Thursday, October 17, 2019

Reaper by Larissa Ione - Review

Reaper - BT banner

"Reaper is . . . Epic. Thrilling. Amazing. No one can suck me into a story like Larissa Ione." -- Donna Grant, New York Times bestselling author”

For love, he’ll watch the world burn.

For revenge, he’ll light the match.

New York Times bestselling author Larissa Ione returns to her fan favorite Demonica Series with REAPER, available now!

Reaper_Demonica Series_300dpi


Author: Larissa Ione
Publication Date:  15 October 2019
Publisher: Evil Eye Concepts
Series:  Demonica, book 19
Genre:  Paranormal Romance
Age Recommendation: 17 and Up
Rating: 5 Stars
~ I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ~ 

Book Description:

THE DEMONICA SERIES RETURNS…
He is the Keeper of Souls. Judge, jury, and executioner. He is death personified.
He is the Grim Reaper.

A fallen angel who commands the respect of both Heaven and Hell, Azagoth has presided over his own underworld realm for thousands of years. As the overlord of evil souls, he maintains balance crucial to the existence of life on Earth and beyond. But as all the realms gear up for the prophesied End of Days, the ties that bind him to Sheoul-gra have begun to chafe.
Now, with his beloved mate and unborn child the target of an ancient enemy, Azagoth will stop at nothing to save them, even if it means breaking blood oaths and shattering age-old alliances.
Even if it means destroying himself and setting the world on fire…

Reaper now available

My Review:

Where do I even start?  Can I just tell you that this is a must read, trust that you will just listen and leave it at that?  I wish in a way that that could be the entirety of my review, JUST READ THIS BOOK, because to try and tell you all the reasons that I loved this book could last way longer than you would be willing to listen, I am certain.  

Alas, I can not leave you hanging with just a READ IT, so let me just tell you a few things that are my favorite points.  

1. The world building.  I think that I have shouted about this for ages but honestly you have to know that the world building in the Lords of Deliverance,  Demonica, and Demonica Underworld (all related) series is some of the absolute best out there in the paranormal world.  I know that isn't specific to this book itself but world building in a paranormal series and it's continuity through out a series is huge and Larissa brings it all together making the world almost as much of it's own character as Azagoth himself.  

2. Character development.  Wow, one of my favorite things about this book is the prologue.  Going all the way back to the beginning of the Azagoth we now know, it puts a spin on things that you may not have seen coming.  Poor Azagoth goes through so many changes, as you might expect from a character who was once an angel, then a guardian of souls, then a 'man' in love, a 'man' in pain, 'a man' in despair.....it goes on and on for this poor character but watching his evolution over the thousands upon thousands of years of his existence is amazing.  It's even more pronounced because when you compare him up against the Angels that are basically holding him captive he is the only one that changes, they're all still the same a-holes they were at the dawn of time, haha.  I love that we get to see some of the same in past characters as they pop up through out the story.  

3. Suspense.  This is huge in this book because this story isn't just a story about Azagoth and Lilliana, no, and don't think that it is, it is so much more.  This is the story arc cumulation of the entire Demonica series, going all the way back to the Lords of Deliverance.  So much happens, so many truths are told, so many lies uncovered, so many futures begun.  While this story closes the chapter on one arc it opens up an entire new one and I am so ready for it.  

4. Romance. Ah, the sweet sweet part of romance in paranormal romance. I loved how Larissa weaves the story of many of the ongoing relationships in this book. Again, this isn't just the story of Azagoth and Lilliana, it is so much more and that includes seeing not only their ups and downs and the ups and downs of the other couples. Watching Azagoth's, Eidolon's, Shade's, Serena's, etc hearts break is so devastating in those moments. But what you really want to know about is the 'steam' right? It's there and when it's steamy it is so steamy your windows will fog up, but know that it is only a side part of the story and in general it weaves seamlessly into the story. I will say there was one moment of romance that through me completely off because it came out of no where, but I am not one to turn my nose up at a bit of a tumble across a 'marshmallow floor' (you'll understand when you read it, ha) The most important romance in all of this (though see my point above about how it's not what the whole story is about) though is the story of Lilliana and Azagoth. The things that are set in motion when Azagoth's heart is broken is what fuels this story and watching this amazing character break over what happens with Lilliana will tear you up. The love that he (and she for him) has for her will set hell on fire, no pun intended. Their's is a passionate and sweet relationship, and they play beautifully off each other, bringing out each other's best.

5. Action. Holy baby hellions, there is so much action going on in this book. It will wrap you up right from the get go and stays strong through the entire book. It makes this a real page turner, one that you aren't going to want to put down until you are finished because you won't be able to stop thinking about what is about to happen when you step away.

6. Take Away. The lines are never truly black and white, there is a world of muddled color out there and while there are demons who are straight evil and angels who are glowingly good, there is a whole lot more of a mix out there so don't always take everything at face value.
      
Obviously if you are a fan of the series this is a must read, so much happens and so much more is begun in this book that you can't miss it, but trust me when I say more importantly, you don't want to miss it. If you have not read this series, DO NOT start here. This is the end (a beginning) to an entire story arc that began all the way back with Eidolon and Tayla, in Pleasure Unbound. If you don't want to go all the way back to book one, you could start at Azagoth, a novella that begins the story of Lilliana and Azagoth, but your enjoyment of the series will be so much higher if you take the plunge and start at the beginning. You know you are going to want to in the end anyway, lol.


Finally, I have so much more to say, there's just so much that happens and so much to come so I am going to need you to all go and read this and then you need to get in touch with me so we can talk, I mean I need something to hold me over until the story of the kids...the kids y'all, they are coming! <3 Back to my original thought... JUST READ THIS BOOK!



~ HAPPY READING ~ 


Reaper teaser 4


Excerpt:

“I have no doubt Azagoth will stop at nothing to save Lilliana,” Reaver admitted. “But he knows that if he releases Satan, Satan will kill Lilliana. He can’t risk it.” “What do you suggest we do then?” “I can talk to him,” Reaver said. “Hawkyn requested information about a fallen angel named Flail. I’ll use that as an excuse to get to Azagoth.” A flock of gulls squawked as the birds circled the palace, looking for handouts from Caila’s guests, and Metatron had to raise his voice to be heard. “You said he sealed off Sheoul-gra.” “Hawkyn will open it to me if I can convince him that I’m not there to destroy his father.” It shouldn’t be a problem; Hawkyn wouldn’t have contacted Reaver at all if he weren’t sure Reaver could handle the situation without killing anyone. “And if Azagoth is out of control?” Metatron asked. “Will you destroy him?” “Isn’t it a little early to be discussing that?” Metatron rolled his shoulders, probably not even aware he’d done it, but Reaver knew he was testing his wings and his powers, feeling them out at the thought that shit might get really fucking biblical real soon. “He can’t be allowed to release Satan,” he said, fire in his tone. “And he can’t be allowed to escape Sheoul-gra.” “Would escaping be such a bad thing?” Reaver wasn’t Azagoth’s biggest fan, but the guy had been trapped for thousands of years. He’d proven that he was capable of wrangling souls and navigating the politics of both Sheoul and Heaven. He’d chilled out a lot since getting mated, too. Seemed like it wouldn’t be a big deal if he lived where he wanted and commuted to work. Metatron appeared troubled that Reaver would even ask such an apparently insane question. “Yes, it could be bad.” “Why?” Reaver asked. “I mean, I get that he’s an asshole, but a lot bigger assholes are running around loose.” Like the fallen angels who had killed Wraith. He clenched his fists, wishing he was out hunting them right now. “Azagoth signed contracts,” Metatron said. “Contracts sealed with the powers of Heaven and Sheoul. We don’t know what kind of damage we’d take if he made that big of a breach.” Sounded kind of minor to Reaver, but he knew well how seriously Heaven took broken rules and breaches of contract. They also weren’t fond of Heaven being damaged, which was why Revenant, while technically welcome here, wasn’t…welcome. His presence destroyed everything around him. “Okay,” Reaver said. “Let me grab the info on Flail and give Hawkyn a call. I’ll let you know what happens. And, Uncle?” Metatron inclined his head. “I want this to stay between us for now.” Silence stretched. Not even the gulls called out, and Reaver started to sweat. Metatron had always been fair and by-the-book, which was probably part of why Reaver had been such a rule breaker as a youth. And beyond. Hell, he still was, he just wasn’t as reckless about it now. Responsibility was a bitch.



About Larissa Ione:

Air Force veteran Larissa Ione traded in a career in meteorology to pursue her passion of writing. She has since published dozens of books, hit several bestseller lists, including the New York Times and USA Today, and has been nominated for a RITA award. She now spends her days in pajamas with her computer, strong coffee, and supernatural worlds. 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, a rescue cat named Vegas, and her very own hellhounds, a King Shepherd named Hexe and a Belgian Malinois named Duvel.



Connect with Larissa:

Facebook ~ BookBub ~ TwitterAmazon


Tuesday, October 15, 2019

Reaper by Larissa Ione - Release Day

Reaper - RB banner 


“Phenomenal! The world building. The romance. The epic storyline. Everything about this book is blockbuster worthy!” —Rachel Van Dyken, #1 New York Times bestselling author

For love, he’ll watch the world burn.

For revenge, he’ll light the match.

New York Times bestselling author Larissa Ione returns to her fan favorite Demonica Series with REAPER, available now!

Reaper_Demonica Series_300dpi



Book Description:



THE DEMONICA SERIES RETURNS…
He is the Keeper of Souls. Judge, jury, and executioner. He is death personified.
He is the Grim Reaper.


A fallen angel who commands the respect of both Heaven and Hell, Azagoth has presided over his own underworld realm for thousands of years. As the overlord of evil souls, he maintains balance crucial to the existence of life on Earth and beyond. But as all the realms gear up for the prophesied End of Days, the ties that bind him to Sheoul-gra have begun to chafe.
Now, with his beloved mate and unborn child the target of an ancient enemy, Azagoth will stop at nothing to save them, even if it means breaking blood oaths and shattering age-old alliances.
Even if it means destroying himself and setting the world on fire…






Portrait of a muscular handsome man standing on black background\






About Larissa Ione:

Air Force veteran Larissa Ione traded in a career in meteorology to pursue her passion of writing. She has since published dozens of books, hit several bestseller lists, including the New York Times and USA Today, and has been nominated for a RITA award. She now spends her days in pajamas with her computer, strong coffee, and supernatural worlds. 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, a rescue cat named Vegas, and her very own hellhounds, a King Shepherd named Hexe and a Belgian Malinois named Duvel.


Connect with Larissa:




Reaper now available

Thursday, October 10, 2019

Reaper by Larissa Ione - Trailer Reveal

I am so excited for the next book in Larissa Ione's Demonica series.  Check out the trailer below!

Reaper releases 15 October!

For love, he will light the world on fire…








Book Description:


THE DEMONICA SERIES RETURNS...

He is the Keeper of Souls. Judge, jury, and executioner. He is death personified.

He is the Grim Reaper.

A fallen angel who commands the respect of both Heaven and Hell, Azagoth has presided over his own underworld realm for thousands of years. As the overlord of evil souls, he maintains balance crucial to the existence of life on Earth and beyond. But as all the realms gear up for the prophesied End of Days, the ties that bind him to Sheoul-gra have begun to chafe.

Now, with his beloved mate and unborn child the target of an ancient enemy, Azagoth will stop at nothing to save them, even if it means breaking blood oaths and shattering age-old alliances.

Even if it means destroying himself and setting the world on fire…






Meet 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, hit several bestseller lists, including the New York Times and USA Today, and has been nominated for a RITA award. She now spends her days in pajamas with her computer, strong coffee, and supernatural worlds. 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, a rescue cat named Vegas, and her very own hellhounds, a King Shepherd named Hexe and a Belgian Malinois named Duvel.




Connect with Larissa:

Tuesday, October 8, 2019

Ice Hard by Tracy Goodwin - Review





Author: Tracy Goodwin
Publication Date: 8 October, 2019 
Publisher: Loveswept
Series:  New York Nighthawks
Genre:  Contemporary Romance, Sports
Age Recommendation: 17 and up
Rating: 4 Stars
~ I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review~ 


Book Description:

Hockey’s resident bad boy is hell on skates. But when he falls in love, he falls hard.


“Tracy Goodwin is an author to watch.”—Kelly Jamieson, USA Today bestselling author of the Aces Hockey series 


Nick:

As one of the New York Nighthawks, I’ve got it all: fame, success, wealth, plus I’m handsome as hell.
As for my relationships? They could be better.
I know how to do one-night stands, but I’m starting to crave something more.
Then I meet Camille Benetti.
She’s sexy, smart, sarcastic—totally my kind of girl.
The only problem? Cami doesn’t date hockey players.
But she’s never met me. . . .

Cami:

Nick George is impossible to resist. Not only is he scorching hot, he’s kind, he’s funny, and he wants me bad.
But I learned my lesson the hard way: no jocks.
So why do I agree to be Nick’s date to the wedding of the year?
One night . . . that’s our deal.
He is the best man, after all.
But Nick is crystal clear about his intentions. He wants a relationship.
And he’s tempting me to break all my rules. . . .










My Review:

I am really excited about this new series from Tracy Goodwin, sports romances, particularly hockey related ones are some of my favorite contemporary romance genres.  This book came across my desk and honestly as you can tell I haven't been overly active on the blog lately, but I could not pass up the chance to find a series to bring me out of my slump and I am glad that I said yes, instead of I don't have time.  I will say that I went back and read book one, Ice Hot, before diving into this one and while it isn't necessary as they can be read as stand-alones, I do think it upped my enjoyment of this book because I had a full understanding of the relationship between Nick and Christian, team members of the Nighthawks and best friends.  

Nick is not your typical bad boy hockey player, even if that's what the media wants you to think, he's less player and more heart than he lets on and that will make you love him all the more.  His heart is as puny and silly as this sounds seriously the heart of this book.  This big bad hockey enforcer has a heart of gold that just wants to be loved and love in return, be that in his platonic relationships and his romantic ones.  I have to say one of my favorite things is watching his interactions with Christian and Serena, (Christian's fiancĂ©) the way he is unsure if he was still an important part of Christian's life after his engagement, it's so 'real life' and nice to see from a male's (especially an 'Alpha') perspective.  

Then there is the relationship between Nick and Cami.  First thing I will say is that even in the first book, these relationships feel a bit 'Insta-love' which isn't always a favorite of mine, but I appreciate the fact that Tracy acknowledges that these relationships are fast paced.  She gives us that 'boom' moment then allows the relationship to play out in a way that while you know they fell hard and fast, they also have time to come to terms with each other and what their feelings mean.  Nick falls harder and faster than Cami, and that's quite refreshing to see.  He's the one that has to do the chasing instead of her, which I don't feel like we typically get in contemporary, heck any, romances.  Cami has a lot of baggage to get past and I loved how Nick was there every step of the way, standing beside her, especially when it comes to her family, not pushing but not letting her feel that she's alone.  

Their romance is both steamy and emotional and it all blends together seamlessly together that it gives you that emotional high you love from a romance novel, as well as that feel good emotion from watching someone over come a hurtful past and find not only love but their true self in the process.  Of course with it being a sports romance you also get lots of time with the team and watching their interactions and some ice action too.  

The New York Nighthawks is going to be your next favorite hockey romance series and luckily for us, it looks as though this could be a nice long series with some great characters and romantic possibilities.  





Meet Tracy:

Tracy Goodwin is a USA Today bestselling author. Throughout a career spanning a decade, she has achieved both traditional and indie publishing success. She is the author of the sexy New York Nighthawks contemporary romance series for Loveswept. In addition, she pens sweeping historical romances and vivid urban fantasies. Though the genres may be different, each story delivers her unique blend of passion, excitement, poignant emotion, humor, and unforgettable characters that steal readers’ hearts.

To receive the latest news and information about upcoming releases, please sign up for Tracy’s newsletter at her website www.tracygoodwin.com or join her Lantern Ladies and/or Shadow Souls Facebook groups, where you can chat with her, and have the opportunity to win exclusive swag. You can also receive new release announcements by clicking follow on Tracy’s Amazon author page and/or BookBub page.


Connect with Tracy: