The tattooed demoness, Bone, doesn’t like anything except the magical weapons she makes. But she has hidden talents few know about. When I was brought to her near death, she used her Seraph song to manipulate flesh and bone to heal me. But she wasn’t happy about it. Now I must return the favor. Even though she refuses to take sides in the apocalypse, there’s one job she’s not willing to do for … to do for the demon prince Rook. If she doesn’t, her head will end up on a spike. Of course, there’s a good chance we’re all going to die anyway, but I will do anything to protect this fierce woman–and not just because she saved me.
So, we’re both off to kill a demon–or three–and possibly save the world.
Each book in the Dominion series is STANDALONE:
* The Deepest Well (prequel)
* Darkest Heart
* Hardest Fall
* Coldest Fire
more
Hardest Fall is book two in the Dominion series by Juliette Cross.
You can read these as stand-alone, but I feel you need to read the series in order; because of the overall arc plot happening.
I really like Juliette Cross and her writing, but this time around I couldn’t get into the novel. I had trouble with, book one, the Darkest Heart and so, I wasn’t sure book two was going to work, but I wanted to give it a try.
I ended up DNF’ing Hardest Fall at 20%. I just wasn’t invested nor did I feel anything for this story. I also couldn’t remember or connect to the world. It had been a long time since I read Darkest Heart and things weren’t coming back to me. Also I think my main issue is the world. It’s apocalyptic and I’m not a fan of that type of world. As for the romance, Bone and Xander have this attraction and the author did a good job pointing it out right away, but I wasn’t connecting to it.
I did want to like the Dominon series; because it’s got angels, demons, magic, action, romance, and kick-ass heroines’s and bad-ass hero’s, but unfortunately, Hardest Fall was not the book for me. If the blurb intrigues you, I urge you to give it a shot. Just because it did not work for me does not mean it won’t for you.
Rated: DNF 20%
*Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy provided by Entangled Publishing, LLC via NetGalley with the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
The apocalypse has never been so appealing nor has it been as exciting as it is in this newest Dominion novel. Bone and Xander are two strong, captivating characters that demand readers’ attention as they try to get along long enough to discover just what the demon prince, Rook is up to. Their mission however is hampered by the sizzling chemistry that burns hot between them and which readers can feel flowing from the pages as Bone struggles to remain indifferent and neutral which has lots of turbulent emotions flowing throughout this rocking romance.
The fast pace of this story ensures that readers remain glued to the pages as the thrilling suspense builds and adrenaline pumping action draws readers deeper into this exciting and dangerously alluring apocalyptic world. There is certainly never a dull moment to be found as surprising twists keep everyone hopping and exciting events takes readers on a thrill ride as Bone and Xander set off to kill a demon or three and possibly save the world as they know it. This series is a brilliantly creative world of a war between angels and demons in an apocalyptic setting that readers can easily imagine, so beware that reading this story will take readers on an exciting journey from neutral territory, to the light side and the dark side, on stage and to a masquerade ball that readers don’t want to miss.
***5 Stars***
When it was announced that the next book in the series was going to be Bones and Xander, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it….Well, truth, I get all kinds of excited whenever this author announces releasing more words into the world, so *sheepish grin8 But, regardless, I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next and I wasn’t disappointed. It had it all for me: humor, smexyness, heart and a whole slew of characters I adore.
I loved Bones from the first time I met her in Darkest Heart and I grew to adore her as the book progressed. She’s all kinds of badass, she is a demoness afterall, but despite what she believes she has a golden heart that shines through all the dark layers she’s wrapped around it. Xander is charming, cocky and all kinds of alpha AF. He’s also…haunted by his past, which makes him that much more lethal, not only as a hunter, but as a protector of those he loves.
Xander and Bones’ journey to their HEA was a lot of fun. The opposites attract thing was in full force and that only ratched up the smexy simmering between them. I loved their bantering and how they saw each other clearer than they saw themselves and loved what they saw.
This is a great addition to the world that The Dominion series is apart of. The twists and turns were done well and kept me turning the pages to what would happen next. But, as always, much of my enjoyment comes from the supporting cast of characters and I definitely enjoyed hanging out with this crew. Dommiel, was as always entertaining, and I cannot wait to get my hands on Uriel’s book to get to know him better, but Axel, Gustav and Wolfrick are still my ultimate favs, though Maddie stole my heart. So, now to wait patiently (or not so patiently) for the next book and to see what will happen next!
Hot Damn!!! Another fabulous tale from the AMAZING juliette cross!!! I love every book I’ve Read by her and Hardest Fall was out of this world good. Her characters are always so interesting and her storytelling is flawless! I love both bones the ex seraph angel now demoness who creates and sells weapons to both the good guys and bad guys,she takes neither side and likes it that way. But that all changes when dommiel brings Xander a demon hunter to bones to help save his life,because she is more then just a metal worker she has the ability with her seraph song to mend and heal the hole in his heart. Xander is a total alpha he’s strong and sexy and so sure if himself and bones is a strong bad ass chick, love them both! And so many great second characters as well . The chemistry was hot and the sex was hotter! Well done juliette!I don’t know how you keep coming up with such awesome tales, but I hope you never stop I’m totally addicted!!
4++ “Heaven had nothing on my bedroom at night” Stars
You know how good is this story? I need the next installment in the series ASAP, I don’t care what Ms. Cross has to do, even if means she has to become a hermit and abandon her family and friends for as long as it takes to get it written. That’s how good Hardest Fall and the Dominion series is.
I strongly suggest reading Darkest Heart first as the overarching story and the whole world where our story takes place is set up there. Actually, the Dominion series is a spinoff or sequel to The Vessel Trilogy (which I haven’t gotten a chance to read yet but it’s up there in my TBR), but I didn’t have any problems understanding how this apocalyptic world works.
Now, this one had a bit of a slower start for me. With the level of kick-assed-ness that Bone is, I was expecting this to pretty much hit the ground running, especially after the very first chapter. And although it took me a bit to get into the groove of the story, it soon picked up its pace and I was in battle-action heaven.
Bone was an epic leading demoness. She had grit, sass and a fierceness that I totally adored. I especially loved to witness her surrendering the walls she had erected around her heart… and we had Xander to thank for that.
Xander was sexy, charismatic, charming and alpha enough to butt heads with Bone. Granted, he acted somewhat jerkishly in the beginning but all things considered; he was pretty timely in getting his head out of his ass and realizing what he felt for her. Now, as much as I loved Xander and the insanely hot chemistry he shared with Bone, I can’t say he surpassed Dommiel as my favorite… he’s a really hard act to follow. But I can’t deny he gave a really good fight…
“No demon prince nor legion of devils nor all the bloody apocalyptic spawn in creation could ever keep me from her.”
With lots of action, intrigue, battles and the hottest sex, Hardest Fall had everything I was waiting for. The story just keeps getting more and more interesting and I can’t wait to see how it’ll all unfold. With so many fascinating characters I just can’t decide whose story I’m hoping for next!
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book*
Wow! I didn’t think Juliette could top Dommiel with her alpha males but Xander gives him a very close race. Xander, former member of the London ton turned demon hunter, appears to be a smooth, aristocratic and dapper gentleman – until he meets Bone, fallen angel, weapon master and demoness. She truly brings out the sexy, domineering, beast of a man who will settle for nothing less than all of her. While both of them must overcome the darkness of their pasts and battle the demons trying to rule earth, their passion for each each other pulls them through all danger. This can be read alone but is best if read in order with the Vessel series first followed by The Deepest Well and then Darkest Heart. The Vessel series introduces the conflict between demon hunters and demons where The Deepest Well and Darkest Heart introduces the other couples in Hardest Fall. I’m really excited to see if this series continues and if it will be Uriel, leader of the demon hunters, or perhaps even Maximus, leader of the angel army, that will be the next alpha male in the Dominion series!
*I received a copy of Hardest Fall by Juliette Cross from Entangled Publishing and Net Galley in exchange for a voluntary and honest review**
Hardest Fall by Juliette Cross is the second book in her Dominion series. I read this as a stand alone without reading Darkest Heart without any issues. But this book was so good so I’ll definitely be reading Anya and Dommiel story. This book has all the check marks of : 1) Kicka** Hero and Heroine with awesome demon fighting skills and a epic final battle , 2) Demons, evil Red Priests, 3) Fantastic weapons made by Bone with special “sauce” 4) Dragons, Angels, Twelvers (Resistance fighters), Soul Collectors (very hungry ones) and of course hot sex between H/h this book has all of those and more.
Carowyn “Bone” is a weapons maker who infuses her special brand of Demoness who still has the power to use her Seraph power to heal a Demon Hunter Xander. But little does she know that he’s one of good guys who’ll soon have her questioning being neutral against Rook and Simian quest to rule the world one resistance fighter and Angel at a time. But can Xander break through her shame of being a former Seraph and because of a brief affair with Rook now a demoness to chose him and his fighters? Will she make the Torque that has demon essence?
Xander former aristocrat from 18th century London who one walk on the dark side led to meeting a Demon Prince. But a fight with his cousin leads him to chose Uriel who offered to redeem himself and become a hunter. So when he wakes to find Bone has healed him he knows that she is the One meant for him. Xander choses to show her the Twelvers and prove to her that she can be good again and love him like he does her. When a traitor takes Maddie from the secure walls Bone knows that she must make the torque and trade her life for little Maddie. How will it all end? I guess you have to read Hardest Fall to find out because it’s well worth it.
Book 1 and now 2 in the Dominion series are my first taste of this authors work and I have to mention that the biggest take I’ve gotten, is how vivid the scenes are written. The detail in which the author has brought this paranormal world alive has me wishing to see this made into a movie.
Right from the start the action is on and doesn’t stop until the end. There are battles that involve angels, demons, demon hunters and even humans. I like that the author doesn’t make the good and the bad as black and white. Some demons are evil, some are fighting for good. It makes for an interesting mix of characters.
I love Bone’s character. She’s a fierce woman that may have lost her way but not her honor. Her past with Rook brought an intensity to the story. With the tremendous power he holds and how cruel he is, I really couldn’t wait to see how Bone and Xander were going to defeat him.
What I liked about Xander was how he was relentless in his pursuit of Bone. He knew she had so much good in her that he was determined to pull her off the sidelines and to fight for their cause. It wasn’t always about the cause though. He knew she was meant for him, it didn’t matter that she was a demoness and he was a demon hunter.
There are many great side characters in this series and I have my fingers crossed for Uriel and Maximus to have their own story. There is just enough mystery around them that I’m super intrigued.
Alexander (Xander), is a golden-haired rake, Master demon hunter (he’s just really cool kicking butt), and has this direct way of seeing straight to the heart of someone. He also had a wonderfully biting relationship with the demon Dommiel, similar to Pamela Clare’s bromance between Hunter and D’arcangelo, with jokes, sarcasm, and an unspoken loyalty forged in life threatening circumstances.
Bone, (aka Carowyn) was bloody fantastic! Whip smart, creates weapons for anyone and tries so hard to play like Switzerland in the battle of demons and angels. I loved her! She had a huge heart she didn’t want hurt again and hid from everyone, including herself, but Xander was having none of that, determined to show her how to see her light.
One fatal stab lands Xander on Carowyn’s table where she works her magic and the sparks burning off these two was a rocketship of stars from beginning to end! I loved their byplay, or maybe I should say drawn-out foreplay, because Xander wasn’t shy about enticing Cara over to his way of thinking! And his methods…of course a hunter would be very good with his hands;)
Juliette Cross writes strong characters that are not perfect, sometimes straddling the line of good and bad, yet she manages to convey their struggle in such an empathetic way, I can’t help but get sucked in! It doesn’t hurt that she can writprotective, snarky males and intelligent, spitfire heroines either…
Book two of the Dominion series, Hardest Fall had a bit of everything-sweeping romance, demons and angels, comedy, zippy lines, good vs evil, one avenging demon hunter, and the demoness/angel he’s falling for! If this series was a tv show, I’d never miss an episode!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Hardest Fall is book two in the Dominion series by Juliette Cross. I have been reading Juliette’s books since she published her very first book. Every book is a new experience, a new journey. I have been so looking forward to Xander’s story and it was everything I could have imagined.
Xander, who is George’s cousin, is a demon hunter. In true Juliette Cross form, the book starts out right out of the gate grabbing you. Xander has been severely hurt in a battle. George and Dommiel are desperate to save him and take him to Bone, who in the previous book, helped to heal Dommiel’s arm.
Bone is a maker of weapons. She can forge any metal into the deadliest of weapons. She used to be a Seraph but fell from grace. She now considers herself neutral in this apocalyptic war. She will sell to the humans trying to rebel against the demons that have taken over the world. Or she will sell to the demons as well. As long as they can pay her price. She doesn’t want to help save this hunter. Even though he is nearly dead, she can feel the pull to him and that alone should tell her that she needs to stay away. But she does save him. And thus begins the journey of Bone and Xander.
“She wasn’t truly lost, just frozen in her walled off field of neutrality. Well, I was about to break down her walls and show her what I thought of her bloody plea to paint her world black.”
At the same time, the demon prince Rook and his brother Simian, are on a quest for power. Rook wants a very special weapon forged with the essence of both he and his brother. Such a weapon will have unmeasured strength to do horrible things. Bone and Xander need to figure out what Rook needs this for. Xander shows Bone what life is like for the resistance. He shows her that there is still love, laughter and hope.
“You’re not meant for the lonely darkness.”
“What am I meant for?”
“Me.”
As Xander and Bone work together with Dommiel, Anya, George and Kat to figure out what sinister plan Rook is up to, their bond becomes stronger, their walls begin to crumble, and Bone begins to realize what she has been denying herself all these centuries.
“It matters little who touched you first, because I, darling, will be the last.”
“This man, this demon hunter, was meant for me. And I was meant for him.”
This was a crazy, wild, beautiful ride. Bone was a strong, independent warrior and I loved watching her rediscover her heart. This book had some of the sweetest moments, some sexy times, and some nail biting, edge of your seat, intense scenes. All I can say is wow, what an ending! You could read this as a stand alone. There is enough information given to be able to understand this world. But, I do believe that you would enjoy it so much more and have a stronger connection to the other characters if you started at the beginning. There is so much awesomeness that you just don’t want to miss! The archangel Uriel will get his story in the finale of this series, Coldest Fire. I can’t wait!
“I mended that man’s heart. Then he awoke. And he mended mine.”
HARDEST FALL by Juliette Cross is book Two in the Dominion Series. This is the story of Bone and Xander. I haven’t yet read the previous book, so for me this was a standalone book.
Bone has fallen from grace but is making her way alone in the world taking neither side of the on going post-apocalyptic war, building weapons for any who pays the highest price. Keeping to herself and her secrets has gotten her this far, but when a man who is near death is brought to her to heal..a choice is to be made. Xander is a demon hunter who is healed by Bone and starts to draw her to his side. But of course their path isn’t a easy one which just leads to the excitement of this book. Loved it and such a big fan of Ms. Cross’s writing…always will recommend her books
Holy Heaven and Hades! I’ve loved every book in this series but I never expected to fall so deeply into this one!
In the previous books we’ve been introduced to both Bone and Xander and I was curious to see what the future would hold for these characters. I never imagined they would each have such dark, painful backgrounds. While Xander seemed more adjusted to his past, he still needed to share it with someone he could trust and he found that in Bone. As for Bone, she was hiding from her past as well as the present and pretty much refusing to face the future. Remaining in neutral territory she thought she could stay unaffected. But that was before she healed the demon hunter’s heart.
There was just so much goodness to this story! Everything evolved in smooth even strokes, the writing absolutely exquisite as Ms. Cross led us through the journey these characters faced as not only individuals but as a couple. With layer upon layer we bear witness to the healing power of friends, of companionship, of being needed, and of most especially of love. Gah! This story just wrapped itself around my heart and squeezed. I felt completely connected to Xander and Bone and despite the fantasy of the story, it felt realistic for the world they were living in.
Hardest Fall is a fast paced read with lots of action as well as some devious machinations that was truly the only cause for angst, and even that was not between this hero and heroine. The chemistry sizzled every time Xander and Bone were together and while the smexy times were intense, it never took over the story. It was just another layer of this couple’s journey. We get to see all the previous players as they continue to fight the fight but now we’re seeing them in more established roles and relationships that caused me to sigh with pleasure even as I swooned a time or two at Dommiel.
I’m highly recommending this one to anyone who likes a paranormal apocalyptic read. You’re going to love every one of these characters as well as their stories.
4.75 stars–HARDEST FALL is the second instalment in Juliette Cross’ post-apocalyptic, dystopian DOMINION fantasy, romance series focusing on the fight for control and power- the Great War- between Heaven and Hell. This is demoness/former seraph Bone, and demon Xander’s story line. HARDEST FALL can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. Bone was first introduced in book one-Darkest Heart.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Xander and Bone) HARDEST FALL follows the building relationship between demoness/former seraph Bone, and demon Xander, and the ongoing war between Heaven and H*ll. Bone, the former angel, has an affinity to metal, and as such, is the creator of some of the most specialized weapons in the war between Heaven and H*ll but as a former Seraph, Bone also has a gift of song that heals, as well as influences those she wants to control. When high demon Dommiel brings a broken and battered demon into her private lair, Bone is asked to help save the life of the man with whom she will fall in love. Enter Xander, aka Alexander Godfrey the once human rake of Victorian England, and a demon who sides with the Angels and the human resistance fighters known as the Twelvers. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Xander and Bone, and the potential fall-out as Bone is commanded (or forced) to build a secret weapon for demon Prince Rook, a weapon whose power could destroy them all.
The relationship between Xander and Bone finds our hero falling for the demoness that calls to his heart. Bone refuses to take sides in a war between Heaven and H*ll but a war that pushes our heroine to side with the man she loves, and the people he will die to protect. The Sex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
HARDEST FALL is a story of good vs evil; Heaven vs H*ll; love vs hate. Bone and Xander struggle with sins of the past, sin that resulted in the demonic changes to our leading couple. The premise is inviting, complex and intense; the romance is seductive and spicy; the characters are sassy, spirited, playful and strong. Juliette Cross pulls the reader into a captivating, thought-provoking and thrilling ride between angels and demons, and the people they love.
My review for this book is super long. I had to get all my thoughts down and pour out all of my love.
I love the author and I’ve loved everything I’ve read from her and this book was no exception. Xander and Bone were beautiful characters and I’m so thrilled to have met them.
To view the full review, find it here: https://www.nbiblioholic.com/2020/07/hardest-fall-by-juliette-cross.html
4+ Stars!
Hardest Fall is the third Juliette Cross book I have read in as many weeks. I can see why Sparkles is quick to pick up every new release and she is now rolling her eyes reminding us that she has been singing her praises for some time now!
A desperate plea for help brings Bone and Xander together. She agrees to heal Xander and from the moment he is well enough to realise his surroundings he is instantly aware of his attraction to her. The feeling is mutual but whereas Xander is open to what he feels, Bone is determined to not go there.
Bone is renowned for her weaponry craftsmanship. She’s a mysterious character that impressed me from the moment I came across her in the Darkest Heart. We learn there’s a lot more to her solitary persona as the story unfolds. Her ability to make a difference through her singing and compassionate nurturing soul along with her want to keep her stance of not becoming involved in the ongoing fight for control added to her appeal.
Xander took a lot more convincing to impress me. While they had undeniable chemistry, I had hoped for someone more than him. Initially he appeared to be out of his league. Before I knew it I had accepted his place in her life and it became more about Bone letting down her guard.
Xander challenges Bone on her neutrality stance. It takes an innocent child to slowly sway her thinking. I found a lot of the story predictable but it didn’t detract from the story. The pace, action and ever looming danger kept me turning pages and smiling when I discovered I was right in my predictions.
Nothing is black and white in the new world they find themselves in. Past characters add a good level of familiarity without detracting from the main characters. Music references add a fabulous dimension, so much so that I had to stop to listen to Ciara’s version of Painted Black.
You won’t want to miss The Hardest Fall if you like strong heroines and action packed paranormal romances where the moral lines are blurred.
Juliette does it again, I can’t recommend an author enough! I’ve been devouring her books like candy and I don’t think I’ll ever get enough of them. Hardest Fall was my airplane read and I couldn’t put it down, well maybe during some crazy turbulence, which had me reassuring that I fully prefer being on the ground than up in the air … Anyways, the Dominion series has quickly become my recent obsession, which had me falling absolutely in love with Juliette’s work. Once we were hinted at Xander and Bone’s story, I just couldn’t wait to jump into their story and boy was I not disappointed.
As far as this genre goes, the more unique, the better. And the books that Juliette writes, they’re always so memorable. It’s so easy for me to get lost in her stories, they’re definitely captivating.
I’ve been dying to know more about Bone since we’ve been introduced to her in Darkest Fall. There’s something intriguing and a little mysterious about her that you just want to uncover right away. And that’s what Xander was set out to do.
Bone has that tough exterior, but you know there’s something more underneath that hard. It didn’t cross my mind much during Darkest Fall what her stance truly was on the war. But we get to see the shift in this one and it definitely had to do with what she felt was right, down to her core. And she couldn’t help that she surrounded herself around people on the right side of the war.
Xander was just the guy to bring Bone’s soft side out and I loved every moment of it. He’s such a smooth dude and it was damn near impossible to avoid the guy. He was protective to a fault and was quickly entranced by Bone. It’s evident that they’re perfect for each other and just make each other better.
Besides this dynamic duo to fall in love with, I was beyond happy with my Dommiel and Anya cameos. And there’s sooooooo many. After their book ended, I just wasn’t ready to say good-bye to them. I hope Juliette keeps the same tune going with the next book, which obviously I’m eager to read. Uriel, anyone?!
**I RECEIVED AN ADVANCE READER’S COPY IN WHICH I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED. ALL VIEWS AND OPINIONS ARE MY OWN**
Juliette Cross
Hardest Fall by Juliette Cross is the third book in the Dominion Series. I’ve been a follower of this world since the original Vessel Trilogy; Xander is one of those characters that is always making his presence felt but hasn’t really had the chance to shine. Regardless, I always knew that under his cynicism and snark beat the heart of a true romantic; that when he fell, he would fall hard. I was so glad to be right!
Watching Xander and Bone’s relationship unfold was a thing of beauty. Unlike Dommiel, Bone did not need to seek redemption, not really. Instead, she had to develop self-awareness, self-belief, and commitment. Let’s face it, even her ‘fall from grace’ wasn’t even a committed act, instead you are given the image that she didn’t actually ‘fall’ simply shrugged her shoulders, muttered ‘meh’ and walked away! To accept herself she had to come to the realisation that neutral really wasn’t a position, and to really live she had to commit to a side. Of course, Xander (and Dommiel) help her with that.
As always from this author, world building and characterisation was on point. Honestly, I’d expect nothing less at this stage! Cross’ characters are always well developed, and love’em or hate’em, the emotions they evoke are always genuine. What I find refreshing is that this author doesn’t rely on the use of angst or drama to motivate the characters. Of course, it’s there, this type of story would be pretty bland without dramatic elements, but the story is strong enough to not have to rely on it to artificially create tension or the climax. For example, in one of the pivotal moments, when that thing happens with Bone (no spoilers, when you read it you’ll know!) Xander does not automatically doubt Bone’s loyalty, instead holds firm to his belief of her goodness. In many series, this forced doubt by the hero would be used to create an artificial dramatic element, for it not to occur was a breath of fresh air.
Juliette Cross has done an amazing job in the Hardest Fall in bringing Xander fully into the light. I’d recommend this series to anyone who has enjoyed the previous books, and if you haven’t read them yet, now is the time to start!
I have a friend who has been telling me I need to read Juliette Cross for quite some time now. After my berating I caved and instead of starting from the beginning, I jump in with both feet and start in the middle with Hardest Fall. I will officially own my stupidity and concede to my friend that she was right. Ms. Cross is AWESOME! and so is her book.
Oh wow! There’s no slow build up here. This story starts out explosive and keeps it coming the whole way through. Bone and Xander. Demoness and dark hunter. You would think these two on the opposite sides would be against each other. Bone, however, is neutral between the battle of dark and light catering to those who purchase her wares regardless which side they fight on. All that comes crashing down when a dying Xander is brought to her workshop. Her forge isn’t the only hot thing because there is an instant connection between them and Lordy do things sizzle!
Their romance aside, the story itself is outstanding. Filled with action and suspense, this story even offered up humor within its darkness. The characters are fun and surprising. I mean, coming on – demon rock stars with the lead singer Axel. Hello G’N’R! If I wasn’t already hooked on the story for Bone and Xander, that right there would have drawn me in. As expected, there is an epic battle with an edge of your seat build-up that kept me from putting this book down. This book really has the whole package and I knew right away, there was no way I was going to be able to put down. That’s okay, sleep is over-rated anyhow.
There are pros and cons of jumping into the middle of a series. Pro: you get to find out if a story really can carry itself and work as a stand-alone. In this case – yes. Cons: You’re left with questions but there is enough information provided that your imagination can fill in the gaps. Again, yes. However, my linger questions I know are getting the better of me. Namely about Xander and the rest of the demon hunters. I know I’m going to have to start from the beginning. The only question is, do I start at the beginning of the Dominion Series or do I go even further back and start with the Vessel Trilogy. Seeing as I must wait for the next book to come out, guess I’ll just have to suffer and start with the trilogy. Such a hardship to endure, reading more of Ms. Cross’ books. LOL!!!
Stars: 5
I received this book from Netgalley. I was not compensated for the book other than the entertainment it provided. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Hardest Fall is the second book in the Dominion series. The Dominion world is a spin-off from the Vessel trilogy. I am completely in love with the world and characters Juliette Cross has created.
Bone is a very strong and independent character. Having not taken sides in the apocalypse, she crafts magical weapons for anyone who comes calling, if they pay her price. When demon prince Rook comes calling, he asks her to manufacture something she knows is sinister and could very well cause complications. She’s a demoness with a conscience and when she finally realizes Xander is her match, it makes their situation perilous. If Bone doesn’t do Rook’s bidding and he finds out about her attraction to Xander, all bets are off and Rook will strike at what makes her the most vulnerable – love.
Xander is a great match for Bone even though he’s a demon hunter and she’s a demoness. Xander meets Bone upon being gravely injured. As George’s brother, George and Dommiel know straight away who has the best change of saving Xander. They take him to Bone, who absolutely does not want to heal him – causing a lot of friction at the beginning. What entails is a wonderful romantic novel that engages, enrages, and pulls on so many other emotions of the reader.
Hardest Fall is indeed just that, specifically for Bone. A fabulous tale, the story unfolds at the perfect pace, includes a unique storyline, has interesting characters; both good and bad, and intense chemistry between Bone and Xander. I enjoy visiting this world and these characters.
Just when you thought no one could top the sex and brimstone of Dommiel, Cross gives us Xander. He is the perfect combination of lip-biting seduction and snarky rogue.
“Does this usually work for you?” “What? my irresistible charm?” “Is that what you call it?”
And let’s not forget, mahogany tattooed covered bad-ass, Bone. Everyone needs something from her and she makes sure to deliver with a side-promise of remaining neutral. But alas, has this former Seraph decided to take a side?
“It’s who we choose to be now that makes us good or evil. Not our past mistakes.”
I feel as if both Bone and Xander have unwillingly become a duo in the upcoming battle. Bone taking on more risk than either one of them has dreamed of. She’ll have to craft a heart of steel to survive.
“No demon prince nor legion of devils nor all the bloody apocalyptic spawn in creation could ever keep me from her.”
Hardest Fall is a sultry mix of danger, intrigue, and desirous wanting. I am thrilled to have been able to read it early and can’t wait till the next book in the Dominion Series come out.