What happens when the line between good and evil blurs?
The Archangel Michael has been on earth for thousands of years, but nothing could have prepared him for meeting a demonic seductress that he can’t bring himself to kill. Jahi has made a living as seductress, but she’ll be damned if she is going to trade one kind of slavery for another. Each haunted by their past, can they learn to trust in one another, the love that has grown between them? Will they even have time?
The demon hoard has changed leadership, and a new drug is sweeping the streets of Los Angeles. With every evil entity out there looking for Jahi, can Michael keep her safe, or is he blinded by a love that will betray him? Do people ever really change?
Joel Crofoot was raised in northern New York state on a large family sheep farm, then left home to join the United States Marine Corps at 18 years-old. After spending four years in Japan as a radio operator, Joel re-enlisted into the bomb squad (explosive ordnance disposal) and was stationed out of California. Two tours to Iraq later, Joel decided to leave the Marine Corps to pursue higher education and graduated with a doctorate in psychology in July of 2017. In Joel's books you can expect a good mix of military experience and psychology wrapped into paranormal tales that will leave you wanting more!
Michael is an archangel disillusioned with life, having distanced himself from his brother Gabriel and his past. All of that changes when he meets Jahi for the first time. As events unfold Michael and Jahi's passion becomes an all-consuming desire for more than physical pleasure. Each haunted by a past they can't change, both Michael and Jahi must learn to trust in one another, the love that has grown between them, and the promise of a second chance.
This is my 2nd read by Mr. Crofoot and I'm amazed at the depth of character development and the rich descriptive writing and detail he provides in his books. I think my favorite part is his ability to take flawed and emotionally traumatized characters on a journey of self-forgiveness, growth, and acceptance. This is especially true for Jahi who must rise above the stigma of life as a whore. I LOVE her character. So strong and persevering through it all. Another of Mr. Crofoot's brilliant character traits - in his novels no one is weak. Weak moments? Yes, but who doesn't have those?
The storyline in this book is full of twists and turns, revelations, and sometimes humor. I love "the kids" or angelings. Quite a few funny moments there. The interaction between demons and angels is always action packed and written so well you are glued to the pages. I really liked how the last quarter of the book played out. Another of Mr. Crofoot's talents is his ability to create erotic scenes that will leave your kindle burning in your hands. So HOT!
No spoilers but this was a FANTASTIC read from start to finish. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND his angels series. You'll love the stories and characters. Be sure to pick these up. 5 Thrilling Sexy Stars!!!
Characters: 5/5 Plot: 5/5 Word Building: 5/5 Story Flow: 5/5
Let me start by saying that I read this series out of order. I read the first book last. But now that I've read this one, it makes me want to go back and reread the other two. Crofoot has an incredible imagination and her attention to detail is remarkable. The level of research that went into all of these angels and demons is wonderful. It really made the story come to life.
Michael is cast out of heaven after battling a demon. I loved the dynamic between Michael and Gabriel. To me, this was one of the foundations of the story that kept me turning pages. The relationship Michael had with Jahi, a demon was great. Even though she was a demon and he was an angel, they worked. I loved them as a couple. I loved how they grew, both separately and together.
I highly recommend not only this book, but this series!!
It’s very creative and a little scandalous that angels, demons and a capital HIM would be used as stock characters in a book of erotica. The archangel Micheal is having a crisis, having become bored with his job: killing demons. After being so badly injured that he had to be healed by God, he finds a demon that he doesn’t want to kill. This demon cries real tears, her black eyes shift color to blue -- for some unknown reason. It’s nice to know that blue eyes are a sign of something. Is she the miracle that Micheal needs to be allowed back into Heaven?
To be honest I don’t read erotica, so I’ll probably sound like a prig. The sex scenes with Agares were repulsive as I find that reading about the rape of a character always is, even if that character is a demon.
Some of the tenets of the book didn’t seem fair, like the nineteen angels who were condemned to hell for having sex with humans. That seemed rather harsh. In comparison Micheal was having plenty of well documented and graphically described sex with a demon -- and didn’t get punished. The author uses stereotypical character tropes as personas for the some of the angels, while not unique, it was an interesting twist. Although having God almighty come down to help his sons, the archangels, out of a jam was predictable. The author’s writing style is simple and straightforward. The inner monologues from the various character POV’s were clever, even cheeky. The pace is quick, the conversations were realistic, considering. I have to admit that having God chastise his son about “you do not love yourself” and “teachings of the flesh” in a book of erotica seemed laced with innuendo and felt somewhat sacrilegious, if not a tad creepy. That said, the story works. All in all it was a quick and captivating book. I got this to read while heading home for the holidays and I’ve already finished it.
I was intrigued by this story about archangels and demons. The plot is so unusual with Archangel Michael falling in love with a demon, Jahi, that it kept my attention and I couldn't stop reading. The author had the archangels trying to save the world of all its horrors and when they weren't successful, they felt horrible for centuries. Like when Archangel Gabriel didn't stop the bombs in WWII and many people died. He thought everyone hated him because of this. As a demon, Jahi had to meet her quota of getting souls. Her way to do this was through sex. Men would gladly trade their soul for the opportunity to be with her.
I liked this story with its wonderful characters. Michael is not only physically beautiful with golden hair, eyes and blood he saves the day (regularly) and fights demons. He is a fighter, after all, so when he spots Jahi, he's itching for a fight. But when he sees she's crying (demons just don't do that) he's drawn to her. Jahi has been a prostitute for thousands of years even though she doesn't like the way she is seen by others. But that's the way it is and it keeps her out of her boss', Agares, bad books.
This incredible story is passionate and action packed with a happy ending. I highly recommend it.
If angels exist I hope their all as badass and gorgeous as this archangel! Michael shines with his golden hair and eyes, even his blood is golden. His wings are white and he carries a cloak of invisibility, did I mention he’s badass and spends his nights fighting demons. Michael has been alone for hundreds of years, and he feels like there’s something missing in his life. Enter Jahi, an evil demoness who is a complete temptress and lives off of getting people to give into sin. She lives off their vices and tantalizes them with drugs, sex, and violence. Her mere appearance causes havoc. She’s also stunningly beautiful and held in captivity by Agares, the district manager of the demonic Southwest. She turns souls for her boss, and in turn he treats her like a prostitute, having his way with her as he pleases. But there’s more to her than meets the eye. She’s a tortured soul, one who is seeking protection and doesn’t even know it. One night the loneliness and self-pity take over Jahi and she huddles on a rooftop sobbing her anguish when suddenly, Michael appears seeking a fight, anything to chase away his own turmoil and loneliness. But instead of a fight Michael is captivated by the demon’s tears and is caught off guard by her beauty and her eyes. Jahi, on the other hand, can’t believe any man, even an angel, wouldn’t want to hurt her or rape her. Michael’s kindness sets off a whirlwind of heated events between these two that shake up both the underworld and the heavens. I have found a new favorite author in Joel Crofoot. Joel transports you to a world of angels and demons where evil lurks and miracles arise in the darkest of places. I absolutely loved the characters; they are well developed and deliciously sinful. I enjoyed every minute of this unique story which is why I gave it 5 stars, and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in A Series of Angels.
I read the second book in this series before I read this one. I loved the second book and tore through it in about 7 hours. I had to work and couldn't read this one in one go, but I tore through it pretty quickly because it's an excellent read. The characters are well written, the plot is excellent, and the sex scenes are hot.
I liked the dynamic between Jahi and Michael. I was interested in Jahi's backstory when I was reading the second book and I got to read it in this book. Jahi is abused by the other demons and men before she became a demon. She has a low opinion of herself. Michael tells her a few things that she sees herself in the same light that he does and manages to redeem herself as a demon.
Now that I've read both books in this series, I can't wait for the next one
This book has everything you could ever wish for: Angels, Demons....sex (lots of it). What do you get when cross a sexy angel with a horny demon...a whole lot of trouble.
This book is a quick, well written read, and the dialogue was spot on. There were one or two niggles, but nothing that would detract this story. the characters were very likeable, Michael and Jahi, especially. Their relationship was well played out.
Overall rating for this book is 4.5*. I recommend it to all those who like to see Angels and Demons 'get it on!'
After a demon attack gone wrong, Michael is infected and must rely on his brother, Gabriel for help. After they are both cast out of Heaven, Gabriel tries to please the lord and takes in three new Angels to train while Michael continues his hunt for demons and run into one that fascinates him—Jahi.
Witty and fast-paced, this story will keep you turning the pages until the very end. Guaranteed to be a favorite for all paranormal romance fans!
Angels, demons, sins, self-doubt & redemption... there's a lot going on in this short book (182 pages). And I loved every second of it!
Joel Crofoot has the start of something great with this first book in "A Series of Angels." In short order we are introduced to Michael and Gabriel, familiar biblical Archangels, but painted in a light which you've never before seen them. We get to glimpse the hidden pain and loss of the two seemingly indomitable warriors. These superhuman beings are so essentially human that we, as the reader, can almost feel their pain. When Michael encounters Jahi, the "demon whore" whose power of seduction is legendary, sparks fly. Michael feels drawn to her in a way he has never, in his centuries of existence, felt before... despite the fact that his sole purpose in life has been eliminating demons like Jahi and sending them back to the pit. While Michael questions his new feelings and defends Jahi from his, understandably skeptical, brothers-in-arms, Jahi is left wondering how much of Michael's reaction to her is genuine and how much is influenced by her demonic powers. How could an angel ever trust a demon, let alone love one?
Something big is coming. I don't want to give away too much story, but suffice it to say that Jahi is more important than anyone realizes. If Michael, Gabriel, and their three trainee "angelings" can manage to keep her safe, they just might stand a chance.
While we're talking about supporting cast members, the three young angels were a great addition! But Butator was, by far and away, my favorite! His awkward earnestness and open-hearted nature were truly endearing and I really hope he will grace pages in the next installment(s). Another notable point: the Father. While 'the big guy' makes only a couple, small appearances, there is no doubt about the fear, awe, reverence and unquestioned loyalty his angels hold for him. There are hints of heavenly politics, the repercussions of which we will hopefully encounter in future stories.
If you're looking for a fast, steamy read packed with hunky angels and plenty of action, look no further.
A superb paranormal romance with a captivating story-an absolute must read!
When a series of circumstances bring the Archangel Michael and the demoness Jahi together, how will they react? Will they bring about their downfall or their salvation?
For starters, Michael's Passion has everything you could want in a paranormal romance. Suitably exotic powerful beings, conflict, steamy love scenes and a satisfying ending. But it goes above and beyond that as well.
The plot is complex, interesting and at times edge of your seat nail-biting. The pace moves along quickly but is consistent and logical, a real page-turner. The backstories of the characters unfold throughout the story, driving the plot onward as well as adding a good deal to the characters themselves.
The main characters Michael and Jahi as well as the secondary angels and demons that populate this book are rich and well developed. They have strengths and good points, flaws and weaknesses, they are very real. The kind of characters you can identify with, have hopes for, worry about and celebrate with. Truly a high point of the book.
Michael's Passion is a stellar love story and can be enjoyed as that and nothing more. But Crofoot has created something special, something extra. Without being at all preachy, the story can make people think about what is good and bad, right and wrong, about how the choices people make (or are forced to make) can impact their future lives, about compassion, second chances and redemption. And that might be the true beauty of this book.
Note: Contains swearing and mature love scenes. Honestly, I think the story is good enough that you could just skim those bits if it's not your thing and still enjoy it.
*First in a series, can be read as a standalone. I will certainly be checking out the rest of the series.*
Where do I start with this one? I don't normally read romances of this nature. The truth is that I tend to steer clear of books when there are shirtless men on the cover. For years, I couldn't take them seriously. I recently opened up to the possibility of books like that being more than what I previously thought. I am very happy that I have. That being said, I didn't even really take note of the cover of this book until I was almost four chapters in. By then I was hooked.
This book is definitely one that I am happy that I was open to reading. It was fast paced and kept me on the edge of my seat. I had trouble putting it down. It took my idea of angels and altered it greatly. It was interesting reading the author's viewpoint.
Thank you to the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. am rating this book Five Stars because it was truly a delight to read. A true struggle between Good and Evil story. I am interested in reading the other books in this series.
When a demon attack goes wrong and Michael becomes infected, he finds himself reaching for his cell phone to call his brother Gabriel. Even though they've been estranged for several years, Michael knows he's the only one who will come to his rescue.
Upon seeing Michael, Gabrielle fears for his life. So, without hesitation or consequence, he carries him to heaven and places him at the feet of God. Who is none too happy since Michael didn't come of his own accord. Now for their penance, they both have to perform a miracle in order to return.
Jahi is a seductive demon who uses sex to lure her victims. Then she steals their souls without batting an eye. She's not proud of being a prostitute but it pays the bills and keeps her boss, Agares happy. Until, one encounter with a beautiful angel changes her fate forever...
Michael's Passion was an entertaining read. I highly recommend this to anyone who likes Dan Brown.
Michael is thrown out of heaven and he bumps into Jahi in the streets of Los Angeles. But Jahi is a demon trying to escape her destiny and the abuses of the other male demons. Their attraction is instantaneous and Michael believes she has a good soul. They are on the verge of a massive demon attack and they join forces with his brother Gabriel to ward it off. The writing style flows smooth as a river on which the reader sails easily through the story. I definitely recommend it.
P.S. I wonder if Gabriel is having his own story. I liked him a lot.
One of my favourite lines: “Give it up to God,” they’d say, or “He won’t give you more than you can handle.” Fuck that. He preferred to just stay here and kill things.”
This is a well written novel complete with finely tuned editing, together with a good contemporary take on the heaven vs hell/good vs evil genre. The reigning characters are well developed giving the reader a recognisable identity for both Michael and his love interest Jahi. There is an active level of humpy pumpy in here, so you might want to take care on the commuter track so as not to steam up the vehicle. Jahi, being potentially evil, also has some great lines that gave me a good smile.
The book has some good tongue in cheek moments taking the edge off areas of intensity and the supporting roles are defined by their presence without being heavy enough to add any distractions from the grist of the tale.
Michael’s Passion by Joel Crofoot tells us seemingly a simple romance story at first glance. Interweaving angels and demons with generally expected human emotions. Then it all changes in a blink of an eye.
Jahi is demon with horrid past trapped in hell for punishment that finally ends and she is walking Earth again. Michael is the Archangel mourning the loss of his lover and slowly turning his back on his creator as a result of his pain. The moment the two meet everything changes.
Joel masterfully blends the lines between good and evil while retelling the millennia old story seen in the scriptures where angels are good and demons are bad. Judgment passed to those around you based on belief and prejudices as seen with Gabriel brings realism in the story. The saying “Don’t judge anyone before you walk a mile in their shoes” comes to mind while the story unfolds in this book.
I found it fascinating and eye opening looking through the authors eyes and seeing the psychological effect of abuse she describes in Jahi. The guilt we put ourselves through based on assumptions described in Gabriel as well as the hope and fear of losing what we love described in Michael.
The steamy scenes are tasteful even if described in detail and just bring a whole new dimension to this romantic story.
The storytelling is captivating, the characters are three dimensional and it’s definitely something that should be on your bookshelves if you love reading paranormal romance.
This story is an interesting read and I enjoyed every second of it. Starting off with Michael being cast out of heaven after battling with a demon that left him almost on the brink of death. Even though his brother Gabriel looked at this as a huge problem. Michael on the other hand, didn't have a care in the world. The story also follows Jahi a demon who wants her life back and not have to answer to the demons superior to her. When, she crosses paths with Michael, their lives take off in another direction. Encountering the enemy, both Michael and Jahi learn a few things from each other and it causes them to see what they have been lacking in their lives. The development between Jahi and Michael increase as they get to know each other despite Gabriel's protest and his conservative outlook on demons. Michael on the other hand tries to tell and show Gabriel, not all demons are evil and Jahi was a prime example. The reader gets the chance to see how the author defines" When Opposites attract" through Jahi and Michael and in my honest opinion they do make a perfect couple. the story also displays, love is stronger than hate and people can change even if they may appear to not have that aura or will to change.
A very good story and I enjoyed the fact the author also included the fact that a "title" does not mean anything nor does the past. We have the opportunity to change the future of others and our own; and I saw that through Jahi and her struggles.
Intriguing story line of an angel of the highest order falling for an enchanting demon seductress. Michael has felt a terrible emptiness for so long and it is only she- with her flashing blue eyes and hate for her own kind, that has brought him to life.
The author has a strong grasp on love and lust and writes in a way the reader can really feel. Love scenes have class, and it was pleasantly surprising how intuitive the author is about female sexuality.
I do wish the demoness Jahi would have become bitter toward Michael for a reason such as feeling below him, not feeling trapped by him, which could have been shown gradually in unintentional comments or actions by her angel love. Or if she felt she was changing him- seeing him become something other than the beautiful soul he is meant to be because of her- perhaps then hurting herself to get away from him would have been admirable.
A touching ending: it was wonderful that the father showed compassion to Jahi, after countless years of doing Satan's work. I'm glad God was portrayed as understanding and forgiving.
Michael’s Passion is a quick, easy, well written tale with likeable characters with the unusual storyline and combination of an Angel (Michael) falling for seductress Demon (Jahi) who has awakened his long term emptiness of spirit and brings him to life. There is no conflict between his high and her low position in the hierarchy which is possibly something which could have happened with an understanding, forgiving God on hand as well. Featuring Angels, Demons and sex aplenty it makes for a fairly potent meaty, enjoyable read.
This was a good book, fast paced and kept me interested. Likeable characters... but then angels are usually likeable lol. it was a different spin in the usual angel story, interesting concept to get a reader to think angels and demons can suffer from PTSD and survivor's guilt.
this was a really well written story. i dont read too many angel stories just because sometimes people dont write them well.. but this one is very well written and a lot of fun. it was sexy and hott and it kept me on the edge of my seat.. this is a very fast paced and just a very well thought of plot and characters. i liked it and cannot wait for the next one
Duality of angels and demons A very interesting twist on angels and demons with a deep plot. Nothing is what they seem. Angels are not fluffy bunnies and demons are not only hellish creature. The relation between Michael and Jahi was interesting and I loved them as a couple!
This is a good book to read. I really liked the action and the drama. The romance was sweet and believable. I give praise to the writer. I voluntary reviewed this ARC after receiving a free gifted copy.
I wasn't sure about this at first, but after a couple of chapters I was hooked. Absolutely loved this take on the classic good v evil story, and can honestly say I've never thought of angels behaving the way they do in this book! I don't want to give away any spoilers but I think Michael is my new book crush! Looking forward to reading the second in the series.
Angels and demons like you've never seen them. I was really surprised by the depth of the plot. Often romances skimp on development in order to get to the hot stuff, not the case here and yet there was still plenty of hot stuff. Don't think for a second there wasn't romance and smoking chemistry. It was a perfect blend of story and steam. I loved the way Michael evolved as the story unfolded. Jahi was also quite a complex character and when you mixed the two sparks flew as did some misunderstanding and complications. Jahi really goes through a lot before she runs into Michael and her life is turned even more upside down. In addition to them I also really loved Gabriel and hope to see more of him in the other parts. There were plenty of twists and revelations as well action and drama. There really was a rich tale here and I'm thoroughly looking forward to reading the next part.
Archangel Michael lost the angel he loved decades ago and became depressed; he is borderline suicidal, not caring if he lives or dies. He hasn’t been to heaven in decades and avoids his brother Gabriel. All Michael cares about is killing demons, until he meets Jahi. Gabriel is feeling guilty because he didn’t prevent the bombs in Japan during WWII and thinks Michael is upset with Gabriel because of the bombs. Obviously, these brothers haven’t had a good sit down talk in a while.
Jahi is a demon who uses sex appeal to attract men to take their souls. But she hates what she does, hates being a whore and hates being used. Michael at first just sees another demon to kill, but then he realizes she is crying. Demons don’t cry. Next, he sees her black eyes turn blue. Another thing that demons don’t do. Before long he is protecting Jahi and falling in love. Jahi is also fighting her feelings for Michael. Gabriel only sees a demon who is tricking his brother. More family fun.
I really enjoyed the inner conversations the main characters were having with themselves and I loved the part where Jahi is training the baby angels to fly. The book had a lot of action, plenty of drama, and a surprise ending.
Archangels and Demons - that's one of my favorite reading combos - throw in some spicy bits and it was perfect for lying out back on the first hot day of the year. Of course, this is an adult read.
I enjoyed this book - the only thing that threw me for a bit of a loop was Angels swearing. I guess in my mind the two don't necessarily go hand in hand. Of course, there was reasons behind - the whole being cast out of heaven and falling in love with a demon thing.
The two main characters are Archangel Michael and the demon Jahi. I love them both. The author does a great job of making them complex enough to feel real but not so complex and flawed that you can't like them. Michael is overly caring at times but such a knight in shining armor complex. While Jahi is almost painfully independent and determined to keep her freedom. Makes for great characters. Despite the slew of supporting characters the author makes Gabriel and some of the other angels/demons very interesting and they actually add to the story and not just the romance - very refreshing!
Plot
This is a romance but it is more. It is a romance with a plot! In addition to the determination to be together and their growing love, which was super sweet, there were action packed moments and another plot line. Actually multiple moving parts which kept me interested. Very cool take on Angels and Demons, not too original but for sure more thought out - especially the added complexity near the end.
I'm not a very religious person so some of this may be too close to home for some - be warned.
Overall
I read this book in one day. I totally just had to know how everything was going to work out. Even if the romance was very HEA the plot kept me jumping on other topics. Plus the baby angels (they are like 30 years old looking but totally lost on the ways of humans and it is ADORABLE)! The sensual scenes were steamy and appropriate. The complexity between Michael and the other angels, particularly Gabriel, really helped with character development and I loved them both more because of their internal crises. The writing was enjoyable and the fight scenes easy to follow.
Only thing I didn't like was the cover. It still makes me laugh at how silly it is - but you can't judge a book by its cover here!
Rating
5 stars
This book had it all for me and I absolutely loved it. I laughed out loud, I nearly cried (twice), and I was gripping my phone because of action or a tense scene. If you like paranormal romances this is a must read!
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review. More reviews at creatingworldswithwords.wordpress.com.
What is an unhappy archangel supposed to do when faced with a sexually radiant demon? He is battle hungry. His purpose is to send all demons back to the pits of hell. This time, he just can’t do it. There is something different about this one. Why does he feel the need to protect her from others like him? And others like her?
This was an exciting read set in sunny Southern California. There was never a dull moment. Early on, a visit is paid to Peter at the Pearly Gates. Supernatural beings race through the sky, under overpasses, and along the beach. Demon-originated earthquakes shake an area already plagued by quakes.
I believe my favorite parts of the book were the interactions between the adult-sized baby angels and the demon. She just wants to help them learn a few basic skills. They have come to view her as a beloved member of the family.
The ending perfectly paved the way for book 2. Will the angels have enough time to prepare for the upcoming war?
This novel focuses on the love story between Michael, the archangel so accustomed to battling demons that he’s lost his connection to heaven and God, and Jahi, a demonic seductress who uses sex to acquire the souls of men.
I am not religious, and so am not opposed to using these archetypes in such fantastical and erotic fiction. However, I have to admit that the romance in this story was not for me, mostly because the character of Jahi struck me initially as the kind of damsel-in-distress stereotype that grates on me in female storylines, and I found myself wanting a bit more fire from a demonic personality. But I decided not to deduce points because I can’t say the victimised ‘all men just want to rape me!’ stereotype isn’t true for some women, and I’m not about to downrate a novel for making me a bit uncomfortable. That’s half the purpose of reading, after all.
My other little complaint is the over-description of beauty that seems to haunt this genre: the numerous allusions to gorgeous eyes and rock-hard abs, but then again, the story is about ANGELS, so talk of angelic perfection can't really be avoided!
Sweeping those complaints aside, this novel is ridiculously addictive. I might not have been into the romance so much, but the forays into heavenly history and angelic interrelations are excellent! I was glued to the page every time the author conjured up their own imaginative brand of Christian mythology, which sees Michael and Gabriel as jaded protectors of humanity, tormented by battles lost. The characterisation for these two in particular is convincing and satisfying!
So, although the genre doesn’t entirely resonate with me, I can tell that lovers of paranormal erotica will EAT THIS UP! And the fact that the underlying plot sucked me in despite my aversions makes Michael’s Passion quite extraordinary in my opinion.
If you love exploration of Christian mythology in fiction, don’t miss this one!