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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?
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?
154 pages, Paperback
First published April 26, 2016
189 people are currently reading
2484 people want to read
About the author
Larissa Ione
106 books10.1k followersAir 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 237 reviews
March 27, 2017
This is the story of Zhubaal or Z, the angel who fall just to be able to find his lost love Laura. Z is the right hand of Azagoth who always looks after his employees - although he is the grim reaper and a really badass.
Vex is the daughter of two fallen angels. The girl has a tiny problem in the book. She can attract and absorb lost demon souls. This time she has 5 souls inside her and Z suspects that one of those belong to Laura.
So Azagoth will try to help Z. He will try to extract the 5 souls, find Laura’s soul and get the rest of the doomed souls. And make his trusty employee happy. And maybe be able to hire another trusty employee in the process. Win-win situation.
Unfortunately Z will have a possibly nasty surprise. Can he accept the new Laura?
“So that’s who you want me to be? The innocent, sweet, shy girl you say I was?” She stormed over to the bed and snatched up the robe again. “Because I can’t be her. I can’t be anything but me. I love you, but I won’t change who I am for anyone.” She tied the robe around her waist and spread her arms wide. “This is me. You either love me for who I am, or you find someone else to love.”
Great story. I smiled and laughed a lot, even in scenes normal people are not supposed to smile and laugh. But this happens to me a lot when I am reading Ione's books.
Vex is the daughter of two fallen angels. The girl has a tiny problem in the book. She can attract and absorb lost demon souls. This time she has 5 souls inside her and Z suspects that one of those belong to Laura.
So Azagoth will try to help Z. He will try to extract the 5 souls, find Laura’s soul and get the rest of the doomed souls. And make his trusty employee happy. And maybe be able to hire another trusty employee in the process. Win-win situation.
Unfortunately Z will have a possibly nasty surprise. Can he accept the new Laura?
“So that’s who you want me to be? The innocent, sweet, shy girl you say I was?” She stormed over to the bed and snatched up the robe again. “Because I can’t be her. I can’t be anything but me. I love you, but I won’t change who I am for anyone.” She tied the robe around her waist and spread her arms wide. “This is me. You either love me for who I am, or you find someone else to love.”
Great story. I smiled and laughed a lot, even in scenes normal people are not supposed to smile and laugh. But this happens to me a lot when I am reading Ione's books.
November 3, 2019
Another 1001 nights novella but again a decent one 150-ish pages.
This one is about Vex and Zhubaal.
Z is the fallen angel assistant to Azagoth the Grim Reaper and he has been searching for his lost reincarnated love for years after she lost her wings and was thrown out of the heavens and then later murdered on earth.
Vex is an Emim the offspring of two fallen angels, she is also a Daemani which means that any demon souls who die in her vicinity get sucked into her being influencing her somewhat they and also stored as a glyph on her skin.
It is this ability to absorb souls that brings her to Azagoth as she needs rid of the ones she carries and theres a lockdown on the soul bartering market because of the recent apocalypse.
Here she encounters Z who upon meeting senses the soul of his lost love inside the brash opinionated and compelling Vex.
I adored Vex and her passion for everything she was larger than life and you never knew what shocking statement she was going to come out with next, it was so refreshing in a female character Vex was bloody bass-ass and also utterly hilarious.
We also get to know Z better as he's been quietly in the background up until now.
Z has put his lost love on a pedestal and no other quite matches up to her shining perfection and inner goodness while now ignoring that the woman in front of him is actually flesh and blood.
Also, Z is so different from what I had originally imagined him to be, he was really quite the sweetie and had such a charming insecure appeal to all his kick-ass lethalness.
He was also a virgin while Vex was more experienced though he does catch on fast.
This was as usual well written and imaginative.
Another great addition to the ongoing story and gets a thumbs up from yours truly.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
April 26, 2016
Short read. Nothing like the first Demonica books, which I kinda liked.
This was ok. Unremarkable (virgin!) hero and unremarkable heroine. But the sex scenes are steamy. Larissa Ione writes the best PN erotica. At some point I was rooting for a menage :D. That Rowan guy looks interesting.
2.5 stars
April 29, 2016
I love Larissa Ione’s Demonica world and I have been looking forward to Zubaal’s book for a while. Z had been introduced in the prior books and he has been suffering looking for his long lost love Laura.
Z gave up his angel wings and left heaven in hopes of finding his love Laura who fell from heaven. All that Z has to go on is that Laura will be reborn and he hopes that their souls will recognize each other in whatever form they may currently be in. Z has been working for Azagoth for the past 100 years, so he would know if her soul came into contact with the grim reaper. In this time, Z has remained celibate and but his attraction to Vex is threatening his fidelity.
Vex is an emim (child of two fallen angels) and her status makes her a demon soul magnet. If Vex is around a demon, the demon’s soul is literally sucked into Vex. When she gets a demon soul, Vex sells the soul to purge them from herself. Suddenly all her normally black market operatives aren’t purchasing demon souls, so Vex is stuck with demon souls inhibiting her body. Fear leads Vex to approach Azagoth the grim reaper to extract those demonic souls from her and Z finally has a path to the love he lost so long ago.
Though this is a novella, the author Larissa Ione weaves a tale like only she can. We have been getting bits and pieces into Z’s mission but now we finally get the full extent of his private pain and tolls to recover the woman he loves. The story was well written, full of humor, sarcastic retorts, sexiness, and just sweet romance. The characters were entertaining as well as passionate. There were some really emotional parts in this story. To top it all off, we got some guest appearances from old favorites. It was a great addition to one of the best paranormal series and the character building remains top notched. Normally I don’t enjoy novellas since they are too short for any real depth. But due to the information given about Z in prior books, we have enough foundation to truly appreciate the journey back to love here.
If you are a fan of the Demonica universe, you need to read this book right now!
*Special Thanks to Inkslinger for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review
*I received this book in exchange for an honest review*
Z gave up his angel wings and left heaven in hopes of finding his love Laura who fell from heaven. All that Z has to go on is that Laura will be reborn and he hopes that their souls will recognize each other in whatever form they may currently be in. Z has been working for Azagoth for the past 100 years, so he would know if her soul came into contact with the grim reaper. In this time, Z has remained celibate and but his attraction to Vex is threatening his fidelity.
Vex is an emim (child of two fallen angels) and her status makes her a demon soul magnet. If Vex is around a demon, the demon’s soul is literally sucked into Vex. When she gets a demon soul, Vex sells the soul to purge them from herself. Suddenly all her normally black market operatives aren’t purchasing demon souls, so Vex is stuck with demon souls inhibiting her body. Fear leads Vex to approach Azagoth the grim reaper to extract those demonic souls from her and Z finally has a path to the love he lost so long ago.
Though this is a novella, the author Larissa Ione weaves a tale like only she can. We have been getting bits and pieces into Z’s mission but now we finally get the full extent of his private pain and tolls to recover the woman he loves. The story was well written, full of humor, sarcastic retorts, sexiness, and just sweet romance. The characters were entertaining as well as passionate. There were some really emotional parts in this story. To top it all off, we got some guest appearances from old favorites. It was a great addition to one of the best paranormal series and the character building remains top notched. Normally I don’t enjoy novellas since they are too short for any real depth. But due to the information given about Z in prior books, we have enough foundation to truly appreciate the journey back to love here.
If you are a fan of the Demonica universe, you need to read this book right now!
*Special Thanks to Inkslinger for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review
*I received this book in exchange for an honest review*
September 22, 2016
What a disappointment...
September 4, 2017
Z's book.Good read,not a fan of the reincarnated lovers trope and the heroine was a total opposite of the past love.Still ,it is a Demonica books and I love this series.
April 29, 2016
Alyn's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
To say I am a huge Larissa Ione fan is putting it mildly. Demonica is one of the series that broke my metaphorical cherry for paranormal romance and erotica and I would without a doubt place this series in my top 5. Z is the latest installment of the series and is a novella featured in 1001 Dark Nights (another favorite because I get spoiled with quickies from some of my favorite authors) and follows the story of Zhubaal; the right hand of Azagoth. While the novella is enjoyable as a stand-alone, it will be more intriguing to those that have followed Demonica and Lords of Deliverence as it takes place immediately following the aftermath of Revenant.
Zhubaal is a fallen angel on the hunt for his long lost love. Laura; his innocent sweetheart, was not suited for her duties in the heavens and never quite fit in. After being kicked out of The Order and eventually meeting her demise, Laura’s soul was sent elsewhere and Zhubaal did the unthinkable to find her; he fell. Now he works for the Grim Reaper and keeper of souls in hopes of finding the one that was lost to him.
Vex is a Daemani; a magnet of sorts that attracts demon souls when they are displaced. For her, being a soul collector was once a lucrative business but lately business has been scarce and she is desperate. The souls she is carrying threaten to control her, especially one that is more evil than she can handle. Unfortunately, because of the threats that have been made to those that sell or purchase souls, Vex has found herself without a buyer and now must go to the soul keeper himself in order to get rid of her cargo. When she finally makes it to Sheoul-gra she comes face to face with a gorgeous yet menacing Zhubaal. Regardless, there is a familiarity between them that cannot be denied and Z will not stop until his suspicions are confirmed.
I dare not say more about the plot because I don’t want to spoil the story but it is a fun read for any paranormal fan and especially fun for those who have followed the series. The book does revisit Revenant and pokes a few jabs at The Horseman while addressing the issue of the weakening prison for higher level demons. For me this was important because it both ties up some loose ends while opening paths to further the series. Of course any Demonica novel would not be complete without a steamy romance and even as a novella, this one does not disappoint. I was surprised and found myself almost blushing at the innocence (yes innocence) in Zhubaal, and how eager his was to please. It was almost sweet and while sweet is not something I generally look for in Demonica, it fit perfectly in this case. While I would have liked a little more action, I had to remind myself that this story is not a full length novel and when I reconsider that fact, I was genially happy with all that Ione was able to include in such a brief story. Of course, it just left me wanting more. I have not yet encountered a book in this series I didn’t like and this one is no different. Inner struggles, Heaven and Hell, a kick-ass heroine and a fallen angel worth swooning for make for a perfect combination of sin, sex, and spitfire that will keep the pages turning from start to finish.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
To say I am a huge Larissa Ione fan is putting it mildly. Demonica is one of the series that broke my metaphorical cherry for paranormal romance and erotica and I would without a doubt place this series in my top 5. Z is the latest installment of the series and is a novella featured in 1001 Dark Nights (another favorite because I get spoiled with quickies from some of my favorite authors) and follows the story of Zhubaal; the right hand of Azagoth. While the novella is enjoyable as a stand-alone, it will be more intriguing to those that have followed Demonica and Lords of Deliverence as it takes place immediately following the aftermath of Revenant.
Zhubaal is a fallen angel on the hunt for his long lost love. Laura; his innocent sweetheart, was not suited for her duties in the heavens and never quite fit in. After being kicked out of The Order and eventually meeting her demise, Laura’s soul was sent elsewhere and Zhubaal did the unthinkable to find her; he fell. Now he works for the Grim Reaper and keeper of souls in hopes of finding the one that was lost to him.
Vex is a Daemani; a magnet of sorts that attracts demon souls when they are displaced. For her, being a soul collector was once a lucrative business but lately business has been scarce and she is desperate. The souls she is carrying threaten to control her, especially one that is more evil than she can handle. Unfortunately, because of the threats that have been made to those that sell or purchase souls, Vex has found herself without a buyer and now must go to the soul keeper himself in order to get rid of her cargo. When she finally makes it to Sheoul-gra she comes face to face with a gorgeous yet menacing Zhubaal. Regardless, there is a familiarity between them that cannot be denied and Z will not stop until his suspicions are confirmed.
I dare not say more about the plot because I don’t want to spoil the story but it is a fun read for any paranormal fan and especially fun for those who have followed the series. The book does revisit Revenant and pokes a few jabs at The Horseman while addressing the issue of the weakening prison for higher level demons. For me this was important because it both ties up some loose ends while opening paths to further the series. Of course any Demonica novel would not be complete without a steamy romance and even as a novella, this one does not disappoint. I was surprised and found myself almost blushing at the innocence (yes innocence) in Zhubaal, and how eager his was to please. It was almost sweet and while sweet is not something I generally look for in Demonica, it fit perfectly in this case. While I would have liked a little more action, I had to remind myself that this story is not a full length novel and when I reconsider that fact, I was genially happy with all that Ione was able to include in such a brief story. Of course, it just left me wanting more. I have not yet encountered a book in this series I didn’t like and this one is no different. Inner struggles, Heaven and Hell, a kick-ass heroine and a fallen angel worth swooning for make for a perfect combination of sin, sex, and spitfire that will keep the pages turning from start to finish.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
July 3, 2016
I liked the heroine a great deal. The romance was a little flat with the hero being too resistant for me but I am always happy to spend time in this world.
April 25, 2016
Zubaal was an elite warrior angel until he gave up his wings to follow the woman he loved when she fell from heaven. Unfortunately Laura died before he could find her again but he knows her soul was reborn and is determined to do whatever it takes to find her. He's dedicated his whole life since he fell to that search, even becoming an assistant to Azagoth, the grim reaper himself, so that he doesn't miss a chance to see Laura's soul if she dies again.
Vex is an emin (the daughter of two fallen angels) and that puts a huge target on her back from both angels and the fallen alike. Few emin are born and even fewer survive but her parents did everything they could to protect her and keep her away from the supernatural world. Until the day she started developing unusual abilities and they were forced to seek help. Vex's ability to capture souls by sucking them inside her was a lucrative one the whole time she was able to trade those souls on the black market but now that someone is working to shut down trade she's in trouble. Without help she has no way to get rid of the souls she has captured and she's at risk of being possessed by the evil soul that is already inside her. Her only chance is to make a deal with Azagoth but the grim reaper isn't a big fan of anyone who attempts to capture his souls.
I've been hoping we'd get Z's story for a long time now since he's been around as a side character in several of the previous stories. We've always known he was searching for someone but I didn't realise quite how much he had given up to be with Laura. He has spent 100 years searching for his long lost love and now finally he thinks he might have found her trapped inside Vex along with the other souls she is trying to sell to Azagoth. Things get complicated very quickly when Azagoth realises that the evil soul Vex has captured is too powerful for him to safely remove it and now the fight is on to save both Vex and Laura before that soul completely takes over and destroys the pair of them.
It's hard to go into too much detail about the romance without giving away spoilers but I loved seeing Z finally find the woman he has loved for so long. His expectations are thwarted when Laura has no memory of him and their past life together though, she is a very different woman now and although he's still attracted to her he keeps thinking if he can just show her how things used to be between them then he can get his version of Laura back. If he's not careful he risks losing her completely by not accepting her for who she is now though. The path to true love never runs smoothly and that's definitely the case for Z and Laura but their struggles are well worth it in the end. Z is another fab story from Larissa Ione and I enjoyed the chance to catch up with Azagoth, Lilliana and several of the other previous characters. I love this world and I'm glad that we've not reached the end of the series yet, in fact Larissa Ione has announced a spin off series that will feature the next generation of characters and I can't wait to get my hands on the first book!
Source: Received from author via Inkslinger PR in exchange for an honest review
Vex is an emin (the daughter of two fallen angels) and that puts a huge target on her back from both angels and the fallen alike. Few emin are born and even fewer survive but her parents did everything they could to protect her and keep her away from the supernatural world. Until the day she started developing unusual abilities and they were forced to seek help. Vex's ability to capture souls by sucking them inside her was a lucrative one the whole time she was able to trade those souls on the black market but now that someone is working to shut down trade she's in trouble. Without help she has no way to get rid of the souls she has captured and she's at risk of being possessed by the evil soul that is already inside her. Her only chance is to make a deal with Azagoth but the grim reaper isn't a big fan of anyone who attempts to capture his souls.
I've been hoping we'd get Z's story for a long time now since he's been around as a side character in several of the previous stories. We've always known he was searching for someone but I didn't realise quite how much he had given up to be with Laura. He has spent 100 years searching for his long lost love and now finally he thinks he might have found her trapped inside Vex along with the other souls she is trying to sell to Azagoth. Things get complicated very quickly when Azagoth realises that the evil soul Vex has captured is too powerful for him to safely remove it and now the fight is on to save both Vex and Laura before that soul completely takes over and destroys the pair of them.
It's hard to go into too much detail about the romance without giving away spoilers but I loved seeing Z finally find the woman he has loved for so long. His expectations are thwarted when Laura has no memory of him and their past life together though, she is a very different woman now and although he's still attracted to her he keeps thinking if he can just show her how things used to be between them then he can get his version of Laura back. If he's not careful he risks losing her completely by not accepting her for who she is now though. The path to true love never runs smoothly and that's definitely the case for Z and Laura but their struggles are well worth it in the end. Z is another fab story from Larissa Ione and I enjoyed the chance to catch up with Azagoth, Lilliana and several of the other previous characters. I love this world and I'm glad that we've not reached the end of the series yet, in fact Larissa Ione has announced a spin off series that will feature the next generation of characters and I can't wait to get my hands on the first book!
Source: Received from author via Inkslinger PR in exchange for an honest review
May 21, 2016
2.5 stars...
Spoilers....
Okay, so I was excited for this book because we allllll know Seffra loves her reincarnation stories! Zhubaal was an angel who gave up his wings to find his one true love who had fallen and had died.
I liked Vex from the get-go and I liked where the story was going but...MAAANNNNNN.....ZHUBAAL....
I get that you wanted Laura and while you got her soul, you got a whole new person. I wasn't fan of how Ione did the whole reincarnation thing because she made Laura and Vex two totally different people. I feel like reincarnation is such a hard thing to write about because it can be done so differently.
I wasn't a fan of the ending either. When Zhubaal told Vex that he gave Laura his virginity but he's giving Vex everything else...I was like waaahhhhhhhhhhh?!?!?!?!?!
She is the same person and you slept together under the pretense that you knew she was one in the same....
Spoilers....
Okay, so I was excited for this book because we allllll know Seffra loves her reincarnation stories! Zhubaal was an angel who gave up his wings to find his one true love who had fallen and had died.
I liked Vex from the get-go and I liked where the story was going but...MAAANNNNNN.....ZHUBAAL....
I get that you wanted Laura and while you got her soul, you got a whole new person. I wasn't fan of how Ione did the whole reincarnation thing because she made Laura and Vex two totally different people. I feel like reincarnation is such a hard thing to write about because it can be done so differently.
I wasn't a fan of the ending either. When Zhubaal told Vex that he gave Laura his virginity but he's giving Vex everything else...I was like waaahhhhhhhhhhh?!?!?!?!?!
She is the same person and you slept together under the pretense that you knew she was one in the same....
June 22, 2016
4 stars
I am a mad fan of all things Demonica. Larissa Ione has created a wonderfully complex paranormal world that stretches from heaven to earth and down to the depths of Sheoul (hell). This is the third novella set in the Demonica underworld, the hell realms of Sheoul, and specifically Sheoul-gra, the dominion of Azagoth, the Grim Reaper, and those who dwell there.
Zhubaal (Z), is the second in charge to the Grim Reaper. He’s a fallen angel who sacrificed his wings in order to travel to Sheoul to search for the soul of his beloved soulmate, Laura, a fellow angel who was brutally killed before they were able to be married. Laura’s soul was trapped in Sheoul-gra until she was reincarnated 30 years ago, and Z has been searching for her ever since.
Vex is an emim – the offspring of two fallen angels, she is like a magnet for evil souls. She has made her living by selling souls on the black market, but with hell now under new management, her kind are being hunted and exterminated. Now, with five souls on board – one of which is super evil and scarily powerful – her last chance is to turn to Azagoth and offer her services to him in exchange for his help in ridding her of the souls that threaten to possess her.
Z is the one who intercepts Vex upon her entrance to Sheoul-gra, and he is stunned and elated to recognise Laura’s soul within her. It explains his freakishly strong attraction to Vex – who is Laura’s opposite in every way. But the powerful soul dwelling within her is unwilling to let go, and as Azagoth and Z search for a way to rid Vex of the evil dwelling within her, he gets to know the sexy, sarcastic female, and finds himself drawn to more than just the parts of Laura that he sees in her.
Vex has always been a loner. She doesn’t form relationships and has had to fight most of her life just to stay alive. She feels a strong connection to the intriguing Z, and though she acknowledges that she carries the soul of his long lost love inside of her - and is more than happy to explore the sexual tension zinging between them - she wants to be wanted for who she is, and not as a part of Z’s memory.
I love these characters! Z’s innate ‘goodness’ is a wonderful contradiction to his role in Sheoul-gra and the sassy feistiness of Vex. She’s a sarcastic badass who isn’t afraid to speak her mind, and together they have an electric chemistry. But can they find happiness together? Will Vex always feel like second best? And can Z move on from the past and learn to love Vex as she is?
I really enjoyed this short read. Of course I love being back in the Demonica world with lots of action and a chance to check in on some of the characters from previous books in the series (most notably Azagoth, Lilliana and Revenant). And as always I love the laugh-out-loud banter and insults that makes this series a favourite.
Z and Vex’s story played out beautifully, with great chemistry, a nice amount of emotion, some hot as hell sexy times, and a sweet romance.
Absolutely fantastic, I loved it – 4 stars.
I am a mad fan of all things Demonica. Larissa Ione has created a wonderfully complex paranormal world that stretches from heaven to earth and down to the depths of Sheoul (hell). This is the third novella set in the Demonica underworld, the hell realms of Sheoul, and specifically Sheoul-gra, the dominion of Azagoth, the Grim Reaper, and those who dwell there.
Zhubaal (Z), is the second in charge to the Grim Reaper. He’s a fallen angel who sacrificed his wings in order to travel to Sheoul to search for the soul of his beloved soulmate, Laura, a fellow angel who was brutally killed before they were able to be married. Laura’s soul was trapped in Sheoul-gra until she was reincarnated 30 years ago, and Z has been searching for her ever since.
Vex is an emim – the offspring of two fallen angels, she is like a magnet for evil souls. She has made her living by selling souls on the black market, but with hell now under new management, her kind are being hunted and exterminated. Now, with five souls on board – one of which is super evil and scarily powerful – her last chance is to turn to Azagoth and offer her services to him in exchange for his help in ridding her of the souls that threaten to possess her.
Z is the one who intercepts Vex upon her entrance to Sheoul-gra, and he is stunned and elated to recognise Laura’s soul within her. It explains his freakishly strong attraction to Vex – who is Laura’s opposite in every way. But the powerful soul dwelling within her is unwilling to let go, and as Azagoth and Z search for a way to rid Vex of the evil dwelling within her, he gets to know the sexy, sarcastic female, and finds himself drawn to more than just the parts of Laura that he sees in her.
Vex has always been a loner. She doesn’t form relationships and has had to fight most of her life just to stay alive. She feels a strong connection to the intriguing Z, and though she acknowledges that she carries the soul of his long lost love inside of her - and is more than happy to explore the sexual tension zinging between them - she wants to be wanted for who she is, and not as a part of Z’s memory.
Vex had never believed in soul mates, but as her soul touched Zhubaal’s, she knew the truth.
They belonged together.
I love these characters! Z’s innate ‘goodness’ is a wonderful contradiction to his role in Sheoul-gra and the sassy feistiness of Vex. She’s a sarcastic badass who isn’t afraid to speak her mind, and together they have an electric chemistry. But can they find happiness together? Will Vex always feel like second best? And can Z move on from the past and learn to love Vex as she is?
I really enjoyed this short read. Of course I love being back in the Demonica world with lots of action and a chance to check in on some of the characters from previous books in the series (most notably Azagoth, Lilliana and Revenant). And as always I love the laugh-out-loud banter and insults that makes this series a favourite.
“Fallen angels are traitorous scum who weren’t meant to breed. They and their emim offspring deserve to be slaughtered.”
What a tool. If Zhubaal were anywhere but here, he’d lob a ball of acid fire at Ricky Bobby’s haloed head. “You know I’m a fallen angel, right?” He gestured to himself. “I mean, I’m standing right here.”
Z and Vex’s story played out beautifully, with great chemistry, a nice amount of emotion, some hot as hell sexy times, and a sweet romance.
“Touch my soul, Vex.” Stopping in front of her, he took one of her hands and pressed it over his heart. “On my honor, it’s you I want. Only you.”
Absolutely fantastic, I loved it – 4 stars.
April 26, 2016
Z is the newest addition to author Larissa Ione’s Demonica Underworld as well as the latest in the 1,001 Dark Nights 2016 lineup. I am a ridiculously huge fan of Ms. Ione’s writing. I always swoon over a chance to visit with my fave underworlders and I can say that this was another amazing addition!
In Vex’s search for a way to rid herself of her latest batch of evil souls dwelling inside of her, she never expected to find a fallen angel certain she was his long-lost mate…well, holding his long-lost mate to be exact. Inside of her. Yeah, talk about a bit of a hiccup in her plan to meet up with the Grim Reaper himself in her rid-herself-of-the-evil-souls mission. Funny how things work out though because while Vex didn’t really believe she was carrying this fallen angel’s mate, she couldn’t deny this unexplained connection she felt to him. Stranger things have happened when it came to the underworld but could there be some truth to what he was saying? Could they be fated to be together again after all these years apart? If they were, she wouldn’t complain…he was hot, after all.
Here’s the thing with Larissa Ione’s Demonica series: I freaking adore everything about it. She writes complex stories that aren’t hard to follow and aren’t overwhelming. You can pick up one of her books at any point in any of her series and not be lost. To me, that is a talent and a gift. Z was no exception.
There was so much to love about this novella. With Ms. Ione’s signature strong, witty heroines and the heroes capable of meeting them at every turn and loving them for who they are, this story is a total win from start to finish. I loved Vex. Her personality jumped off of the pages and had me admiring her strength and wit. Z is a beautiful match for her. He’s loyal and has a heart bigger than the moon. Their similarities were few but their differences really made their relationship shine. Where Vex is willing to bend the rules, Z is steadfast in sticking to them. Where Vex is unbelieving of her connection to Z, he is unwavering in his faith that she is his lost love. But my favorite thing is when we learn that Z is very inexperienced compared to Vex’s more experienced past when it comes to being intimate…and if that didn’t just make me love him more!
But all of this is yet another gift Ms. Ione gives us…complex, vulnerable, multi-faceted characters that evoke so much feeling while reading you can’t help but experience a wonderful range of emotion.
Whether you’re already a fan of Ms. Ione, or this is the first of her works you pick up, I guarantee you will love this story!
In Vex’s search for a way to rid herself of her latest batch of evil souls dwelling inside of her, she never expected to find a fallen angel certain she was his long-lost mate…well, holding his long-lost mate to be exact. Inside of her. Yeah, talk about a bit of a hiccup in her plan to meet up with the Grim Reaper himself in her rid-herself-of-the-evil-souls mission. Funny how things work out though because while Vex didn’t really believe she was carrying this fallen angel’s mate, she couldn’t deny this unexplained connection she felt to him. Stranger things have happened when it came to the underworld but could there be some truth to what he was saying? Could they be fated to be together again after all these years apart? If they were, she wouldn’t complain…he was hot, after all.
Here’s the thing with Larissa Ione’s Demonica series: I freaking adore everything about it. She writes complex stories that aren’t hard to follow and aren’t overwhelming. You can pick up one of her books at any point in any of her series and not be lost. To me, that is a talent and a gift. Z was no exception.
There was so much to love about this novella. With Ms. Ione’s signature strong, witty heroines and the heroes capable of meeting them at every turn and loving them for who they are, this story is a total win from start to finish. I loved Vex. Her personality jumped off of the pages and had me admiring her strength and wit. Z is a beautiful match for her. He’s loyal and has a heart bigger than the moon. Their similarities were few but their differences really made their relationship shine. Where Vex is willing to bend the rules, Z is steadfast in sticking to them. Where Vex is unbelieving of her connection to Z, he is unwavering in his faith that she is his lost love. But my favorite thing is when we learn that Z is very inexperienced compared to Vex’s more experienced past when it comes to being intimate…and if that didn’t just make me love him more!
But all of this is yet another gift Ms. Ione gives us…complex, vulnerable, multi-faceted characters that evoke so much feeling while reading you can’t help but experience a wonderful range of emotion.
Whether you’re already a fan of Ms. Ione, or this is the first of her works you pick up, I guarantee you will love this story!
January 11, 2022
Another short novella for Z and Vex/Laura his lost lover.
SHe fall from heaven, he fall to follow her but she died and now her soul was reincarnated in Vex.
Vex is nothing like the Laura Z knew and it takes some adjustment from him to deal with this.
I loved that Vex was confident and independent and proud of her own personality, so as I said it took uptight Z some time to come to terms with this. Also , can’t get enough of Azagoth♥️🖤
Overall a good addition to this amazing series.
SHe fall from heaven, he fall to follow her but she died and now her soul was reincarnated in Vex.
Vex is nothing like the Laura Z knew and it takes some adjustment from him to deal with this.
I loved that Vex was confident and independent and proud of her own personality, so as I said it took uptight Z some time to come to terms with this. Also , can’t get enough of Azagoth♥️🖤
Overall a good addition to this amazing series.
May 2, 2016
No no no no no no no nooooooooooooooooo !!!
I'm just going to come out and say it... WHY??? Zhubaal is a major prudish asshole and the only person who can call himself 'Z' is Zsadist. And Vex can be awfully annoying.
There is NO chemistry between them.
And we have another VIRGIN? Oh come on. Really. Really. Really?!
He waited for his soul mate for a century after she got reincarnated and he thought she will remember him in other lives and stay a virgin. Oh please.
Did I mention how boring this was? As in, so boring I almost gave up reading.
And sex scenes... bloody hell. She fucked a hot tub, one might imagine that would be fun, well it wasn't. Dry and emotionless.
I just don't have the energy to write any sensible review today. I might come back to it tomorrow. Maybe. Or I'll just try to forget all the time wasted.
I'm just going to come out and say it... WHY??? Zhubaal is a major prudish asshole and the only person who can call himself 'Z' is Zsadist. And Vex can be awfully annoying.
There is NO chemistry between them.
And we have another VIRGIN? Oh come on. Really. Really. Really?!
He waited for his soul mate for a century after she got reincarnated and he thought she will remember him in other lives and stay a virgin. Oh please.
Did I mention how boring this was? As in, so boring I almost gave up reading.
And sex scenes... bloody hell. She fucked a hot tub, one might imagine that would be fun, well it wasn't. Dry and emotionless.
I just don't have the energy to write any sensible review today. I might come back to it tomorrow. Maybe. Or I'll just try to forget all the time wasted.
April 28, 2016
3.5 stars
~2016 A-Z reading challenge; letter Z~
~2016 A-Z reading challenge; letter Z~
October 30, 2021
3.5 stars
Zhubaal AKA Z is a fallen angel who lost his mate Laura a century ago when she was cast from heaven. Laura became a fallen angel who was killed and then reincarnated 30 years ago. Z has since been looking for the reincarnated Laura.
Vex is a daemani, a demon soul magnet, and she comes to Sheoul-gra to make a deal with Azagoth. Z recognizes Laura as one of the souls that are stuck inside Vex and he will do anything to free Laura and reunite with her.
Okay, I have mixed feelings about this novella. Z is a virgin hero who's been waiting to reunite with his beloved and I always enjoy a virgin hero. But he is also very stubborn and has a hard time accepting that Vex is Vex and Laura was Laura, despite these two women having the same soul.
I think this novella could have benefitted with some deeper world building on the topic of souls and perhaps even the debate on nature vs. nurture. I get that Laura and Vex have the same soul, but they're also very different. I'm just extrapolating that nurture has a great deal to do with how and why Vex and Laura are completely different.
I'm honestly not sure how I feel about the reincarnation trope in this story. I liked Vex. She was a complete badass and I definitely understand why Z pissed her off. But the ending was rushed. Reincarnation is complicated and I think we needed one or two more chapters to solidify Z's epiphany that Vex is the one he wants. Z's first time with Vex was p e r f e c t, but then the novella ends with Z saying he gave his virginity to Laura, but he's giving his eternity to Vex. And I don't know...that just feels odd to me.
So...I kinda liked this story, but I also kinda didn't? The steam level is higher than usual in this one 🔥🔥🔥 So there's that, I guess 😂🔥
P.S. I really want to attend that Horsemen b'day party with the clown 😂😂😂😂
Zhubaal AKA Z is a fallen angel who lost his mate Laura a century ago when she was cast from heaven. Laura became a fallen angel who was killed and then reincarnated 30 years ago. Z has since been looking for the reincarnated Laura.
Vex is a daemani, a demon soul magnet, and she comes to Sheoul-gra to make a deal with Azagoth. Z recognizes Laura as one of the souls that are stuck inside Vex and he will do anything to free Laura and reunite with her.
Okay, I have mixed feelings about this novella. Z is a virgin hero who's been waiting to reunite with his beloved and I always enjoy a virgin hero. But he is also very stubborn and has a hard time accepting that Vex is Vex and Laura was Laura, despite these two women having the same soul.
I think this novella could have benefitted with some deeper world building on the topic of souls and perhaps even the debate on nature vs. nurture. I get that Laura and Vex have the same soul, but they're also very different. I'm just extrapolating that nurture has a great deal to do with how and why Vex and Laura are completely different.
I'm honestly not sure how I feel about the reincarnation trope in this story. I liked Vex. She was a complete badass and I definitely understand why Z pissed her off. But the ending was rushed. Reincarnation is complicated and I think we needed one or two more chapters to solidify Z's epiphany that Vex is the one he wants. Z's first time with Vex was p e r f e c t, but then the novella ends with Z saying he gave his virginity to Laura, but he's giving his eternity to Vex. And I don't know...that just feels odd to me.
So...I kinda liked this story, but I also kinda didn't? The steam level is higher than usual in this one 🔥🔥🔥 So there's that, I guess 😂🔥
P.S. I really want to attend that Horsemen b'day party with the clown 😂😂😂😂
August 10, 2024
This story made me laugh and I know that wasn't the intention, but Zhubaal couldn't get out of his own way and Vex was hilarious.
Once upon a time, Z was a warrior angel with his best friend, Laura. They did everything together and made a vow to be everything to each other. Then she fell and she died and Z has been looking for her ever since. Surely no matter who or what she was reborn as, she'd remember him and all they shared, right?
No.
Vex was absolutely nothing like Laura and Z couldn't get past it. She felt so much for him, some of which are her old feelings coming to the surface, but she just wants him to accept her as she is. Is that too much to ask?
I loved the interaction between these two. Vex knew how to push Z's buttons and it was fun to watch.
Once upon a time, Z was a warrior angel with his best friend, Laura. They did everything together and made a vow to be everything to each other. Then she fell and she died and Z has been looking for her ever since. Surely no matter who or what she was reborn as, she'd remember him and all they shared, right?
No.
Vex was absolutely nothing like Laura and Z couldn't get past it. She felt so much for him, some of which are her old feelings coming to the surface, but she just wants him to accept her as she is. Is that too much to ask?
I loved the interaction between these two. Vex knew how to push Z's buttons and it was fun to watch.
April 26, 2016
Let me start of by saying, please please please make a story about Jim Bob. Only Larissa Ione can have a story where she has two angels named Jim Bob and Ricky Bobby! I Died! Oh and Jim Bob is a BAD ASS! OMG! Anyways, moving on...
I’m not sure how many books ago we met Zhubaal, or Z, but it was a while back; he is the fallen angel who has been searching for his soul mate ever since her fall from grace. I mean, this guy left heaven to come find her. He has waited for her, saved himself; yep, and I do mean SAVED himself for his true love, for his soul mate, he soul bonded with before she died.
Then there is Vex; a daemanis that attracts any demon soul that dies, and they stick to her like glue. She is currently carrying five hitchhiker souls; including one very malevolent soul, she needs to offload. The only place to do that is with the Grim Reaper, who happens to be Z’s boss.
Z is immediately drawn to Vex, in a way that threatens to break his years of celibacy. It can mean only one thing; one of the souls Vex is caring has to be his long lost love. He is so ecstatic, he has finally found her; yet, all isn’t as it appears and releasing the souls Vex carries is going to be much harder than anyone dreamed. Both, Vex and Z are tested to their breaking points.
Great addition to the Demonica world; it’s sarcastic, funny, super exciting, and I LOVED Vex. She is one of those kick ass, bad ass female I love so much. Also, you cannot beat a virgin hero. I mean it’s awesome!...Sara
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I’m not sure how many books ago we met Zhubaal, or Z, but it was a while back; he is the fallen angel who has been searching for his soul mate ever since her fall from grace. I mean, this guy left heaven to come find her. He has waited for her, saved himself; yep, and I do mean SAVED himself for his true love, for his soul mate, he soul bonded with before she died.
Then there is Vex; a daemanis that attracts any demon soul that dies, and they stick to her like glue. She is currently carrying five hitchhiker souls; including one very malevolent soul, she needs to offload. The only place to do that is with the Grim Reaper, who happens to be Z’s boss.
Z is immediately drawn to Vex, in a way that threatens to break his years of celibacy. It can mean only one thing; one of the souls Vex is caring has to be his long lost love. He is so ecstatic, he has finally found her; yet, all isn’t as it appears and releasing the souls Vex carries is going to be much harder than anyone dreamed. Both, Vex and Z are tested to their breaking points.
Great addition to the Demonica world; it’s sarcastic, funny, super exciting, and I LOVED Vex. She is one of those kick ass, bad ass female I love so much. Also, you cannot beat a virgin hero. I mean it’s awesome!...Sara
http://www.boundlessbookreviews.com
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May 3, 2016
2.5 stars
It was just ok. Their story is one of the weakest in the series and not because it was a novella. The characters were boring.
It was just ok. Their story is one of the weakest in the series and not because it was a novella. The characters were boring.
September 10, 2016
Completely forgettable but then i'm not a fan of the Demonica series.
This counts as letter z in 2016 a to z Cliterary Genius book challenge
This counts as letter z in 2016 a to z Cliterary Genius book challenge
August 30, 2017
I've never read any of the books in this series by Larissa Ione. I was really intrigued by the concept, especially after reading the glossary with terms at the beginning of the story.
I found the story to be well written and gripping. I couldn't put it down and thoroughly enjoyed it. I am totally interested in starting at the beginning and learning more about some of the key players I met in this book.
I found the story to be well written and gripping. I couldn't put it down and thoroughly enjoyed it. I am totally interested in starting at the beginning and learning more about some of the key players I met in this book.
October 15, 2019
I've been so excited for another story from Larissa Ione's Demonica Underworld Series, because I have read (and reread) just about all of the others and I'm still craving more! Z does not disappoint!! LOVED IT!!! IMHO, Larissa has an unmatched talent for complex character development, amazing dialogue, and a story that has you laughing, freaking out, amazed, and completely lost in her Demonica Underworld. I almost forget that I'm reading about demons, angels, and the like, and yet, am so happy I am because it allows her to set her imagination free... and mine. And it never fails.... MIND BLOWN! Each added story is fresh and stands alone easily enjoyed, yet intricately linked to previous storylines in her series. I have been wishing to know more of the loyal Z's (aka Zhubaal, a Fallen Angel and the right wing man of Azagoth) story and am so happy to be introduced to Vex. I loved her sassy, determined, witty personality!! And Z, how can you not swoon over a "hero" who was willing to give up being the best of the best and to live among the worst of the worst, just for the chance to be reunited with his true love? These two were a perfect match, and their story heart-wrenching, passionate, and spectacular. I loved every word of this addition to the 1001 Dark Nights series! 5 stars
March 6, 2017
Soul-baring-tastic!
Wow! Poor Z, he finally gets his first nut after decades of saving himself for his true love. LOL. I loved this story because it showed the dedication of ones soul to keep the promises to ones true mate even after death.
Yes Laura's soul had passed on but her past was that, a past, and when reincarnated the soul starts new with no memory of the past events but still is allowed to recognize their true soul mate.
Z and Vex story teach a very important message here - never deny your true self and never be someone you are not.
The book is excellent, lots of demon action, souls being found, souls being sucked out by the Grim Reaper, especially a real powerful one (Lilith) that the Grim Reaper saves for Reverant. I'm hoping we see a story with Lilith soul getting a second chance or seeing her escape- that'd be a cool story.
The sex scenes between Z and Vex are hot - loved the Hot Tub.
In the end, Z finds himself in a soul baring situation in order to save the relationship of his true mate where he identifies the truth about the real important reasons he was searching to begin with - atonement for ones mistakes can be achieved.
As always - love all the humorous bantering between characters.
Soul-baring-tastic!
Wow! Poor Z, he finally gets his first nut after decades of saving himself for his true love. LOL. I loved this story because it showed the dedication of ones soul to keep the promises to ones true mate even after death.
Yes Laura's soul had passed on but her past was that, a past, and when reincarnated the soul starts new with no memory of the past events but still is allowed to recognize their true soul mate.
Z and Vex story teach a very important message here - never deny your true self and never be someone you are not.
The book is excellent, lots of demon action, souls being found, souls being sucked out by the Grim Reaper, especially a real powerful one (Lilith) that the Grim Reaper saves for Reverant. I'm hoping we see a story with Lilith soul getting a second chance or seeing her escape- that'd be a cool story.
The sex scenes between Z and Vex are hot - loved the Hot Tub.
In the end, Z finds himself in a soul baring situation in order to save the relationship of his true mate where he identifies the truth about the real important reasons he was searching to begin with - atonement for ones mistakes can be achieved.
As always - love all the humorous bantering between characters.
Soul-baring-tastic!
May 22, 2016
let me start by saying I LOVE larissa iones demonica underworld series!!! i loved zhubaal's and vex's story!! z is the assitant to the grim reaper azagoth and hes a bit up tight until vex comes into the picture. vex is emim, a offspring of two fallen angels . shes sexy and smart and not anything like zhubaal's angel love laura who he lost and hopes one day to find. from the beginning z and vex feel the instant hot sexy chemistry, and though z fights this attraction it will do him no good.i cant wait to read the next book in this series!!!
February 11, 2024
A novella, and fourteenth in the Demonica paranormal romance series (third in the Demonica Underworld series and thirty-nine in 1001 Dark Nights), revolving around demons and angels. The couple focus is on Vex and Zhubaal.
My Take
Ione uses primarily a third person dual protagonist point-of-view with perspectives from Vex and Z, however, she also incorporates a third person point-of-view from some of the other characters in a lesser role.
Per usual, Ione delves into a male character who has appeared in previous stories, providing them with his own happily ever-after with a new female character — yes, Ione does reverse the gender roles in some stories.
It's cute with the tough Vex holding Laura's soul, the angel whom Z has been searching for, for decades. Z is so confused by what he feels from Vex. He knows Laura is in there, but this tough, sexually bold Vex is not her! They had a vow!
Oooh, Azagoth offers Vex a lousy deal. And it's slightly worse than the deal Z offers. Talk about conflict!
It's an intimate look into Azagoth's realm and business dealings. And, dang, if Azagoth's method of extracting souls isn't one heckuva nasty experience! I don't think that the dealers in souls do it that way! And the why of the ban on soul selling does reveal itself at the end. Who'd've thought? Certainly not Azagoth.
Whoa, who'd've thought the Archangels, Thrones, and Dominions were so power-hungry!? Or so mean and deceptive! It's not at all what we've been taught about Heaven and its occupants! And yet . . .
It's a question of Laura's love but Vex's identity, as well as her sexual past. So different from Laura and the vow she and Z had made. It's yet another conflict in that Laura is part of her, but Vex is so very different from Laura. Something Z must learn to accept.
Hmm, Ione is setting us up for some future issues what with the overcrowding in the Inner Sanctum. Oops.
There's action, but "Z" is primarily character-driven as Z and Vex have to resolve their different perspectives about the other. The pace does move along with the usual cursing, *grin*.
The Story
Those who buy and sell souls are being slaughtered, for Hell has changed its priorities. For Vex to survive, she must find another way to use her abilities . . . and stay alive.
The Characters
Vex is an emim, the offspring of two fallen angels, and daemani who's done some acting in porno films. Her father had been a lawyer at a demon-run law firm. Malice is also a daemani, a friend of the family, who helped Vex figure her life out. Super Evil is the soul still occupying Vex.
Zhubaal, an Ipsylum warrior, is Azagoth's second-in-command. He's been searching for his lost mate, Laura, another Ipsylum warrior, for a century.
Sheoul-gra is . . .
. . . Hell. Azagoth is the Grim Reaper. Lilliana is mated to Azagoth ( Azagoth , 11). Razr is a fallen angel whom Azagoth has appointed to be his third-in-command. Cat is mated to Hades ( Hades , 2 (DU), 13 D).
The Unfallen, fallen angels who haven't entered Sheoul, can still be redeemed. Memitim are a special class of earthbound angel born to protect certain humans and earn their wings. Both are Azagoth's children. Suman is a burly Memitim. Vane, an Unfallen, is susceptible to seduction.
"Jim Bob" and "Ricky Bobby" are snotty angels and spies for Revenant. Archangel Uriel. Revenant is the King of Hell ( Revenant , LoD 6 & Dem 11) and uncle to the Four Horsemen's children. Lilith is the mother of the Horsemen. Harvester is a fallen angel who worked both sides ( Reaver , 5 (10)).
Beverly Hills
Rowan Arch, a powerful fallen angel-turned-demon, appears as a rich, influential Hollywood producer. His guards include Ramreel and Silas demons.
Othog is a servant of the great and powerful Frank, a former buyer and seller of souls. Brad Fisher had been captain of the high school football team.
Daemanis are demon soul magnets. A Shadow Angel is the most powerful class of fallen angel. Orphmages and Charnel Apostles formed a coalition against Revenant. Griminions are ugly little freaks who collect souls when a demon or evil human dies. A dillyoon is a type of butterfly faerie found in Heaven. Ipsylum are a specialized class of warrior angels, think special ops.
The Cover and Title
The cover is deep blues and teals with the short story series publisher, 1001 Dark Nights, occupying the upper two-thirds of the cover in a gradient that is rotating back and forth through a color spectrum of a purplish blue to black. The first "0" is filled with a silhouetted profile of a angel lunging to the right with his wings fully open while the second "0" is a view of some of the dilapidated buildings in Sheoul-gra. The bottom third has teal filigrees fading in and out against a dark, dark blue background with the title in a golden orange; the series info immediately below it in the same color. Below that is a testimonial in a lighter teal with the author's name at the bottom in a rotating gradient of teals.
The title is all about Zhubaal, a.k.a. "Z".
My Take
Ione uses primarily a third person dual protagonist point-of-view with perspectives from Vex and Z, however, she also incorporates a third person point-of-view from some of the other characters in a lesser role.
Per usual, Ione delves into a male character who has appeared in previous stories, providing them with his own happily ever-after with a new female character — yes, Ione does reverse the gender roles in some stories.
It's cute with the tough Vex holding Laura's soul, the angel whom Z has been searching for, for decades. Z is so confused by what he feels from Vex. He knows Laura is in there, but this tough, sexually bold Vex is not her! They had a vow!
Oooh, Azagoth offers Vex a lousy deal. And it's slightly worse than the deal Z offers. Talk about conflict!
It's an intimate look into Azagoth's realm and business dealings. And, dang, if Azagoth's method of extracting souls isn't one heckuva nasty experience! I don't think that the dealers in souls do it that way! And the why of the ban on soul selling does reveal itself at the end. Who'd've thought? Certainly not Azagoth.
Whoa, who'd've thought the Archangels, Thrones, and Dominions were so power-hungry!? Or so mean and deceptive! It's not at all what we've been taught about Heaven and its occupants! And yet . . .
It's a question of Laura's love but Vex's identity, as well as her sexual past. So different from Laura and the vow she and Z had made. It's yet another conflict in that Laura is part of her, but Vex is so very different from Laura. Something Z must learn to accept.
Hmm, Ione is setting us up for some future issues what with the overcrowding in the Inner Sanctum. Oops.
There's action, but "Z" is primarily character-driven as Z and Vex have to resolve their different perspectives about the other. The pace does move along with the usual cursing, *grin*.
The Story
Those who buy and sell souls are being slaughtered, for Hell has changed its priorities. For Vex to survive, she must find another way to use her abilities . . . and stay alive.
The Characters
Vex is an emim, the offspring of two fallen angels, and daemani who's done some acting in porno films. Her father had been a lawyer at a demon-run law firm. Malice is also a daemani, a friend of the family, who helped Vex figure her life out. Super Evil is the soul still occupying Vex.
Zhubaal, an Ipsylum warrior, is Azagoth's second-in-command. He's been searching for his lost mate, Laura, another Ipsylum warrior, for a century.
Sheoul-gra is . . .
. . . Hell. Azagoth is the Grim Reaper. Lilliana is mated to Azagoth ( Azagoth , 11). Razr is a fallen angel whom Azagoth has appointed to be his third-in-command. Cat is mated to Hades ( Hades , 2 (DU), 13 D).
The Unfallen, fallen angels who haven't entered Sheoul, can still be redeemed. Memitim are a special class of earthbound angel born to protect certain humans and earn their wings. Both are Azagoth's children. Suman is a burly Memitim. Vane, an Unfallen, is susceptible to seduction.
"Jim Bob" and "Ricky Bobby" are snotty angels and spies for Revenant. Archangel Uriel. Revenant is the King of Hell ( Revenant , LoD 6 & Dem 11) and uncle to the Four Horsemen's children. Lilith is the mother of the Horsemen. Harvester is a fallen angel who worked both sides ( Reaver , 5 (10)).
Beverly Hills
Rowan Arch, a powerful fallen angel-turned-demon, appears as a rich, influential Hollywood producer. His guards include Ramreel and Silas demons.
Othog is a servant of the great and powerful Frank, a former buyer and seller of souls. Brad Fisher had been captain of the high school football team.
Daemanis are demon soul magnets. A Shadow Angel is the most powerful class of fallen angel. Orphmages and Charnel Apostles formed a coalition against Revenant. Griminions are ugly little freaks who collect souls when a demon or evil human dies. A dillyoon is a type of butterfly faerie found in Heaven. Ipsylum are a specialized class of warrior angels, think special ops.
The Cover and Title
The cover is deep blues and teals with the short story series publisher, 1001 Dark Nights, occupying the upper two-thirds of the cover in a gradient that is rotating back and forth through a color spectrum of a purplish blue to black. The first "0" is filled with a silhouetted profile of a angel lunging to the right with his wings fully open while the second "0" is a view of some of the dilapidated buildings in Sheoul-gra. The bottom third has teal filigrees fading in and out against a dark, dark blue background with the title in a golden orange; the series info immediately below it in the same color. Below that is a testimonial in a lighter teal with the author's name at the bottom in a rotating gradient of teals.
The title is all about Zhubaal, a.k.a. "Z".
May 17, 2020
Zhubaal, fallen angel and assistant to Grim Reaper Azagoth, fell in love with another angel named Laura when they were both young. They pledged their faithfulness and love to each other, and when Laura fell, Zhubaall fell shortly after. However, Laura died, and Z has been looking for her soul in Sheoul ever since. Vex is an emim, the offspring of two fallen angels, who catches the souls of the dead in her body. She comes to Azagoth to get the souls out, since one of them is an evil demon trying to take over her body, and one of them is Zhubaal's Laura.
Larissa Ione manages to make fallen angels, demons, and other assorted supernatural beings into realistic, true-to-life characters. The contentious relationship between Vex and Zhubaal is great, and the idea of comparing everyone (unfavorably) to your first love isn't only limited to fallen angels looking for souls waiting for reincarnation. It's a great, fun, entertaining book.
Larissa Ione manages to make fallen angels, demons, and other assorted supernatural beings into realistic, true-to-life characters. The contentious relationship between Vex and Zhubaal is great, and the idea of comparing everyone (unfavorably) to your first love isn't only limited to fallen angels looking for souls waiting for reincarnation. It's a great, fun, entertaining book.
January 9, 2019
Entretenido y muy corto estos últimos libros han sido solo eso entretenidos y sin duda dan para mucho más. Lo positivo e personaje de Vex que es fuerte y decidida toda una pateadora de traseros, y que esta feliz con quien es. Z me gusta el pasado lo ha marcado, y de a poco avanza y sale victorioso.
La química entre ambos buenísima, Azagoth lo mejor de lo mejor junto a Rev y vaya sorpresa esa al final.
La química entre ambos buenísima, Azagoth lo mejor de lo mejor junto a Rev y vaya sorpresa esa al final.
December 26, 2019
Ugh, I wanted to like it.. but didn't.
Thank god Z was freaking short. I know I don't say that about novellas often but this was just not for me. I wanted to like it because Z is a fallen angel and shit but nope - I just couldn't. Not even wine could help this little thing.
Other than that, the smut was steamy af BUT I just don't get why most MC's are virgins!! Can someone please explain that to me?
Thank god Z was freaking short. I know I don't say that about novellas often but this was just not for me. I wanted to like it because Z is a fallen angel and shit but nope - I just couldn't. Not even wine could help this little thing.
Other than that, the smut was steamy af BUT I just don't get why most MC's are virgins!! Can someone please explain that to me?
skip-it
September 14, 2018As talented as i know this author is some tropes are just not for me. I need my hero to love my heroine and accept her as she is, not have his former love overshadowing her. Considering all that Z has been through trying to be with his love I don't think the h will get a fair shake. Since I dearly cherish my kindles I'm skipping this one because I just know I will be tempted to smash 😂
May 17, 2021
Loved Vex but wasn’t particularly impressed by Z.
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