Review for Kotaro's "VOICES IN THE SEA FOAM"

 

VOICES IN THE SEA FOAM.
Boys Love

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Kotaro

RELEASE DATE:
May 05, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Kodansha Comics

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781647295806

RATING:
4

 

 

Aito is a reincarnated mermaid princess, one who died tragically from unrequited love. He believes the curse followed him into his new life as a human. Aito has sworn off love because of it. However, a chance encounter with Toru causes him to change his mind. Can Aito find a way to break his curse? Or will history repeat itself?

Toru is a junior in the sound and engineering department of college. After watching a video of Aito singing, he realizes he wants him to do vocals on a track. Whenever Toru is around Aito, the other man cannot speak. When he finds a way around their communication barrier, Toru finds himself falling in love with Aito. Can he convince Aito to go out with him?

Poor Aito. I can understand his reasons for being so jaded about happy endings and love. Being bombarded with such heart-wrenching memories at a young age would have anyone swearing off love.

I only have one small nitpick. I would have liked more of Toru’s point of view. Aito’s friend Mizuki has more scenes than Toru – which seems odd and off putting for me. It did not allow me to connect with him.

Mizuki may be a side character but he/she is a GREAT friend. I admire how far he/she went to help Aito overcome his curse. There was no derision, just acceptance.

This is basically a Boys Love twist to The Little Mermaid telling – the Grimm version not Disney. There are no heated sex scenes nor any heated kissing. Overall, it gives off a wholesome vibe.

A one-shot manga. So the pacing between Aito and Toru is rushed in some places. I would not be adverse to another volume being released, side stories showing the progression of Toru and Aito’s relationship.

Review for Jil Hashikura's "HONEY BEE & LEMON BALM" Volume 1.

 

HONEY BEE & LEMON BALM Vol 1
Boys Love, Slice of Life, Yakuza

 

 

AUTHOR:
Jil Hashikura

RELEASE DATE:
April 7, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Kodansha Comics

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9798888777589

RATING:
4.5

 

 

Kaoru Mitsuya is a down on his luck, former yakuza. Yuichiro Shirouzu is a florist in the entertainment district. Kaoru discovers Yuichiro unconscious in an alley and helps him return to his shop. Yuichiro offers him both a job and a place to stay. Kaoru finds himself falling in love with his beautiful employer. Will he confess to Yuichiro? And how does Yu feel towards Kaoru?

Kaoru and Yuichiro’s personalities complement each others. Kaoru is rough-around-the-edges and abrasive. Yuichiro is calm and often clueless. I like how Yu tries to help Kaoru turn his life around. My heart melted when he held an impromptu birthday party for him. I adore how protective Kaoru is towards Yu, especially once he finds out about his frailty.

This manga is such a wholesome yet fun read! Some parts had me laughing (especially Ryo’s interaction with Kaoru. I can see those two becoming friends). There are no sex scenes – which I am totally fine with. The story and its progress does not call for it. I am glad it was not mired down with it.

I will be buying a copy for my collection when it is released. This is totally a keeper. I cannot wait for the next installment!

Review for Eliana Piers' "CRUVES FOR THE GRUMPY DUKE"

 

CURVES FOR THE GRUMPY DUKE.
Eliana Piers

 

AUTHOR:
Eliana Piers

RELEASE DATE:
April 7, 2026

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781834204703

RATING:
4

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.elianapiers.com/pages/home

 

 

Honoria Harrington wants to honor her father’s dying wish: to paint a duke’s portrait and display it in a gallery. She first needs to gain a certain duke’s consent. An unforeseen ally helps Honoria in securing Dermont’s agreement to pose for her. During a session, she and the duke find themselves unable to resist their mutual attraction. Will Honoria fulfill her father’s final wish?

Dermont, the Duke of Kolbridge, does not have time for Honoria’s antics. He is worried about his sister’s acceptance amongst their peers. An incident forces Dermont to agree to pose for Honoria. When a suitor attempts to abduct his sister, Dermont realizes what Honoria truly means to him. Can he help her achieve her goal? Will Dermont persuade Honoria to marry him?

The shortness of the book made it difficult for me to connect with Honoria and Dermont. I feel that the characters would have benefitted with a longer story. I love Honoria’s insistence on completing her father’s last wish. And she would do whatever it took to achieve it. I do adore Dermont’s desire to look after and protect his sister.

CURVES FOR THE GRUMPY DUKE is the first book in the Busty Bodice Club. Each story is written by a different author featuring full-figured heroines. Eliana Piers is a new-to-me-author. Novella in length, it did not take long for me to read. Some areas felt a little rushed, which made it tough to get into the storyline and characters.

I am curious about the next installment. Celeste is the next Harrington to fulfill their father’s dying wish. I wonder what he has in store for her.

Review of Sofie Darling's "LADY DELILAH DARES A DUKE"

 LADY DELILAH DARES A DUKE

Historical Romance

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Sofie Darling

RELEASE DATE:
March 17, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Oliver Heber Books

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0G155LRZ4

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://sofiedarling.com/

 

 

Lady Delilah Windermere is the youngest daughter of an earl. She views the Duke of Ravensworth as her nemesis. After her cousin weds Delilah secretly joins a traveling theater company for the summer. During a production Sebastian almost sabotages her opportunity to perform, again. Now Delilah must deal with the man for the remainder of the summer. Will she ever achieve her dreams of acting? Or will something stand in Delilah’s way?

Sebastian Crewe, the Duke of Ravensworth, is widely regarded as the “Patron of the Arts”. He has always been captivated by Delilah. Sebastian finds her performing with a traveling troupe of actors. When she refuses to return home, he decides to accompany her in disguise. During their summer together, away from their peers, Sebastian and Delilah begin to see each other in new light. Will he reveal the truth behind the Eton incident? Can Sebastian persuade Delilah that they belong together?

There were moments, in this book and the other four, that Delilah annoyed me. I understand that acting and performing on a stage is her passion and dream. And that her noble status hindered Delilah following it openly. However, I always felt that she treated Sebastian rudely and unfairly. She never truly given him the chance to explain his reasons for what he did at Eton.

There are so many nummy things about Sebastian. He may appear arrogant and cold, but he does have a heart of gold. I admire Sebastian’s dedication to supporting the arts and not just one aspect of it. He even uses his ducal influence to pressure his peers into doing the same. What I love the most about Sebastian is how he never wanted to curb Delilah’s personality. It is the part of her that first drew his attention. Sebastian loved watching her chase after her dreams.

LADY DELILAH DARES A DUKE is the fifth and final book in Sofie Darling’s historical romance series, WINDERMERES IN LOVE. LDDaD was first published in January 2023 by Dragonblade Publishing, Inc. The author and Oliver Heber Books re-released it, along with the others, with new covers. To better understand everything about the Windermere family, it is important to start at the beginning. Each story, including the prequel, is novella length.

Amelia and Tristan, Archer and Valentina, and Juliet and Rory make an appearance at the end. I am so happy that they did! And, we finally got to meet the Windermere siblings’ parents. They have been mentioned in the prior books except the prequel. Yes, even the ever-annoying Oliver Quincy has a part to play.

Review for Larissa Ione's "BOND OF PASSION"

 BOOK OF PASSION

Paranormal Romance

 

 

AUTHOR:
Larissa Ione

RELEASE DATE:
February 24, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Blue Box Press

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0GP6NKGCR

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.larissaione.com/

 

 

Tavin is a Seminus demon haunted by his past deeds as a former assassin. He works at Underworld General Hospital to atone for all the lives he took. Tavin finds himself the target of his resurrected victims… And his savior is one of UGH’s newest nurses. Something about the beautiful yet prickly female feels familiar. Will Deja give Tavin the redemption he desperately needs? Or will she spell his doom?

Deja wants revenge on the lover who killed her twelve years ago. She is given the chance when her soul gets resurrected into a new body. Deja becomes a nurse at Underworld General Hospital, so she can get closer to Tavin. A life and death situation causes her need for retribution waver. Will Deja get the vengeance she craves? Will she learn the reason for her death? And can Deja forgive Tavin?

Poor, poor Tavin! The guilt that man lived with for twelve years. Yeesh, I would have buckled within an hour. What I admire the most about Tavin is that he chose a profession that is the opposite of his former one. He believes it is the best way to atone. Sure, it does not absolve Tavin for all he has done. But he truly did not have much of a choice.

I understand Deja’s need for vengeance. The hurt and betrayal she must have felt when her lover killed her. That would make anyone, demon or human, want revenge. But I love how that all changes once Deja learns the truth behind her death. And Tavin’s circumstances. Plus, Deja is granted another chance at life, one that she does not have to worry about because of her species.

BOND OF PASSION is the twenty-first book in Larissa Ione’s popular dark-paranormal romance series, DEMONICA. It is imperative (I cannot stress this enough) to read these books in proper order. Things will make sense, especially the state of the world, etc. What I absolutely adore about BoP is that it takes place in Underworld General Hospital. Oh, how I have missed this fictional place! I may not like real-life hospitals and doctors (have been there enough for the hubby), but I love these ones!

And the Seminus siblings! Eidolon, Shade, Wraith, Lore and Sin! I could not contain the huge grin I got when reunited with them. It is almost like seeing friends that have been absent for years. They, especially Eidolon, Lore and Sin, play an important part in the story. Azagoth and Lilliana even make an appearance. Now I must buy the novellas I need (two or three I believe) and Revenant’s book, so I can say I read every DEMONICA book out there!

The whole highlight of the book for me is when Lore brought up D&D’s drow. My favorite species of elves (just as past role-playing friends).

BOND OF PASSION’s first publication came in November 2022 by 1001 Dark Nights Press. The author re-released it, BOND OF DESTINY, and seven titles in her DEMONICA UNDERWORLD series. It received a new cover and bonus content.

Review for Larissa Ione "BOND OF DESTINY"

 

BOND OF DESTINY
Paranormal Romance

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Larissa Ione

RELEASE DATE:
February 24, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Blue Box Press

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0GP2VR858

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.larissaione.com/

 

 

Tracker (aka Whine) is a werewolf who spent the entirety of his existence as a slave. His slave bond now belongs to one of the Four Horsemen’s mates. When his mistress’s friend arrives injured, Tracker knows he must help her. Stacey makes him want things a slave cannot have. Stacey makes him want things that are forbidden to slaves. Can Tracker find the bravado to break his invisible shackles? And at what cost?

Stacey Markham, a former sheriff’s deputy, is a DART agent in charge of dealing with demon incursions in Colorado. She has always been interested in the werewolf that her best friend unwillingly owns. An accident sends an injured Stacey to Tracker’s home amid a blizzard. She wants to help him assimilate to the new life that her friend granted him. Can Stacey help Tracker find a way to gain his freedom?

It has been fourteen plus years since I last read the LORD OF DELIVERANCE book. Sadly, I do not remember Tracker. The wounded/tortured hero is my favorite trope.  And Tracker has that in spades, so he did not disappoint me. My heart literally bled at all the degradation and pain he endured. All thanks to his flea-bitten parents. What I love the most about Tracker is how Stacey helps him come into his own. It is a slow process (hate when authors make it instantaneous). She became the incentive Tracker needed to strive for a better life.

As with Tracker, I do not really remember Stacey overly much.  One of these days I seriously need to do a re-read of the entire Demonica collection (spinoff included). Stacey is perfect for Tracker. She may not understand the full scope of the trauma he has endured. But Stacey takes her time with Tracker, helping him through any of his hangups. Yeah, she makes some blunders but that is to be expected.

BOND OF PASSION is the twentieth book in Larissa Ione’s paranormal romance series, DEMONICA. I strongly recommend starting these books from the very beginning. New readers will not be disappointed. And it allows them to understand the world’s current situation and the forces at play. Plus, characters from the previous books either appear (have a role in the plot) or are mentioned. This story takes place after the events of REAPER, the last book in the DEMONICA UNDERWORLD series.

Jillian and Reseph (ROGUE RIDER) - have a pivotal role in this book, as does Harvester. Jillian’s part is larger than the other two. Thanatos (LETHAL RIDER) and Eidolon (PLEASURE UNBOUND) do make an appearance towards the end. Okay, I did a nerdy, happy squeal when Eidolon appeared. Kynan, Underworld General, Suzanne (HER GUARDIAN ANGEL), Azagoth and Sheoul-gra are mentioned.

BOND OF DESTINY’s first publication came in August 2021 by 1001 Dark Nights Press. The author re-released it, BOND OF PASSION, and seven titles in her DEMONICA UNDERWORLD series. It too received a new cover and some bonus content.

 CIPHER

Paranormal Romance

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Larissa Ione

RELEASE DATE:
February 24, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Blue Box Press

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0GP6121F9

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.larissaione.com/

 

 

Cipher is Azagoth’s cyber-specialist. While on a mission, he gets himself kidnapped and brought to Sheoul. Cipher wakens to find his new True Fallen powers and wings bound by one of Satan’s henchmen. He refuses to comply with his captor’s demands. And then there is his sexy yet baffling handler. Is Lyre friend or foe? Will she cause Cipher to betray Azagoth? Can he escape Sheoul before its evil corrupts him?

Lyre is a True Fallen fueled by revenge. She is assigned to encourage Cipher to give her boss what he wants. However, Lyre balks when she learns what Bael intends to do with that information. She decides to help the newly fallen angel any way that she can, even betray her boss. Can Lyre let go of her hate? Will her abilities be enough to help Cipher find a way to escape? And at what cost?

Cipher surprised me! He did not leave much of an impression on me in the prior books. Not until Suzanne’s books. Then I began to see his true personality emerge. Cipher almost makes me think of Hades. The two angels have warped, snarky personalities.  I like that he did not lose that personality in Sheoul. What I adore the most about Cipher is his loyalty to Azagoth. He knows who the bigger threat was… and it was not Bael. Plus, it gutted Cipher to learn that part of his plan backfired.

Lyre is another pleasant surprise. She is an angel consumed by hatred and the need for vengeance. Lyre is not as evil as I expected her to be. Not even mildly. She is just a woman who allowed hatred to lead her down the wrong path… and align with the wrong person. I like how Cipher helped Lyre see the folly of her rage-induced decisions.

CIPHER is the seventh book in Larissa Ione’s paranormal romance series, DEMONICA UNDERWORLD. A spinoff from her popular DEMONICA and LORDS OF DELIVERANCE books. As I stressed before in my reviews of the prior books, it is necessary to read D and LoD first. Many characters and places (such as a certain hospital) from those two series either appear or are mentioned. Then there is the fact that HER GUARDIAN ANGEL, book six, sets up Cipher’s novel.

Some beloved (and favored) characters from prior books crop up here or there. While some are merely mentioned. Azagoth and Sheoul-gra play an important role in the story. Hawkyn does too since he is Cipher’s best friend. Lilliana brings us a nice development to her and Azagoth’s relation. Hades and Z make brief appearances. Tayla (PLEASURE UNBOUND), Arik (IMMORTAL RIDER), Declan (HER GUARDIAN ANGEL) and Kynan have a scene. As does Reaver and Revenant (I have not read his book). Cara (ETERNAL RIDER) makes a small appearance. Eidolon (PU), Underworld General, Ares (ER), Limos (IR), and Suzanne (HGA) are mentions.

What I adore about this series so far is how the author injects her favorite fandoms into each story. In HER GUARDIAN ANGEL there were a lot of Marvel and DC references, along with one Big Bang Theory.  I may not be into the superhero scene, but my husband is. In CIPHER there is an Aliens reference (I never got into them), Star Wars and Star Trek (Hubby would side with Cipher; he likes Boba Flett. I am not a sci fi person) and Big Bang Theory. My nerdiness comes out when it deals with D&D lore (from what I read from Forgotten Realms books. I am a big drow nerd), Mercedes Lackey’s Valdemar books, and anime/manga.

CIPHER’s first publication came in July 2019 by Evil Eye Concepts, Inc. The author has re-released nine volumes of the series with new covers, tweaked/fleshed out scenes, and added bonus content.

Review for Larissa Ione's "HER GUARDIAN ANGEL"

 

HER GUARDIAN ANGEL
Paranormal Romance

 

AUTHOR:
Larissa Ione

RELEASE DATE:
February 24, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Blue Box Press

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0722Q152K

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.larissaione.com/

 

 

Suzanne is a young Memitim – an earthbound angel who protects certain beings that hold importance to the future. When a dangerous demon threatens her Primori, Suzanne decides to “hire” him to act as her bodyguard. Love between a Memitim and their Primori is taboo. Being with Declan makes Suzanne realize some hard truths about herself. Will Suzanne earn Heaven’s wrath? Can she protect Declan from his demonic threat?

Former Air Force Pararescueman, Declan Burke works as a security expert and bodyguard. After an unusual situation, he finds himself put on bodyguard duty. Declan is assigned to protect a beautiful yet unusual rich socialite from a stalker. However, he suspects Suzanne is not entirely truthful with him. Will Declan learn what she is hiding from him? And is he mentally prepared for that truth?

I like the fact that Suzanne differs from her Memitim siblings. She is not weighed down by a crummy childhood, nor does she have a chip on her shoulders. Suzanne is upbeat and sunny. I empathize with Suzanne. She does not share her siblings’ desire to Ascend to Heaven. Suzanne wants to become a chef and have a cooking show, a no-no for her kind.

I did not expect to like Declan as I did. He has had the type of childhood that most Memitim do. I believe that is why Suzanne can understand him as others cannot. What I love the most about Declan is that he is a comic book nerd! And he is not a closet nerd but open about his hobby.

HER GUARDIAN ANGEL is the sixth book in Larissa Ione’s paranormal romance series, DEMONICA UNDERWORLD. A spinoff from her popular DEMONICA and LORDS OF DELIVERANCE books. It is also a crossover with Lexi Blake’s MASTERS & MERCENARIES series. I cannot stress enough the necessity of reading the prior series before this one. Yes, characters from the other books pop in here or there. Some mentioned, some play a small yet important role in the story. The prior books explain the situation the world is in and what it is about to face. Plus, it explains Underworld General Hospital. Why it is important. Why it came into being, etc.

Of course, many characters from the prior books from this series show up in some capacity or are mentioned. Azagoth is a given since Suzanne is a Memitim. Hawkyn has a role in the plot. It is fun seeing him behaving like an overprotective brother. Idess, Cat, Z, Aurora and Lilliana show up briefly. And the best appearance to show up is none other than Wraith (PASSION UNLEASHED). Oh man, how I missed him and his snarky brand of mayhem. Reaver, the Four Horseman (especially War and his mate Cara), and Kynan Morgan are mentioned.

What I love about this book is that DEMONICA appears to be a popular dark comic book in this world. I, myself, am more of a manga person. My hubby is the comic book, superhero and Star Wars nerd. I just want to put it out there that I would totally buy DEMONICA comics (or graphic novels) if they ever became a thing. It would go perfectly with my Sherrilyn Kenyon manga and her LORDS OF AVALON comics.

Review for Larissa Ione's HAWKYN

 

HAWKYN
Paranormal Romance

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Larissa Ione

RELEASE DATE:
February 24, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Blue Box Press

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0GP65ZNHH

RATING:
5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.larissaione.com/

 

 

Hawkyn is a Memitim – an earthbound angel charged with protecting certain beings important to the world’s future. He despises one of his current charges, an evil serial killer. Hawkyn breaks one of the rules governing his kind and rescues a woman from his Primori. Keeping her safe will derail his goal to sit on the Memitim Council. Which will Hawkyn choose? Aurora? Or the career that will benefit his Memitim siblings?

Aurora Mercer is a wytch – a human/demon hybrid species. She works as a masseuse at an exclusive spa in Portland, Oregon. Aurora becomes the unfortunate victim to a psychopathic serial killer. She is rescued by the unlikeliest of beings: her abductor’s guardian angel. But can Aurora trust Hawkyn with her safety? Can she successfully evade her tormentor’s detection? Or is it Aurora’s fate to die by his hands?

Hawkyn drew my curiosity since his appearance in an earlier book. He did NOT disappoint! I empathize with Hawkyn’s dilemma. Subconsciously, it ate at him to protect such a vile and evil person, until he had enough. What I adore the most about Hawkyn is his reasons for attaining Ascension. He wanted to join the Memitim Council to make crucial and necessary changes for his many siblings.

Aurora is so easy to like. She knows her abilities limitations. And Aurora uses her gifts to help and benefit those who desperately need it. I am a little surprised that she did not know too much about the supernatural world, since she is a human/demon hybrid. But then, I can since Aurora preferred to live more like a human. My heart ached for everything she endured at her captor’s cruel hands. However, the situation allowed Aurora to change and sort of embrace her species. She refused to remain a victim. Plus, Aurora did not know who she could trust to help her.

HAWKYN is the fifth book in Larissa Ione’s dark paranormal romance series, DEMONICA UNDERWORLD – a spinoff from her DEMONICA and LORDS OF DELIVERANCE series. I feel it is necessary to start with the DEMONICA and LORD OF DELIVERANCE books before this series. They properly set up the author’s world, its current circumstances, and the important people at play. Much of what goes on behind the scenes will become relevant in future books.

Azagoth and Lillian have important parts to play in this story in the background. Underworld General Hospital makes an appearance (man, I miss that place!). Idess (ECSTASY UNVEILED) and her son Mace appear in the book along with Gemella - sister to Tayla (PB) and wife/mate to Kynan. I believe Gem and Kynan’s relationship is touched on in the background of the D series. It has been YEARS since I last read the books. Several characters are mentioned such as Eidolon (PLEASURE UNBOUND), Thanatos (LETHAL RIDER), Hades, Z, and Razr. These characters are the reasons I recommend reading the prior two series before this one.

HAWKYN’s first publication came in February 2018 by Evil Eye Concepts, Inc. The author has re-released nine volumes of the series with new covers, tweaked/fleshed out scenes, and added bonus content.

Review for Larissa Ione's "RAZR"

 

RAZR
Paranormal Romance

 

AUTHOR:

Larissa Ione

RELEASE DATE:
February 24, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Blue Box Press

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0GP6F8HPQ

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.larissaione.com/

 

 

Rarz (aka Razriel) is an angel that is neither Fallen nor Unfallen but a unique case. He is sentenced to serve Azagoth in Sheoul-gra. Rarz needs to find two of the missing Gems of Enoch to restore his heavenly angel status. A lead takes him straight to Jedda Brighton. He knows that she has information about the gems’ whereabouts. Can Rarz convince Jedda to give them to him? Or is there more at play than what he realizes?

Jedda Brighton is a gem elf – an elf who needs to consume jewels to live. She finds herself the unfortunate target of two angelic beings, both wanting the Gems of Enoch. There is something about Rarz that draws Jedda to him. And she is unable to resist the attraction brewing between them. Can Jedda trust Rarz with the truth about herself? And what will she sacrifice to give Rarz the diamond he needs?

Rarz made me laugh with his elf references and nicknames. I am a little disappointed that he did not make a D&D reference when he found out about Jedda’s race. But that is just me. What I adore about Rarz the most is the sacrifice he was willing to make for Jedda.

It is a given that the whole elf-thing is what I like the most about Jedda. And I like that she is not a push-over. What I love the most about Jedda is how she mirrors Rarz in sentiment. She is willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for him.

RAZR is the fourth book in Larissa Ione’s dark paranormal romance series, DEMONICA UNDERWORLD – a spinoff from her DEMONICA and LORDS OF DELIVERANCE series. It is best to start with the prior two series before this one. They properly introduce the author’s supernatural world and the state it is in (and why). Naturally, Azagoth and Lillian appear in the story. And Hades! I grinned when he and his warped sense of humor made a brief appearance. Shh, Hades is a new favorite of mine!

Larissa introduces a new realm to her Demonica-verse. An elven one! I have been elf-obsessed since reading R.A. Salvatore and Elaine Cunningham’s books (Salvatore’s Drizzt books and Cunningham’s Liriel Baenre and Arilyn & Danilo books, plus EVERMEET). I can be extremely finicky when it comes to high fantasy elements. But, I must give the author kudos for making an elven realm that captured my interest.

I like the creativity behind the gem elves. It fondly reminds me of a creation that a friend and I made during our role-playing era (we called ours jewel elves, and they were born with gems attached to certain parts of their bodies). We never really got to do much with ours. What a bittersweet memory that provokes.

RAZR’s first publication came in April 2017 by Evil Eye Concepts, Inc. The author has re-released nine volumes of the series with new covers, tweaked/fleshed out scenes, and added bonus content.

Review for Larissa Ione's "Z"

 

Z
Paranormal Romance

 

 

AUTHOR:
Larissa Ione

RELEASE DATE:
February 24, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Blue Box Press

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0GP5LXTHX

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.larissaione.com/

 

 

Zhubaal (aka Z) is Azagoth’s fallen angel assistant. He has spent hundreds of years searching for his angelic lover’s reincarnation. When Z is about to give up hope, an emim daemani arrives in Sheoul-gra. He suspects she is carrying his beloved’s soul. Vex is more than what Z bargained for… And he does not want to be attracted to the bold and brash woman. Can Zhubaal accept Vex for who she is? Or will he continue to be stuck on the past?

Vex is a daemani – a person who unwillingly attracts and absorbs demonic souls. She hopes to secure a deal with the Grim Reaper to take the five souls she is carrying, especially her latest acquisition. Vex first encounters Azagoth’s prickly assistant. Something about the handsome fallen angel calls to her soul. Can Vex entice Z to let go of the past? Or will his angelic beloved’s memory continue to be an obstacle?

Zhubaal surprised me. At first, I did not care for him because he behaved like a jerk towards Lilliana in AZAGOTH. My opinion of Z started to change in HADES.  I found myself empathizing with him when he told Cat about waiting for someone special. Zhubaal did annoy me when he expected Vex to be more like Laura, once he learned the truth.

Vex is the perfect contrast for Zhubaal. She is daring, independent, and secure in her promiscuity and lasciviousness. I like how Vex stands her ground with Z about Laura. She knows she is completely different from her past life. Vex refuses to become that woman for Z. She wants Zhubaal to love and accept her for the woman she is now.

Z is the third book in Larissa Ione’s dark paranormal romance series, DEMONICA UNDERWORLD – a spinoff from her DEMONICA and LORDS OF DELIVERANCE series. I do recommend starting with D and LoD before reading this series, especially if you are new to the author’s world. The Four Horsemen (LoD) are mentioned in this story. Naturally, Azagoth and Lilliana play important roles in the story. I am kind of bummed that Hades is only mentioned because I love his personality.

Z’s first publication came in April 2016 by Evil Eye Concepts, Inc. The author has re-released nine volumes of the series with new covers, tweaked/fleshed out scenes, and added bonus content.

Review for Larissa Ione's "HADES"

 

HADES
Paranormal Romance

 

 

AUTHOR:
Larissa Ione

RELEASE DATE:
February 24, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Blue Box Press

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0GP664W5R

RATING:
5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.larissaione.com/

 

 

Hades is Azagoth’s second-in-command. He is responsible for punishing the evil demon souls that arrive in Sheoul-gra’s Inner Sanctum. His world is turned upside down when a beautiful Unfallen slips into his realm and creates chaos. Hades knows Cat is off limits to him. But he cannot help but be drawn to her. Can Hades protect Cat from the turmoil happening in his domain? And will he risk Azagoth’s wrath to have her?

Cataclysm (Cat) is an Unfallen who works for Azagoth. She wants to redeem herself, so she can earn back her wings and return to Heaven. Cat accidentally allows unauthorized souls into the Inner Sanctum. She tries to fix her mistake only to wind up trapped in the hellscape domain. Cat must rely on Hades to get her back to Sheoul-gra. Will Cataclysm act on her attraction to Hades? But at what cost?

Hades is a riot! Oh man, how I love that man’s snarky, warped sense of humor. I do not know how many times his antics and quips had me laughing – something I have not done in the last two weeks since my dog died. Hades made me not want to put the book down. I found myself glued to my kindle, dying to find out what happens next.

Cataclysm is so easy to like. She has this energy about her that makes her endearing. I like how accident-prone Cat is. That added to her charm. Then there is Cat’s chemistry with Hades. Woozers! Off the charts hot. What I adore about Cat the most is that she owns up to her faults. But, she earnestly tries to fix the mistakes that she has caused.

HADES is the second book in Larissa Ione’s dark paranormal romance series, DEMONICA UNDERWORLD – a spinoff from her DEMONICA and LORDS OF DELIVERANCE series. I suggest starting there before venturing into this series. Lilliana and Azagoth play important roles in the story. Reaver makes a couple of appearances. And Thanatos, from LETHAL RIDER, the third book in the LORD OF DELIVERANCE series, is mentioned frequently.

HADES’s first publication came in March 2015 by Evil Eye Concepts, Inc. The author has re-released nine volumes of the series with new covers, tweaked/fleshed out scenes, and added bonus content.

Review for Larissa Ione's "AZAGOTH"

 

AZAGOTH
Paranormal Romance

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Larissa Ione

RELEASE DATE:
February 24, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Blue Box Press

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0GP6DDJH8

RATING:
5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.larissaione.com/

 

 

Azagoth is a powerful fallen angel commonly known as the Grim Reaper. He governs Sheoul-gra, a realm where the souls of demons are kept. Azagoth informs Heaven he will no longer father Memitim, and that he desires a mate. Heaven sends him Lilliana – an angel unlike any of the others sent before her. Will Lilliana be Azagoth’s downfall? Or his greatest strength?

Lilliana is an angel with the ability to travel through time. Unfortunate events lead her to be chosen to become Azagoth’s mate. Raphael orders her to steal a certain artifact and bring it to Heaven to gain her freedom. Lilliana starts to waver once she gets to know the dangerous fallen angel. Will she decide to remain in Sheoul-gra? Or will Lilliana choose her old life?

Larissa Ione sure knows how to write a nummy, bad-boy character that you cannot help but love. And whoa is Azagoth bad with a capital B. But he is so much more! For all his Altitude (yes, I purposely capitalized the A), Azagoth has a soft side that he rarely shows.  It is only for his children and Lilliana. I understand Azagoth’s desire to have a mate. After years of loneliness, he simply wants someone to share his life with. What I adore the most about Azagoth is his fierce protectiveness towards Lilliana. He refuses to allow anyone, even him, to cause her harm or pain.

Lilliana is a good balance for Azagoth. Even though he frightens her, she still stands her ground against him. She refuses to be a push-over. I like how Lilliana’s opinion and feelings toward Azagoth changes once she gets to know the true him. She learns there is more to him than what is taught in Heaven. Lilliana is a good balance for Azagoth. Even though he frightens her, she still stands her ground against him. She refuses to be a push-over. I like how Lilliana’s opinion and feelings toward Azagoth changes once she gets to know the true him. She learns there is more to him than what is taught in Heaven.

AZAGOTH is the first book in Larissa Ione’s dark paranormal romance series, DEMONICA UNDERWORLD – a spinoff from her DEMONICA and LORDS OF DELIVERANCE series. I highly recommend starting there before delving into this series. Characters and situations from those books are mentioned intermittently. Even a certain underground hospital that long-time fans love is mentioned. Idess from ECTASY UNVEILED and Conall from SIN UNDONE do make a small appearance.

AZAGOTH’s first publication came in June 2014 by Evil Eye Concepts, Inc. The author has re-released nine volumes of the series with new covers, tweaked/fleshed out scenes, and bonus content.

I have been a fan of this author and series since the MySpace era – where I was first introduced to her by a friend. Unfortunately, I never got the chance to read the DEMONICA UNDERWORLD books when they first came out.  I am grateful for the chance now!

Review for Christina Britton's "YOU HAD ME AT HEIST"

 

YOU HAD ME AT HEIST
Historical Romance

 

 

AUTHOR:
Christina Britton

RELEASE DATE:
June 16-, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Forever (Grand Central Publishing)

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781538769133

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
http://christinabritton.com/

 

 

Iris Rumford is a member of the Wimpole Street Widows Society, a group of widows who covertly rectify injustices. She has been searching for the one responsible for stealing her late mother’s botanical works. Iris is shocked to discover the thief intends to take credit for her mother’s ground-breaking research. When she and the widows try to reclaim the stolen journals, a lone guard thwarts their every attempt. Can Iris keep the culprit from publishing her mother’s works as his own?

Oliver Beckett is a former (and disgraced) Bow Street Runner. He struggles to find employment to support his widowed mother and younger sister. Oliver accepts a position to safeguard a noble’s botanical collection. He senses something suspicious about his new employer, but he chooses to ignore his instincts. Oliver spots a mysterious yet beautiful stranger near a glasshouse he guards. Her presence threatens his job. Will Oliver continue to put his family’s safety over his instincts?

I could not help but connect with Iris in the prior book. She is different from the heroines I generally prefer. Her idiosyncrasies are what made Iris stand out to me. I understand why some people would find them off-putting or odd to deal with. Not me, I thought they added to her charm. What I love the most about Iris is her steadfast determination to reclaim her mother’s stolen work. She wants her mother to receive the recognition, especially in her field, that she rightly deserves.

I admit that I am a little disappointed that Iris was not paired off with Parsons. However, I do feel that Oliver is a better fit. This generally does not happen to me. Once I get stuck on wanting a certain pairing, I tend to lose enthusiasm for the story if it does not happen.

My heart went out to Oliver. He is the unfortunate victim to the corruption within his previous job’s hierarchy. I understand the dilemma that Oliver faced. He made the difficult decision to swallow his morals for his mother and sister’s benefit. I imagine Oliver despised himself for that. What I love the most about Oliver is how easily he accepted Iris. He did not find her odd but refreshing. Oliver also got outraged on her part whenever someone disparaged her.

YOU HAD ME AT HEIST is the second installment in Christina Britton’s historical romance series, WIMPOLE STREET WIDOWS SOCIETY. This story can easily stand alone. I do recommend starting with TO HEIST AND TO HOLD before starting this book. What I adore the most about this series is that most of the characters (save for one) belong to the working/middle class than aristocracy. It is a nice change of pace for me, especially in this genre. Yeah, I am still not fond of the widow aspect, but that is my own personal quirk.

Heloise and Ethan, the couple from the prior book, do make an appearance. Though Heloise appears more in the story than her husband. I am a little bummed that Ethan’s business partners did not have a role in the story. Perhaps the author will consider writing a spin-off series about them. Teagan and Parsons deserve a book!