She currently lives in Wisconsin with her retired U.S. Coast Guard husband, her son, and her very own rescued hellhounds, a Belgian Malinois named Duvel, and a Belgian Tervuren named Draak. Learn more at larissaione.com

*Third party links may contain affiliate links.

Review: Her Guardian Angel by Larissa Ione

I am so excited to share my review of  HER GUARDIAN ANGEL with you today!

Larissa Ione's Demonica Underworld series is a spinoff of the Demonica and Lords of Deliverance series. 

Every book in the Demonica Universe is an exciting, dangerous, sensually provocative and highly seductive grotesquerie with exceptionally clever dialogue and thrilling storylines.

This series is not for the faint of heart, but it is for those who like their romance spicy and supernatural. 

This story is set in the Demonica world AND Lexi Blake’s Masters and Mercenaries world, for a fun crossover. Look for more from Larissa and Lexi in the future! 

HER GUARDIAN ANGEL
Demonica Underworld Book 6

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About the Book

After a difficult childhood and a turbulent stint in the military, Declan Burke finally got his act together. Now he’s a battle-hardened professional bodyguard who takes his job at McKay-Taggart seriously and his playtime – and his playmates – just as seriously. One thing he never does, however, is mix business with pleasure. But when the mysterious, gorgeous Suzanne D’Angelo needs his protection from a stalker, his desire for her burns out of control, tempting him to break all the rules…even as he’s drawn into a dark, dangerous world he didn’t know existed.

Suzanne is an earthbound angel on her critical first mission: protecting Declan from an emerging supernatural threat at all costs. To keep him close, she hires him as her bodyguard. It doesn’t take long for her to realize that she’s in over her head, defenseless against this devastatingly sexy human who makes her crave his forbidden touch.

Together they’ll have to draw on every ounce of their collective training to resist each other as the enemy closes in, but soon it becomes apparent that nothing could have prepared them for the menace to their lives…or their hearts.

My Review

HER GUARDIAN ANGEL is a crossover story between Larissa Ione’s Demonica Underworld and Lexi Blake’s Masters and Mercenaries series–a romantic suspense/BDSM-type series. 

But I don’t know how virginal Memitim Suzanne will fare against an emotionally unavailable ex-soldier with demons of his own.

Suzanne is one of the kindest Memitim and she really doesn’t have the heart for the job and all that it entails. She wants to cook food, be happy, inspire folks, and spark joy every moment of her life. She is a dedicated sister and even tries to forge a relationship with her father Azagoth (aka the Grim Reaper). Suzanne is a bright light in the series and has become a favorite character of mine. She also has lots of older brothers and sisters trying to protect her and her heart. 

I absolutely LOVE the family aspect of these stories. I love that the Memitim are being brought together and are actually creating bonds and becoming a family when in the past they’ve been told to stay away from their siblings and to focus solely on their duties. Memitim are not just Heavenly tools to be wielded for the good of mankind, they are becoming individuals with wants and needs of their own, and wanting to change the status quo for all Memitim. 

Declan is a strong and mysterious MMC. He’s exceptional at his job, a comic book nerd, and a total smoke show. Suzanne never stood a chance! Declan also is a bullsh*t detector and he doesn’t believe the story Suzanne is dishing out. But he’s tenacious and he’ll figure it out. 

HER GUARDIAN ANGEL is the perfect opposites attract story with lots of heart-pounding action, a little bit of spice, and brow-raising revelations that’ll have readers craving more!

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily read a copy of the book generously provided by Blue Box Press in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my thoughts or feelings about the book or the content of my review.

Purchase Links*

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Apple Books

Kobo | Google Play

About the Author

Air Force veteran Larissa Ione traded in a career in meteorology to pursue her passion of writing. She has since published dozens of books, won numerous awards, and hit several bestseller lists, including the New York Times and USA Today. When she isn’t writing, she’s traveling overseas or in her RV, playing on her VR headset, or watching Big Bang Theory reruns. She believes in celebrating everything and would never be caught without a bottle of Champagne chilling in the fridge…just in case. She currently lives in Wisconsin with her retired U.S. Coast Guard husband, her son, and her very own rescued hellhounds, a Belgian Malinois named Duvel, and a Belgian Tervuren named Draak. Learn more at larissaione.com

*Third party links may contain affiliate links.

Review: Hawkyn by Larissa Ione

I am so excited to share my review of HAWKYN with you today!

Larissa Ione and Blue Box Press have reissued the Demonica Underworld books (previously published under 1001 Dark Nights) with new covers, bonus material, and updated content previously left on the cutting room floor.

The Demonica Underworld series is a spinoff of the Demonica and Lords of Deliverance series. 

Every book in the Demonica Universe is an exciting, dangerous, sensually provocative and highly seductive grotesquerie with exceptionally clever dialogue and thrilling storylines.

This series is not for the faint of heart, but it is for those who like their romance spicy and supernatural. 

This is a world where demons, werewolves, vampires, and angels exist. Where Heaven and Hell are real places. Where not all demons are bad and not all angels are good. And where there is a demon-run hospital that takes care of all types of demons, angels, and otherworldly beings. 

Oh, and the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse are also real.

Are you excited yet?

HAWKYN
Demonica Underworld Book 5

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About the Book

As a special class of earthbound guardian angel called Memitim, Hawkyn is charged with protecting those whose lives are woven into the fabric of the future. His success is legendary, so when he’s given a serial killer to watch over, he sees no reason for that to change. But Hawkyn’s own future is jeopardized after he breaks the rules and rescues a beautiful woman from the killer’s clutches, setting off an explosive, demonic game of cat and mouse that pits brother against brother and that won’t end until someone dies.

Aurora Mercer is the half-wytch lone survivor of a psychopath who gets off on the sadistic torture of his victims. A psychopath whose obsessive psyche won’t let him move on until he kills her. Now she’s marked for death, her fate tied to that of a murderer…and to a sexy angel who makes her blood burn with desire…

My Review

OMG! HAWKYN is my favorite story in the Demonica Underworld series! So much happens! So much drama, action, conflict, self reflection, steamy angel love… this book has it all!

Hawkyn is a Memitim–an angel born of another angel and Azagoth (aka the Grim Reaper). An angel who doesn’t live in Heaven but on earth and who is a guardian angel assigned to protect certain humans who have a special purpose in life. Those humans are called Primori. 

Sounds like a nice gig right? Wrong. The Memitim are policed by a council and have strict rules that MUST be abided by. Rules that include no alcohol, no sex, and definitely no questioning the laws that shackle them. 

Hawkyn has been riding the straight and narrow for centuries because he wants to do enough good that he’ll be eligible to Ascend and become part of the Memitim Council. Hawkyn isn’t satisfied with the status quo and if becomes a member of the Council, he can enact real changes for his brothers and sisters.

Aurora is a half-Wytch. You mean like a witch that brews potions and puts hexes on people? No, a Wytch with a Y. Holy cow! I am over the MOON about a new species being introduced into the series! Aurora is also a strong character and I absolutely love her. She’s a survivor, strong-willed, and ready to stand toe-to-toe with any angel or demon that stands in her way. I loved learning about her and her unique powers. Aurora is a great character and I look forward to learning more about her and Wytches.

Hawkyn and Aurora are explosive together. Their chemistry is combustible and their quiet dispositions pair beautifully with each other. They are my current favorite couple in the Demonica universe. 

There is a secondary storyline with Azagoth and Lilliana. Azagoth had closed himself off from emotions for eons and now that he has a mate, it’s opened his heart to all kinds of warm, fuzzy, frightening and desperate feelings that are causing erratic behavior. And Sheoul-Gra (the Grim Reaper’s realm) is attached to Azagoth’s emotions. What he’s feeling permeates Sheoul-Gra and affects everyone, especially the Memitim-his children–that reside there.

Lilliana knew mating the Grim Reaper wouldn’t be all sunshine and rainbows, but the things affecting them now are extremely difficult. Sometimes love isn’t enough to get you through the hard times. I may have teared up a time or two while reading their scenes. 

Azagoth has gotten a raw deal from Heaven and angels for centuries and now when things are looking up, the rug gets pulled out from under him. Azagoth and Lilliana have a lot of work to do and my heart hurts for them. 

HAWKYN is a fabulous read with lots of excitement, lots of feels, and lots of change. 

I highly recommend the entire Demonica universe!

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily read a copy of the book generously provided by Blue Box Press in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my thoughts or feelings about the book or the content of my review.

Purchase Links*

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Apple Books

Kobo | Google Play

About the Author

Air Force veteran Larissa Ione traded in a career in meteorology to pursue her passion of writing. She has since published dozens of books, won numerous awards, and hit several bestseller lists, including the New York Times and USA Today. When she isn’t writing, she’s traveling overseas or in her RV, playing on her VR headset, or watching Big Bang Theory reruns. She believes in celebrating everything and would never be caught without a bottle of Champagne chilling in the fridge…just in case. She currently lives in Wisconsin with her retired U.S. Coast Guard husband, her son, and her very own rescued hellhounds, a Belgian Malinois named Duvel, and a Belgian Tervuren named Draak. Learn more at larissaione.com

*Third party links may contain affiliate links.

Review: Razr by Larissa Ione

I am so excited to share my review of RAZR with you today!

Larissa Ione and Blue Box Press have reissued the Demonica Underworld books (previously published under 1001 Dark Nights) with new covers, bonus material, and updated content previously left on the cutting room floor.

The Demonica Underworld series is a spinoff of the Demonica and Lords of Deliverance series. 

Every book in the Demonica Universe is an exciting, dangerous, sensually provocative and highly seductive grotesquerie with exceptionally clever dialogue and thrilling storylines.

This series is not for the faint of heart, but it is for those who like their romance spicy and supernatural. 

This is a world where demons, werewolves, vampires, and angels exist. Where Heaven and Hell are real places. Where not all demons are bad and not all angels are good. And where there is a demon-run hospital that takes care of all types of demons, angels, and otherworldly beings. 

Oh, and the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse are also real.

Are you excited yet?

RAZR
Demonica Underworld Book 4
Demonica Book 11.8
Lords of Deliverance Book 5.8

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About the Book

A fallen angel with a secret.

An otherworldly elf with an insatiable hunger she doesn’t understand.

An enchanted gem.

Meet mortal enemies Razr and Jedda…and the priceless diamond that threatens to destroy them both even as it bonds them together with sizzling passion.

Welcome back to the Demonica Underworld, where enemies find love…if they’re strong enough to survive.

My Review

If the Demonica world wasn’t colorful enough, now we’ve got gem elves!!! I am so excited to learn more about this uniquely beautiful species! 

Razr is an angel not necessarily fallen or unfallen. He’s been punished for years for failing a sacred mission. He got to keep his wings, but his power has been bound–along with his wings–and he must be flogged mercilessly at Heaven’s whim. I am really starting to think Heaven’s ruling class of angels and archangels are just as bad as the demons! The punishment doesn’t fit the crime in this case but Razr nobly takes the punishment. Every. Single. Time. 

Jedda is a feisty gem elf who’s tenacious, witty, and crazy for Razr. I loved her sense of humor. She’s a complex character with so much depth. I could easily relate to her. I really enjoyed learning about gem elves and their elven realm. I particularly enjoyed the fun elf references in the story! 

Razr is an honorable angel and such a good guy. I absolutely loved him too! He deserves some happiness after all the hell he’s been through and Jedda is his perfect match. She’s ornery and exactly what Razr needs. 

The author ends Razr and Jedda’s story with a yummy dessert recipe and a little Q&A action.

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily read a copy of the book generously provided by Blue Box Press in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my thoughts or feelings about the book or the content of my review.

Purchase Links*

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Apple Books

Kobo | Google Play

About the Author

Air Force veteran Larissa Ione traded in a career in meteorology to pursue her passion of writing. She has since published dozens of books, won numerous awards, and hit several bestseller lists, including the New York Times and USA Today. When she isn’t writing, she’s traveling overseas or in her RV, playing on her VR headset, or watching Big Bang Theory reruns. She believes in celebrating everything and would never be caught without a bottle of Champagne chilling in the fridge…just in case. She currently lives in Wisconsin with her retired U.S. Coast Guard husband, her son, and her very own rescued hellhounds, a Belgian Malinois named Duvel, and a Belgian Tervuren named Draak. Learn more at larissaione.com

*Third party links may contain affiliate links.

Review: Z by Larissa Ione

I am so excited to share my review of Z with you today!

Larissa Ione and Blue Box Press have reissued the Demonica Underworld books (previously published under 1001 Dark Nights) with new covers, bonus material, and updated content previously left on the cutting room floor.

The Demonica Underworld series is a spinoff of the Demonica and Lords of Deliverance series. 

Every book in the Demonica Universe is an exciting, dangerous, sensually provocative and highly seductive grotesquerie with exceptionally clever dialogue and thrilling storylines.

This series is not for the faint of heart, but it is for those who like their romance spicy and supernatural. 

This is a world where demons, werewolves, vampires, and angels exist. Where Heaven and Hell are real places. Where not all demons are bad and not all angels are good. And where there is a demon-run hospital that takes care of all types of demons, angels, and otherworldly beings. 

Oh, and the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse are also real.

Are you excited yet?

Z
Demonica Underworld Book 3
Demonica Book 11.7
Lords of Deliverance Book 5.7

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About the Book

Zhubaal, fallen angel assistant to the Grim Reaper, has spent decades searching for the angel he loved and lost nearly a century ago. Not even her death can keep him from trying to find her, not when he knows she’s been given a second chance at life in a new body. But as time passes, he’s losing hope, and he wonders how much longer he can hold to the oath he swore to her so long ago…

As an emim, the wingless offspring of two fallen angels, Vex has always felt like a second-class citizen. But if she manages to secure a deal with the Grim Reaper — by any means necessary — she will have earned her place in the world. The only obstacle in the way of her plan is a sexy hardass called Z, who seems determined to thwart her at every turn. Soon it becomes clear that they have a powerful connection rooted in the past…but can any vow stand the test of time?

My Review

OMG, a Demonica Underworld second chance romance? Yes, please! 

Zhubaal has waited an eternity to be reunited with his beloved Laura. She was an angel in Heaven with him, but she lost her wings and fell. Zhubaal gave up his wings and fell after her. They made a vow but before that vow could be realized, Laura was killed and her soul reborn. Zhubaal has been searching and waiting for Laura to return to him. 

Vex is a down on her luck soul dealer with a big problem, no one’s buying souls. She’s been told to visit Azagoth if she needs to unload souls. What Vex doesn’t know is that he’s THE Grim Reaper! If she can get a job with him, she’ll be the envy of the neighborhood! What Vex doesn’t expect is being drawn to Azagoth’s super hunky assistant Zhubaal (Z). 

This story was a tough one! I love how scrappy Vex is. She’s got a mouth like a sailor and a street fighter mentality with a wicked sense of humor and a bangin’ body Z can’t keep his eyes off of. 

Zhubaal was straight pissing me off! I mean, I get that he has waited a long time for his betrothed, perfect Laura, but he was SUCH a dick to Vex. Zhubaal struggled to reconcile the angel that Laura was with the reborn person she is now. It just broke my heart for both of them. Love is truly a battlefield in Zhubaal and Vex’s story.

Z is a passionate read that’s a bit of a tear-jerker and full of snarky dialogue. Just how I like my romance. 

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily read a copy of the book generously provided by Blue Box Press in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my thoughts or feelings about the book or the content of my review.

Purchase Links*

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Apple Books

Kobo | Google Play

About the Author

Air Force veteran Larissa Ione traded in a career in meteorology to pursue her passion of writing. She has since published dozens of books, won numerous awards, and hit several bestseller lists, including the New York Times and USA Today. When she isn’t writing, she’s traveling overseas or in her RV, playing on her VR headset, or watching Big Bang Theory reruns. She believes in celebrating everything and would never be caught without a bottle of Champagne chilling in the fridge…just in case. She currently lives in Wisconsin with her retired U.S. Coast Guard husband, her son, and her very own rescued hellhounds, a Belgian Malinois named Duvel, and a Belgian Tervuren named Draak. Learn more at larissaione.com

*Third party links may contain affiliate links.