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The Vessel Trilogy #3
Bound in Black
Only one thing can pull her into hell...and out. Love.
Genevieve Drake is on a dangerous mission—to find the soul collector, Lethe, and enter the deepest, darkest level of the underworld, where no one has ever gone into and returned. But nothing can prevent her from going after the precious treasure Lethe stole from her.
Genevieve endures challenge after challenge against demon spawn and foul creatures while there, and each triumph strengthens her Vessel power, leading toward full awakening, at which time she will become invincible against the hosts of darkness. But when an old enemy makes a surprising appearance, she is tested to the point of breaking and risks remaining in this dark abyss forever.
When Prince Bamal finally reveals their secret weapon, will Genevieve have the strength to survive? Even more, when her guardian angel, Thomas, reveals his sinister secret, will she finally fall into darkness and forsake the fate of the world for her broken heart.
Each book in The Vessel Trilogy is a standalone story, which are best enjoyed in order.
Series
Book #1: Forged in Fire
Book #2: Sealed in Sin
Book #3: Bound in Black
Genevieve Drake is on a dangerous mission—to find the soul collector, Lethe, and enter the deepest, darkest level of the underworld, where no one has ever gone into and returned. But nothing can prevent her from going after the precious treasure Lethe stole from her.
Genevieve endures challenge after challenge against demon spawn and foul creatures while there, and each triumph strengthens her Vessel power, leading toward full awakening, at which time she will become invincible against the hosts of darkness. But when an old enemy makes a surprising appearance, she is tested to the point of breaking and risks remaining in this dark abyss forever.
When Prince Bamal finally reveals their secret weapon, will Genevieve have the strength to survive? Even more, when her guardian angel, Thomas, reveals his sinister secret, will she finally fall into darkness and forsake the fate of the world for her broken heart.
Each book in The Vessel Trilogy is a standalone story, which are best enjoyed in order.
Series
Book #1: Forged in Fire
Book #2: Sealed in Sin
Book #3: Bound in Black
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 21, 2015
48 people are currently reading
694 people want to read
About the author
Juliette Cross
51 books4,693 followersFor upcoming news and releases, sign-up here: http://eepurl.com/XeKIn
JULIETTE is a multi-published author of paranormal and contemporary romance, including the best-selling STAY A SPELL series. As a native of Louisiana, she lives in the heart of Cajun country with her husband, four kids, and sundry animals. When she isn’t working on her next project, she enjoys binge-watching her favorite shows with her husband and a glass (or two) of red wine or whiskey.
Follow JULIETTE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliettecro...
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JULIETTE is a multi-published author of paranormal and contemporary romance, including the best-selling STAY A SPELL series. As a native of Louisiana, she lives in the heart of Cajun country with her husband, four kids, and sundry animals. When she isn’t working on her next project, she enjoys binge-watching her favorite shows with her husband and a glass (or two) of red wine or whiskey.
Follow JULIETTE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliettecro...
Follow JULIETTE on FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/juliettecros...
Follow JULIETTE on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Juliette__Cross
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July 31, 2017
This series is being re-released today! A brand new publisher and a brand new cover. This series is amazing! Don't miss it!
Bound In Black is book three in The Vessel Trilogy by Juliette Cross. Where do I start with this book? From the first page of the first book I have been completely in love with these characters. I feel like I have watched Genevieve grow up in these three books.
This book starts up directly where book two left off. Jude has been taken. He is somewhere in the depths of the underworld, a place where no one has ever escaped from. Jude is Gen’s life, love, husband, and so much more. She will do anything to get him back, even make deals with the most unlikely characters.
“He was my world. And the grief and pain and loss churning in my breast for what had happened to him, to us, would never make me regret choosing him. Never.”
Gen can feel herself getting stronger. She is the Flamma of Light spoken of in the Prophecy of Glastonbury. She is the only Flamma of Light to have ever lived long enough to come into her power. Even with her power, though, I spent a good part of this book with my heart breaking for her. She loves Jude with all that she is. What she goes through for him, with him, just killed me.
So much is explained in this book. I feel like I got to know Uriel the Archangel, so much better. And all the events leading up to this book make so much more sense with the revelations that are revealed.
This trilogy is about good vs. evil, angels vs. demons, light vs. dark. At the start of book one, Gen first discovers she is not a normal human being, but a Flamma of Light prophesied to lead the war against evil. By the end of the third book, she has come full circle. She has completely come into her power, ready to fulfill her destiny.
“My heart might be human and fragile, but my will was iron and steel.”
On New Year’s Eve, the night of the Blood Moon, there will be the beginning of the war between the army of angels and the demons. But first, Genevieve, The Flamma of Light, must battle against the evil Prince Bamal’s own Vessel. Will she be strong enough? What surprises will the Prince of Darkness have for her?
I may have said it in my reviews of the other two books but to me, Juliette Cross’s words were poetic in these books. Her descriptions made it so easy to imagine it all. I could see Gen and Jude’s cottage hidden away from the world. I could see the army of angels, ready for battle. And I could feel Genevieve, her sorrow, her joy, and her love. This is such a fantastic series. You definitely have to start with book one and read them in order. This isn’t just a series about angels and demons. It is about one woman who found herself to be someone special, someone with untold responsibility on her shoulders. But a woman capable of great love and compassion, who will do anything for those she holds dear to her heart. Thank you again to Juliette Cross for her beautiful words and her wonderful stories.
“You have always been my moon in the darkness.”
“My love, my heart, my wife.”
Bound In Black is book three in The Vessel Trilogy by Juliette Cross. Where do I start with this book? From the first page of the first book I have been completely in love with these characters. I feel like I have watched Genevieve grow up in these three books.
This book starts up directly where book two left off. Jude has been taken. He is somewhere in the depths of the underworld, a place where no one has ever escaped from. Jude is Gen’s life, love, husband, and so much more. She will do anything to get him back, even make deals with the most unlikely characters.
“He was my world. And the grief and pain and loss churning in my breast for what had happened to him, to us, would never make me regret choosing him. Never.”
Gen can feel herself getting stronger. She is the Flamma of Light spoken of in the Prophecy of Glastonbury. She is the only Flamma of Light to have ever lived long enough to come into her power. Even with her power, though, I spent a good part of this book with my heart breaking for her. She loves Jude with all that she is. What she goes through for him, with him, just killed me.
So much is explained in this book. I feel like I got to know Uriel the Archangel, so much better. And all the events leading up to this book make so much more sense with the revelations that are revealed.
This trilogy is about good vs. evil, angels vs. demons, light vs. dark. At the start of book one, Gen first discovers she is not a normal human being, but a Flamma of Light prophesied to lead the war against evil. By the end of the third book, she has come full circle. She has completely come into her power, ready to fulfill her destiny.
“My heart might be human and fragile, but my will was iron and steel.”
On New Year’s Eve, the night of the Blood Moon, there will be the beginning of the war between the army of angels and the demons. But first, Genevieve, The Flamma of Light, must battle against the evil Prince Bamal’s own Vessel. Will she be strong enough? What surprises will the Prince of Darkness have for her?
I may have said it in my reviews of the other two books but to me, Juliette Cross’s words were poetic in these books. Her descriptions made it so easy to imagine it all. I could see Gen and Jude’s cottage hidden away from the world. I could see the army of angels, ready for battle. And I could feel Genevieve, her sorrow, her joy, and her love. This is such a fantastic series. You definitely have to start with book one and read them in order. This isn’t just a series about angels and demons. It is about one woman who found herself to be someone special, someone with untold responsibility on her shoulders. But a woman capable of great love and compassion, who will do anything for those she holds dear to her heart. Thank you again to Juliette Cross for her beautiful words and her wonderful stories.
“You have always been my moon in the darkness.”
“My love, my heart, my wife.”
February 15, 2022
This series has been awesome!!! Juliette cross is a amazingly talented writer who's storytelling is beautiful. Her characters might be in the paranormal romance world but are just like you and I. With hopes,fears and wanting to love and be loved. Even her villains like the fallen angels deep down just want to feel again. Some get redemption and a chance at a new life while others have become completely evil and beyond hope. I've loved both the main characters Jude and Gen their attraction was instant and the chemistry off the charts. Both are so strong and likeable that you can't help but root for their happy ending. And with so many awesome secondary characters like archangels Uriel and Maximus and others like angel warrior Xander and dommiel a fallen angel who i fucking adore!!!! I will be reading his book Darkest Heart soon! and bad ass demon hunter Kat who's in a league all her own! theirs plenty action and intrigue. This picks up from book 2 with Jude being taken away by the soul collector to hell afterThomas betrays Gen! I knew their was something off about angel boy! Wait til you find out what he's been really hiding. A Pregnant and scared Gen will walk thru the fires of hell and make bargains with some very dark and dangerous allies to bring back her one true love and the father of her unborn child. But theirs always a price to be played. Are people ever the same after the torments of hell? Will jude even remember her Or has Gen made a mistake and gone were even angels fear to go! until next time Luv's💗💋
February 14, 2022
Holy freaking Hades!!! This author is an evil mastermind! I could hate her if I didn’t love her so dang much right now!
I just never knew this series was going to go in this direction when I started. Every step of the way I kept looking for where the next step was going to take me. Some I had a tiny bit of an idea about, just a tiny bit because this author gives nothing away! Mostly it was one surprise whether it be of horror, delight, or emotional, after another.
I am not a fan of series. I like standalones. But holy geez I couldn’t see this being written any other way and I’m so, so very glad I not only dipped my toes into it, but dove head first! It is full of every emotion known to womankind – because men totally would not get the reconnection that was required when Gen and Jude come back together. Did I say I hate this author? Never! Well, okay, maybe a little bit…
Did I mention that this has some of the most moving scenes I’ve read in a paranormal/fantasy, whatever you want to call this book, I’ve ever read? In a hundred years I would’ve never thought I could cry over a Dr. Seuss line. But I did. More than once.
This book is filled with so much action, adventure, thrills and drama. But really at its core is faith and hope. I loved how this author slowly exposed us to what The Prophesy was about and how it would be fulfilled. I have to admit, I did not want to read the last 10%. I knew once I reached the end then this wonderful, scary, dangerous but beautiful world created just for Gen and Jude would be over. But then I remembered that she was picking this world back up in a new series and I flew through the last part, gobbling it down like Acheron would a tasty snack.
If you’re wondering whether I liked this book/series or not, no, I did not. I LOVED IT!!! Every scene, every moment, every freaking word!
Thank you to my GR and FB friend Carol for encouraging me to read this series and especially to J.C. herself because even if she is an evil mastermind, I’m claiming her as MY evil mastermind!
Heroine POV
Safe
I just never knew this series was going to go in this direction when I started. Every step of the way I kept looking for where the next step was going to take me. Some I had a tiny bit of an idea about, just a tiny bit because this author gives nothing away! Mostly it was one surprise whether it be of horror, delight, or emotional, after another.
I am not a fan of series. I like standalones. But holy geez I couldn’t see this being written any other way and I’m so, so very glad I not only dipped my toes into it, but dove head first! It is full of every emotion known to womankind – because men totally would not get the reconnection that was required when Gen and Jude come back together. Did I say I hate this author? Never! Well, okay, maybe a little bit…
Did I mention that this has some of the most moving scenes I’ve read in a paranormal/fantasy, whatever you want to call this book, I’ve ever read? In a hundred years I would’ve never thought I could cry over a Dr. Seuss line. But I did. More than once.
This book is filled with so much action, adventure, thrills and drama. But really at its core is faith and hope. I loved how this author slowly exposed us to what The Prophesy was about and how it would be fulfilled. I have to admit, I did not want to read the last 10%. I knew once I reached the end then this wonderful, scary, dangerous but beautiful world created just for Gen and Jude would be over. But then I remembered that she was picking this world back up in a new series and I flew through the last part, gobbling it down like Acheron would a tasty snack.
If you’re wondering whether I liked this book/series or not, no, I did not. I LOVED IT!!! Every scene, every moment, every freaking word!
Thank you to my GR and FB friend Carol for encouraging me to read this series and especially to J.C. herself because even if she is an evil mastermind, I’m claiming her as MY evil mastermind!
Heroine POV
Safe
August 28, 2015
What an awesome series this has been! You simply can't go wrong with anything that Juliette Cross writes!!!! I have thoroughly enjoyed the previous two books, but Bound in Black really rounds everything off nicely. The devotion and love between Gen and Jude is beautiful. I also loved the epilogue where we get to see some special moments in the future for them. I am not a big review writer (generally just a star review from me) but I just had to say how much I enjoyed Juliette's characters, her descriptive writing, fight scenes and of course the romantic moments ❤️ It was all terrific...
February 5, 2022
What an excellent way to end this trilogy and to gear up for the Dominion series! I've read these two series out of order, only because when I read the Dominion series I didn't research it to know there was a beginning series. I actually kind of liked that I did that. By the time I got to this book, I recognized a lot of my favorite characters and I liked getting to see how it all started. There is a lot going on in this series that will keep your attention. A lot of characters to get to know and root for, my favorite being Uriel. He gets his own book later and I LOVED it. I might have a thing for the archangels in this series because my other favorite was Maximus. This is one of my favorite demons/angel series I've read and I can see myself doing a re-read of it.
July 21, 2018
(This review covers all three books in The Vessel Trilogy, and fear not, no spoilers included.)
Loved loved LOVED this trilogy, and once again Juliette Cross displays her mad skills in building a believable urban fantasy world and creating characters who each play an important role regardless of the page space they’re given—the fact that I’ve read 3 books over 3 days speaks for itself.
A Vessel is a unique being that demons may seek for centuries but never find.”
~ Forged in Fire
Told from the perspective of Genevieve Drake, we’re dropped in a world where angels and demons walk amongst humans. A world which Genevieve has no idea exists until her twentieth birthday when whilst out celebrating with her BFF, her life takes a dramatic turn seeing her saved by demon hunter, Jude Delacroix.
He was king in his world, and every creature—Light or Dark—knew it.”
~ Sealed in Sin
I loved the depth of Genevieve’s character and witnessing her mature as she comes to terms with her rapidly changing world and abilities, making enemies and allies and forming friendships, along with accepting her increasing feelings for Jude, is just one aspect of a story which has so many layers.
I want you daily, nightly, repeatedly, constantly, forever.
~ Forged in Fire
Jude was everything, strong, silent and to a degree mysterious but Genevieve challenges him in every sense of the word and as he shifts from guardian to lover, we begin to see there is so much more to this dominant man than you could have imagined. His past has absolutely shaped him, creating great strength, but also weaker spots.
When this war starts, you’ll see more angels and demons than you ever cared to. Humans will become nothing more than collateral damage.”
~ Sealed in Sin
The romance between Gen and Jude is so perfectly done in that their chemistry ignites the pages yet their relationship isn’t rushed, leaving you just knowing that the wait will be absolutely worth it. But this story is also so so much more and throughout the three books you know that there will come a time when the proverbial will seriously hit the fan and it’s that that makes this so damn gripping.
I’m ready. Let’s go to hell.”
~ Bound in Black
The Vessel Trilogy consumed me from the moment I started reading and is without question up there as one of my favourite reads of all time. It had it all and whilst I may have an epic book hangover right now, I’m cockahoop that there’s more to come in the spin-off Dominion series.
It is the kind of love that moves mountains. The kind that wages war against evil… and wins.”
~ Bound in Black
Loved loved LOVED this trilogy, and once again Juliette Cross displays her mad skills in building a believable urban fantasy world and creating characters who each play an important role regardless of the page space they’re given—the fact that I’ve read 3 books over 3 days speaks for itself.
A Vessel is a unique being that demons may seek for centuries but never find.”
~ Forged in Fire Told from the perspective of Genevieve Drake, we’re dropped in a world where angels and demons walk amongst humans. A world which Genevieve has no idea exists until her twentieth birthday when whilst out celebrating with her BFF, her life takes a dramatic turn seeing her saved by demon hunter, Jude Delacroix.
He was king in his world, and every creature—Light or Dark—knew it.”
~ Sealed in Sin I loved the depth of Genevieve’s character and witnessing her mature as she comes to terms with her rapidly changing world and abilities, making enemies and allies and forming friendships, along with accepting her increasing feelings for Jude, is just one aspect of a story which has so many layers.
I want you daily, nightly, repeatedly, constantly, forever.
~ Forged in Fire Jude was everything, strong, silent and to a degree mysterious but Genevieve challenges him in every sense of the word and as he shifts from guardian to lover, we begin to see there is so much more to this dominant man than you could have imagined. His past has absolutely shaped him, creating great strength, but also weaker spots.
When this war starts, you’ll see more angels and demons than you ever cared to. Humans will become nothing more than collateral damage.”
~ Sealed in Sin The romance between Gen and Jude is so perfectly done in that their chemistry ignites the pages yet their relationship isn’t rushed, leaving you just knowing that the wait will be absolutely worth it. But this story is also so so much more and throughout the three books you know that there will come a time when the proverbial will seriously hit the fan and it’s that that makes this so damn gripping.
I’m ready. Let’s go to hell.”
~ Bound in Black The Vessel Trilogy consumed me from the moment I started reading and is without question up there as one of my favourite reads of all time. It had it all and whilst I may have an epic book hangover right now, I’m cockahoop that there’s more to come in the spin-off Dominion series.
It is the kind of love that moves mountains. The kind that wages war against evil… and wins.”
~ Bound in Black 
December 30, 2017
Genevieve Drake has become a force to be reckoned with and she is on a mission to save the man she loves. And. She. Will. Not. Be. Stopped. If ever a heroine has grown into herself, her powers and her belief in the only thing to do, it is Genevieve and if you liked her before, you are going to love her now!
Juliette Cross’ BOUND IN BLACK proves that, yes, this series can get even better! Genevieve has a secret and like a mama bear, she will protect that secret with all she has, but she also has a mission of both the heart and of the destiny of the world that will send her into the bowels of Hell, against known and unknown foes alike. She will be brought to her knees with grief, her power will be tested and her faith in those around her will be shaken, but this is a Vessel who cannot fail, there is too much riding on her shoulders…Can she truly bear the weight of what she will endure? Will she come out unscathed? Will her mission be one of rescue and triumph or will it become a nightmare she may never recover from?
When you are deceived by your guardian angel, your true love is missing and demons are knocking at the gates and a poisonous truth is revealed, can you find that last strand of inner strength to push on? This will be Genevieve's greatest test. Will the light of good be a strong enough beacon to guide her through the stygian darkness of evil?
Whoa! Start to finish madness, chaos and turmoil, yet author Juliette Cross brings it all home in a riveting kaleidoscope of action, while never forgetting the romance that has bound this series together! Incredible scenes that come alive, characters that I almost forgot weren’t real and amazing storytelling, it’s all here in the Vessel Trilogy!
Trilogy - The Vessel Trilogy - Book 3
Publisher: Entangled: Select Otherworld (July 31, 2017)
Publication Date: July 31, 2017
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Print Length: 325 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Juliette Cross’ BOUND IN BLACK proves that, yes, this series can get even better! Genevieve has a secret and like a mama bear, she will protect that secret with all she has, but she also has a mission of both the heart and of the destiny of the world that will send her into the bowels of Hell, against known and unknown foes alike. She will be brought to her knees with grief, her power will be tested and her faith in those around her will be shaken, but this is a Vessel who cannot fail, there is too much riding on her shoulders…Can she truly bear the weight of what she will endure? Will she come out unscathed? Will her mission be one of rescue and triumph or will it become a nightmare she may never recover from?
When you are deceived by your guardian angel, your true love is missing and demons are knocking at the gates and a poisonous truth is revealed, can you find that last strand of inner strength to push on? This will be Genevieve's greatest test. Will the light of good be a strong enough beacon to guide her through the stygian darkness of evil?
Whoa! Start to finish madness, chaos and turmoil, yet author Juliette Cross brings it all home in a riveting kaleidoscope of action, while never forgetting the romance that has bound this series together! Incredible scenes that come alive, characters that I almost forgot weren’t real and amazing storytelling, it’s all here in the Vessel Trilogy!
Trilogy - The Vessel Trilogy - Book 3
Publisher: Entangled: Select Otherworld (July 31, 2017)
Publication Date: July 31, 2017
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Print Length: 325 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
July 31, 2017
5 - "Damn, woman. You have some serious balls." Stars!
This is a dual review for the second and third books in The Vessel Trilogy; Sealed in Sin & Bound in Black. I decided to do it this way, because basically both books are equally awesome, and I can say very little about them for fear of giving away major spoilers.
The best part though, is that all three are now LIVE!
Amazon US –
Forged in Fire – http://a.co/ewWoI5R
Sealed in Sin - http://a.co/8ZbQiLG
Bound in Black – http://a.co/6KPAYGo
Amazon UK –
Forged in Fire – http://amzn.eu/dzwgc5p
Sealed in Sin - http://amzn.eu/1BZHFnd
Bound in Black – http://amzn.eu/iQqTyXg
So you can actually go buy them and read them for yourselves.
Jude and Gen’s story is unlike any other that I have read in the Paranormal or Fantasy genre, if you like Angels, Demons, the good, the bad, ones you thought were good but are bad and ones that started out bad but then become good, then this is the story for you.
Juliette kept me on my toes with this series right up to the last couple of chapters, she also kept me up well past my bedtime with both books two and three because I just didn’t want to stop the ride she had taken me on.
"You know the more you learn about our world… the more you’ll come to understand that everyone-light or dark- has their own agenda foremost in mind."
If you are looking for something a little different to read, that will make you think, take you out of this world and put you in another, with a unique story-line, a great cast of unusual and interesting characters, a Hero and Heroine that together were hot, when apart heart-breaking and everything for all of the in-between addicting, then this series if one you need to be checking out.
"Don’t step too far into the shadows with me…"
"How else am I to get close to you."
I only discovered this authors writing recently, and have literally devoured each and every book I have read by her since. There are few authors that jump straight onto my auto-buy list nowadays, but Juliette Cross is 100% on it, and most likely to never leave it if she continues to produce books and series of this exemplary calibre.
"You’ve always been my moon in the darkness…"
"And you’re my guiding star."
ARC(s) generously provided by the author, and it was my pleasure (and privilege) to provide the above honest review in exchange.
This is a dual review for the second and third books in The Vessel Trilogy; Sealed in Sin & Bound in Black. I decided to do it this way, because basically both books are equally awesome, and I can say very little about them for fear of giving away major spoilers.
The best part though, is that all three are now LIVE!
Amazon US –
Forged in Fire – http://a.co/ewWoI5R
Sealed in Sin - http://a.co/8ZbQiLG
Bound in Black – http://a.co/6KPAYGo
Amazon UK –
Forged in Fire – http://amzn.eu/dzwgc5p
Sealed in Sin - http://amzn.eu/1BZHFnd
Bound in Black – http://amzn.eu/iQqTyXg
So you can actually go buy them and read them for yourselves.
Jude and Gen’s story is unlike any other that I have read in the Paranormal or Fantasy genre, if you like Angels, Demons, the good, the bad, ones you thought were good but are bad and ones that started out bad but then become good, then this is the story for you.
Juliette kept me on my toes with this series right up to the last couple of chapters, she also kept me up well past my bedtime with both books two and three because I just didn’t want to stop the ride she had taken me on.
"You know the more you learn about our world… the more you’ll come to understand that everyone-light or dark- has their own agenda foremost in mind."
If you are looking for something a little different to read, that will make you think, take you out of this world and put you in another, with a unique story-line, a great cast of unusual and interesting characters, a Hero and Heroine that together were hot, when apart heart-breaking and everything for all of the in-between addicting, then this series if one you need to be checking out.
"Don’t step too far into the shadows with me…"
"How else am I to get close to you."
I only discovered this authors writing recently, and have literally devoured each and every book I have read by her since. There are few authors that jump straight onto my auto-buy list nowadays, but Juliette Cross is 100% on it, and most likely to never leave it if she continues to produce books and series of this exemplary calibre.
"You’ve always been my moon in the darkness…"
"And you’re my guiding star."
ARC(s) generously provided by the author, and it was my pleasure (and privilege) to provide the above honest review in exchange.
February 13, 2022
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
This is the finale in the Vessel Trilogy and I was so thrilled to get an early ARC of this by the author. This is a rerelease, and this trilogy was the first book written by this author just reading these books have made me realize how much I want to delve deeper into this author’s books. I wasn’t sure what would happen in this book but the blurb does give some parts of it away I was so drawn into this one because the mistakes that Genevieve made in book two really come to light in this one but also shows the craftiness of the enemy. I will say that this book is guaranteed to put you through the emotional wringer. Just seeing what this author puts this couple through in this one is so heartbreaking in moments, but it also binds their relationship into something deeper. We see what our heroine is capable of with her growing capabilities, and what the drive of saving your love will motivate you into doing. But we also see the sacrifice of love from our hero and what he is willing to go through for Genevieve so that she is protected. I fell so hard for this book and it kept me up all day reading this one here. Its definitely a story that I know will captivate its readers and seeing what our pair will have to suffer and overcome was an epic journey and absolutely loved what this author built within this finale and delivering such a solid story that won my heart so completely. If you love fantasy romance and want to read more, grab this trilogy up. And make sure you grab up the 2022 released version as they have extra content.
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
This is the finale in the Vessel Trilogy and I was so thrilled to get an early ARC of this by the author. This is a rerelease, and this trilogy was the first book written by this author just reading these books have made me realize how much I want to delve deeper into this author’s books. I wasn’t sure what would happen in this book but the blurb does give some parts of it away I was so drawn into this one because the mistakes that Genevieve made in book two really come to light in this one but also shows the craftiness of the enemy. I will say that this book is guaranteed to put you through the emotional wringer. Just seeing what this author puts this couple through in this one is so heartbreaking in moments, but it also binds their relationship into something deeper. We see what our heroine is capable of with her growing capabilities, and what the drive of saving your love will motivate you into doing. But we also see the sacrifice of love from our hero and what he is willing to go through for Genevieve so that she is protected. I fell so hard for this book and it kept me up all day reading this one here. Its definitely a story that I know will captivate its readers and seeing what our pair will have to suffer and overcome was an epic journey and absolutely loved what this author built within this finale and delivering such a solid story that won my heart so completely. If you love fantasy romance and want to read more, grab this trilogy up. And make sure you grab up the 2022 released version as they have extra content.
July 17, 2015
3.5/5
Mon avis en Français
My English review
The end of the last volume left our heroine in a very difficult situation with the Jude’s disappearance in hell and I admit that I was curious to see how far our heroine would be willing to go to save him. One thing is certain, she does not keep many limits to recover him.
Gen will therefore find herself embarked on a quest that could be too much for her while making some alliances with demons, angels and always desperate to save her disappeared husband, though it may well be that he does not remember of her if she succeeds. Heading to hell, she will face a lot of obstacles that will only be part of the problem. Oh yes, because the Demon Princes are always in her path with their own plans. We find like that Danté, that we saw several times in the previous volumes, and finally, we made the acquaintance of Bamal whom we heard so much about. I confess that I expected someone twisted but he even surpasses my expectations and it’s true that his character is really twisted and unhealthy … But that’s not all, for we also meet again with Thomas and I confess I did not expect at all to revelations about him. Very surprised ideas of the author about it for once.
As you see, war is approaching and Gen is determined to do what she wants, for her own good and that of others. She will face some demons of her past, without thinking that it would be possible one day and like that move forward. It hurts to see all she has to face but it’s quite impressive to see the person she becomes. Yes, because the young woman reinforces and increases her power, allowing her to finally defend herself alone with all those who wish to keep with them or kill her.
So yes, many revelations await us here and it was nice to discover everything. We feel the war closer and I’m curious to see what will happen.
Mon avis en Français
My English review
The end of the last volume left our heroine in a very difficult situation with the Jude’s disappearance in hell and I admit that I was curious to see how far our heroine would be willing to go to save him. One thing is certain, she does not keep many limits to recover him.
Gen will therefore find herself embarked on a quest that could be too much for her while making some alliances with demons, angels and always desperate to save her disappeared husband, though it may well be that he does not remember of her if she succeeds. Heading to hell, she will face a lot of obstacles that will only be part of the problem. Oh yes, because the Demon Princes are always in her path with their own plans. We find like that Danté, that we saw several times in the previous volumes, and finally, we made the acquaintance of Bamal whom we heard so much about. I confess that I expected someone twisted but he even surpasses my expectations and it’s true that his character is really twisted and unhealthy … But that’s not all, for we also meet again with Thomas and I confess I did not expect at all to revelations about him. Very surprised ideas of the author about it for once.
As you see, war is approaching and Gen is determined to do what she wants, for her own good and that of others. She will face some demons of her past, without thinking that it would be possible one day and like that move forward. It hurts to see all she has to face but it’s quite impressive to see the person she becomes. Yes, because the young woman reinforces and increases her power, allowing her to finally defend herself alone with all those who wish to keep with them or kill her.
So yes, many revelations await us here and it was nice to discover everything. We feel the war closer and I’m curious to see what will happen.
November 21, 2025
Cross once again takes us on an amazing adventure to the bowels of hell and back in Bound in Black.
Gen Drake will stop at nothing to save the one she loves from the soul collector, Lethe. Even if it means making a deal with the devil, or should I say demons. But it isn’t about her anymore, she has another life she holds in her hands.
The balance of the world lays at Gen's feet. Will good or evil prevail.
The prophecy is unraveling and the demon powers that be are not afraid to use Gen’s family and best friends as pawns in their deadly game.
Gen will have to make a loose, loose choice and it all comes down to whether she will be able to survive her decision.
Pulse pounding action had me white knuckle reading this story. I just couldn’t put down.
Cross has created a top notch urban fantasy in The Vessel Trilogy. Even though this is book 3 in this trilogy, I would be all for more of Gen Drake’s world. I highly recommend this trilogy and for anyone to delve into Juliette Cross’s imaginings you won't regret it.
I received this ARC copy of Bound in Black from Samhain Publishing in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication July 21, 2015.
Gen Drake will stop at nothing to save the one she loves from the soul collector, Lethe. Even if it means making a deal with the devil, or should I say demons. But it isn’t about her anymore, she has another life she holds in her hands.
The balance of the world lays at Gen's feet. Will good or evil prevail.
The prophecy is unraveling and the demon powers that be are not afraid to use Gen’s family and best friends as pawns in their deadly game.
Gen will have to make a loose, loose choice and it all comes down to whether she will be able to survive her decision.
Pulse pounding action had me white knuckle reading this story. I just couldn’t put down.
Cross has created a top notch urban fantasy in The Vessel Trilogy. Even though this is book 3 in this trilogy, I would be all for more of Gen Drake’s world. I highly recommend this trilogy and for anyone to delve into Juliette Cross’s imaginings you won't regret it.
I received this ARC copy of Bound in Black from Samhain Publishing in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication July 21, 2015.
May 20, 2016
5 Stars - 3 Flames
Are you freakin' kidding me right now? Did this Trilogy just come to an end? WHHHHHHHHY???? My Lord, or Angels, this was jam packed with everything . And I mean EVERYTHING. So much so that I really don't even know where to start, so excuse me if my review is jumbled and all over the place.
STOP! If you haven't read the first two books in this Trilogy, YOU WILL BE LOST!
This installment picks up 1 month after Jude has been taken to the depths of Hell. With Gen's VS getting stronger each day, she's gearing up and trying to find a way to save her love, her husband. There are obvious issues with this mission. Will Jude even remember Gen? How in the world will she get to the depth needed to find him? But more importantly, how the hell will she get out? Deals are made to ensure she gets what she wants. Deals made with those you would least expect.
OMG! How am I supposed to write this without spoiling anything? It's almost impossible! Almost...I'll be reverting to code in a second...
I EFING KNEW IT! That efing Mother efer!!! How the EF did we NOT see that coming? Ok, I saw "something" coming, but THAT? Nope, had me fooled. And theeeeeeeen, the other Vessel??? Seriously??? I mean, I read the prophecy over and over myself, but I still didn't see that coming until that moment. Sigh.....I just can't write anymore. This is giving me heart palpitations.
Just read this. I KNOW you want to see how the war starts. Notice I said starts. AHHHHH! Ok, I'm out. I've got to go read another one of this authors books because I'm totally falling in love with her world.
*I was given this book by the author for my honest opinion.
Are you freakin' kidding me right now? Did this Trilogy just come to an end? WHHHHHHHHY???? My Lord, or Angels, this was jam packed with everything . And I mean EVERYTHING. So much so that I really don't even know where to start, so excuse me if my review is jumbled and all over the place.
STOP! If you haven't read the first two books in this Trilogy, YOU WILL BE LOST!
This installment picks up 1 month after Jude has been taken to the depths of Hell. With Gen's VS getting stronger each day, she's gearing up and trying to find a way to save her love, her husband. There are obvious issues with this mission. Will Jude even remember Gen? How in the world will she get to the depth needed to find him? But more importantly, how the hell will she get out? Deals are made to ensure she gets what she wants. Deals made with those you would least expect.
OMG! How am I supposed to write this without spoiling anything? It's almost impossible! Almost...I'll be reverting to code in a second...
I EFING KNEW IT! That efing Mother efer!!! How the EF did we NOT see that coming? Ok, I saw "something" coming, but THAT? Nope, had me fooled. And theeeeeeeen, the other Vessel??? Seriously??? I mean, I read the prophecy over and over myself, but I still didn't see that coming until that moment. Sigh.....I just can't write anymore. This is giving me heart palpitations.
Just read this. I KNOW you want to see how the war starts. Notice I said starts. AHHHHH! Ok, I'm out. I've got to go read another one of this authors books because I'm totally falling in love with her world.
*I was given this book by the author for my honest opinion.
January 27, 2016
I could not put this book down and read it pretty much in one sitting.
If you thought Genevieve was bad-ass in the other two books, then think again. In Bound in Black she is nothing but steadfast, brave, courageous and absolutely one kick-ass protagonist if I ever saw one. Blindly she forged through hell to bring Jude back from the depths of darkness, with nothing but her growing power and her spawn of light, Mira her white hawk, that she birthed after Jude was taken. She willed herself and fought, and stopped at nothing. Absolutely amazing.
So much happens throughout the story, at such a fast-pace, and before I knew it, I reached the last chapter, knowing that the end was near and I was going to say goodbye. My heart was pounding, my blood was humming through my veins and I held my breath until I cried. This book is beyond phenomenal and I can't praise it enough.
This series has been undeniably one of the best I have read in a long time. Full of gut-wrenching sacrifices, amazing characters, so many twists and turns, gripped with suspense and edge-of-your-seat thrills. I have gauged myself full with this story of love, triumph, good vs evil and hope.
Juliette Cross, I applaud you and your brilliant ability to weave a story that captures your heart and ensnares your soul. I cannot wait to read more of your work because you are now cemented as one of my favourite authors.
If you thought Genevieve was bad-ass in the other two books, then think again. In Bound in Black she is nothing but steadfast, brave, courageous and absolutely one kick-ass protagonist if I ever saw one. Blindly she forged through hell to bring Jude back from the depths of darkness, with nothing but her growing power and her spawn of light, Mira her white hawk, that she birthed after Jude was taken. She willed herself and fought, and stopped at nothing. Absolutely amazing.
So much happens throughout the story, at such a fast-pace, and before I knew it, I reached the last chapter, knowing that the end was near and I was going to say goodbye. My heart was pounding, my blood was humming through my veins and I held my breath until I cried. This book is beyond phenomenal and I can't praise it enough.
This series has been undeniably one of the best I have read in a long time. Full of gut-wrenching sacrifices, amazing characters, so many twists and turns, gripped with suspense and edge-of-your-seat thrills. I have gauged myself full with this story of love, triumph, good vs evil and hope.
Juliette Cross, I applaud you and your brilliant ability to weave a story that captures your heart and ensnares your soul. I cannot wait to read more of your work because you are now cemented as one of my favourite authors.
August 1, 2017
Of the books in the trilogy, Bound in Black is my absolute favorite (they are all great but book 3 is superb). The conclusion to the series is deep and emotional. Juliette Cross takes Genevieve and Jude to an all new level, one that had me weeping in sadness and for joy. During all of the emotional upheaval, everyone is preparing for the impending war between Light and Dark.
Juliette's writing style is wonderful and sometimes lyrical. The dialogue between all characters is smooth and understandable. The plot is wonderfully constructed and the world building was done extremely well. The details were descriptive enough to paint wonderful pictures in my mind as I read along but not overly done or obnoxious.
The book is engaging and I was pulled back into the wonderful world of Genevieve and Jude. There were two brilliantly carried out plot twists that took my breath away. I was horrified yet captivated by the truths revealed. Everything about this series is perfection. Now that the series has concluded I feel lost without the world created by Juliette Cross. I would love for there to be more in the world of The Vessel and her family.
I couldn't put the book down and devoured it in one day.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC.
Juliette's writing style is wonderful and sometimes lyrical. The dialogue between all characters is smooth and understandable. The plot is wonderfully constructed and the world building was done extremely well. The details were descriptive enough to paint wonderful pictures in my mind as I read along but not overly done or obnoxious.
The book is engaging and I was pulled back into the wonderful world of Genevieve and Jude. There were two brilliantly carried out plot twists that took my breath away. I was horrified yet captivated by the truths revealed. Everything about this series is perfection. Now that the series has concluded I feel lost without the world created by Juliette Cross. I would love for there to be more in the world of The Vessel and her family.
I couldn't put the book down and devoured it in one day.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC.
October 12, 2015
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy.
There was a lot going on in BOUND IN BLACK. Gen ventured into hell, Thomas revealed his true nature, there was a prophecy that was coming to pass, and surprises abounded around every corner. Despite the revelation-filled plot line, however, BOUND IN BLACK felt slow, and it felt like a lot of the action was relegated toward the ending.
My great pleasure with BOUND IN BLACK was the number of questions that were answered. I hate it when there are loose ends, and BOUND IN BLACK did a good job of tying any of those up. Though it didn't exactly go the way I expected, it also was a good third book for a trilogy, understanding that the story line needed to end without dragging it on into more books. I appreciate it when author does that.
Gen finally comes into her own in BOUND IN BLACK and starts showing maturity that she hadn't previously demonstrated, which was refreshing, as often so many heroines never really seem to grow past the impulsive decision-making phase. If you're looking for lots of sexy times though, BOUND IN BLACK doesn't hit the same notes as previous books, which makes sense in the context, and I never felt that anything was lacking.
Overall, the Vessel Trilogy was a good one. Though this individual installment in the trilogy had some slow sections, they fit with the overall plot and didn't feel too much like they were dragging. With a good, complete story arc, and interesting, often multi-dimensional characters, for somebody looking for action-filled with a touch of romance, I'd definitely recommend it.
Sexual content: sex scenes.
There was a lot going on in BOUND IN BLACK. Gen ventured into hell, Thomas revealed his true nature, there was a prophecy that was coming to pass, and surprises abounded around every corner. Despite the revelation-filled plot line, however, BOUND IN BLACK felt slow, and it felt like a lot of the action was relegated toward the ending.
My great pleasure with BOUND IN BLACK was the number of questions that were answered. I hate it when there are loose ends, and BOUND IN BLACK did a good job of tying any of those up. Though it didn't exactly go the way I expected, it also was a good third book for a trilogy, understanding that the story line needed to end without dragging it on into more books. I appreciate it when author does that.
Gen finally comes into her own in BOUND IN BLACK and starts showing maturity that she hadn't previously demonstrated, which was refreshing, as often so many heroines never really seem to grow past the impulsive decision-making phase. If you're looking for lots of sexy times though, BOUND IN BLACK doesn't hit the same notes as previous books, which makes sense in the context, and I never felt that anything was lacking.
Overall, the Vessel Trilogy was a good one. Though this individual installment in the trilogy had some slow sections, they fit with the overall plot and didn't feel too much like they were dragging. With a good, complete story arc, and interesting, often multi-dimensional characters, for somebody looking for action-filled with a touch of romance, I'd definitely recommend it.
Sexual content: sex scenes.
July 20, 2015
I am super thankful that all the books in The Vessel Trilogy released in the same year, having to wait longer for all the books would have been SO hard. After reading SEALED IN SIN I needed to get my hands on BOUND IN BLACK immediately as the cliffhanger had my brain scrambling way too much. It was definitely one of those times that being a book reviewer was super fortunate.
BOUND IN BLACK wastes no time getting into the story by starting right where SEALED IN SIN ends. There is no doubt in Genevieve's mind that she has to go get him from the underworld and her plans move pretty swiftly. We get all the answers we could possibly want in the last book of the trilogy and a little more on top of that. The prophecy we have heard so much about is fulfilled in a shocking way. The action is aplenty and there is plenty of danger for all involved.
I have really enjoyed this series and I am sad to see it end. I loved the characters, I loved the storyline and I loved the ending. The Vessel Trilogy is getting a final 5 star review from me!
* This book was provided free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
BOUND IN BLACK wastes no time getting into the story by starting right where SEALED IN SIN ends. There is no doubt in Genevieve's mind that she has to go get him from the underworld and her plans move pretty swiftly. We get all the answers we could possibly want in the last book of the trilogy and a little more on top of that. The prophecy we have heard so much about is fulfilled in a shocking way. The action is aplenty and there is plenty of danger for all involved.
I have really enjoyed this series and I am sad to see it end. I loved the characters, I loved the storyline and I loved the ending. The Vessel Trilogy is getting a final 5 star review from me!
* This book was provided free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 27, 2016
wow, what a fantastic conclusion to this wonderful trilogy! I want more! I think I have found a new favorite author, I have to check out all of her other books right now. The only little thing of this trilogy that annoyed me: some facts were so very predictable. The whole story is told from h's POV in first person, so usually the reader only knows that much as the heroine. But there were some obvious connections and facts I just knew at the beginning of this third book, where our heroine needs half of the book to find out. So the first 50% had made me some eye rolls and face palms. But nevertheless, I very much enjoyed all three books and can recommend them to anyone, who loves hot demon hunter heroes, feisty heroines, steamy scenes, lovely side characters, a great world building and lots of demons, angels and other scary creatures. Definitely a re-read for me in the future.
March 29, 2016
Wow! What a way to finish a series! Plenty of action and romance with everything wrapped up nicely. I loved Jude and Genevieve, and how their relationship has grown.
This certainly won't be the last book that I read by Juliette Cross - she knows how to weave a great story with memorable characters and lure me into her paranormal world.
This certainly won't be the last book that I read by Juliette Cross - she knows how to weave a great story with memorable characters and lure me into her paranormal world.
dnf__no-rating
August 19, 2020DNF/Abandoned @ 12% (Ch.4)
Original start date: February 15, 2018
Last Progress Made: February 15, 2018 @12,5%
Put On Hold: May 16, 2019
July 23, 2015
Bound in Black is the third and final book in The Vessel Trilogy by Juliette Cross.
Warning: Contains malicious demons, sinister spawn, and a vengeful heroine with plans to send them all back to burning hell.
Oh yes. I like this warning. #BringOnTheDemons.
First a confession: I have not read the first two books in this series. But, I will now. I really want to see how Jude the H, and Genevieve the h, found each other and fell in deep sexy love. It took me a bit to figure out what Genevieve was, in terms of her otherworldlyness. She’s the Vessel of Light. That means she’s really super powerful and is meant to super serve the light. Light = good. Dark = bad.
Gen is on a mission to save Jude. Jude is her smoking hot demon hunter husband. He sacrificed himself, to save Gen, and was taken to the darkest pit of hell. The book begins with Gen plotting on how to get him back. Oh, she’s also pregnant. A bad ass kind of pregnant.
Funny, I was pregnant, and I was in the best shape of my life. I’d always imagined that when I was expecting, I’d sit on the sofa and eat bonbons all day, watching reruns of The Office and getting fat. Of course, I never imagined I’d be pregnant at twenty and that the father of my child would be suffering in the bowels of hell. Sitting my lazy ass on the sofa was no longer an option. Besides, I was only five or six weeks along. No one could tell I was with child. And I planned to keep it that way until I could bring Jude back home.
Gen devises a plan to rescue Jude, with the help of an archangel, a demon and St. George the dragon slayer. To head into hell, a soul passes through a crazy area called the Veil of Lethe. At this point, all memories are erased from anyone crossing over. This is the first obstacle in rescuing Jude. Gen needs to keep her memory. The archangel has an elixir that he secures for her and that first issue is crossed off the list. It’s still a tough battle to escape demons and actually find Jude. When she does find Jude it’s heartbreaking. He is being violently tortured in a gladiator type arena by a viscous demon. Jude is despondent. He’s been whipped and is mentally and physically broken. Gen pulls out her vessel killing powers and triumphantly slays the demon into a pile of ash. He never saw it coming. No one is truly aware of how powerful she really is as her own strength grows throughout the book.
Her awesome display of force shocks and terrifies the cheering crowd…they felt pretty invincible up to that point…and Gen is able to escape with Jude. However, she can’t leave hell. In order to leave she makes a deal…with the devil? No, not really…but pretty damn close. She agrees to deliver the biggest baddest demon’s soul in exchange for allowing her and Jude to leave the realm.
Here’s why I must now read the first two books in this Juliette Cross series
She risked her life for Jude. He isn’t reacting to Gen at all. His eyes are black. He’s barely alive. He doesn’t recognize her. And she nurses him, feeds him, is so incredibly patient and deeply in love, but the whole time she’s breaking inside, too. There are no guarantees that he’ll ever be himself again. She hears the warning. She never gives up. I want to experience their romance, how they got to be where they are now. I love that part in a story. I need to read it.
(spoiler warning)
Jude does finally snap out of it. And it’s great. #HolyHotDemonHunters
Through the transparent curtain, I could tell Jude stood there in the bathroom, facing me. The scrunchie fell from my hand as I whipped the curtain back with a jerk, just enough for my head. My heart slammed in my chest. His eyes. Sparking fiery gold with an unnatural luster, no darkness whatsoever, they held a myriad of emotions all at once—desperation, fear, adoration, longing and something so deep, my pulse tripped and fluttered. His bare chest heaved like a man who’d run the most desperate race of his life.
“Genevieve.”
He said my name.
I froze, my head and shoulders poking out of the shower, steam drifting from the opening. “You…you know me?” He took the two long strides needed to cross the bathroom, yanked the curtain aside and pulled me into his arms.
“You know me?” I asked again in disbelief.
His voice grated with heartbreak and need. “My love, my heart, my wife.” His lips brushed my ear. “I know you. Yes, I know you.”
I sobbed as I linked my arms around his neck and pulled him closer. “Jude.” I could manage nothing else.
He pulled back and stared at me, raking greedy eyes over every line before he lowered and sealed his mouth to mine, pouring all the loss and loneliness and love into a searing kiss. His tongue stroked deep, a groan rumbled in his chest and throat, his hands slid over my wet skin, caressing the curve of my waist, rounding over my hips. He kissed a trail over every inch of my face—cheeks, nose, brow, back to lips. The water streaming from the shower head washed away my tears as quickly as they fell.
I really liked this book. Gen was strong and loyal. I want to read more about the supporting characters. And, I liked the world that Juliette Cross built. I'm a sucker for good versus evil.
I give this book a B+. I read it and wasn’t confused, so I’d say it’s fine as a standalone. But, no doubt reading the first two books will really help set the story up well. Because romance.
What inspired Juliette Cross to write this dark sexy story about heaven and hell? How how would she describe the writing and publishing experience? Was it heaven or hell…hmmmm. Read this.
Warning: Contains malicious demons, sinister spawn, and a vengeful heroine with plans to send them all back to burning hell.
Oh yes. I like this warning. #BringOnTheDemons.
First a confession: I have not read the first two books in this series. But, I will now. I really want to see how Jude the H, and Genevieve the h, found each other and fell in deep sexy love. It took me a bit to figure out what Genevieve was, in terms of her otherworldlyness. She’s the Vessel of Light. That means she’s really super powerful and is meant to super serve the light. Light = good. Dark = bad.
Gen is on a mission to save Jude. Jude is her smoking hot demon hunter husband. He sacrificed himself, to save Gen, and was taken to the darkest pit of hell. The book begins with Gen plotting on how to get him back. Oh, she’s also pregnant. A bad ass kind of pregnant.
Funny, I was pregnant, and I was in the best shape of my life. I’d always imagined that when I was expecting, I’d sit on the sofa and eat bonbons all day, watching reruns of The Office and getting fat. Of course, I never imagined I’d be pregnant at twenty and that the father of my child would be suffering in the bowels of hell. Sitting my lazy ass on the sofa was no longer an option. Besides, I was only five or six weeks along. No one could tell I was with child. And I planned to keep it that way until I could bring Jude back home.
Gen devises a plan to rescue Jude, with the help of an archangel, a demon and St. George the dragon slayer. To head into hell, a soul passes through a crazy area called the Veil of Lethe. At this point, all memories are erased from anyone crossing over. This is the first obstacle in rescuing Jude. Gen needs to keep her memory. The archangel has an elixir that he secures for her and that first issue is crossed off the list. It’s still a tough battle to escape demons and actually find Jude. When she does find Jude it’s heartbreaking. He is being violently tortured in a gladiator type arena by a viscous demon. Jude is despondent. He’s been whipped and is mentally and physically broken. Gen pulls out her vessel killing powers and triumphantly slays the demon into a pile of ash. He never saw it coming. No one is truly aware of how powerful she really is as her own strength grows throughout the book.
Her awesome display of force shocks and terrifies the cheering crowd…they felt pretty invincible up to that point…and Gen is able to escape with Jude. However, she can’t leave hell. In order to leave she makes a deal…with the devil? No, not really…but pretty damn close. She agrees to deliver the biggest baddest demon’s soul in exchange for allowing her and Jude to leave the realm.
Here’s why I must now read the first two books in this Juliette Cross series
She risked her life for Jude. He isn’t reacting to Gen at all. His eyes are black. He’s barely alive. He doesn’t recognize her. And she nurses him, feeds him, is so incredibly patient and deeply in love, but the whole time she’s breaking inside, too. There are no guarantees that he’ll ever be himself again. She hears the warning. She never gives up. I want to experience their romance, how they got to be where they are now. I love that part in a story. I need to read it.
(spoiler warning)
Jude does finally snap out of it. And it’s great. #HolyHotDemonHunters
Through the transparent curtain, I could tell Jude stood there in the bathroom, facing me. The scrunchie fell from my hand as I whipped the curtain back with a jerk, just enough for my head. My heart slammed in my chest. His eyes. Sparking fiery gold with an unnatural luster, no darkness whatsoever, they held a myriad of emotions all at once—desperation, fear, adoration, longing and something so deep, my pulse tripped and fluttered. His bare chest heaved like a man who’d run the most desperate race of his life.
“Genevieve.”
He said my name.
I froze, my head and shoulders poking out of the shower, steam drifting from the opening. “You…you know me?” He took the two long strides needed to cross the bathroom, yanked the curtain aside and pulled me into his arms.
“You know me?” I asked again in disbelief.
His voice grated with heartbreak and need. “My love, my heart, my wife.” His lips brushed my ear. “I know you. Yes, I know you.”
I sobbed as I linked my arms around his neck and pulled him closer. “Jude.” I could manage nothing else.
He pulled back and stared at me, raking greedy eyes over every line before he lowered and sealed his mouth to mine, pouring all the loss and loneliness and love into a searing kiss. His tongue stroked deep, a groan rumbled in his chest and throat, his hands slid over my wet skin, caressing the curve of my waist, rounding over my hips. He kissed a trail over every inch of my face—cheeks, nose, brow, back to lips. The water streaming from the shower head washed away my tears as quickly as they fell.
I really liked this book. Gen was strong and loyal. I want to read more about the supporting characters. And, I liked the world that Juliette Cross built. I'm a sucker for good versus evil.
I give this book a B+. I read it and wasn’t confused, so I’d say it’s fine as a standalone. But, no doubt reading the first two books will really help set the story up well. Because romance.
What inspired Juliette Cross to write this dark sexy story about heaven and hell? How how would she describe the writing and publishing experience? Was it heaven or hell…hmmmm. Read this.
February 9, 2022
This was the perfect ending to this story.
All of the emotions. SO MANY. I may or may not have shed some tears in this book, that is for sure.
With this series, it was fun to actually see the growth of Juliette’s writing, with this being her first series. You can see it just get better and better as she goes on and I think she really hit her stride in this book. It was definitely my favorite in this trilogy and a book that I won’t be forgetting any time soon.
I would definitely recommend this trilogy for the adult fantasy lover. 💕
All of the emotions. SO MANY. I may or may not have shed some tears in this book, that is for sure.
With this series, it was fun to actually see the growth of Juliette’s writing, with this being her first series. You can see it just get better and better as she goes on and I think she really hit her stride in this book. It was definitely my favorite in this trilogy and a book that I won’t be forgetting any time soon.
I would definitely recommend this trilogy for the adult fantasy lover. 💕
February 10, 2022
I just devoured Bound in Black by Juliette Cross. This series is that kind of addictive. Jude and Genevieve's epic love story has finally found a happy ending but not before they battled against the evil valiantly. This fantasy romance is extremely well plotted and well executed. The plethora of emotions. The vivid and colourful description of the supernatural entities and the different worlds. The tight narrative. The eclectic and fascinating mix of suspense, romance and sizzling hot passion.
I reviewed a complimentary copy from the Author voluntarily
I reviewed a complimentary copy from the Author voluntarily
August 6, 2017
Bound in Black is the third book in Cross's Vessel Trilogy and is an extremely fitting end to this amazing series. I recommend reading this series in order as there are many references and plot twists that payoff throughout this book. I liken it to the same feeling you get when you read the final Harry Potter book.
The Story-
I'm not going to give away too much, but Genevieve has been through quite a journey since book 1, and this book is where the entire battle between good and evil comes to a head. And it is thrilling!
My Thoughts-
I can't tell you how much I enjoy this series. The hero is one of my absolute favorite hero in any romance ever. I can't exactly explain why, but he is perfectly written for my tastes: dark and brooding, but sarcastic, yet protective, hot as hell... yum. The twists and reveals of this book are so juicy that I found myself just smiling broadly or exclaiming "oh man! I can't believe she brought THAT back in!" Yes, it's that kind of book. So much fun to read, and you are sad when it's over.
Bottom Line-
If you are, indeed, sad when it's over, know that Ms. Cross just signed a contract for a spin-off series which follows other characters from the Vessel Trilogy. I am so excited that there is more to come in this world, and I cannot wait to read it! 5 stars
Currently (8/2017) there is a sale on the series with each book and the prequel at .99. This is a total steal, and you should take advantage now.
The Story-
I'm not going to give away too much, but Genevieve has been through quite a journey since book 1, and this book is where the entire battle between good and evil comes to a head. And it is thrilling!
My Thoughts-
I can't tell you how much I enjoy this series. The hero is one of my absolute favorite hero in any romance ever. I can't exactly explain why, but he is perfectly written for my tastes: dark and brooding, but sarcastic, yet protective, hot as hell... yum. The twists and reveals of this book are so juicy that I found myself just smiling broadly or exclaiming "oh man! I can't believe she brought THAT back in!" Yes, it's that kind of book. So much fun to read, and you are sad when it's over.
Bottom Line-
If you are, indeed, sad when it's over, know that Ms. Cross just signed a contract for a spin-off series which follows other characters from the Vessel Trilogy. I am so excited that there is more to come in this world, and I cannot wait to read it! 5 stars
Currently (8/2017) there is a sale on the series with each book and the prequel at .99. This is a total steal, and you should take advantage now.
July 25, 2015
I needed this like I need food...
and water.....
and possibly oxygen....
In Sealed in Sin, I was soooo mad at Gen I could spit, but equally proud that she emerged from her FOLLY a warrior hell bent on getting her man and ensuring Light prevails!
*bounces in chair*
Aside from being deeply sensual and emotional at times to balance the savagery that the Great War promises, Bound in Black is a book about self discovery and perseverance. Every protagonist (and even a few of the antagonists, ha!) were faced with a past they weren't proud of and had to make the choice to move on in strength in spite of their weaknesses or succumb to their dark histories and never move forward. I am all about the deeper meaning and life lessons hidden in these fun tales and the character growth made Bound in Black a strong series closer. I watched Jude and Gen's courtship grow from antagonistic baiting, to suffocating stealing sexual tension, to tender love and into a mature sustainable relationship and ending their story at three books feels a little criminal, so I hope like hell to get peripheral glimpses into life after HEA for Gen and Jude in the spin off series, Age of Grey.
Full review to come vis smexybooks.com
and water.....
and possibly oxygen....
In Sealed in Sin, I was soooo mad at Gen I could spit, but equally proud that she emerged from her FOLLY a warrior hell bent on getting her man and ensuring Light prevails!
*bounces in chair*
Aside from being deeply sensual and emotional at times to balance the savagery that the Great War promises, Bound in Black is a book about self discovery and perseverance. Every protagonist (and even a few of the antagonists, ha!) were faced with a past they weren't proud of and had to make the choice to move on in strength in spite of their weaknesses or succumb to their dark histories and never move forward. I am all about the deeper meaning and life lessons hidden in these fun tales and the character growth made Bound in Black a strong series closer. I watched Jude and Gen's courtship grow from antagonistic baiting, to suffocating stealing sexual tension, to tender love and into a mature sustainable relationship and ending their story at three books feels a little criminal, so I hope like hell to get peripheral glimpses into life after HEA for Gen and Jude in the spin off series, Age of Grey.
Full review to come vis smexybooks.com
February 18, 2022
Bound in Black is a wonderful conclusion to the Vessel Trilogy. It starts up right after the emotional cliff hanger that book two ended on and gets right into the action.
The story is action packed as the forces of good and evil prepare for war, but it is also emotional and romantic.
“…The sad one doesn’t live long.”
“What do you mean? You can’t die from sadness.”
“Even if the body’s breathin’, that don’t mean you’re livin’, lass.”
I really enjoyed this exciting and emotional series. These stories are released versions of this author’s earliest works and show hints of the humor that she can bring to any subject.
-5 Stars-
The story is action packed as the forces of good and evil prepare for war, but it is also emotional and romantic.
“…The sad one doesn’t live long.”
“What do you mean? You can’t die from sadness.”
“Even if the body’s breathin’, that don’t mean you’re livin’, lass.”
I really enjoyed this exciting and emotional series. These stories are released versions of this author’s earliest works and show hints of the humor that she can bring to any subject.
-5 Stars-
January 18, 2016
I finished this a while back but just haven't had time to write a review... so, I'll just say very quickly that I was intrigued with book one, blown away by book two and well, totally invested in the finale with book three. :) Great PR series and an author that I've grown to really love as one of my favorite in the PR genre. Can't wait to see what else she has up her sleeve!
ARC was provided by Netgalley
ARC was provided by Netgalley
September 17, 2015
Juliette really wrapped up The Vessel Trilogy with a bang! As with the rest of her works, this installment was beautifully written with exceptional description and witty dialogue. Not one detail (that I can think of, anyway) was left unaccounted for, and there were more than enough "wow, didn't see that coming" moments to keep me delightfully off-kilter. If you enjoy paranormal/fantasy series' with kick ass romance, this is definitely one to snatch up.
November 18, 2019
Ohhh i hope for a spin off
So I know it says a trilogy and it totally wraps things up for you at the end but there is so much story left! I hope of continues if it hasn't already! This was a really good read I enjoyed the world that has been created. The journey to bring Jude back was do e soooo well and not just the part down under!
So I know it says a trilogy and it totally wraps things up for you at the end but there is so much story left! I hope of continues if it hasn't already! This was a really good read I enjoyed the world that has been created. The journey to bring Jude back was do e soooo well and not just the part down under!
October 23, 2016
Fantastic positive story . Shows what a great true love is . That there is no ends and bounds that one will do to get back their true love . Don't give up and go into hell and do everything to get the person back . Something to read and imagine when the Great War between the fallen angels and the light happens . Who and what tries to play tricks to your mind . Do you give in to the darkness
November 27, 2016
Honestly, I enjoyed this trilogy but really felt that the last book fell a bit flat at the end. It really feels like there should be another series or a continuation of some kind. It really didn't finish.
That is the only thing that let this down. I needed more of a completion.
That is the only thing that let this down. I needed more of a completion.
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