Pure Surrender

Pure/Dark Ones #10

by Aja James

Aella Alexander:

An Amazon warrior in her human life, Aella has always taken and fought for what she wanted, and what Aella wanted, she got.

Until him.

Cloud Drako:

The mysterious new recruit to the Pure Ones’ team of Elite soldiers is not what he seems. He has a critical role to fulfill to maintain Balance in the universe…

He cannot afford to be distracted by her.

Destiny is shaped by choices made:

The past cannot be changed, a past that neither Cloud nor Aella remembers. But the future is yet unwritten. In this present time, with this second chance, Cloud must make his ultimate stand: to carry out the role he’s been assigned, or to embrace an uncertain future, knowing that his choice would be irrevocable. Absolute.

And that the souls of countless innocents depend upon it…

Can Aella help him choose wisely, or will she lead them all to ruin?

Genres: Paranormal, Paranormal Romance, Romance, Fantasy, M F Romance, Dragons, Enemies To Lovers

369 pages, Paperback

First published February 14, 2020

About the author

https://aja-james.blog/

Best-selling author, Aja James, just completed the Pure/ Dark Ones paranormal-fantasy romance series in 2020. If you want your heart battered, bruised, shattered and skewered, then put back together in the most glorious ways, check out the series below. Every couple gets an HEA, but they fight like hell for it on the way.

Aja is now working on her new series, Dragon Tails, because dragons are her favorite shifters of all!

Check out Aja's expanded distribution of the Pure/ Dark Ones series on Google, Apple, Kobo and Barnes & Noble Books.

Visit Aja's blog or join her reader-started Addicts group to learn more:

https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...

She loves to hear from readers. Email her at:
megami771@yahoo.com

Reviews

[Starr (AKA Starrfish) Rivers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Aja's soundtracks for her books. Here's the one for Pure Surrender!

http://aja-james.blog/2019/10/18/soun...

IT'S DONE IT'S DONE IT'S DONE!!!!

I don't know if I can contain all my thoughts and emotions until the ARC is out. AJ is working diligently on the editing as we speak, but DAMN!!! I already know how many stars...

TEN THOUSAND STARS, baby!! I LOVE this book! Love CLOUD!! Love this entire freaking amazing series!!!!

This is going to be a review in parts, because this epic tale deserves an episodic (at least :P) review.

THE PLOT:

It's Lord of the Rings fantasy (a grand journey, clues along the way, in search of a "destiny", roles to play! Oh my! And I rhymed!!)



MEETS Game of Thrones political maneuverings, torture, pain, side plots and sub plots



MEETS Journey to the West from Chinese mythology



MEETs Dynasty Warrior and Red Cliff



MEETS Wonder Woman!!



I kid you not. It's here, folks. I'm not much of a fantasy reader, and I freaking LOVED THIS STORY!!

THE MCS:

An Amazon warrior - girl power! Aella is described as a cross between Gisele Bunshen and Doutzen Kroes





BTW, Doutzen was one of the Amazons in Wonder Woman!!



My favorite line by Aella:

“Hunting, fighting and fucking. It’s what we do to live and live to do, Amazons. So let’s woman up and get it done.”

OMG!!!! You're my hero, Aella!!!!

Total fan-girling here...



A mysterious male she's been crushing on since forever (well, 3 years, but trust me when I say, it FEELs like forever)

And just so we're clear, there's no picture of a real man that can do Cloud justice. AJ and all us devoted readers of the series have sent inspirational pics her way, but nope, Cloud defies real men.

And amen to that!

So here are the most representative pics of Cloud Drako, our awesome, mesmerizing, frustrating, and oh so scrumpilicious hero!







And one more cuz I'm Cloud-obsessed!



The LOVE STORY:

I am a die-hard lover of this series, and as long as AJ delivers (which she ALWAYS has!) then I will always be a fan.

But even I never expected to love this love story so much. I obviously do not have as much foresight as my friend Eunice, who has claimed Cloud as her go-to male in this series.

https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...

There's a push and pull between the characters that you only catch a glimpse of in Book 1, and Book 2, . It then starts to build a bit more in recent books, but it's never explored to any depth. So I honestly didn't think much about it.

I've always like Aella as a female lead. I love her dynamic with Sophia, the Pure Queen. I love that she's a warrior and a sexy female who enjoys the opposite sex to the fullest.

TOTAL FANGIRLING!!! She's like my superhero alter ego.

But I never really felt the connection between her and Cloud, other than reading that there is one, and it was instant from when they first met over 3 years ago.

As you read the story, tho, you see their relationship unfold. It took time to understand. There's a LOT to understand! AJ doesn't rush it. My beta pals and I got pretty frustrated and impatient with the one step forward, two steps back, dynamic they had going. But trust me when I say, it's sooooo worth it!!!

Note: I got inspired by PUC and created a new shelf too--the virgin alpha hero shelf. This series is full of these (not entirely virgin but close) and I LOVE them!! Usually you have either man-whore-alpha or beta-virgin; never will the two combine. But WHY???!!!!

AJ has defied stereotypes. Read for yourself! I defy you not to fall in love!!

Lovers of slow burn growing into a conflagration of passion should absolutely ADORE this couple.

The love story is sooooo satisfying. So so so satisfying. In all the ways I want to be satisfied by a love story. I teared up and outright cried at least 3 times! I LOVE love stories that make me emotional!!

I'll leave that there :)

The SIDE CHARACTERS:
Sophia
Inanna and Gabriel cameos
BENJI!!
Ere
ISHTAR AND TAL!!
Rain
Jade
RAMSES!!
And we finally start to get to know EVELINE

They're all here folks. Only lovers of this series will enjoy the inter-woven stories and ongoing plot and world building to the max. But new readers, I daresay, will also enjoy.

The people who won't enjoy are those that want to "quick, light, no-brainer read." So if you're one of those readers, stay away.

The actual review and brief summary

So here goes nothing...

First thing I'll say is that readers of this series, who have followed the world building and character journeys thus far are going to LOVE this book! So many inter-woven threads come to fruition. So many "aha! I knew it!" moments and so many "WTF, holy cow!" moments too.

It's paced perfectly, or should I say, masterfully. Bc AJ sure does love jerking us readers around! One moment you're lulled into a calm, then BAM! And then you're feeling so down, but next you know you're on cloud 9. This is a rollercoaster, folks, the BEST KIND.

BUT. If you're not a devoted reader of this series and you JUST got in at this particular book, you might be a wee bit (or a lot) lost. There is just enough explanation to tell you what's going on, but it's a lot to keep track of. I can no longer look at it with totally "new" eyes. I'm too familiar with the story, the characters and all the plots and subplots. My friends and I have theorized and debated ad nauseum. To someone just getting into the series, I would NOT recommend diving in with this particular book. It might overwhelm you.

Altho. I've read plenty of other series too and esp. the more "fantasy" ones --they're no less complicated/ complex than this series. I would say this series with this book is very solidly in the ADULT FANTASY ROMANCE category. Yes, paranormal too, but more fantasy I would say/.

So if you're looking for a quick fluff read with lots of gratuitous sex or slap stick humor, this is NOT THE BOOK FOR YOU!

This requires thought, and the more you understand about the world from previous books, the more you'll love this book (and the series overall).

Second thing I'll say is that this book reminds me of Book 1 . In that there are several threads to the story and a slew of characters. There's fighting, journeys, love story (more than one, but always one centrally focused pair of MCs), history and modern, fantasy and real world. In style, it's very similar. I know readers either HATE or LOVE Book 1. Typically people who hate book 1 hate the complexity of it all, while others love it for the same reason.

But where this book far surpasses Book 1 IMO is in the love story itself. I just absolutely LOVE the dynamic between Cloud and Aella. They have become 3-D to me in a way that they never were before, and AJ doesn't rush the telling of the story. I remember in Book 1 I wished there was more focus on the development of the MCs, I wanted to know their interaction and chemistry better, but the world building and complexity I really liked too so I was good overall.

In this one, I think you really see the characters "develop." You understand who they are, and why they are the way they are. You understand why they interact the way they do. All of it makes sense and is unveiled at the right time and pace. And at the same time, all the other stuff is also going on, moving the story along, bringing it all together.

It's a testament to how much this author's craft has developed over time. I really love watching it happen!

My friends and I keep saying her books can't top the last one. And I always say that the one I'm reading is my favorite of the series.

THIS IS STILL TRUE!!

This book is so unique in the series, just like the last book. I don't know any other series out there that's remotely like this one!

OK, so without revealing too much, here's a run down:
* Sophia (Pure Queen) is with a bunch of her personal guards going on a "journey" of self-exploration
* They divide up to follow 2 different paths. One leads Sophia to revisit her past. One leads Cloud to his "destiny."
* Meanwhile Tal and Ishtar make some progress
* Stuff going on with Jade and Ramses
* But mainly we get to see the love story unfold between Cloud and Aella as they are pushed together in close proximity on the same journey, and the place itself start to remind them of their past lives.
* I LOVE GETTING TO KNOW BOTH THEIR PAST LIVES!!! See above on my "plot" and character gifs.
* There are a number of fighting scenes. There's a "climax" at the end (always)

So did the good guys gain or lose ground? Read and find out.
Did Cloud and Aella have an HEA? well, all of AJ's novels (not the novellas, the full-length ones) have ended in HEA or at LEAST HFN. So... read it and find out. :)

And now I don't know what to do with myself until the next book!!!

LOVE. THIS. BOOK! LOVE. THIS. SERIES!!

[Princess under cover · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review after ARC, but I already know it's 5++++++++ stars!

All right folks. I got the ARC at 8pm last night. I went to *bed* but didn't sleep cuz I was too riled up at 4am. Then I felt like I needed some "relaxation" if you know what I mean, especially with Chapter 20, and well... an hour later, I got like 4 hours of sleep.

Now, high on caffeine, I am ready for my review.

I'll start by saying, I bow down to the Great "Bam Bam" for her review on this book:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

I doubt anyone can write such an EPIC review :)

So I'll try to touch on some other points of this book.

THE COVER

Can we all join hands and spend some dedicated time admiring this gorgeous cover? This cover is the sort of cover that launches a thousand fantasies. Aja didn't help by sending a few of us devoted fans some tantalizing hints of what he's hiding under that cloak... You know what I'm talking about girls... those of us who have been lucky enough to get those pics. I've saved them to my computer for posterity. They have ruined me for all men.

But remember, in AJ's own words: "Cloud's is bigger and better"... I'll say no more on this subject.





THE JOURNEY

And by that mean--the fantasy journey that moves the plot through this book, the links that pull all the multiple storylines together, and also, the journey of the 2 MCs and the journey they have together. There are a lot of journeys in this book.

There's a continuous journey throughout the series. It's never stagnant. It always builds and builds. Yes, there's sometimes a lull, a slight breather for you to catch your breath. I love those too. But the story is always progressing. This world just keeps building. AJ's imagination knows no bounds! I want to stay here forever!!







THE LOVE

And by that I also mean the SEXY TIMES!! And ahem, y'all can thank me for them :P I harassed and badgered AJ to death about them. She's GOT to put enough sexy times in the book to justify that cover!!!

She did not disappoint. LORD HAVE MERCY! I just adored this love story. I adored CLOUD most of all. Such a unique character. You just have to read it to understand. I just love him to pieces!

(Why can't I find R rated sexy gifs...arrrgggghhhh! And BTW, I'm only going R rated bc GR doesn't let you post the other stuff...but you get my point... HOT, ppl, HOTHOTHOT!)

I gotta think some more before I write further. My brain has short-circuited on the last point...

I created a new book shelf just for books in this series and this one in particular: the VIRGIN ALPHA HERO

This was a topic that got some debate with my besties. How in blue blazes is AJ able to come up with these out of this universe to-die-for heroes?????

LOYAL, BUILT, BEAUTIFUL, INTELLIGENT, KIND, DEEPLY LOVING, WELL ENDOWED AND KNOWS HOW TO USE IT, all while being INNOCENT in so many ways, I'm not talking she writes only male virgins, but many of the heroes in these books have little "experience" in the sense that sex is an expression of love. Maybe more accurate to say they're LOVE VIRGINS.

And NONE of them are man-whores, THANK YOU AJA!! The ones who have "been around the block" have done so for specific reasons which I won't go into. But it breaks your heart...

Anyway, back to the topic at hand.

Cloud is probably the most "innocent" of all the Heroes in this series. What he is (which is a mystery you will have to figure out for yourself) makes it that way.







I LOVE LOVE LOVE the Heroes in this series because to me, they represent the best in a man. And while they all have weaknesses as well as strengths, those weaknesses are what make them soooooo lovable. It's like if you take a little boy who doesn't know anything and doesn't understand the world, the most beautiful little boy in the world, and you teach them how to be the BEST kind of man--that's the kind of Hero you get in this series.

I LOVE THEM ALL!!

[Monique · Rating 5 out of 5]

4,5 'So, so good' stars

“Not every female is like you, Aella.”
“Thank the Goddess for that,” Cloud muttered beneath his breath.

That was a long journey from book 1 that we finally got to Cloud and Aella's story. But now that I read their book, it's perfectly clear why their story couldn't happen sooner. Not that I'm gonna tell you why, lol.

A lot of things were going on in this book. There were two major storylines besides Aella and Cloud's which means the book was packed with action and important revelations. But let's focus first on our lovebirds. I can't say Cloud and Aella are among my favorite characters in this series but they did intrigue me from the start. Aella with her devil-may-care attitude and Cloud with his mysterious past. I said in my review for Pure Healing that it will be interesting to see who will bring who to their knees and, yeah baby, their interactions were so much fun to read.

Presently, she played her wayward fingers across the ridges of Cloud’s steely stomach and counted the muscles like one would count sheep as she drifted in and out of a light doze.

***********************************

He could practically hear the fibers of his sanity snap taut and tear.

***********************************

“I think he’s trying to loosen up,” Aella muttered in response.
If he loosened up any more, he’d be naked.

Now, you see what I mean? The electricity between them was like a global crisis waiting to happen and you were just able to hold your breath and anticipate when the breaks will lose. And it was so worth waiting for!

“But…but… I want to be yours. I want you to be mine. I don’t want anyone else to have you, to touch you and taste you as I do. I want to own all of your kisses and smiles and looks. I want to devour you, consume you, drink you up and soak you in until your essence fills me from the inside out, and when I sweat I smell of you because every part of you has mated with every part of me.”

Some very important progress was made with Sophia's self-searching. I don't want to spoil anything so I'm just gonna say how much I love Benji. And honestly, it was about time for everyone to learn to finally believe everything that this smart kid says.

“You’re an angel too, Ere. But you’ve fallen from the sky and lost your way.”

I believe you all know what's coming now. Yes, Tal and Ishtar. I swear these two will be the death of me. I cried, I despaired, I hoped, I laughed, I wanted to hug the whole world. Tal and Ishtar broke me and then put me back together, just like they broke and were restored again.

My Eternal Mate. My Blooded Mate. The one and only female I have ever, and ever shall, love.
Ishtar Anshar, the heaven’s brightest star.

***********************************

Between the explosive desire and need she sent his way, and his own everlasting love for her, his demons didn’t stand a chance.

***********************************

I miss you, his actions said. I love you. I need you. You are my everything.

And now I'm all overwhelmed again. If there is a couple who deserves a super lovely happy ever after, it's them.

Oh, and one more thing. I really got curious about Eveline. I admit I didn't pay much attention to her before. Ok, she was there from the start but she didn't stand out in any way. But I got invested in her character now. Probably because she is practically me. And I NEED to know what will happen next. I have some inkling of what's in store for her but I'm still damned curious.

The ARC of this book kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Aja!

***********************************
I always start these reviews with pics inspiration. Since I can't add my favorite pic of Cloud or GR policy would have my head, this is my second favorite one *wink*

[ren ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

He was her Mate!
He loved her beyond comprehension.
He loved her more than heaven and earth combined!
But she didn’t love him…
She never loved him…
She couldn’t have…
Not the way he loved her.
He’d died a thousand times in that prison.

First and foremost... is that cover even LEGAL?! 😍 Either way, can we just take a moment to fully appreciate it?

Okay…

And…

I’m done now… 🤤

The way Aja James is able to weave mythologies together is nothing short of magical! I briefly skimmed through Ryu’s book earlier today (don’t judge me) and WOOOOW we have come SUCH A LONG WAY. SO MANY TWISTS AND TURNS! Watching everything unfold has been a huge rollercoaster ride and it’s safe to say that faithful readers of this series are ALWAYS rewarded. I don’t know how James does it! Aella and Cloud have been a super anticipated couple for me, so I was pretty excited for this one. The sexual tension between them has been undeniable in the past and let me tell you, Pure Surrender DID NOT DISAPPOINT.

Aella was a secondary character I’ve always admired. She’s Sophia’s best friend and a total badass! Her backstory was so cool, and I might even like her more than Wonder Woman. She loud, boisterous and relentless to the point of being pushy at times, but I think that’s a quirk that makes her so fitting for Cloud…

Cloud was so FREAKING PERFECT. I LOVE HIM SO MUCH! AND THE LONG SILKY HAIR?! That’s my kryptonite… If there’s ever a character that I could love more than Ryu, it’s gonna be Cloud (don’t quote me on that LOL, I’ll decide when I finish the series…). He’s so badass, mysterious and intense! When he shows his mean side, it's so sexy and hot! And seeing him get all protective of his friends on the journey MADE ME SWOON SO HARD. Without giving too much away, I'll say that his backstory was so UNIQUE and AMAZING! And the final revelation about his identity and what his purpose was BLEW MY MIND!! Cloud is definitely one of my favorite heroes of this series!! AND HIS HORSE!! WHITE DRAGON!! SO COOL!!!

A being like Cloud is the purest of all the Goddesses’ creations. When he gives himself to another, he gives everything. Forevermore. If you cannot match his devotion and sacrifice, then release him from the attachment. Let him forget the pain. Let him return home.

I love the way Aella was able to get under Cloud’s skin. She was relentless in her pursuit of him and I completely adored her for that. I love that the heroines in this series are NOT passive in the relationship, they know how to fight for their man, and they don’t shy away from the risks! And that’s what makes Aella so worthy of Cloud! And I love when Cloud was able to let his hair down around her (literally and figuratively) at the end. All in all, they were so perfect for each other. The way Aella affirms her love for him at the end got me all teary-eyed! THE SEXY TIMES were 💥🔥💥🔥💥🔥! I can’t wait to see them in future installments. Especially Cloud… 🤤

AND TAL! It's impossible to read his story without getting overwhelmed with emotions. Poor Tal! His story arc continues to tear at my heartstrings. His pain and his agony... All that darkness he holds so close to him so he doesn't burden his loved ones... *sob* I just WANT HIM TO BE OKAY - MORE THAN OKAY!! Tal needed his LONG OVERDUE HEA YESTERDAY!

How do I tell the heaven’s brightest star that, twenty-three hours out of every twenty-four, I yearn for the darkest oblivion?

Honestly, I’ve always liked Ishtar but this book made me second guess myself. Up until this point she’s been abnormally naïve to what Tal has been through, so I’m glad she finally got the wakeup call she needed, even if it was a painful slap in the face. But Tal continues to blow me away - HE ENDED UP BEING THE ONE CONSOLING HER?! HOW CAN HE BE SO SELFLESS?! But I am glad he can finally share his burden with Ishtar! 😭😭😭

There’s two major storylines going on at the same time so of course, we get many appearances from our favs! Sophia is still on her journey of self-discovery, Ere continues to act weird and Benji does what he does best... lighting up everyone’s life! I seriously love that kid – his innocence and his unique perceptiveness makes him so damn special. Fans of The Creature are going to be so happy as new revelations unfold too. Tal and Ishtar’s reaction at the end when they connected the dots ABSOLUTELY BROKE ME!! WILL WE FINALLY SEE THEM BE REUNITED WITH THEIR LOST SON? Well I already know the answer to that because I’ve already finished the next novella lmao…

I’m pretty sure I said this in another review, but I feel the need to say this again – I’m SO GRATEFUL for the Asian representation in this series! And it’s not just one or two token Asian characters (bleurgh!). THERE’S MORE THAN ONE! Rain, Jade, Wan’er, Ryu, and now Cloud… do you know how happy my Asian ass feels right now?

Pure Surrender is easily one of my favorites in this series! And Cloud... hot damn. If I could give this book a million stars, I totally would! Fans of Chinese and Amazonian myths will LOVE this installment. And if you love watching Chinese historical fantasy dramas, you’ll probably love this story too. Heavenly creatures? Fate? Destiny? It’s all in Pure Surrender! I feel kind of bittersweet knowing I’m nearing the end of the series, but knowing the author, I know she’ll exceed my expectations!

Now, back to staring at the book cover... 🤤

Rating: 5/5

[Mamacita aka MawMaw]

Best Cover Yet!

[Debra Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Prch Amz Feb 26, 2021

Pure Surrender by Aja James
Genres: Adult, Fantasy, Mystery, Paranormal, Romance, Suspense.
4.5 Stars or 4.75 Stars???????
Grrrr
4.5 will round to 4, 4.75 will round to 5....
Thinking....🤔What to do.

So much of this story is 'Spot On Sheer Perfection'.
But......There was this itsy bitsy spot that, well, just didn't sit right with me. But, it did fit with the story. Is it just me..... I don't know.

The flow is spot on. Fast paced and compelling. Major twist and turns throughout the entire story. It kept me at the edge of my seat waiting for the reveal. Worried about what would/could happen on the next page.

The interactions between Aella and Cloud, WOW! The way Aella kept poking at Cloud to get him to react. Then when he did, INFERNO! Smoking hot, melt your kindle, up against the wall, and then some. Lightning and Whirlwind spinning out of control, omg, let's do that again!

We also get more about Sophia and Ere. The end result there made me laugh with glee! Finally!

Ishtar and Tal will break your heart once again and then put it back together. Stronger than ever.

And Eveline! Holy Smoke! I did not see that coming!! At All!! I loved the way it ended. Has me on pins and needles. All tingly.

But, there is still that one part that niggles at me. That I did not like. And since it is still bothering me and is now a part of this amazing world, I have to go with my gut.
So, I will stick with the 4.5 stars and round down to 4.

[Natalie ~ The Biblioholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly don't know how she does it. Aja James has kept me enamored of her story for 12 books and I never want it to end!

Seriously... I don't want it to stop and yet, I can't wait to see where all of these characters I have fallen for (and those I'm yet to love) will end up.



Once again, I've got a lot to say and I'm not going to hide any of it behind spoilers. Cloud and Aella deserve to have my love for them spelled out all over the place. So if you want to go in blind, stop here and know that you'll be in for one heck of a ride!

Mind you, everything from this point forward is going to be random, jumbled, and just my thoughts and opinions as I read this book.



It's a lot, so if you want all the thoughts, you can read the full review here

[AlwaysV · Rating 5 out of 5]

My deepest gratitude to the author for the gift of this ARC 🙇🏽‍♀️ Here's an honest review from the depth of my heart❣️

Cloud and Aella had to be one of the most unique and delicious HEA couples I've read Ever! She was the First General of the Amazon Warriors. He was a fierce warrior, innocent and untouched, from Heaven above, literally! The entire story of how Aella used her full experience in the art of seduction to win Cloud's love was a thing of beauty. Even more beautiful was the way they fought the enemies in battles. But my favorite parts? Cloud and Aella's heart-breaking back story. And their well-deserved happy ending 💕

A special gift for me in this story was the scenes Sophia almost lost herself to the Dark when she relived Dalair's last moments in his human life. That deserved Five Crying-Me-A-River Stars, for sure 💦

What I despised in this story? The way the villain Medusa had now attained her full power! She and her minions would be practically undefeatable! Thinking about it made me want to scream!

Sharing one of my favorite scenes:

But she smelled the scent of death all around her. How could anything survive where her beloved Dalair had fallen? His life's blood seeping into the cold hard earth.

"Sophia. . . " She ignored the calls. Her name wasn't Sophia. Her name was Kira, Mistress of Light. . . She could not let Dalair's death go unavenged. Nothing deserved to live when he was gone.

[Allyson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yeah ..... Ummmm gonna have to sit for a bit before I review!!! Woooo !!!

Ok so I have slept on it and am still really at a loss for words. I will in no way be able to write a review like the other ladies that have read this book, so please read theirs also. Let me just say that if I could (if I didn't already claim my Dalair) I would want to fold Cloud up and keep him with me always. I don't know where to start to be able to describe this man, beast, alpha, protector, warrior, lover, friend, loyal, vulnerable ... oh wait I guess I just did :) Anyhoo Cloud and Aella story was well funny, sad, hurtful, and loveable. It takes them a minute to get going because there is such a back story and Aja writes it perfectly. Aella is also a warrior, funny, loyal, protector, lover, friend, and not afraid of going after what she wants. Loved her!!!! Ohhhh and all the side characters we got to see in this book, I freaking love Benji to death, he is so pure and I smile everytime he makes an appearance. Sophia was kinda the third main character in this story also as they are all on a journey to help her after her awaking(well Cloud has something else he was searching for) . I really liked Eveline and can't wait to see how she is going to shake up well you guys know who... that will be fun to read!!! Ishtar and Tal .... well they freaking broke my dang heart again but at least when we left them they were doing better! Ere, Ianna, Gabriel, Rain, Jade also made an appearance. I know I just rambled my head off but there was just so much going on in this story and how Aja keeps all of the books intertwined is simply amazing. I had some of my old questions answered with this story but now I have tons of new ones. Oh and my Dalair was mentioned several times in this story but never showed up.......... I AM WAITNG AJA!!!! :) I LOVED LOVED LOVED this story and I can't wait for the next one. If you haven't started this series yet you need to!!! This is my longest review yet!!! YAY me way to ramble lol!!

AJA thank you for sharing this series with me as an ARC reader. You're amazing !!!

[Aja James · Rating 5 out of 5]

These are the songs that really inspired me for Cloud and Aella. I hope they make you "feel it" too :)

http://aja-james.blog/2019/10/18/soun...

https://wordpress.com/post/aja-james....

https://wordpress.com/post/aja-james....

[~V~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Slight Spoilers, so don't read if you haven't yet read the book**

A few things to note about this book...

First of all, that epilogue was heartbreaking! Tal and Ishtar's book was one of my favorites and i was really happy with how things wrapped up for them but apparently the poor guy isn't done suffering. I love that Jade and Raine are working together to find a way to help them and as awful as it is for Ishtar to be feeling/seeing what Tal actually suffered, i think it's a bit of a relief to know that she finally knows, since the stubborn man refuses to burden her with anything!

I loved Eveline!...we got to spend quite a bit of time with her..she's very naive and innocent but she's also quirky and funny....definitely the comic relief in this story, her conversations with Aella were hilarious! The 'end' of her story line, in this book, was crazy...i did not see that coming and i can't wait to find out how that all turns out!!

I really enjoyed the interactions between Sophia and her group, while on their journey...especially the interactions between Sophia, Benji and Ere. We get a few answers as to what happened after Dalair's demise, after fighting all those warriors. His novella was from his point of view only so we didn't really see how Sophia handled watching all that happened, so that was interesting!

I just adore little Benji and i love that he can see everyone in their true form. I don't think that revelation about the creature was a huge surprise to anyone who's been following the series but it was so exciting to finally have it confirmed and revealed to everyone!

The main story line was of course Aella and Cloud's story. I really enjoyed seeing her life as an Amazon...very reminiscent of Wonder Woman...that was a lot of fun! Cloud's background is finally revealed and what he really is, which i won't spoil, but that was also quite interesting and very cool. I would say that the only thing i was a little disappointed with was the romance. While i did like them together, it took a really long time to get there and i just didn't feel there was enough of it. I'm not talking about sex (although there were a couple very hot scenes), i'm talking about emotional angst and romance. The way they met, in the past, was interesting but very short lived, and in present day, neither remembers their past so it was a constant battle for poor Aella ...and Cloud did not hold back on his not so friendly feelings toward her. I didn't love that it was at almost 90% before Cloud finally remembered things and admitted his love for her, i would have liked more time with them together...before the book ended.

I love Aja James...I honestly can't say enough good things about her and this world she's created. She is seriously one of the most talented pnr writers out there and i'm shocked that more people aren't reading these. I haven't been this addicted to a series in a long time, i can't get enough of these books and i'm truly enjoying every second that I get to lose myself in this world! I don't ever want it to end and i can't wait for more books! They can't come out soon enough!!!

*This was an arc, generously provided by the author

[Becca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay let me start off by saying WHOA!!!! So many things happening and my mind is exploding!! 🤯🤯🤯
I love this series! I do not have enough words for this series at all!!

Cloud is amazing! Never saw it coming what this book had in store! He is courageous, brave, humble, and so so so much more wrapped up in an amazing character! Everything he went through to get where he was is just wow. I’m blown away at what that man is willing to do to save the ones he loves.

Aella oh my where to start!! She matches Cloud in many aspects being courageous, brave, and so so so much more! She will have you laughing and your belly aching from what she says and does. Aella sees what she wants and doesn’t take no for an answer! Isn’t afraid to say what’s on her mind which I love about her! And fought tooth and nail for the man she loves! Talk about a very head strong warrior that woman!

Both of them together is amazing! I love the fact they are great alone, but unbeatable together. These two will be a unstopped force I sense in the series! Just so amazing!

And everyone else! Inanna, Gabriel, Ishtar, Tal, Eveline, and of course Benji who brings a smile to your face every time he comes along. Man I just can’t say enough, and I won’t cause I’m not spoiling this for anyone!

Truly an amazing and beyond wonderful series! Thank Aja for these books and amazing characters! I can’t get enough of them! 5 for 5 stars every book I’ve read! Love this series!!

[Paola · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all thanks so much to the talented author for the ARC....
I loved this book so much, Cloud was a complete mystery for me and learning more about him was magical, he is a reserved and powerful soul with courage and loyalty, he suffered because of love and now only thinks in fulfill his duty.
On the other hand the heroin Aella a powerful warrior and former Amazon, is a pure one that wants Cloud with all her heart, body and soul, but he rejects her all the time...
Reading you find out more about Tal and his mate and about Sophia and the creature.
This is a very sexy romance packed with action and a storyline that will keep you at the edge of your seat and will warm your heart.

[Cécile Smits · Rating 5 out of 5]

It feels like yesterday when my bestie recommended a series to me....a series she knew i would like.
Not knowing the author,i searched on goodreads to see what that series was,and found myself intrigued.
My bestie said Aja was happy giving me an ARC,and since i’m not on Amazon,it was the only way to satisfy my curiosity.
So,i asked Aja and very quickly received a copy of Pure Healing.
My world has not been the same since....
I kept asking for the next,and the next,and.....you get the picture,i was addicted!
I even became a beta reader,one of Aja’s Muses,because i needed that fix só bad,i couldn’t wait for the next story to arrive.
Seeing the stories grow added another layer to my addiction,and you can call me Mad(die),but i even claimed my very own Tiger King,Goya!

And now,having reached book 10! already,this series is still só good,the overall storyline is still growing in a way that grabs me by the throat,that makes me scream “GIVE ME MORE,I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS!”
Because the tension is still building and the various plotlines are still unfolding in a way that makes me want to fly over to Aja and demand to see her plans,all of them.....

If you’re looking for an elaborate review of Pure Surrender,i suggest you read those of my fellow Muses,Starr and PUC.
They say it best,wíth pics and gifs.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

What i can say about Pure Surrender,is.......


After hiding all this time behind a stoic mask,Cloud’s been forced to tell his story,at last!
It unfolds as he accompanies Sophia on her search of one of her past lives,the one that earned her the name “The Destroyer”
With them are Inanna,Gabriel,Benji,Eveline,Ere and Aella.
And the last one is the one he has had trouble dealing with from the day they met,3 years ago.....
But was it only 3 years?

Aella is a woman that doesn’t hide the fact she likes men,in any position.
But in all her life,as human ánd as Pure One,there has been only one she loved.
Since that love had a tragic end,she hasn’t allowed herself feelings towards any man,but Cloud.....
He stirrs up those old memories she tries to keep a lid on.

Cloud’s past slowly comes to light,and it shows an innocence that’s rarely seen.
It shows an encounter that left him scarred and vulnerable,one that he doesn’t ever want to remember.....
His past also shows us who he really is,and why he is there,on that journey.
Because he will reach his full potential on that journey,he will find his purpose,if Aella doesn’t break down his very firm walls first.....

Forced to split into two groups,Sophia,Inanna,Gabriel,Benji and Ere follow one path,and Cloud is forced to go the other with Aella and Eveline.
Sophia’s group has their own challenges to face as danger closes in,but Cloud....he is close to losing his eternal control as Aella’s persistence is wearing him down.
He holds on by a thread,until he finally snaps,and what happens then......

Will he be able to become who he was meant to be?
Will he be able to do what his Master needs him to do?
Will he be able to make the right choice?
And,most importantly....
Will he have what he needs.....more than anything else?

Pure Surrender was a hell of a ride.
It gave us a complete understanding of the person that is Cloud.
It gave us a full view of the strong beauty that is Aella
It gave us another unfolding thread,one that will continue in the next book.
It gave us a quick (worrying) view on another unlikely couple to look forward to.
It gave us hope for a family that needs it,só much.
In short.....
I LOVED IT!!!!

[Firstpella · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘But he’s Ere, papa.’
I need a moment.
... 🕰

This story is not the cover. Yes, there’s cock, and balls, and thrusting and all that wet, hot fucking detailed in well done kindle-porn at its fan-yourself best that can be.

This story is not a soundtrack of grunting, straining, and giddy-up-my (not so little pony) -stallion balls to the walls dirty songs ... though I will own up to suggesting ‘Pony’ 🐎 to have a spot on the iTunes release.

What this story is - a trifecta about female energy and empowerment - and while there are actual Amazons featured, their raw, physical power has nothing to do with what at the core of a woman’s strength is: Love. Which is why even though things may still seem unknown, scary, possibly even bleak, Medusa and others who hate and have a vagina, will not win. They are hollow husks.

This story featured a couple I was not overly interested in - yet, immediately Aella & Cloud sizzled, flamed, and exploded - Aella’s death and rebirth completely transformed her in my eyes. Sophia’s moments of being thisclose to transforming back to her Destroyer days of anarchy due to the ache of her loss were breath-holding. And the scene where, unknown to her, she confronts a version of jacked-up Ere in her hotel room were terrifying. For the first time in all the stories read, so far, I didn’t want Ere to be...bad. sniffle.😢

But nothing compares to Ishtar and Tal. If you have lost someone, a soulmate, a parent, god forbid a child, to something that sinister, wouldn’t YOU take the weight of their torment on to free their soul. If you don’t cry when Ishtar understands and embraces his, now her, pain...if you didn’t have to put your ereader the fuck down to walk off the sobbing for a few moments, then you shouldn’t have the honor of reading this series cause...

‘I know that living with you baby was sometimes hard
But I'm willing to give it another try
'Cause nothing compares
Nothing compares to you’

[Kate V · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.85 stars!

I had a hard time writing this review because there was so much I wanted to say but didn't know how to put it all down. There was SO much going on in this book and at times I found myself having to reread a chapter which never happens to me. Not missing information in this one was crucial.

First off, Cloud and Aella were not my favorite couple in this series. They frustrated me to no end lol which is where the 4.85 rating comes from. I just loved other couples better. I will say though I LOVED the tension between the two of them. I was salivating waiting for it to snap. Aella was such a cool heroine. I don't want to ruin anything but everything that comes together about Cloud.....OMG😍. I mean their story was heartbreaking but their HEA was super delicious. I love James' heroes. They are everything.

Jeeeeeeez, Tal and Ishtar. If you've read this one and the ones before you understand that sentiment.

I CANNOT wait for Eveline and Ramses. Ramses has intrigued me for awhile and his whole persona...is HOT. This story had so much pushing the world forward. I loved it.

Overall, another solid installment. On to the next!

[~~~Heather S.~~~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved every minute of this journey and the superb storytelling!! Such a beautiful, passionate, magical love story, I couldn’t put down.

Every PNR fan must read this series!!

[Eunice Lopez · Rating 5 out of 5]

-I received this ARC from the author for an honest review-

I honestly loved this one, I'm partial to all the Asian charterers of this series they hold a soft spot in my heart. Plus they are all flaming hot/sexy/delicious. So before I even picked up Pure Surrender, Cloud already had me salivating.

Here we are finally, the story of Cloud and the super ferocious Amazon warrior Aella. This story focuses on our Pure Ones going on a little road trip to help better Sophia understand her past after her Awakening. There is a particular Pure One that is not too happy when the crew has to split up because it means he has to spend time with a certain beautiful blond warrior, Aella.

Cloud is one unhappy camper! The maddening Aella is determined to get in his pants, but what he doesn't realize what she really wants is all of him, not just his eggplant, but his heart, his soul, his everything. Cloud is determined not to get attached to anybody, especially Aella. He has a big green secret and a purpose that he must fulfill and then once that purpose is done he must return to his rightful home.

This story was great, a lot of revelations and secrets were revealed. Aja James likes to leave breadcrumbs to be discovered and I have some theory’s for the future. What really had me was Aella, she is so amazing I feel like I can write about her and praise her for days. I went in this expecting I would fall in love with Cloud and I did, but Aella blew me away. She is my favorite heroine by far. Their is just this fierce stubborn, determined, beauty about her that is just so compelling, and it makes you want to be her friend or lover. Cloud did not stand a chance when this whirlwind of a women decided that enough was enough, she was going to have him no matter what.

"Yes, she was intrigued by his mystery, his unknowability, and the imp in her loved to see how far she could push him. It was as much a part of her personality as unflappability and tranquility was part of his.
She was a whirlwind of energy and passion, and he was...
Well, he was a careless white cloud, floating breezily across calm blue skies."

Where Aella is fire he is ice, and she melted that ice box heart of his like a flaming dragon.




Overall great story, love loved it all. Mrs. James almost had me for a moment I thought they might not get their HEA, but I should have know better because when a Whirlwind start to spin, it creates a funnel and a Cloud forms over the funnel, making it visible. So Cloud and Whirlwind (Aella) where always meant to be.
Surprisingly, Eveline is finally getting some page time and I got say I wanna hear more on Eve, she was rather funny. The Creature was also out and about and I cant wait to see what he does next since he's in little bit of a pickle.

Aja James, is such a great writer if you have yet to read one of her stories, pick one up today I promise you wont regret it.

[TamaraT · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm going to be brutally honest. The only reason this has 4 stars and not 3 as I was thinking of how to rate this is DRAGON💖! The writing is good, the plot a bit shaky for me and the characters were ok but didn't click for me.

Plotwise: Sophia is on her journey of self discovery and took her guard (plus Benji, really taking a child into danger?!?!). I can buy that. She brought along Ere who is her friend. I can buy that too. But the whole splitting up in groups part annoyed me. Yes I know that Cloud had his own path and Aella followed but still. Also the whole Heavenly creatures thing, while awesome cause DRAGON💖, was a bit out of nowhere.

Evelyn for me was just there to set up her story in a next book. She was bland and filler for me. The momeng she split off from the group I knew she was going to be captured. But really?!?! An Elite warrior like Dalair was captured and turned while alone and the Scholar with limited battle skills decided to go off alone. Just really?!?!

I enjoyed seeing Tal's healing process. I adored Benji and liked seeing Sophia fight the Darkness inside. Also dundundun....it's now known that the Creature is Ere/Binu and most likely Tal and Ishtar's son. The Creature in captivity. Thjs will be intriguing.

Aella: I love her as Sophia's protector and friend. Her history was ok but my least favorite of them all. Her attitude of 'I get what I want' which was possibly supposed to make me admire her for her tenacity just plain pissed me off at times. When she and Cloud got together there was no YAY moment for me, just meh so that happened.

Cloud: I loved his horse/DRAGON💖 but like I said before his character and backstory didn't click with me. Which is sad cause the heaven thing shoukd have interested me.

So yeah not as enthusiastic about this as all the others. Still enjoyed it but not as much as the previous ones.

[Lover of Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pure Surrender is the 10th installment in the "Pure Dark Ones" series. I was more than thrilled to pick this one up, although it took a bit longer than I expected to do so. I just love this cover and boy is it smokin' hot! This is the book where I feel like the Pure/Dark Ones get introduced to the Dragons so I was so fascinated in what we see build within this story. This definitely has some powerful angst and epic love feels to the story which I immediately gravitated towards.

Pure Surrender is a story that has multiple storylines, so I do think it's wise to at least read the previous book before jumping into this one here. But the main plot of the book, is our primary couple that we get introduced to: Aella and Cloud. Aella was once a Amazon warrior princess and our hero is a elite solider for the Pure/Dark Ones. There has been building tension between Aella and Cloud. Even though there is a powerful chemistry, they both have lost their past memories of each other and suffer headaches around each other. But when they are in a forced proximity situation with a Pure/Dark One scribe, they are both confronted with the truths of their past and the epic love they once shared but lost. But now they have a chance to rediscover their love, but will fate determine a different path for them?

Pure Surrender was such an intense and epic feeling romance. I just couldn't seem to get enough of this test of wills between Aella and Cloud. I was so curious to see how the truths would be revealed between these two. I also love the way that the author implemented the racial diversity within this story. In fact, she is one of the BEST authors in writing it in such a genuine flawless way. Now this story does have LOTS of flashbacks, so be prepared for that. This seems to be a common occurrence within Aja James novels so keep that in mind when reading this one. But I was really drawn into their backstory, and I do enjoy the way in which Aja James handles flashbacks, and I normally can't stand them.

What I really loved though is seeing Aella and Cloud recognize their connection, realize their past and FIGHT for each other and their love. We get to see the truths behind Cloud and what he is willing to sacrifice for Aella, is so precious. I have a feeling this won't be the last that we see of these delectable dragons though! I honestly can't wait to see more of them in future books *crossing fingers* they connect to her dragon series.

Overall, I found Pure Surrender to be a magnificent installment, that combined all the tragedy of the past with the hope of the future, and blends beautifully with the present in a satisfying delivery! This author can do no wrong in my book! So if you haven't read her yet...WHAT ON EARTH ARE YOU WAITING FOR? READ HER NOW!

[Alaina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just knew Aella and Cloud's love was going to be explosive. Ever since they met one another, I enjoyed each and every sexual tension and teasing moment brought me joy. So much freaking joy.

In other words, I enjoyed the crap out of Pure Surrender. Each twist and turn that revealed more information about anyone in this series had my head spinning. Seriously, so much information is in my brain right now and I'm just trying to dissect it all.

These two made me feel things. Whether it was in their past or present forms. It was really interesting to see how in love they were when they first met and how they forgot who they were as well. So seeing them remember bit by bit and falling back in love was just way too adorable. I was a hot emotional mess through it all and I'm just so freaking ecstatic that they are mates now.

I knew it was going to happen but I was happy to sit back and enjoy everything in between first. Besides that, we found out more information about Ere. I'm pretty sure I was getting vibes that he could be the creature way back in the first book so I'm happy that Benji figured it all out. The boy is smart as heck and that was hit little moment to shine. Loved it.

Overall, I'm excited to see Eveline find her mate. The girl really needs to unleash her wild side and maybe this seductive bad guy can do that. But first, the novella about the creature!

[Mar, Queen of Darkness · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing book that totally blew my socks (and other more intimate clothing items) off!

There were definitely slow burn vibes simmering in this masterpiece of a book, but when the fire lit, it BURNED, baby! I think the last couple scenes were my favourite because it just tied everything up with a sweet little bow of happiness and sexiness. *fangirl sigh* One of my fav things is seeing how the couples interact after all the secrets are out and they can finally be their true selves, and this book delivered!

Cloud was so sweet and pure and I was just wanted to hug him and b*tchslap anyone who tried to hurt him. As for his secret identity (which I won't spoil), I love how it was revealed! Totally caught me off guard and before that, I had no freaking clue what the hell he was.

And Aella... I went between loving her and wanting to, well, b*tchslap her to protect my baby Cloud. But she totally came through for him in the end, above and beyond! She was more than worthy, and her love and loyalty blew me away.

I now happily rescind my b*tch slapping duties to Aella with full trust that she will fiercely protect our precious Cloud as he deserves.

Now, time to find out what that shady Ramses is up to! And as for the big Creature reveal at the end, all I can say is......... DUH, PEOPLE! FINALLY. For a bunch of immortal badasses, y'all can be a LITTLE clueless sometimes!

[Kristina · Rating 5 out of 5]

First thing I got to say is that the chemistry between Cloud and Aella was just wowww. Ever since the first book was released and I was introduced to both of them I have always wanted to read their story, at first glance there was already chemistry and woahh, I knew it was going to be a mind-blowing book.

Aja keeps blowing my expectations of her books because they are always so good.
Cloud was so mysterious at the beginning of the book, and for a second I actually thought that he didn't have feelings for Aella, until I got to his POV and I knew I was completely wrong, he had them but he just wasn't aware of them

I love how Aella was always so comfortable and confident in herself. She complemented Cloud because he was quiet and calm, and she put energy confidence and loudness in their relationship.

[Bluerose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Just wow! I can't hardly find the words to express my feelings about this book.

First things first, the prologue just about gutted me. It's no secret that Tal and Ishtar are my favorite couple in this series and i love reading about their ongoing struggles and how they overcome them. Some of the revelations in this book come as no surprise to anyone really following this storyline. There are lots of things i love about Aja James' storyweaving, but if i had to choose one its that, while there are a lot of surprises and wtf moments along the way, its the way the puzzle pieces fit together that is so smooth and logical and just satisfies me. Its like when, you know what it will be but its the way to get there, the journey, that matters and Aja James' is killing it.

On to the main couple of this story which is Aella and Cloud. They've met in a previous book and it was hinted that there was an instant connection at least from Aella's POV. Cloud was pretty much a closed book up until now. I liked Aella from the start since she reminded me of Wonder Woman and she was an Amazon to boot. Gotta love a kick-ass female but i was a bit turned off with her insessant remarks on sexual conquests. That said, i loved everything Cloud and Aella in this book. Their chemistry was off the charts explosive and that scene in the cavern just about gave me a heart attack. Their connection and previous history was heartbreaking and made so much sense. Cloud was an amazing hero! I loved his innocence and steadfast dedication to his role. But when he loved, he did it wholeheartedly and without a second thought. I love that AJs characters are so unique, everyone has their own unique voice and you can tell. I just loved loved loved their love story so so much!!

Last but not least, that scene where Sophia re-lived her memories was absolutely haunting. I felt like i was falling in the pit of dispair along with her. I'm shivering just thinking about it. AJ can bring the FEELS!

Overall, another amazing story with everything to satisfy fans of this series. If you haven't gotten to it, start this series NOW!!

[Set · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aella Alexander is a blonde Amazonian and a hearthrob that always gets her man, that is, until she met Cloud Drako. He ignores her flirting and advances. She has held out from carnal pleasures since she met him because she always she gets what she wants.
Cloud Drako has EuroAsian features with blue eyes and a hot bod. He is a angsty mystery with many layers.

Aella vaguely remembers a past with a man that she cared for and Cloud brings up the same feelings of that past. Cloud has a familiar spirit, his horse, and they are unstoppable when they fight together. Cloud has the ability to use his mind control to sense people's feeling and control those feelings by bringing them to the surface but they don't work of Aella. He had a past he can't quite remember but hasn't gotten over. Aella heard from Ayelet that Cloud might have been a human during the Three Kingdoms period in ancient China. And it just so happened that Aella has a suppressed memory of a a Chinese warrior that is rooted in her heart.

Cloud's Origin Story: Cloud is actually a deity with fragments of the Pure Goddess in him. He is named Cloud because he always had a little Cloud over his head wherever he went. Sometimes the cloud was fluffy and sometimes stormy. He was sent to Earth to understand what it was to be human. He would sometimes unleash havoc to the earthlings from the Emperor kingdom in the Heavens to earth like explode a volcano to see the little ants scatter. He was sent to Earth for the purpose of fulfilling missions and to understand what being human was. His mother had been attacked by a Dark one while she was eight months pregnant. He was the same vampire who had killed her pure mate before her very eyes and then he tried to turn her by giving her a fraction of his soul. The mother had not survived but he survived and was birthed right before his mother died. No wonder he is so hard to get. hehe He had seen Aella in her past life through the heaven pond when he was a little boy and she was a little girl, she had seen him back.

Aella's backstory: Cloud knew Aella from her past life. They met at a trading post when she was an Amazonian and he was waiting to fulfill his mission. She was brawling with a man that turned out to be a cheater who attacked her from the back after she put him down. Cloud saved her from the man with his electrical powers when the dirty cheater tried to plunge the dagger to the back of her neck. And it was then that he remembered the little girl that was looking at him in when he was a child in the celestial Heavens. Aella challenged him to a duel and offered sex afterwards. He rejected her offer but she initiated the fight anyway and he effortlessly avoided all her moves. He could have beaten her many times but he was on defense and not offense; in short, he beat her in combat.

Cloud and Sophia were on Sophia's journey to remember her past. Cloud confronted Aella and told her that he wasn't one of the many man that throw themselves at her feet and that he knew she wanted to fuck him but he wasn't game. While Aella and Cloud (Eveline a third wheel) were on their way to a point of interest in the expedition, they were attacked by mindless vampires. Aella was almost impaled by a spear and was surrounded by vampires when Cloud rescued her on his horse. She was very happy to be riding behind him with her legs wrapped around him. Eveline doesn't like the wild and she's not enjoying the expedition. Later, Aella got a splitting headache that triggered some memories.

In her past life: Aella had found Cloud injured at a battlefield. She remembered in the memory that he had kisses her. When Aella was delusional in her memories, Cloud kissed water into her mouth. And she brought him to her Amazonian community to heal him and claimed him a stud for reproduction in order to get him into the strong hold for his injuries were too great. Aella's mother was the queen of their Amazonian community. She remembered that when he came back from being knocked out, she kissed and touched him but never took advantage of him. He wanted her to take advantage of him but alas...xD They didn't speak the same language other than body language. *sizzle* She kept teasing him and finally seduced him, only when he couldn't take the temptation anymore and they made beautiful love. hurt her back with his words. Although, he doesn't remember anything, his soul is still bitter from. After her mother had someone translate that he was just a whore for the purpose of procreation and their love could never be, he was going to fight them in his frail state but Aella stopped the confrontation and begged her mother to let him leave. This is how they parted ways. She hurt him when they departed because she was an Amazonian and he was a man. But Aella hadn't chosen duty instead of love. Her mother disowned her harshly but she rode off to find him. At that moment the Amazonian camp fell under attack. Cloud used his lightning powers and turned into a FREAKING DRAGON.

He destroyed the opposing army, the Amazonian woman were not able to see him but Aella was able to look right at him. Then Cloud was summonsed to Heaven and was imprisoned. The reason that he would be born into the Earthly realm is to fulfill his mission as a dragon and once he discarded his worldly body, he wouldn't be able to return to it and must go back to Heaven. He asked his master to be able to return to Earth but he was not allowed anymore for interfering with human affairs. While imprisoned, he saw that Aella had stayed eternally youthful and was tormented by watching her have men after man, all the man she wanted. So, he asked his master in Heaven to erase his and her memories of each other. After two thousand years, he was reincarnated on earth.

Cloud went into the caves while Aella and Eveline rested. He put a force field barrier around them while they rested to make them invisible. When Aella came back to, she remembered everything and tried to tell him but he kept rejected her over and over again, it was driving him man. He was shirtless, angry and in pain. He kissed her hard and punishing and then he punished her body with his rod. xD He got her off but he did not.

After their love/hate moment, they continued onward to their destination. When they went to an underground cave, they found the Snake King that who happened to be Cloud's cousin. The snake's mate was killed by Medusa's soldiers and the snake was slowly dying. The snake chanted a spell and bite Cloud to fulfill his purpose, giving Cloud the final ingredient to become a Dragon. The snake explained that if he transforms into his true form, then he will leave his human shell and go into Heaven. But his mission is to become a dragon. Only pure females who have mates grow fangs. And Aella proved to Cloud that she was his mate because she grew her fangs. His horse is a white dragon, hiding in plain sight. He jumped on White Dragon and tried to leave Aella to fulfil his mission but she also jumped on really quick.

Back to Sophia: Sophia, Gabriel, Benji, Cloud, Eveline and Aella go with Sophia to Egypt where she is trying to uncover her past. Sofia is still turning a little dark. Inanna is the Light Bringer, could Sofia be the Dark Bringer? Sofia remembers that she was the cause of death for tens of thousands of Persians and Egyptians. Ere had a strange moment with Sophia in when his eyes turned glassy and red around the rims; he was in a sort of daze while he chanted something. I think he was losing control over himself or he was triggering Sophia. He told Sophia that he was scared of the dark and had a freak out. Sofia started remembering her past just like Aella, she went into a sort of trance. She remembered Daliar dying after killing 99 men. Sophia's gift is that she could communicate and influence all souls. She can suck up a soul and destroy her enemies or she can enlighten souls into doing good. Her name was Kira, Mistress of Light in her vision. Sophia started turning dark from the memory of Dalair dying and she almost out of control while remembering, so, Inanna had to blast her. Ere was there to see the whole thing and when he spoke, she recognized his voice as that of the CREATURE. Big reveal. lol

Later, while in the desert, Sofia was attacked by the creature and Medusa. They wanted her to join them and used Dalair as leverage. She used her life as leverage with a dagger to her neck in order to save Inanna, Benji and Gabriel in the exchange. But the creature attacked and didn't take the deal.
Cloud showed up when the battle commenced, this was his mission. Cloud was going to leave Aella and go into battle when he kissed her on the white dragon but she pushed him from the dragon into the midst of the fight and told him to trust her. The dragon had taken some damage while Aella was riding. Aella snatched the creature while still on the dragon and told him to call off the attack but it wasn't the creature's call.

Cloud turned into a dragon and Aella followed him into the heavenly kingdom. His master said that a creature like him has never fallen in love before and the master told him that Aella has always loved him. He saw a vision of Aella roaming up and down looking for him after he had left her the first time. She then climbed a mountain and prayed in the Dragon's temple until she died, frozen to death in the prayer position; that is how she became a pure one. The master had offered it to her in the in-between and she accepted to keep waiting for her dragon. The master then gave Cloud the choice to stay with her since she marked him as her eternal mate or stay in the Heavenly kingdom. He accepted Aella knowing that he would never return to heavenly kingdom. Aella was frantically searching for him in the Heavenly Kingdom but then she and Cloud immediately appeared in the apartment of the shield and a week had passed by. They had a true mate celebration with their friends.

They captured the creature and Benji told them that Binu and Ere was the creature. He told Mamma bear that the creature looked like her and Tal. lol Big reveal....lol That is when Tal and Ishtar realized that the creature was their son and Inanna's twin brother.

Poor eveline, they completely forgot her in the cave. haha She was captured, bound and able to communicate with her captors. She had left the mountain, made it to an airstrip but the airplane took a detour when Eveline fell asleep and when she woke up, she was ushered into a large bus filled with humans. Then she was taken to a pit, all the captives were Pure ones. She was delivered by the leader, a DARK VAMPIRE, that intends to make her his PURE BLOOD SLAVE. Holy Shit. I want to read it now. What book is it? Is it Ramses?

The side story while everything was going on: Ishtar Anshar, the dark star, is Tal's mate sin the Akkadian Empire and forevermore, but his body and sight still hasn't healed fully. He is plagued by the memories of Medusa's torture. The connection that Medusa forced upon Tal is still there and still calls to him because it hasn't been completely purged from his body. She still torments him with her bond even though she doesn't have telekenisis anymore. Tal is still having a hard time of it, he is hurting himself and his wounds are not healing quickly. Rain tried to help him but he has self induced pain, his soul being the source of pain. Jade tries to help him by ciphering sexual energy that releases endorphins to solidify Ishtar's bond more strongly. When Ishtar connected with him through the sex magic, she suddenly felt the pain from a memory of Tal's torture. He tried to snap her out of it but it she didn't come to until the memory was complete. Tal is now doing better although he still has underlying pain.

I laughed so hard when Jade was commanded to enter her own throne room when Ramses was having his little fun with that vampire. She worked for him and he had to keep her obedient. I can't wait to see Ramses' story!!! WOOT WOOT!

It is confirmed that Circe wanted to sire an air elemental Tiger, half dark, half pure and half Beast; she wanted to create a Dragon. The nine tail fox was collecting some of the Divine spark of creature to combine them and make a new body like that of a Goddess or even stronger. She said that she is the dragon...

Medusa was the one to open the Little Flower orphanage, among a whole network of orphanages and the one creating orphans for those orphanages. Ariel Kyles was one of those test tube babies that survived the embryonic state with human and animal genes so she was allowed to live in the orphanage. She makes people with abilities into orphans to keep tabs on them like Clara and Annie who are elementals.

Well, that was a hot ride. I am excited for Eveline's story. HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO WAIT?

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

PHENOMENAL read, enlightening, emotional

"I knew I would enjoy reading their story after they're meeting for the first time. Aella was just in complete lust !!! And Cloud seemed to know who she was, and that he absolutely had to resist her, ignore her, and stay as far away from her as he could! so, you knew there was something there from their past that was going to be extremely important and very emotional! And it was definitely not disappointing!!!
Their story is epic ...

[Serenechaosnyc · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm going these books so quickly and I kind of want to stop so I can savor them but I can't because I just have to know what happens!

Another fantastic edition to the series, this book was, to me, split into 3 separate story lines. Even more so, I recommend reading in order because the world is fascinating and original, with an abundance of details that really brings the reader into the stories.

The first story line is the romance between Cloud and Aella. Cloud was recruited a few years ago to be one of the elite guards of Sophia, the queen of the Pure Ones. Aella is Sophia's best friend and she used to be an Amazon warrior. I love these strong characters that Aja James creates. Now, to be totally honest, as a couple, these two were not my favorites. (But I have so many to choose from so it's no big deal). Their story was revealed through flashbacks but I have to admit that, in the beginning, I didn't find as big of an affinity for Aella's story and I didn't really understand Cloud. I knew he had a bigger role to play and through the story, his role (and their past) was slowly revealed and then bang, suddenly I was totally invested in their love. It took a while so I love them but in the other stories, I was invested in the couples earlier.

By the way, the additional paranormal element uncovered through this story was awesome. No spoilers but I loved it and I'm so beyond excited for how it will continue to play out.

The second part of the series followed Sophia as she tried to find out more about her past incarnation. There is greater clarity about her potential in this world and what path she needs to choose between. It was an excellent unrevealing about the path the Pure/Dark Ones needs to continue to take in order for good to prevail.

And finally, we see Ishtar and Tal again and the struggles that they go through because of Tal's heartbreaking past torture and abuse. It's not easy (though realistic, even in a paranormal world) and there are triggers so be forewarned. But the beauty of their love continues to leave me breathless.

All these characters are just so memorable. The fight for good, the heroism and sacrifice and above all else, the absolute love, stay with me over each book and throughout the whole series.

[Keisha Aranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Warning you will be under a intense Cloud advisory. There will be intense and smothering looks that you will wish was directed at you. The electeral chemistry is leaping off the pages and would have you wondering if you will get caught in the currants Cloud produces. This book was very special. Aja surprised me at every turn. I liked this book so much that I read it twice. Thank you Aja for gifting me with a chance to do an ARC review. I can't wait to see what you have in store next.

[Lorrie (Clockworkbookworm) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally we get to understand Cloud! I figured out several things early in, but it didn't detract from the story and only wanted everyone else in the know. Aella's story made me understand her more and her Awakening was sad.

Absolutely love Benji! Benji for the win. Ere is still heartbreaking and Sophia's journey continues.

[H.F · Rating 5 out of 5]

~Thank you Thank you Aja for the arc. ~
Let's go!


How do Aja do this? She keeps writing amazing books one after another with so many characters very smoothly and effortlessly. Making us desperate for more. (｡♥‿♥｡)

Let's talk about that prologue, believe me I don't cry easily but Aja made me tear up before even reading the first chapter.


I want Masuda to die, slowly and painfully and If possible by Tal Telal's hands 😭 Also I need to have an one on one conversation with Ishtar,
"Why did you let her live again my dear?" >_<

__

So Cloud hmmm ..

:drolling: (｡♥‿♥｡)

(That name is already one of my favorite. Any Final Fantasy VII fans here? hehe)

Actually I didn't focus on him in the beginning until I knew he was going to be the next hero, so I reread the first book again and this time tried to focus on Cloud's and Allea's first meeting.

Those two are really meant for each other, she is just the perfect match for our quite and fabulous hero. She is strong, bold and of course very funny 😄 best of all she can make him blush.



I loooved their story, from that awesome first glance through the mirror ( so anime like scene 😍) to their actual first meeting and separation.

By the way I don't know about anyone else but I wanted to strangle his master for making him watch her with other guys,


It really broke my heart along Cloud's I can't imagine his pain 😭
__

And that ending! Finally the secret is out and did I mention Benjamin is my favorite little person too!
Loove that cutie pie.


And ... I think I know who is Eveline's herooo ~




___

Favorite Quotes:

"Tristan and Isolde are Adorable. Ayelet is lovely. Seth is everthing charming. Jade is so beautiful and sexy I'd mate her myself if she weren't enamored of Seth..."

"The lengths I go to in the name of Friendship," Jade mock sighed. "However will I muddle through the marathon orgy that awaits me?"

"What's your favirote body part on a man, Eveline?"

"You are an angel too, Ere. But you've fallen from the sky and lost your way."