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Vale of Stars #0.5
Dragon Heartstring
Demetrius Cade has long since let go of his prejudice against Morgonkind, the dragon hybrid race his father taught him to hate. But what he never saw coming was the Morgon woman who would finally teach him to love.
Shakara Icewing has watched Demetrius Cade from afar for years. Known as the most eligible bachelor and emotionally unavailable in all of Gladium Province, she sees him as the aloof, arrogant brother of her dear friend. But when they finally meet, she isn't sure she can handle how deep and how fast they both fall.
An old enemy resurfaces and once more threatens those Demetrius loves. When Shakara plans to speak before Parliament against business tycoon Aron Grayson, she puts her own life in the line of fire. Demetrius will stop at nothing to protect the woman he can no longer live without.
Shakara Icewing has watched Demetrius Cade from afar for years. Known as the most eligible bachelor and emotionally unavailable in all of Gladium Province, she sees him as the aloof, arrogant brother of her dear friend. But when they finally meet, she isn't sure she can handle how deep and how fast they both fall.
An old enemy resurfaces and once more threatens those Demetrius loves. When Shakara plans to speak before Parliament against business tycoon Aron Grayson, she puts her own life in the line of fire. Demetrius will stop at nothing to protect the woman he can no longer live without.
174 pages, Paperback
First published October 25, 2016
224 people are currently reading
583 people want to read
About the author
Juliette Cross
51 books4,681 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...
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September 30, 2018
Dragon Heartstring, book #0.5 in the Vale of Stars series by Juliette Cross, is being re-released so this was my second time reading it, the first time being almost exactly two years ago. I can honestly say that I loved it just as much this time through as I did the first time. In re-reading my initial review, there isn’t a single thing I want to change. I loved the role reversal in this one, that it was a Morgon woman and a human man. I also loved the way that the heroine, Shakara Icewing, chooses to share her gift of healing with both her own kind, and with humans, further breaking down the barriers between Morgons and humans.
“You are my whole heart, Morgon mine. And no one will take you from me.”
Demetrius Cade was taught by his father to hate Morgons. When Demetrius’s sister married a Morgon man, their father turned his back on her. But when her first child was born, half human and half Morgon, and Demetrius held that little baby in his arms, he knew without a doubt that his father was wrong.
Demetrius still works for his father. His work is pretty much his life. His dedication to his job has given him a reputation as being a loner, unapproachable, surly or gruff. No woman has ever caught his eye. But at his nephew’s third birthday party that all changed when he saw his sister’s close friend, Shakara Icewing, a Morgon healer, standing there.
Shakara is a healer but she believes that her gifts should be shared with both humans and Morgons alike. So, she runs a clinic that treats both. She met Demetrius years before but it’s obvious he doesn’t remember her.
“Perhaps you won’t forget me so easily this time,” I said, forcing myself to smile.
His expression sobered, dark eyes captivating.
“No, I most certainly won’t forget you this time.”
If you read Juliette’s first book, Soulfire, then you know the history of Demetrius’s sister, Jessen. The man she was originally betrothed to, the evil Aron Grayson, tried to murder the Morgon Jessen eventually fell in love with, with a Volt gun. It is a gun Aron’s family invented with the sole purpose of killing Morgons. If it shoots a Morgon, death is certain and also horrific. If a human is shot with it, they can be healed. Jessen took the shot that was intended for her mate so she survived. But now, she, Shakara, and others in the Morgon community are trying to get a bill passed to outlaw the Volt gun permanently, and shut down production. With the growing feelings between Demetrius and Shakara in addition to the impact the gun had on his sister and the danger it poses to his nephew, Demetrius is committed to helping the Morgons get the gun outlawed.
“I’ve been careful and cautious all my life, Shakara. But when I think of you, there’s only one word that flips over and over in my mind.”
“And what word is that?”
“Yes.”
Shakara and Demetrius fall fast and hard. There have been a few Morgon man and human woman matings when Soulfire binds them together. But what of a Morgon woman and human man? Morgon women don’t posses soul fire. Can they still be mated?
As always, Juliette Cross has yet again left me breathless with this book. It is about so much more than Morgons and humans falling in love. It is about two races trying to live together in a community where not everyone sees them as equals. Where some refuse to give up their mind set of bigotry and superior attitudes. But it is also a story of love. Of two people destined to be mates and both are willing to sacrifice everything to be together. I loved Shakara and Demetrius. Especially the way Demetrius opened up as his feelings developed. This book is a prequel to the Vale of Stars series but I urge you to start at the beginning and read the three novellas in the Nightwing series. That way you can meet the sexy Morgon men who started it all, and the human women that fell in love with them. You don’t need to have read them, though, to enjoy this one.
“As long as people possess the power to think freely, there will be hatred and prejudice in this world. Just as there will always be love and compassion. All we can do is choose who we will be and what we believe.”
“You are my whole heart, Morgon mine. And no one will take you from me.”
Demetrius Cade was taught by his father to hate Morgons. When Demetrius’s sister married a Morgon man, their father turned his back on her. But when her first child was born, half human and half Morgon, and Demetrius held that little baby in his arms, he knew without a doubt that his father was wrong.
Demetrius still works for his father. His work is pretty much his life. His dedication to his job has given him a reputation as being a loner, unapproachable, surly or gruff. No woman has ever caught his eye. But at his nephew’s third birthday party that all changed when he saw his sister’s close friend, Shakara Icewing, a Morgon healer, standing there.
Shakara is a healer but she believes that her gifts should be shared with both humans and Morgons alike. So, she runs a clinic that treats both. She met Demetrius years before but it’s obvious he doesn’t remember her.
“Perhaps you won’t forget me so easily this time,” I said, forcing myself to smile.
His expression sobered, dark eyes captivating.
“No, I most certainly won’t forget you this time.”
If you read Juliette’s first book, Soulfire, then you know the history of Demetrius’s sister, Jessen. The man she was originally betrothed to, the evil Aron Grayson, tried to murder the Morgon Jessen eventually fell in love with, with a Volt gun. It is a gun Aron’s family invented with the sole purpose of killing Morgons. If it shoots a Morgon, death is certain and also horrific. If a human is shot with it, they can be healed. Jessen took the shot that was intended for her mate so she survived. But now, she, Shakara, and others in the Morgon community are trying to get a bill passed to outlaw the Volt gun permanently, and shut down production. With the growing feelings between Demetrius and Shakara in addition to the impact the gun had on his sister and the danger it poses to his nephew, Demetrius is committed to helping the Morgons get the gun outlawed.
“I’ve been careful and cautious all my life, Shakara. But when I think of you, there’s only one word that flips over and over in my mind.”
“And what word is that?”
“Yes.”
Shakara and Demetrius fall fast and hard. There have been a few Morgon man and human woman matings when Soulfire binds them together. But what of a Morgon woman and human man? Morgon women don’t posses soul fire. Can they still be mated?
As always, Juliette Cross has yet again left me breathless with this book. It is about so much more than Morgons and humans falling in love. It is about two races trying to live together in a community where not everyone sees them as equals. Where some refuse to give up their mind set of bigotry and superior attitudes. But it is also a story of love. Of two people destined to be mates and both are willing to sacrifice everything to be together. I loved Shakara and Demetrius. Especially the way Demetrius opened up as his feelings developed. This book is a prequel to the Vale of Stars series but I urge you to start at the beginning and read the three novellas in the Nightwing series. That way you can meet the sexy Morgon men who started it all, and the human women that fell in love with them. You don’t need to have read them, though, to enjoy this one.
“As long as people possess the power to think freely, there will be hatred and prejudice in this world. Just as there will always be love and compassion. All we can do is choose who we will be and what we believe.”
October 26, 2018
4.5 Stars.
I’m as happy as a witch in a broom factory when I get my hands on a new Juliette Cross book and Dragon Heartstring is a fantastic prequel novella to her Vale of Stars series, set in a world where dragon/human hybrids live alongside humans. Albeit not always peacefully.
If you’ve read Juliette’s Nightwing series, Demitrius Cade and Shakara Icewing will be familiar faces, and whilst this can easily be read without doing so, I’d still recommend reading Soulfire as it will certainly enhance your overall enjoyment. For Demetrius, this is a story of redemption, rectifying his mistakes and rebuilding his relationship with his sister, Jessen and her family, but what he never expects is to fall hard and fast for his sister’s friend, Shakara, and that feeling is quite mutual.
I’d always been the kind of girl to do what was right. The good girl. But Demetrius stirred in me a desire to do very bad things.”
With real-world issues incorporated into this fantasy world, Dragon Heartstring was another enchanting read from Juliette Cross with a couple to love and, whilst everything is paced that bit quicker due to its shorter length, we’re treated to action, feeling and heat. For all you PNR lovers, this is certainly one to add to your library.
Copy generously provided by the author for an honest and unbiased opinion.
I’m as happy as a witch in a broom factory when I get my hands on a new Juliette Cross book and Dragon Heartstring is a fantastic prequel novella to her Vale of Stars series, set in a world where dragon/human hybrids live alongside humans. Albeit not always peacefully.
If you’ve read Juliette’s Nightwing series, Demitrius Cade and Shakara Icewing will be familiar faces, and whilst this can easily be read without doing so, I’d still recommend reading Soulfire as it will certainly enhance your overall enjoyment. For Demetrius, this is a story of redemption, rectifying his mistakes and rebuilding his relationship with his sister, Jessen and her family, but what he never expects is to fall hard and fast for his sister’s friend, Shakara, and that feeling is quite mutual.
I’d always been the kind of girl to do what was right. The good girl. But Demetrius stirred in me a desire to do very bad things.”
With real-world issues incorporated into this fantasy world, Dragon Heartstring was another enchanting read from Juliette Cross with a couple to love and, whilst everything is paced that bit quicker due to its shorter length, we’re treated to action, feeling and heat. For all you PNR lovers, this is certainly one to add to your library.
Copy generously provided by the author for an honest and unbiased opinion.
October 16, 2016
From the onset of this series we have been on edge whenever Demetrius Cade enters the room. Known to be a reflection of his bigoted father, most non-humans are wary of him. He’s all business: serious and overly ambitious when it comes to running the family empire. In a world where Morgons are just trying to be seen as equals and not some “other less than”. Having a dragon hybrid as a nephew has changed all that for Demetrius. His heart is now opened and he’s ready to embrace a new way of thinking, especially where Shakara Icewing is concerned.
Shakara, a Morgan Healer, has been sneaking side glances at Demetrius Cade for a while now. He’s so formal and rigid, yet utterly captivating in unexpected ways.
And for whatever reason, there is a connection when they finally come face to face. It’s immediate, undeniable, and intoxicating all at once. What culminates is a fantastic read with an underlying thread of civil uprising in this world of humans and dragon kind.
Cleverly written, Dragon Heartstring ranks high on the fantasy must read list. With a parallel to real life current events wrapped in a fantasy world, it lends itself to a more believable feel overall.
5 Stars
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Shakara, a Morgan Healer, has been sneaking side glances at Demetrius Cade for a while now. He’s so formal and rigid, yet utterly captivating in unexpected ways.
And for whatever reason, there is a connection when they finally come face to face. It’s immediate, undeniable, and intoxicating all at once. What culminates is a fantastic read with an underlying thread of civil uprising in this world of humans and dragon kind.
Cleverly written, Dragon Heartstring ranks high on the fantasy must read list. With a parallel to real life current events wrapped in a fantasy world, it lends itself to a more believable feel overall.
5 Stars
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January 19, 2022
This was by far my favourite book of the series thus far, I found myself absorbed in the story and main characters, and to say I lost track of time would be an understatement.
Demetrius Cade the brother of Moira Cade (from book 1 in the Vale of Stars series) and Jessen Cade (from Soulfire – book one in the Nightwing series) has in some ways changed greatly since his sister Jessen nearly died and the birth of his hybrid nephew. He has long given up his prejudice against Morgons, the dragon hybrids his father taught him to hate and distrust, due to .
Yet even as Demetrius sees the Morgons differently, he remains a man potently focused on work, even in a crowd of people he is alone, but when he again, meets healer and Morgon - Shakara Icewing at his nephew’s birthday party, work no longer remains his primary focus. Shakara quickly has his heart beating, and brings a smile to his face as nothing else does.
For years Shakara has perceived Demetrius as the aloof and super arrogant brother of her dear friend (Jessen), but as they interact and talk, she feels a connection she is not sure how to handle. I really enjoyed the interactions between the two main characters, and see myself re-reading this book.
This book and the series it is part of, are an extension/sequel to the Nightwing series. I read this first without reading the initial series, but luckily, I didn’t feel lost when it comes to the characters and plot. However, I’m thinking there is some worldbuilding I am missing out on, and as book 3 in this series is not out until the end of April, I am jumping straight to book one of the Nightwing series.
Acquired via KU, to be purchased as soon as price goes down.
Demetrius Cade the brother of Moira Cade (from book 1 in the Vale of Stars series) and Jessen Cade (from Soulfire – book one in the Nightwing series) has in some ways changed greatly since his sister Jessen nearly died and the birth of his hybrid nephew. He has long given up his prejudice against Morgons, the dragon hybrids his father taught him to hate and distrust, due to .
Yet even as Demetrius sees the Morgons differently, he remains a man potently focused on work, even in a crowd of people he is alone, but when he again, meets healer and Morgon - Shakara Icewing at his nephew’s birthday party, work no longer remains his primary focus. Shakara quickly has his heart beating, and brings a smile to his face as nothing else does.
For years Shakara has perceived Demetrius as the aloof and super arrogant brother of her dear friend (Jessen), but as they interact and talk, she feels a connection she is not sure how to handle. I really enjoyed the interactions between the two main characters, and see myself re-reading this book.
This book and the series it is part of, are an extension/sequel to the Nightwing series. I read this first without reading the initial series, but luckily, I didn’t feel lost when it comes to the characters and plot. However, I’m thinking there is some worldbuilding I am missing out on, and as book 3 in this series is not out until the end of April, I am jumping straight to book one of the Nightwing series.
Acquired via KU, to be purchased as soon as price goes down.
September 20, 2018
What a wonderful read! I’m falling more in love with this Morgon world than I ever imagined!
Demetrius has lived a relatively solitary life, a workaholic, a man who has followed in his father’s footsteps even when it led him into racism. Now that he’s cleared his head and is on the path of healing broken relationships, his heart is taken with Shakara Icewing and her delicate beauty.
Shakara is aware of Demetrius’ past, his actions that led to pain and his opinions regarding the mixing of humans and Morgons. But the Demetrius she meets is not that man. He is more than she ever imagined and the pain in her chest intimates that her heart is completely taken with him.
I absolutely loved this couple! Demetrius has come a long way from his initial position in the first Nightwing book. (Don’t worry, this book can be read as a standalone.) My heart swooned as he allowed himself to open up to Shakara as well as all Morgons. And once he did, he never hesitated to protect her and claim her as his own. I thought he might appear a bit weak when compared to Morgon men but he did not. He knew where his strengths laid and utilized them.
Shakara was the perfect counterpoint to Demetrius. She was light and beauty, love and compassion, and everything that he has not allowed into his life. And despite the Morgon’s long history of existence, she had some learning to do herself and I really enjoyed the manner in which it occurred and that she then later shared with the hero.
This is a relationship low in angst and high in steam. The villain was suitable to the story and the culmination of the conflict and drama was appeased with just a hint of doubt remaining to possibly arise in future books. Additional resolutions were heartwarming as this story brings this couple full circle.
I urgently recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a paranormal romance that includes human/dragon hybrids, amazing heroes and heroines, and beautiful conclusions.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Demetrius has lived a relatively solitary life, a workaholic, a man who has followed in his father’s footsteps even when it led him into racism. Now that he’s cleared his head and is on the path of healing broken relationships, his heart is taken with Shakara Icewing and her delicate beauty.
Shakara is aware of Demetrius’ past, his actions that led to pain and his opinions regarding the mixing of humans and Morgons. But the Demetrius she meets is not that man. He is more than she ever imagined and the pain in her chest intimates that her heart is completely taken with him.
I absolutely loved this couple! Demetrius has come a long way from his initial position in the first Nightwing book. (Don’t worry, this book can be read as a standalone.) My heart swooned as he allowed himself to open up to Shakara as well as all Morgons. And once he did, he never hesitated to protect her and claim her as his own. I thought he might appear a bit weak when compared to Morgon men but he did not. He knew where his strengths laid and utilized them.
Shakara was the perfect counterpoint to Demetrius. She was light and beauty, love and compassion, and everything that he has not allowed into his life. And despite the Morgon’s long history of existence, she had some learning to do herself and I really enjoyed the manner in which it occurred and that she then later shared with the hero.
This is a relationship low in angst and high in steam. The villain was suitable to the story and the culmination of the conflict and drama was appeased with just a hint of doubt remaining to possibly arise in future books. Additional resolutions were heartwarming as this story brings this couple full circle.
I urgently recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a paranormal romance that includes human/dragon hybrids, amazing heroes and heroines, and beautiful conclusions.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
October 31, 2016
3.5 Tug on my Heartstring Stars
Dragon Heartstring is the prequel to the Vale of Stars series following the human male Demetrius Cade and a female Morgon (dragon-hybrid) Shakira as they work together on against a common foe.
While this is the pre-first of a new series I still really recommend that you read Soulfire first. Even though it is a different series I think that the set up of the world is really helpful in any of the stories involving the Morgon (dragon/human hybrid). The lore to their creation was kind of beautiful and I’d read that book just for that.
This is Juliette’s first book that covers how a female Morgon can bond with a human. It was a nice switch up from the soulfire kiss of the males and I enjoyed that fact there was a way to do it.
Since this is a novella there really isn’t much time for world building to be set up hence the reason I think you should read one of the main books first and not much time for the two in question to get together either. There was a little tension to the story but this is just a quick glimpse into how the players in the world are changing and how Jessen’s straight laced brother was captured by a woman that he would have never considered at one time.
I’ve liked Shakara from the beginning when I met her in Soulfire and I thought that maybe she would have caught the eye of a different character in the story. But these two fit together well once you got past a few superficial things to see the people they were underneath.
Great quick PNR read to get me through some of the other darker books I’ve been reading lately.
Dragon Heartstring is the prequel to the Vale of Stars series following the human male Demetrius Cade and a female Morgon (dragon-hybrid) Shakira as they work together on against a common foe.
While this is the pre-first of a new series I still really recommend that you read Soulfire first. Even though it is a different series I think that the set up of the world is really helpful in any of the stories involving the Morgon (dragon/human hybrid). The lore to their creation was kind of beautiful and I’d read that book just for that.
This is Juliette’s first book that covers how a female Morgon can bond with a human. It was a nice switch up from the soulfire kiss of the males and I enjoyed that fact there was a way to do it.
Since this is a novella there really isn’t much time for world building to be set up hence the reason I think you should read one of the main books first and not much time for the two in question to get together either. There was a little tension to the story but this is just a quick glimpse into how the players in the world are changing and how Jessen’s straight laced brother was captured by a woman that he would have never considered at one time.
“I’ve been careful and cautious all my life, Shakara. But when I think of you, there’s only one word that flips over and over in my mind.”
“And what word is that?”
“Yes.”
I’ve liked Shakara from the beginning when I met her in Soulfire and I thought that maybe she would have caught the eye of a different character in the story. But these two fit together well once you got past a few superficial things to see the people they were underneath.
Great quick PNR read to get me through some of the other darker books I’ve been reading lately.
October 23, 2024
Nov. 2018: Reread the re-release of Dragon Heartstring and enjoyed it all over again. My views have not changed and I had a delightful time returning to this world.
Let me saying that I love the Nightwing and Vale of Stars series. The Morgans are interesting as is the world and history about them. I relish each new installment!
This is a dazzling new take on the Morgan matings. A human male and a female Morgan are mates. Something new, that has not been seen or heard of in both worlds.
Demetrius is the heir to Cade Enterprises and the most eligible billionaire bachelor. Shakara is a Morgan and an Icewing healer.
These two will band together to help take down a weapon that’s sole purpose is to kill Morgankind and in the process find a passion that is electrifying and cannot be denied. The chemistry is smoking and the sexual tension is fiery. Besides the romance we are treated to a few appearances by previous featured characters and couples.
I would suggest that you read Soulfire; before Dragon Heartstring. Why? Well Demetrius is brother to Jessen and she is the main character in Soulfire. Also several things are talked about that happened in Soulfire, so if you don’t want to be spoiled, want a deeper understanding of the characters and their relationships, then I would say pick up Soulfire first. Do you have too? No!
Dragon Heartstring is a smoldering read. It provides a unique and fasting perspective into Morgans and Humans. I can't wait for more!
Rated: 4 Heartstring Stars
*Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy provided by Juliette Cross with the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
Let me saying that I love the Nightwing and Vale of Stars series. The Morgans are interesting as is the world and history about them. I relish each new installment!
This is a dazzling new take on the Morgan matings. A human male and a female Morgan are mates. Something new, that has not been seen or heard of in both worlds.
Demetrius is the heir to Cade Enterprises and the most eligible billionaire bachelor. Shakara is a Morgan and an Icewing healer.
These two will band together to help take down a weapon that’s sole purpose is to kill Morgankind and in the process find a passion that is electrifying and cannot be denied. The chemistry is smoking and the sexual tension is fiery. Besides the romance we are treated to a few appearances by previous featured characters and couples.
I would suggest that you read Soulfire; before Dragon Heartstring. Why? Well Demetrius is brother to Jessen and she is the main character in Soulfire. Also several things are talked about that happened in Soulfire, so if you don’t want to be spoiled, want a deeper understanding of the characters and their relationships, then I would say pick up Soulfire first. Do you have too? No!
Dragon Heartstring is a smoldering read. It provides a unique and fasting perspective into Morgans and Humans. I can't wait for more!
Rated: 4 Heartstring Stars
*Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy provided by Juliette Cross with the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
November 1, 2018
4+ "Boy meets Morgan girl." Stars!
This was a very enjoyable read. There was a sweet romance, a wee bit of political controversy, and a little bit of action. Nothing too over the top. I was a easy read. Demetrius, the H, really stepped up. He was surprisingly alpha in a good way. Shakara, the h, was a girl I liked a lot. She was sweet but also appropriately tough. They were both good characters, and I wanted them to work it out. I also liked that the female character was the paranormal person in the relationship. I don't read that very often. This book was all around good for me.
I'm so happy I stumbles across the NIGHTWING series. Though technically this is a prequel of the Vale of Stars series which is a spin-off of the Nightwing series, it reads as though it is the next book in the Nightwing series. I advise starting there with book 1 SOULFIRE.
Well, Happy reading peeps!
This was a very enjoyable read. There was a sweet romance, a wee bit of political controversy, and a little bit of action. Nothing too over the top. I was a easy read. Demetrius, the H, really stepped up. He was surprisingly alpha in a good way. Shakara, the h, was a girl I liked a lot. She was sweet but also appropriately tough. They were both good characters, and I wanted them to work it out. I also liked that the female character was the paranormal person in the relationship. I don't read that very often. This book was all around good for me.
I'm so happy I stumbles across the NIGHTWING series. Though technically this is a prequel of the Vale of Stars series which is a spin-off of the Nightwing series, it reads as though it is the next book in the Nightwing series. I advise starting there with book 1 SOULFIRE.
Well, Happy reading peeps!
January 30, 2018
This book is my first by this author but it most certainly won't be my last as she has created quite an intriguing world that I cannot wait to explore more of. I enjoyed being introduced to this cast of characters and some of the issues they face and cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
October 8, 2018
Short and Sweet Review of Re-Issue version
***5 Stars***
Another re-read and I found myself adoring Dragon Heartstring as much as I did the first time around, just without the surprise at how much I ended up loving Demetrius, if you want to read all about that, and have a good laugh at my little freak out, my original review is down there *points down*.
The simple and non-verbal vomity version is simply that while Demetrius’ view of the Morgon’s changed, HE didn’t. He was still all about loyalty to his family and protecting his sisters, which was very much apparent in Soulfire ~ even if he was an asshat about it all. As for Shakara, I loved her strength and how she too had a change of perspective when it came to humans and did put her money where her mouth was by using her healing powers to help humans as well.
Their journey to their HEA was fun, sweet and smexy and though things did progress quickly, it totally worked for me and I was really happy that they both got the HEA they both richly deserved.
Again, I loved how this one ties up one of the situations for Soulfire and gives a wonderful introduction to Moira, the youngest Cade sibling and heroine of Waking the Dragon. But my one question remains...will Max be getting a book? *BSEG*
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
************************************************************************************************
***5 ‘You are my whole heart’ Stars***
Dear Ms. Cross,
I'm having a bit of a love/hate thing going on with you at the moment. I LOVE that you got me all twitterpatted and swoony over one of your oh so lickable and more alpha males. it's one of the many reasons I go all fangirl over your books, especially the ones in the Morgonkind world. But now you have me going all twitterpatted over a HUMAN and not just any human, but Demetrius Cade of all people. That wasn't supposed to happen. I was just supposed to be happy he pulled his head out of his ass and stopped being a racist asshat, but it didn't stop there and I found myself in a bit of a conundrum because he was encroaching on Kol and Paxon places on my BBF list. That was also NOT supposed to happen. So by now you’re probably thinking “Okaaayyyy, she's not showing me anything but love here?” And you're right because this is nothing but love for Ms. Cross. The “hate” part is because I had to think of a reason to justify keeping him there because I tend to only allow one male per series to occupy the top spot at a time, and there is no way in hell Kol and Pax are being moved any time soon. Well, it took a bit but I figured it out.
1) Dragon Heartstring is a prequel and is something of a bridge between the Nightwing series and the Vale of Stars series, even though it is apart of VoS, and therefore is it's own entity (in my mind anyways and
2) Demetrius Cade is human.
*Let’s out a relieved sigh then grins*
So the summary of this crazy is simply that since he is human and I consider this book to straddle both series Demetrius can share the same space with Kol and Paxon with out there being any conflict.
*BSEG*
Now that all of that has been settled it’s time for the review.
Yes, I adored Demetrius and while it wasn’t a surprise, it was because in Soulfire he was the carbon copy of his father in his beliefs and how he presented himself to the world, but in Dragon Heartstring we meet a man who’s come to some pretty life changing epiphanies and is doing his best to let his actions show this. Is he still ruthless and arrogant? When needed, very much so. But he’s finally got his priorities straight. He’s always believed that family is everything, but now he’s come to realize that it’s his family’s happiness is more important than the family business.
I loved Shakara. She was strong, intelligent and had a generous and compassionate heart. What I found most interesting, and what made me love her more, was that she too had a change of heart when it how she viewed herself and what her healing powers could be of use for in the world that she lives in. While her views on humans were not as prejudiced as some other Morgons, she had her beliefs, but those ended up changing and she saw the good she could bring to all who needed the help, not just Morgons.
Their relationship was a fun one to watch grow because neither expected the other. There was attraction and it grew into mutual respect and so much more. I loved how they kept being drawn to each other and though they the knew that their relationship would cause waves with some, they didn’t try to hide it and if I hadn’t already fallen into full adoration with Demetrius pretty much from the start, when he makes his claim know to all towards the end I would’ve been a gooey mess. The chemistry between them was smoking and holy hell did Demetrius go all kinds of alpha male sexy on Shakara, who more than definitely held her own with him.
While Dragon Heartstring could be read without having read the Nightwing series, I honestly feel that you won’t get the full impact of the man that Demetrius has become. Ms. Cross has done a great job at explaining the events from Soulfire that led to Demetrius’ change of heart, but I think you need to experience it for yourself. As for the storyline, I love how the main issue at hand was tied to the events in Soulfire and we were given closure on it. It was a nice way to tie the two series together. Now the only question that remains is...will Max be getting his own little HEA anytime soon?
~ Copy received from the the author and voluntarily reviewed ~
***5 Stars***
Another re-read and I found myself adoring Dragon Heartstring as much as I did the first time around, just without the surprise at how much I ended up loving Demetrius, if you want to read all about that, and have a good laugh at my little freak out, my original review is down there *points down*.
The simple and non-verbal vomity version is simply that while Demetrius’ view of the Morgon’s changed, HE didn’t. He was still all about loyalty to his family and protecting his sisters, which was very much apparent in Soulfire ~ even if he was an asshat about it all. As for Shakara, I loved her strength and how she too had a change of perspective when it came to humans and did put her money where her mouth was by using her healing powers to help humans as well.
Their journey to their HEA was fun, sweet and smexy and though things did progress quickly, it totally worked for me and I was really happy that they both got the HEA they both richly deserved.
Again, I loved how this one ties up one of the situations for Soulfire and gives a wonderful introduction to Moira, the youngest Cade sibling and heroine of Waking the Dragon. But my one question remains...will Max be getting a book? *BSEG*
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
************************************************************************************************
***5 ‘You are my whole heart’ Stars***
Dear Ms. Cross,
I'm having a bit of a love/hate thing going on with you at the moment. I LOVE that you got me all twitterpatted and swoony over one of your oh so lickable and more alpha males. it's one of the many reasons I go all fangirl over your books, especially the ones in the Morgonkind world. But now you have me going all twitterpatted over a HUMAN and not just any human, but Demetrius Cade of all people. That wasn't supposed to happen. I was just supposed to be happy he pulled his head out of his ass and stopped being a racist asshat, but it didn't stop there and I found myself in a bit of a conundrum because he was encroaching on Kol and Paxon places on my BBF list. That was also NOT supposed to happen. So by now you’re probably thinking “Okaaayyyy, she's not showing me anything but love here?” And you're right because this is nothing but love for Ms. Cross. The “hate” part is because I had to think of a reason to justify keeping him there because I tend to only allow one male per series to occupy the top spot at a time, and there is no way in hell Kol and Pax are being moved any time soon. Well, it took a bit but I figured it out.
1) Dragon Heartstring is a prequel and is something of a bridge between the Nightwing series and the Vale of Stars series, even though it is apart of VoS, and therefore is it's own entity (in my mind anyways and
2) Demetrius Cade is human.
*Let’s out a relieved sigh then grins*
So the summary of this crazy is simply that since he is human and I consider this book to straddle both series Demetrius can share the same space with Kol and Paxon with out there being any conflict.
*BSEG*
Now that all of that has been settled it’s time for the review.
Yes, I adored Demetrius and while it wasn’t a surprise, it was because in Soulfire he was the carbon copy of his father in his beliefs and how he presented himself to the world, but in Dragon Heartstring we meet a man who’s come to some pretty life changing epiphanies and is doing his best to let his actions show this. Is he still ruthless and arrogant? When needed, very much so. But he’s finally got his priorities straight. He’s always believed that family is everything, but now he’s come to realize that it’s his family’s happiness is more important than the family business.
I loved Shakara. She was strong, intelligent and had a generous and compassionate heart. What I found most interesting, and what made me love her more, was that she too had a change of heart when it how she viewed herself and what her healing powers could be of use for in the world that she lives in. While her views on humans were not as prejudiced as some other Morgons, she had her beliefs, but those ended up changing and she saw the good she could bring to all who needed the help, not just Morgons.
Their relationship was a fun one to watch grow because neither expected the other. There was attraction and it grew into mutual respect and so much more. I loved how they kept being drawn to each other and though they the knew that their relationship would cause waves with some, they didn’t try to hide it and if I hadn’t already fallen into full adoration with Demetrius pretty much from the start, when he makes his claim know to all towards the end I would’ve been a gooey mess. The chemistry between them was smoking and holy hell did Demetrius go all kinds of alpha male sexy on Shakara, who more than definitely held her own with him.
While Dragon Heartstring could be read without having read the Nightwing series, I honestly feel that you won’t get the full impact of the man that Demetrius has become. Ms. Cross has done a great job at explaining the events from Soulfire that led to Demetrius’ change of heart, but I think you need to experience it for yourself. As for the storyline, I love how the main issue at hand was tied to the events in Soulfire and we were given closure on it. It was a nice way to tie the two series together. Now the only question that remains is...will Max be getting his own little HEA anytime soon?
~ Copy received from the the author and voluntarily reviewed ~
December 2, 2025
Cross dazzles us with a new Morgan and human pairing, instead of the hot as hell Morgankind alpha male... we are gifted a story about a sizzling female Morgan healer and a holy hotness, dragon hybrid phobic, billionaire bachelor..
Demetrius Cade has lived his life under his father’s Morgan prejudices. So, he never imagined that he’d following in his sister’s footsteps and fall for a Morgan.
Shakara Icewing is a talented healer. When Shakara and her clan come under attack for taking a stand against a deadly weapon that’s sole purpose is to kill Morgankind, Demetrius will do anything he can to protect Shakara. Even if it means standing up to his father or the deadly business rival Aron Grayson.
Shakara might have dragon fire healing but Demetrius and Shakara really do burn the house down with their electrifying chemistry, smoldering sexual tension and passion that cannot be denied.
Dragon Heartstring not only brings the steam but also provides a strong continuation to the Vale of Stars series.
Demetrius Cade has lived his life under his father’s Morgan prejudices. So, he never imagined that he’d following in his sister’s footsteps and fall for a Morgan.
Shakara Icewing is a talented healer. When Shakara and her clan come under attack for taking a stand against a deadly weapon that’s sole purpose is to kill Morgankind, Demetrius will do anything he can to protect Shakara. Even if it means standing up to his father or the deadly business rival Aron Grayson.
Shakara might have dragon fire healing but Demetrius and Shakara really do burn the house down with their electrifying chemistry, smoldering sexual tension and passion that cannot be denied.
Dragon Heartstring not only brings the steam but also provides a strong continuation to the Vale of Stars series.
December 12, 2016
Another brilliant snippet into the world I absolutely love losing myself in.
I could let you all know what this novella is all about, but instead I'm choosing to rave about Juliette Cross, the author. Why? because I have to.
Every now and then you discover an author that knows how to weave a storyline that not only is intricate but extremely captivating. This is emphasised by the magnificent way in which each character plays a pivotal role, no matter how minor. Every single character has a voice you want to hear and layers you can't wait to discover. Add an ability to successfully build a world that has so many surfaces that each convey a depth in which enhances the level of character development, then you have a very successful series and an amazing writer.
Juliette Cross, you are a magnificent storyteller and are truly magical. I can't wait to devour more!
I could let you all know what this novella is all about, but instead I'm choosing to rave about Juliette Cross, the author. Why? because I have to.
Every now and then you discover an author that knows how to weave a storyline that not only is intricate but extremely captivating. This is emphasised by the magnificent way in which each character plays a pivotal role, no matter how minor. Every single character has a voice you want to hear and layers you can't wait to discover. Add an ability to successfully build a world that has so many surfaces that each convey a depth in which enhances the level of character development, then you have a very successful series and an amazing writer.
Juliette Cross, you are a magnificent storyteller and are truly magical. I can't wait to devour more!
October 28, 2016
I went into this little novella blind. Juliette's writing never disappoints me, so I knew I would like the story no matter what... but I wanted to be surprised on the main characters and romantic pairing. And I was!
If you have read the Nightwing Security series and/or Waking the Dragon, you will recall the powerful Cade family. As I read these series out of order, my memories of Jessen Cade and her family were still somewhat fresh from Soulfire, where the Cade patriarch and his his son, Demetrius, were heavily prejudiced against the Morgons, a race of human-dragon hybrids. So I was blindsided that the hero of this book was Demetrius Cade, the workaholic corporate mogul who went to great lengths to prevent his sister from marrying a Morgon male. While I am used to Juliette's yummy alpha male dragons, Demetrius proved that you don't have to breathe fire to be a tough guy. Demetrius has grown a lot since Soulfire. While he is not bosom buddies with the Nightwings (yet), he has at least accepted Jessen's marriage and spends time with her son on a semi-regular basis. He had the protective aspect of alpha maleness down pat, and he wasn't going to allow anyone to hurt his family or our heroine.
Shakara Icewing has always fascinated me. As a healer for Morgons and humans alike, she seems to be more delicate than the sassy heroines we have seen to date. I love that Juliette has added the detail of the shimmering dragon-scale-scar that is left behind after a Morgon healing... that is such a neat addition and I can see it clearly in my head. (Tattoo idea maybe? Hmmm...) While Shakara may not be a combative heroine, she does have an inner strength and was willing to stand up in protest of the Volt guns which were designed to kill the Morgon race. Her willingness to speak out in the face of danger was admirable, but I also liked that she was not afraid to lean on Demetrius for protection as needed.
This was a novella so the romance starts off fairly quickly, but I liked this couple together. Shakara's softness and fragility was a nice complement to Demetrius' stoic and serious demeanor. There was good chemistry and the perfect amount of steam and suspense to advance the story at a good pace. If there was one thing I would have liked more of, it would be back story for the couple. I would have loved to see more of Demetrius' turmoil and conflict of feelings when it came to his previously-held prejudice against the Morgons. I was also interested in the history of the Icewing clan as it seems like they have some intriguing secrets and characters. But the detail that we got fit well within the confines of a novella, and I understand that this is a prequel to the series. I'm just glad to know there is more to come!
Juliette is adept at drawing parallels in her paranormal universe that resonate with social issues in the real world. And she does it in a way that doesn't sound preachy or uppity, but shines a light on bigotry and social injustice that are still hot topics in the media today.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from the author.
December 31, 2016
Juliette has done it again! I love entering this world. It is so well built and character driven that I always completely find myself lost in it. It is escapism at its best. I have loved every heroine Juliette has written and I found Shakara to be no different. Strong, smart, loving, and brave, she was a perfect match for Demetrius. Brooding, solitary and stubborn, he is incredibly protective of those he cares about and it was so much fun watching him fall for Shakara. This story had everything you could want in a paranormal setting. Romance, action, suspense, fantastic chemistry and a hero and heroine you can cheer for. I loved every single second and can’t wait to continue this series. A must read for paranormal romance fans.
October 8, 2018
***5 ‘You are my whole heart’ Stars***
Dear Ms. Cross,
I'm having a bit of a love/hate thing going on with you at the moment. I LOVE that you got me all twitterpatted and swoony over one of your oh so lickable and more alpha males. it's one of the many reasons I go all fangirl over your books, especially the ones in the Morgonkind world. But now you have me going all twitterpatted over a HUMAN and not just any human, but Demetrius Cade of all people. That wasn't supposed to happen. I was just supposed to be happy he pulled his head out of his ass and stopped being a racist asshat, but it didn't stop there and I found myself in a bit of a conundrum because he was encroaching on Kol and Paxon places on my BBF list. That was also NOT supposed to happen. So by now you’re probably thinking “Okaaayyyy, she's not showing me anything but love here?” And you're right because this is nothing but love for Ms. Cross. The “hate” part is because I had to think of a reason to justify keeping him there because I tend to only allow one male per series to occupy the top spot at a time, and there is no way in hell Kol and Pax are being moved any time soon. Well, it took a bit but I figured it out.
1) Dragon Heartstring is a prequel and is something of a bridge between the Nightwing series and the Vale of Stars series, even though it is apart of VoS, and therefore is it's own entity (in my mind anyways and
2) Demetrius Cade is human.
*Let’s out a relieved sigh then grins*
So the summary of this crazy is simply that since he is human and I consider this book to straddle both series Demetrius can share the same space with Kol and Paxon with out there being any conflict.
*BSEG*
Now that all of that has been settled it’s time for the review.
Yes, I adored Demetrius and while it wasn’t a surprise, it was because in Soulfire he was the carbon copy of his father in his beliefs and how he presented himself to the world, but in Dragon Heartstring we meet a man who’s come to some pretty life changing epiphanies and is doing his best to let his actions show this. Is he still ruthless and arrogant? When needed, very much so. But he’s finally got his priorities straight. He’s always believed that family is everything, but now he’s come to realize that it’s his family’s happiness is more important than the family business.
I loved Shakara. She was strong, intelligent and had a generous and compassionate heart. What I found most interesting, and what made me love her more, was that she too had a change of heart when it how she viewed herself and what her healing powers could be of use for in the world that she lives in. While her views on humans were not as prejudiced as some other Morgons, she had her beliefs, but those ended up changing and she saw the good she could bring to all who needed the help, not just Morgons.
Their relationship was a fun one to watch grow because neither expected the other. There was attraction and it grew into mutual respect and so much more. I loved how they kept being drawn to each other and though they the knew that their relationship would cause waves with some, they didn’t try to hide it and if I hadn’t already fallen into full adoration with Demetrius pretty much from the start, when he makes his claim know to all towards the end I would’ve been a gooey mess. The chemistry between them was smoking and holy hell did Demetrius go all kinds of alpha male sexy on Shakara, who more than definitely held her own with him.
While Dragon Heartstring could be read without having read the Nightwing series, I honestly feel that you won’t get the full impact of the man that Demetrius has become. Ms. Cross has done a great job at explaining the events from Soulfire that led to Demetrius’ change of heart, but I think you need to experience it for yourself. As for the storyline, I love how the main issue at hand was tied to the events in Soulfire and we were given closure on it. It was a nice way to tie the two series together. Now the only question that remains is...will Max be getting his own little HEA anytime soon?
~ Copy received from the the author and voluntarily reviewed ~
Dear Ms. Cross,
I'm having a bit of a love/hate thing going on with you at the moment. I LOVE that you got me all twitterpatted and swoony over one of your oh so lickable and more alpha males. it's one of the many reasons I go all fangirl over your books, especially the ones in the Morgonkind world. But now you have me going all twitterpatted over a HUMAN and not just any human, but Demetrius Cade of all people. That wasn't supposed to happen. I was just supposed to be happy he pulled his head out of his ass and stopped being a racist asshat, but it didn't stop there and I found myself in a bit of a conundrum because he was encroaching on Kol and Paxon places on my BBF list. That was also NOT supposed to happen. So by now you’re probably thinking “Okaaayyyy, she's not showing me anything but love here?” And you're right because this is nothing but love for Ms. Cross. The “hate” part is because I had to think of a reason to justify keeping him there because I tend to only allow one male per series to occupy the top spot at a time, and there is no way in hell Kol and Pax are being moved any time soon. Well, it took a bit but I figured it out.
1) Dragon Heartstring is a prequel and is something of a bridge between the Nightwing series and the Vale of Stars series, even though it is apart of VoS, and therefore is it's own entity (in my mind anyways and
2) Demetrius Cade is human.
*Let’s out a relieved sigh then grins*
So the summary of this crazy is simply that since he is human and I consider this book to straddle both series Demetrius can share the same space with Kol and Paxon with out there being any conflict.
*BSEG*
Now that all of that has been settled it’s time for the review.
Yes, I adored Demetrius and while it wasn’t a surprise, it was because in Soulfire he was the carbon copy of his father in his beliefs and how he presented himself to the world, but in Dragon Heartstring we meet a man who’s come to some pretty life changing epiphanies and is doing his best to let his actions show this. Is he still ruthless and arrogant? When needed, very much so. But he’s finally got his priorities straight. He’s always believed that family is everything, but now he’s come to realize that it’s his family’s happiness is more important than the family business.
I loved Shakara. She was strong, intelligent and had a generous and compassionate heart. What I found most interesting, and what made me love her more, was that she too had a change of heart when it how she viewed herself and what her healing powers could be of use for in the world that she lives in. While her views on humans were not as prejudiced as some other Morgons, she had her beliefs, but those ended up changing and she saw the good she could bring to all who needed the help, not just Morgons.
Their relationship was a fun one to watch grow because neither expected the other. There was attraction and it grew into mutual respect and so much more. I loved how they kept being drawn to each other and though they the knew that their relationship would cause waves with some, they didn’t try to hide it and if I hadn’t already fallen into full adoration with Demetrius pretty much from the start, when he makes his claim know to all towards the end I would’ve been a gooey mess. The chemistry between them was smoking and holy hell did Demetrius go all kinds of alpha male sexy on Shakara, who more than definitely held her own with him.
While Dragon Heartstring could be read without having read the Nightwing series, I honestly feel that you won’t get the full impact of the man that Demetrius has become. Ms. Cross has done a great job at explaining the events from Soulfire that led to Demetrius’ change of heart, but I think you need to experience it for yourself. As for the storyline, I love how the main issue at hand was tied to the events in Soulfire and we were given closure on it. It was a nice way to tie the two series together. Now the only question that remains is...will Max be getting his own little HEA anytime soon?
~ Copy received from the the author and voluntarily reviewed ~
October 18, 2016
4 Stars - 3 Flames
Well well well....the most eligible and wealthy bachelor comes out to play...with a Morgan. Not that much of a surprise considering we already knew of this relationship after reading the other Vale of Stars editions, but we get to experience "how" they became the couple they are. And it's beautiful. A little DISCLOSURE first though: You don't HAVE to read Soulfire before reading this, but you'll understand it a bit more if you do. Ok, I'm done...let's continue, shall we...
Demetrius, the brother of Jessen and Moira, has never been seen out with a significant other. In fact, he's always been too caught up in his work to enjoy just about anything. But after "finally" noticing a beautiful Morgan woman at his nephews birthday party, it becomes a little more difficult to think about anything else.
Shakara, the beautiful healing Morgan, has been friends with Jessen ever since she helped heal her (Soulfire reference). She's seen Demetrius at numerous events and around town and has always found him, intriguing. But after finally catching his eye at the birthday party, she too finds herself a little more intrigued than before.
After realizing that Shakara and her clan were in danger because of their support in banning a very dangerous gun that kills Morgankind immediately, Demetrius literally jumps in to help protect what he thought he'd never want, Shakara. But it means going up against not only his father, but the one person who almost destroyed his sister.
This is a short and very sweet and sexy read. The chemistry between these two is steamy and the anticipation just about did me in (in a good way). Plus we get a little more information about the situation between the humans and Morgans. I'm loving this world that's been created!!!
*I received this book from the Author in exchange for my honest opinion.
Well well well....the most eligible and wealthy bachelor comes out to play...with a Morgan. Not that much of a surprise considering we already knew of this relationship after reading the other Vale of Stars editions, but we get to experience "how" they became the couple they are. And it's beautiful. A little DISCLOSURE first though: You don't HAVE to read Soulfire before reading this, but you'll understand it a bit more if you do. Ok, I'm done...let's continue, shall we...
Demetrius, the brother of Jessen and Moira, has never been seen out with a significant other. In fact, he's always been too caught up in his work to enjoy just about anything. But after "finally" noticing a beautiful Morgan woman at his nephews birthday party, it becomes a little more difficult to think about anything else.
Shakara, the beautiful healing Morgan, has been friends with Jessen ever since she helped heal her (Soulfire reference). She's seen Demetrius at numerous events and around town and has always found him, intriguing. But after finally catching his eye at the birthday party, she too finds herself a little more intrigued than before.
After realizing that Shakara and her clan were in danger because of their support in banning a very dangerous gun that kills Morgankind immediately, Demetrius literally jumps in to help protect what he thought he'd never want, Shakara. But it means going up against not only his father, but the one person who almost destroyed his sister.
This is a short and very sweet and sexy read. The chemistry between these two is steamy and the anticipation just about did me in (in a good way). Plus we get a little more information about the situation between the humans and Morgans. I'm loving this world that's been created!!!
*I received this book from the Author in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 2, 2016
I love reading anything Juliette Cross writes and “Dragon Heartstring” doesn't disappoint. I was excited to see that this book was going to be about Demetrius Cade and Shakara Icewing, readers met both in the Nightwing Series. I wanted to know more about them and found them to be perfect for one another. I can't get enough of Ms Cross's Morgonkind and I recommend the Nightwing and Vale of Stars series to all if you haven't read them. If you haven't read either series, you won't be lost by reading “Dragon Heartstring”.
January 9, 2020
Wow!!!
Another seductively enthralling paranormal romance of sexy dragons & humans! Well done juliette cross! She pulls you into her world of writing and that's the best kind of books in my opinion ♡♡♡ A must read 5 stars!!!
Another seductively enthralling paranormal romance of sexy dragons & humans! Well done juliette cross! She pulls you into her world of writing and that's the best kind of books in my opinion ♡♡♡ A must read 5 stars!!!
December 19, 2024
Review published on my blog, Musings of a Bookish Kitty:
http://www.literaryfeline.com/2017/05...
http://www.literaryfeline.com/2017/05...
January 12, 2019
I just couldn’t leave well enough alone. Surprisingly, I am curious to see how this series ends and felt the need to read all the stories. Interesting world, underdeveloped characters, insta-lust, and too many intimate scenes to skip, this one was just alright.
March 22, 2022
A well written prequel with alpha human hero and dragon shifter healer heroine. Good plot, great characters and world building.
Safe and recommended.
Safe and recommended.
October 14, 2025
Dragon Heartstring will stir your soul and make you fall in love with the humans and Morgons who live in Gladium Province. You'll enter a spectacular world where dragon hybrids live amongst men, prejudices abound and love conquers all.
I'm so excited to have a new Juliette Cross to read because getting a new Juliette Cross book to read makes me feel rather like a person going through withdrawals getting a fix. I was in need of some excellent writing after a few recent disappointments. Juliette has such a way with words. Where her use of words is short and succinct, she still manages to convey her meaning with clarity and efficiency. I never need to be concerned about the writing because the writing is always good. I can simply immerse myself into the reading experience and allow her to take me on a journey.
Dragon Heartstring is the prequel to the Vale of Stars series even though it comes out after Waking the Dragon and Dragon in the Blood. It is the bridge between the Nightwing series where we are introduced to the Morgons and the Vale of Stars series where a war is brewing amongst Morgonkind. That said, it is not necessary to have read the Nightwing series prior to reading Dragon Heartstring. True, you get a better feel for some of the characters mentioned if you do, but it's not necessary. Juliette does an excellent job of letting all the characters standalone and providing enough information for you to feel you are a part of the world.
I met Demetrius in Soulfire and my impression of him was of a rather cold, calculated man with a protective streak a mile wide for his sister Jessen. In Dragon Heartstring, we see the same Demetrius at the beginning but there is so much more to him than meets the eye. Demetrius is intense, strong, sexy, protective and so much of an alpha male he'll give the Morgon males a run for their money. He's also hot as heck. Seriously, the sex scenes in this book are the hottest Juliette's ever written, I think. They will knock your socks off. That first sex scene ..... Ahem! Back to Demetrius' character. I start of thinking he's rather arrogant and stand-offish but as we get to know him, we see a noble and honorable side to him. He is a man who stands by what he believes and stands for right over wrong. I love how principled Demetrius is. Juliette did a wonderful job of redeeming him from what we saw of him in Soulfire.
As for Shakara, while she is a Morgon female, she is also delicate, fragile and beautiful. However, that does not make her weak. Quite the opposite in fact. Shakara is a caring, giving person who is willing to take risks to stand up for things she believes in, like sharing her healing gifts with humans, and stopping a weapon aimed at murdering Morgons from being sold. I think in Shakara we see the perfect partner for Demetrius, someone who is gentle to his toughness, flexible to his immovability, although in the beginning, I felt she had judged him too harshly based on his reputation even though she had information about him to the contrary from a reliable source. It made me dislike her just a little bit because I felt she was being unfair towards Demetrius. Of course, this turns around quickly as she gets to know his character and his heart. There is a particular section in the book where Shakara first gains insight int Demetrius as a person she is getting to know personally and it's brilliantly written. I won't share it here or quote it though I'd like to because I think it might be a bit spoilery. She does look beyond rumour and hearsay to see the man within.
When Demetrius and Shakara come together we see a lot of the themes from the Nightwing series reemerge. The racial prejudice in the Nightwing series is very prominent here though on a smaller scale focused between Demetrius and Shakara. Both of them have prejudices to overcome through a lifetime of preconceived notions of the the other race. This is handled delicately and skillfully. When the topic arises, it is dealt with swiftly and with expert care. If you aren't careful, you might even miss the transition of Demetrius from slightly prejudiced to accepting of his attraction towards Shakara. Demetrius is a decisive man. He has to be in terms of being good at what he does in the business world. He handles his personal life in the same way. Once he makes a decision, he pursues his goal with ruthless efficiency. This is where we see the alpha male in him come to the forefront. It's rather spectacular to behold.
I loved the concept of the Dragon Heartstring as well and I want more of it. Just as I adore the concept of Soulfire.
Dragon Heartstring concludes with a hint that more is brewing on the horizon. Congratulations on an excellent prequel to the Vale of Stars series. I can't wait for the next book.
I'm so excited to have a new Juliette Cross to read because getting a new Juliette Cross book to read makes me feel rather like a person going through withdrawals getting a fix. I was in need of some excellent writing after a few recent disappointments. Juliette has such a way with words. Where her use of words is short and succinct, she still manages to convey her meaning with clarity and efficiency. I never need to be concerned about the writing because the writing is always good. I can simply immerse myself into the reading experience and allow her to take me on a journey.
Dragon Heartstring is the prequel to the Vale of Stars series even though it comes out after Waking the Dragon and Dragon in the Blood. It is the bridge between the Nightwing series where we are introduced to the Morgons and the Vale of Stars series where a war is brewing amongst Morgonkind. That said, it is not necessary to have read the Nightwing series prior to reading Dragon Heartstring. True, you get a better feel for some of the characters mentioned if you do, but it's not necessary. Juliette does an excellent job of letting all the characters standalone and providing enough information for you to feel you are a part of the world.
I met Demetrius in Soulfire and my impression of him was of a rather cold, calculated man with a protective streak a mile wide for his sister Jessen. In Dragon Heartstring, we see the same Demetrius at the beginning but there is so much more to him than meets the eye. Demetrius is intense, strong, sexy, protective and so much of an alpha male he'll give the Morgon males a run for their money. He's also hot as heck. Seriously, the sex scenes in this book are the hottest Juliette's ever written, I think. They will knock your socks off. That first sex scene ..... Ahem! Back to Demetrius' character. I start of thinking he's rather arrogant and stand-offish but as we get to know him, we see a noble and honorable side to him. He is a man who stands by what he believes and stands for right over wrong. I love how principled Demetrius is. Juliette did a wonderful job of redeeming him from what we saw of him in Soulfire.
As for Shakara, while she is a Morgon female, she is also delicate, fragile and beautiful. However, that does not make her weak. Quite the opposite in fact. Shakara is a caring, giving person who is willing to take risks to stand up for things she believes in, like sharing her healing gifts with humans, and stopping a weapon aimed at murdering Morgons from being sold. I think in Shakara we see the perfect partner for Demetrius, someone who is gentle to his toughness, flexible to his immovability, although in the beginning, I felt she had judged him too harshly based on his reputation even though she had information about him to the contrary from a reliable source. It made me dislike her just a little bit because I felt she was being unfair towards Demetrius. Of course, this turns around quickly as she gets to know his character and his heart. There is a particular section in the book where Shakara first gains insight int Demetrius as a person she is getting to know personally and it's brilliantly written. I won't share it here or quote it though I'd like to because I think it might be a bit spoilery. She does look beyond rumour and hearsay to see the man within.
When Demetrius and Shakara come together we see a lot of the themes from the Nightwing series reemerge. The racial prejudice in the Nightwing series is very prominent here though on a smaller scale focused between Demetrius and Shakara. Both of them have prejudices to overcome through a lifetime of preconceived notions of the the other race. This is handled delicately and skillfully. When the topic arises, it is dealt with swiftly and with expert care. If you aren't careful, you might even miss the transition of Demetrius from slightly prejudiced to accepting of his attraction towards Shakara. Demetrius is a decisive man. He has to be in terms of being good at what he does in the business world. He handles his personal life in the same way. Once he makes a decision, he pursues his goal with ruthless efficiency. This is where we see the alpha male in him come to the forefront. It's rather spectacular to behold.
I loved the concept of the Dragon Heartstring as well and I want more of it. Just as I adore the concept of Soulfire.
Dragon Heartstring concludes with a hint that more is brewing on the horizon. Congratulations on an excellent prequel to the Vale of Stars series. I can't wait for the next book.
October 22, 2016
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 25, 2016
Demetrius Cade has long since let go of his prejudice against Morgonkind, the dragon hybrid race his father taught him to hate. But what he never saw coming was the Morgon woman who would finally teach him to love.
Shakara Icewing has watched Demetrius Cade from afar for years. Known as the most eligible bachelor and emotionally unavailable in all of Gladium Province, she sees him as the aloof, arrogant brother of her dear friend. But when they finally meet, she isn’t sure she can handle how deep and how fast they both fall.
An old enemy resurfaces and once more threatens those Demetrius loves. When Shakara plans to speak before Parliament against business tycoon Aron Grayson, she puts her own life in the line of fire. Demetrius will stop at nothing to protect the woman he can no longer live without.
••••••
: DRAGON HEARTSTRING is the prequel story line in Juliette Cross’s adult Vale of Stars amazing and complex fantasy series focusing on a dragon hybrid species known as the Morgons. This is Morgon healer Shakara Icewing, and human businessman/billionaire Demetrius Cade’s story line.
NOTE: There is a companion novella series entitled NIGHTWING (Soulfire #1 / Windburn #2) that introduces several of the characters and some background history into the war between the Morgons and humankind. I would strongly recommend reading the Nightwing companion series before starting the Vale of Stars series. Demetrius is Jessen Cade-Nightwing’s brother. Jessen was first introduced in Soulfire (Nightwing #1).
Told from dual first person perspectives (Demetrius and Shakara) DRAGON HEARTSTRING follows Morgon healer Shakara Icewing as she prepares to go before the Gladium Province Parliament in the hopes of pushing the ban for the weapon known as the Volt gun-a weapon designed to kill Morgons-but the designer of the Volt gun wants to ensure that Shakara never has the chance to speak before the Gladium Parliament. Enter Demetrius Cade –the son of a bigot with tightly held prejudices against the human/hybrid Morgon . What ensues are Demetrius’s attempts to protect the woman with whom he is falling in love; and the search for the person(s) responsible for the threats against Shakara’s life.
Demetrius is considered the most eligible bachelor in Gladium Province. A billionaire businessman with no known girlfriends but a man who has caught the eye of the Morgon healer. Shakara knows that it is rare for a Morgon female to find her mate amongst the human population but our heroine knows that the pull of the ‘Heartstring’ whenever in the presence of Demetrius Cade can only mean one thing-that Demetrius is her fated mate.
The world building continues to focus on the tepid but strained relationship between the humans and the Morgons-the animosity, prejudices, specieism, bigotry and discrimination aimed at the hybrid species of dragon and man. We learn a little more about the background as to the how and why of the Cade family’s prejudices.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Jessen and Lucius Nightwing (Nightwing),and their three year old son Julian; as well as Lucius’s brother Lorian and his mate Sorcha (Windburn). The requisite evil comes in many forms as the Grayson family continues to push for the integration and use of the Volt gun –a weapon they helped design and manufacture.
DRAGON HEARTSTRING is an engaging tale of fated mates; an encouraging story about one woman’s efforts to bring about change, and the man who is tied to her heart. The premise is imaginative; the characters are passionate and inspiring; the romance is seductive and provocative. Juliette Cross will captivate your imagination with her fascinating world of the Morgons of Gladium Province.
www.thereadingcafe.com
copy provided for review
Demetrius Cade has long since let go of his prejudice against Morgonkind, the dragon hybrid race his father taught him to hate. But what he never saw coming was the Morgon woman who would finally teach him to love.
Shakara Icewing has watched Demetrius Cade from afar for years. Known as the most eligible bachelor and emotionally unavailable in all of Gladium Province, she sees him as the aloof, arrogant brother of her dear friend. But when they finally meet, she isn’t sure she can handle how deep and how fast they both fall.
An old enemy resurfaces and once more threatens those Demetrius loves. When Shakara plans to speak before Parliament against business tycoon Aron Grayson, she puts her own life in the line of fire. Demetrius will stop at nothing to protect the woman he can no longer live without.
••••••
: DRAGON HEARTSTRING is the prequel story line in Juliette Cross’s adult Vale of Stars amazing and complex fantasy series focusing on a dragon hybrid species known as the Morgons. This is Morgon healer Shakara Icewing, and human businessman/billionaire Demetrius Cade’s story line.
NOTE: There is a companion novella series entitled NIGHTWING (Soulfire #1 / Windburn #2) that introduces several of the characters and some background history into the war between the Morgons and humankind. I would strongly recommend reading the Nightwing companion series before starting the Vale of Stars series. Demetrius is Jessen Cade-Nightwing’s brother. Jessen was first introduced in Soulfire (Nightwing #1).
Told from dual first person perspectives (Demetrius and Shakara) DRAGON HEARTSTRING follows Morgon healer Shakara Icewing as she prepares to go before the Gladium Province Parliament in the hopes of pushing the ban for the weapon known as the Volt gun-a weapon designed to kill Morgons-but the designer of the Volt gun wants to ensure that Shakara never has the chance to speak before the Gladium Parliament. Enter Demetrius Cade –the son of a bigot with tightly held prejudices against the human/hybrid Morgon . What ensues are Demetrius’s attempts to protect the woman with whom he is falling in love; and the search for the person(s) responsible for the threats against Shakara’s life.
Demetrius is considered the most eligible bachelor in Gladium Province. A billionaire businessman with no known girlfriends but a man who has caught the eye of the Morgon healer. Shakara knows that it is rare for a Morgon female to find her mate amongst the human population but our heroine knows that the pull of the ‘Heartstring’ whenever in the presence of Demetrius Cade can only mean one thing-that Demetrius is her fated mate.
The world building continues to focus on the tepid but strained relationship between the humans and the Morgons-the animosity, prejudices, specieism, bigotry and discrimination aimed at the hybrid species of dragon and man. We learn a little more about the background as to the how and why of the Cade family’s prejudices.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Jessen and Lucius Nightwing (Nightwing),and their three year old son Julian; as well as Lucius’s brother Lorian and his mate Sorcha (Windburn). The requisite evil comes in many forms as the Grayson family continues to push for the integration and use of the Volt gun –a weapon they helped design and manufacture.
DRAGON HEARTSTRING is an engaging tale of fated mates; an encouraging story about one woman’s efforts to bring about change, and the man who is tied to her heart. The premise is imaginative; the characters are passionate and inspiring; the romance is seductive and provocative. Juliette Cross will captivate your imagination with her fascinating world of the Morgons of Gladium Province.
www.thereadingcafe.com
copy provided for review
February 8, 2017
That was so amazing! Never thought Demetrius would be such a great, charismatic and ruthless alphamale-hero. And all this action and suspense... This complex novella felt like a full length novel and I loved every page of it!
Die Welt der Morgon, welche Juliette Cross in ihrer Nightwing- und Vale of Stars-Reihe kreiert hat, wird mit jedem Band faszinierender und detailreicher! Mit diesem Prequel zu den ersten beiden Bänden der Vale of Stars-Reihe hat die Autorin eine unglaublich dichte Geschichte geschrieben, die trotz ihrer kurzen Novellenlänge die Liebesgeschichte unheimlich realistisch ausgebaut hat.
Von beiden Protagonisten war ich diesmal sehr überrascht. Shakara lernt man in den Nightwing-Novellen bereits kennen und sie hat dort auf mich immer sehr zart besaitet gewirkt. In Dragon Heartstring zeigt sie zwar ebenfalls eine sanfte Seite von sich, sie ist aber zugleich sehr entschlossen und verfolgt die Ziele, an die sie glaubt, mit viel Willensstärke. Sie bietet Demetrius von Anfang an die Stirn. Und das will etwas heißen, denn wer denkt, er hat mit all den anderen Morgonmännern, die bisher in den beiden Reihen ihre Partnerinnen fanden, Alphamänner vor sich, der erlebt hier eine Überraschung: ich für meinen Teil hätte niemals vermutet, welch starker Charakter Demetrius werden würde. Er hat einen geradezu extremen Beschützerinstinkt und scheut sich nicht, zum Schutz seiner Liebsten zu handeln, zu drohen, zu verletzen.
Dragon Heartstring bietet mit den vertauschten Rollen (weibliche Morgon und menschlicher Mann) eine neue Sichtweise auf die Welt und offenbart auch ein weiteres Detail in Bezug auf die Gefährtenverpaarung. Zugleich diskutiert die Novelle ein stückweit auch Vorurteile, die Ablehnung von gemischtrassigen Pärchen sowie die scheinbar gesellschaftlich festgelegten Frauenbilder, wie wir sie in der Realität oft genug erleben, und bietet daher auch etwas Potenzial zum Nachdenken.
Der Plot dieser Novelle war sehr temporeich und vor allem dicht gestaltet. Neben der wunderschön ausgestalteten Liebesgeschichte, die trotz der Novellenlänge in einem realistischen Zeitraum und mit einer glaubwürdigen Annäherung stattfand, hat Juliette Cross einen sehr guten Suspense-Plot erdacht. Shakara und ihr Clan wollen einen kontroversen Vorschlag vor dem Parlament zur Abstimmung bringen, was Shakara in Gefahr bringt. Sie gerät relativ schnell im Verlauf der Geschichte in bedrohliche Situationen, die sie gemeinsam mit Demetrius bewältigen kann. Dadurch war die Novelle tatsächlich von vorn bis hinten spannend und actionreich. Ich habe sie beinahe in einem Rutsch durchgelesen.
Fazit
Die Romane und Novellen der Autorin werden mit jedem erscheinenden Werk besser. Wo die ersten Novellen in der Morgonwelt noch ein paar Kleinigkeiten vermissen ließen, war Dragon Heartstring ein voller Genuss: tiefgründige und vor allem überraschende Protagonisten, ein actionreicher Plot, eine glaubwürdige Liebesgeschichte und einige nachdenklich stimmende Details. Definitiv ein Monatshighlight!
Die Welt der Morgon, welche Juliette Cross in ihrer Nightwing- und Vale of Stars-Reihe kreiert hat, wird mit jedem Band faszinierender und detailreicher! Mit diesem Prequel zu den ersten beiden Bänden der Vale of Stars-Reihe hat die Autorin eine unglaublich dichte Geschichte geschrieben, die trotz ihrer kurzen Novellenlänge die Liebesgeschichte unheimlich realistisch ausgebaut hat.
Von beiden Protagonisten war ich diesmal sehr überrascht. Shakara lernt man in den Nightwing-Novellen bereits kennen und sie hat dort auf mich immer sehr zart besaitet gewirkt. In Dragon Heartstring zeigt sie zwar ebenfalls eine sanfte Seite von sich, sie ist aber zugleich sehr entschlossen und verfolgt die Ziele, an die sie glaubt, mit viel Willensstärke. Sie bietet Demetrius von Anfang an die Stirn. Und das will etwas heißen, denn wer denkt, er hat mit all den anderen Morgonmännern, die bisher in den beiden Reihen ihre Partnerinnen fanden, Alphamänner vor sich, der erlebt hier eine Überraschung: ich für meinen Teil hätte niemals vermutet, welch starker Charakter Demetrius werden würde. Er hat einen geradezu extremen Beschützerinstinkt und scheut sich nicht, zum Schutz seiner Liebsten zu handeln, zu drohen, zu verletzen.
Dragon Heartstring bietet mit den vertauschten Rollen (weibliche Morgon und menschlicher Mann) eine neue Sichtweise auf die Welt und offenbart auch ein weiteres Detail in Bezug auf die Gefährtenverpaarung. Zugleich diskutiert die Novelle ein stückweit auch Vorurteile, die Ablehnung von gemischtrassigen Pärchen sowie die scheinbar gesellschaftlich festgelegten Frauenbilder, wie wir sie in der Realität oft genug erleben, und bietet daher auch etwas Potenzial zum Nachdenken.
Der Plot dieser Novelle war sehr temporeich und vor allem dicht gestaltet. Neben der wunderschön ausgestalteten Liebesgeschichte, die trotz der Novellenlänge in einem realistischen Zeitraum und mit einer glaubwürdigen Annäherung stattfand, hat Juliette Cross einen sehr guten Suspense-Plot erdacht. Shakara und ihr Clan wollen einen kontroversen Vorschlag vor dem Parlament zur Abstimmung bringen, was Shakara in Gefahr bringt. Sie gerät relativ schnell im Verlauf der Geschichte in bedrohliche Situationen, die sie gemeinsam mit Demetrius bewältigen kann. Dadurch war die Novelle tatsächlich von vorn bis hinten spannend und actionreich. Ich habe sie beinahe in einem Rutsch durchgelesen.
Fazit
Die Romane und Novellen der Autorin werden mit jedem erscheinenden Werk besser. Wo die ersten Novellen in der Morgonwelt noch ein paar Kleinigkeiten vermissen ließen, war Dragon Heartstring ein voller Genuss: tiefgründige und vor allem überraschende Protagonisten, ein actionreicher Plot, eine glaubwürdige Liebesgeschichte und einige nachdenklich stimmende Details. Definitiv ein Monatshighlight!
July 9, 2017
Oh how did I miss this little jewel until now? I have loved all the Vale of Stars prequel novellas giving the back story to the main events of the series proper. I always felt sorry for Demetrius, being the proverbial meat between the sandwich of his sister and father. It was lovely to see his evolution, but also to get a glimpse of how the changes affect his father. Hope for the future, perhaps?
If you haven't checked them out already, I highly recommend starting this series from the very beginning, starting with the prequels and moving onto the main series. In order: Soulfire, Windburn, Nightbloom, Dragon Heartstring, (main series) Waking the Dragon, Dragon in the Blood.
I can't wait for the next installment!
If you haven't checked them out already, I highly recommend starting this series from the very beginning, starting with the prequels and moving onto the main series. In order: Soulfire, Windburn, Nightbloom, Dragon Heartstring, (main series) Waking the Dragon, Dragon in the Blood.
I can't wait for the next installment!
November 6, 2016
I love Ms. Julietter Cross as an author!!! She does it again with this book. This is a story about Jessen's, hard core cold brother. (if you have read the Nightwing series; you know who I am speaking of. if you haven't read it, I recommend that you do; not only because it has some spoilers for it, but because it is a great series) Anyway, I have found a new respect for the Cade family especially, Demetrius. I always give five stars when a book takes me through all of the different emotions. I am looking forward to the next one! enjoy your new loves!
December 13, 2016
Loved, loved, loved!!
I hated Demetrius!!! And you made me fall in love with him!
I hated Demetrius!!! And you made me fall in love with him!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2018
Dragon Heartstring by Juliette Cross is book 0.5 in the Vale of Stars series. This is the story of Shakara Icewing and Demetrius Cade.
Demetrius a human whose father hates the Morgon people and what they stand for starts to doubt his father's beliefs. When Demetrius meets Shakara who is a Morgon women that is a close friend to his sister who actually married a Morgan man, he starts to know that his feelings for her is more than what he was raised to think possible. Demetrius, a loner who still works at his father's business has never been taken back by a women before but his new feelings for Shakara are more than he can ignore. Shakara a healer who uses her powers for both Morgons and humans. Shakara is out to get a band on weapons that are solely used to kill Morgans. Demetrius steps forward to help with that goal wanting to keep his nephew and others safe. Their feelings start to take over while working together.
I enjoyed this book and a great start to this series.
Demetrius a human whose father hates the Morgon people and what they stand for starts to doubt his father's beliefs. When Demetrius meets Shakara who is a Morgon women that is a close friend to his sister who actually married a Morgan man, he starts to know that his feelings for her is more than what he was raised to think possible. Demetrius, a loner who still works at his father's business has never been taken back by a women before but his new feelings for Shakara are more than he can ignore. Shakara a healer who uses her powers for both Morgons and humans. Shakara is out to get a band on weapons that are solely used to kill Morgans. Demetrius steps forward to help with that goal wanting to keep his nephew and others safe. Their feelings start to take over while working together.
I enjoyed this book and a great start to this series.
October 5, 2021
I know I’m in for binge reading whenever I pick up Cross’s books because her work is super addictive! Demetrius and Shakara’s novella was packed with deliciousness. First, props to making Demetrius a lovable guy. He was misguided yet likable from previous stories, but give the man a grinning toddler and the cuteness gobsmacked me, lol! Shakara was a perfect fit to Demetrius’s stoic personality as well. She softened his blunt edges and made him more approachable if you will. I loved how well these two fit together and had so much fun watching them come together. Since this is a novella, the romance occurs quickly, but Cross doesn’t shortchange on emotions, social injustice, or family matters; instead tit all mixes to make the story come alive and left me eagerly wanting to dive in to the next one.
November 3, 2025
I was kind of bored…. I really enjoyed the characters, the lore is top notch, the side characters are awesome. I enjoyed the call backs to others but the first 50% of the book, nothing happened. Like there’s not action every second of every book but the other books in this series I finished in a day especially due to the short lengths. This one is shorter yet it took a few because I kept getting bored.
And a note, it makes no sense they didn’t see each other all these years. If Demetrius was close to his nephew, how did he not see Shakara for years when that was his sister’s bestie? I’ll continue the series because I want to see Moira’s story but if it’s a snooze, I’ll just stop there and not finish the series.
And a note, it makes no sense they didn’t see each other all these years. If Demetrius was close to his nephew, how did he not see Shakara for years when that was his sister’s bestie? I’ll continue the series because I want to see Moira’s story but if it’s a snooze, I’ll just stop there and not finish the series.
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