Dragon in the Blood

Vale of Stars #2

by Juliette Cross

Valla Moonring is a dragon hybrid assassin who is ordered on a mission into the Wastelands of Aria—a formidable, icy wilderness fraught with all manner of dangers. Outlaws and lethal predators lie in wait to attack intruders.

To her great distaste, she’s partnered with a Nightwing Security operative, Conn Rowanflame, a Morgon with the aggravating ability to get under her skin. Conn’s confident charm throws her off balance, a perilous place to be in conditions like these. Especially when cold nights require close contact.

Sensual attraction binds them ever closer, igniting a passion of unexpected force—the soulfire. But when the hunters become the hunted, their bond could prove perilous. Even fatal…


Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Dragons, Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal, Magic

270 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 29, 2018

About the author

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JULIETTE is a multi-published author of paranormal and contemporary romance, including the best-selling STAY A SPELL series. As a native of Louisiana, she lives in the heart of Cajun country with her husband, four kids, and sundry animals. When she isn’t working on her next project, she enjoys binge-watching her favorite shows with her husband and a glass (or two) of red wine or whiskey.

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Follow JULIETTE on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Juliette__Cross

Reviews

[Carol [Goodreads Addict] · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dragon in the Blood is book two in the Vale of Stars series by Juliette Cross. This book was generously provided to me in exchange for an honest review by the author.

Wow, just Wow! What a crazy, wild ride this book was. In this book we meet the little sister of Kol, Valla Moonring. Valla was pretty much raised by her brother, and she was brought up to be a strong, independent woman. She has to be, to be a member of the Morgon Guard. It’s all she can handle dealing with her overbearing brothers. The last thing Valla wants is another alpha man in her life, trying to take away her independence. So Valla has stayed single. She doesn’t feel the urge to be anything but.

“Being alone does not make you stronger, Valla. Or more independent. It just means you’re alone.”



Valla has been asked to participate in an important mission. Three people, one of which needs to be a woman, are to fly to the cold, desolate wastelands of Aria to speak to the Syren Sisters in hopes of obtaining new information on the evil blood king, hoping to uncover his identity and location. The worst part of the mission is that Valla will be forced to work with Conn Rowenflame. He is the one man who can get her hackles up and seems to enjoy doing so.

Conn doesn’t know if he should be happy or not that Valla is going to be a part of this mission. The woman drives him crazy. She rebuffs his every attempt to get closer. Conn can have any woman he wants. So why does it feel so important to have this one, the one woman that doesn’t seem to want him at all.

“I was used to getting what I wanted. And I’d never desired a woman more in my entire life.”



There are two evil entities at work in this book. We have the blood king and also the poison princess. Both have agendas of their own, both with evil in their hearts and a longing for power.

I liked that this book was told from pretty much three different POV’s. Valla, Conn, and also we get some from the perspective of the Poison Princess. Conn, Valla, and the third party in their group, Bowen, all head out on their pursuit. The more time Conn and Valla spend together, the stronger the attraction and at the same time, the frustration. It becomes harder and harder to keep their relationship professional and it takes Bowen to finally recognize what was happening between them.



This book is pretty much non-stop from start to finish. These three suffer bitter icy cold, attacking creatures, and make new friends along the way. As their connection grows stronger, they move closer to the ultimate showdown with the evil they seek. And oh my gosh, that epilogue. Juliette Cross, you do like to torture me don’t you?!



If you haven’t already, now is your chance to read book one in this series, Waking the Dragon, or better yet, start out with the Nightwing series of novellas. Any or all of these are amazing and will get you all set up and ready for when Dragon in the Blood is released. Juliette Cross’s books are just so amazing and I hope you enjoy them as much as I have.

“Come away, come away, come away, my dear,
The world will ne’er be kind I fear.
When pain and sorrow hurts you too near,
then come away…come away…back home.”

[Kat valentine ( Katsbookcornerreads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The man who owned me, body and soul, was magnificent and powerful and alpha to the fucking core.

Another epic tale from the fabulous Juliette Cross!!! I love her world of magnificent dragons and the morgon dragons are so captivating,I just can't get enough!! This is conn rowanflame and valla moonring's story. Conn is a top nightwing officer of his clan and a natural born flirt who can sway any woman be it human or dragon,but with valla all he seems to do is get her hackles up. Valla is a strong independent woman who is one of the top officers in the morgon guard ,so when her brother has her team up with the handsome flirty firedancer Conn and quite mysterious bowen hunterglide on a mission to find out the location of the blood king not only will these three find out more about each,but the walls that valla has built around her heart will come crashing down. This is a beautiful love story and the chemistry between valla and conn is as hot as a dragon's fire!!! One of the reason's i love julette cross's books is her storylines and characters are so interesting ,even second characters who's stories are but a pen stroke away are compelling like bowen and a new one Bastien Silverback I really like this outlaw badboy and i Can't wait for this sexy as sin dragon's story!!! So many awesome dragons and dragoness!! And I also love her creatures that show up like the wulving razor who is so friggin adorable ,but deadly!! 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 must read!!

[Nicola · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dragon in the Blood is, for me, the game changer in the Vale of Stars series, the one which really sets the wheels in motion for future books. And right at the heart of it are Valla Moonring and Conn Rowanflame.



In true Morgon man-style, Conn loves hard and fast possessing that delicious dominant streak, and with a cheeky, flirty persona he is an absolute charmer. Valla brings a whole new meaning to the term independent woman, and her position in the Morgan Guard, along with being raised by her brothers, has played its part in creating a stubborn, fearless assassin more than capable of taking care of herself. Yet the feelings Conn arouses in her unsettles her, as does his honesty over how he feels.

This woman. She made the world right. And there was no place I’d rather be than at her side, no matter the odds against us.”

I know I sound like a stuck record when it comes to this series, but I loved Valla and Conn together—the push-pull between them was pitched perfectly, with building tension leading to that point where you know before you even read the scene that they will set the pages alight. This is a series to read for yourself from the start as Juliette Cross is intricately weaving together a world full of promise, where each character is important, and plays a valuable part—no matter how small—to a building storyline that I don’t think we’ve even scratched the surface of. And after that epilogue...well, let’s just say I’ll be impatiently waiting Dragon Fire’s arrival.

Copy generously provided for an honest and unbiased opinion.

[Tanja ~ KT Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Masterful and well-crafted, Dragon of the Blood is one of the most balanced works Juliette Cross has written to date.

A journey across the Provences proves to be filled with new dangers and discoveries within the Vale world. Learning more about this world is becoming a highlight as well as proving to be an almost ever-changing character of a landscape (I hope that makes sense). It keeps each new book fresh and inviting.

As for the characters themselves… assassin Valla must endure a tag-a-long partnership with one of the Nightwing security operative, Conn. Both are fierce and independent making the courtship of these two a fun exchange of banter and wit, making Dragon of the Blood engaging till the very end.

Just the right amount of action, suspense, romance, and intrigue.


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[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dragon in the Blood is a marvelously sensual tale of shifter seduction at its finest.

Valla is tasked with a dangerous mission to the Wastelands of Aria. Her commander and brother, Kol, feels its necessary to send along a representative from Nightwing Security, AKA Conn.

Conn is confident, charming and drives Valla mad. She is attracted to him but continues to push him away. Conn has kept his distance from Valla but now he seizes his chance to ignite a passion that has been brewing for quite some time.

One time, gone a little too far, chemistry and soulfire is released marking them as a mated pair.

In the Wasteland, Conn and Valla find themselves mated and running for their lives.

I simply love Cross’ ability to make totally fictional, shifting characters into a relatable, magnetic plot. Drawing you in, keeping you riveted is a lot to ask for so I was delighted that Dragon in the Blood masterfully did both.

I received this copy of Dragon in the Blood from Juliette Cross in exchange for a honest review.

[Angela (Angel's Book Nook) · Rating 4 out of 5]

WOW!

I love dragons and JCross has made these Morgon men so irresistible that I can't get enough. When they find their true mate; it’s a love like no other.

Dragon in the Blood is book two in the Vale of Stars series by Juliette Cross. This tale continues from the first book, Waking the Dragon, where the Morgan’s are on the hunt for the Blood King who is recking havoc and kidnaping human women, so you do need to read this series in order.

I couldn't put Dragon in the Blood down and read this in a day. It's that good! We get a different type of romance then previously featured with two Morgan's mating in this one. I liked the different pairing and the relationship. Vale was raised by her brothers to be a strong and independent woman. She doesn’t need another alpha male in her life. Conn is the one man who get’s on her nerves. Conn knows how to sweet talk woman and loves them, but the one he truly wants rebuffs him at every turn. He doesn’t understand why it’s so important to have this one woman.

The plot thickens and the author delivers us with two different evils showing their faces. One we have seen before the Blood King and a new one the Poison Princess. Each have their own agendas. I liked that we get to see three different POV’s. It was interesting to see all the different sides and dig deeper into the plot. The story is non-stop from start to finish. I also liked that we meet other characters and the inhabits of Arians where the murders, thieves, and outcast live.

Dragon in the Blood reveals some truths, shocks use with a prophecy, and leaves us with a twist ending. I am on pins and needles for the next installment.

Rated: 4.5 Stars

*Disclaimer: I received a complimentary review copy provided by Juliette Cross with the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.

Re-Read Nov. 2018: The author republished because the publisher went out of business. I have to say I really love the new cover. It pops and represents Vale perfectly, our lead Morgan lady.  I had fun re-visiting this story. I think the author added a few things. It felt like it. I don't remember getting the prophecy in that way and spending so, much time in the bad lands as well as the side story with the Priestess helping the bad guys. We had all that and more. The first time around I don't think it was as flushed out. I really loved the story the first time around, but I felt the little things added, just added more, to the story and I can't wait for the next book to come out. My previous review still reflects how I feel about Dragon in the Blood.

[Sylvia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so elated that I've been catapulted back into this fantastical world full of Dragon-Hybrid's and Kick-Ass Assassins who stop at nothing to compel evil back to the depths of hell.

We continue this amazing series with Valla Moonring, Kol's younger, independent, determined, stubborn and headstrong sister, who also is an assassin in the Morgan Guard. He has ordered her, along with Conn Rowanflame, a fierce Morgan from Nightwing Security, to venture into the Aria Wastelands on a secret mission, in order to stop the rise of a secret dragon-hybrid race, whom are using blood magic, with the help of a high priestess aka Poison Princess.

Determined to stay on track at the task in hand, Valla squashes Conn's advances towards her. However, even Valla's dragon cannot resist the seductive flames of the Firedancer, who has beguiled her with many temptations she thought she could conquer.
Heat radiated off of the pages as we slowly witnessed Valla and Conn dancing to the rhythm of both their dragons' desire to mate and be bound to one another aka soulfire. At every chance, Valla would pull away, not wanting any Morgan to dominate her, but little did she know that Conn wanted more than just dominance. He knew exactly who she was and would stop at nothing to have her, as his partner, his true equal. No other Morgan could be that for her, strong-willed and accepting that her power is just as important as his. This back and forth banter, the passion and pull, created an infused atmosphere of tension, that was both sensual and passionate.



Everything about this second instalment of the Vale of Stars series is enticing and delicious. The story weaves in and out with many layers, increasing your appetite for more. Each character has their own unique and delicate life force, that is pivotal to the plot. They are strategically placed, yet with such subtly, it's magical to discover. I absolutely adore that. I applaud the author for her brilliant ability to ensnare me with her amazing writing, and for the fact that I cannot wait to continue on with the series.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars - 3 Flames

What do can I say about the second installment to a series I've had a serious book hangover from? HOLY MOTHER MOON!!!! Are you seriously leaving me with another book hangover that just might throw me over the edge if I don't get the next one stat? SERIOUSLY??? I hate loving you so much right now. Sigh......................

In the first installment of Vale of Stars, we met Valla, sister to Kol and his twin, who was in training to become an Assassin of the Guard. What we missed from the first was everything...Valla. We truly only got a glimpse of her, but get the full picture in this one. Of course it took the dominant yet gentle hand of Conn to get the real Valla to emerge. Conn was the Morgon from the first installment who clearly got under Valla's wings. At first, we think it's just because the two are warriors and felt challenged by the other. But OH NO, nope, that's not the case at all. In fact, we find out just what the true "issue" is and it's mostly Conn who we get the description from.

This story continues the search of finding the Blood King, the slaves and what the prophecy REALLY means. Valla, Conn and Bowen are the team sent by the Guard to find the witch sisters (providence) to question them about a missing sister that may be helping this Blood King. But in order to get to the providence, they must travel through Aria, where Morgan outlaws and a few unknown creature have flocked to hide and live, away from the Morgon rules. We're taken through a wonderful journey, not only through Aria, but in discovering what the truth is behind Conn and Valla's "discomfort" with one another.

I'm in completely and utter infatuation with this world and series. I love everything Moonring and Morgon Guard. I love the how Conn flamedances and I absolutely LOVE the meaning of soulfire and what it represents. And oh my goodness, once you complete the book, look back at the cover. You'll truly see SO MUCH of the book within just this simple cover that speaks VOLUMES!

I'm in love and I'm not afraid to admit it.

*I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Somia · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 STARS

Book 2 in the series focuses on Kol’s sister, assassin Valla Moonring and Nightwing Security operative Conn Rowanflame. To the distaste of Valla her brother sends her on a dangerous mission with Conn, but as they get to know each other and he burrows further under her skin the heat simmering between them explodes.

Valla, raised pretty much by Kol, is a fierce independent warrior – taking her role as member of the Morgon Guard seriously, and having no time for men, especially not bossy and charming Conn. Yet the fact remains that Conn is the only man that is able to ruffle her feathers, and as their mission progresses, she finds it harder and harder to rebuff his advances. Bowen (a Morgon) who is also on the mission sees the sparks keenly between the two, yet Valla and Conn remain oblivious to what the sparks mean.

The Blood King and Poison Princess ensure that Valla, Conn and Bowen’s mission is not an easy one. Overall this was a well-paced book which had me engaged.

This book is mostly told in dual POV, there are occasions where the POV of the Poison Princess is also given. As a personal preference I would have really liked it if each chapter had been labelled with a heading to show whose POV it was. A times, I found my reading flow disrupted, as it took me a few seconds to realise whose POV it was.

Acquired via KU on amazon.

[Jenn (The Book Refuge) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't quite connect with this couple the way thay I wanted. I loved how strong Valla was and how much Conn wants her... but she was a bit too standoffish and frustrating for me. But that's how it goes...

Still eager to continue and see how this series ends.

3.5 stars
2 on the spice scale

[Kathleen R. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: Dragon In The Blood
Author: Juliette Cross
Series: Vale of Stars series, Book 2
Publisher: Self Published
Reviewer: Kathleen
Release Date: July 26th, 2016
Genre(s): Paranormal Romance
Page Count: 246 pages
Heat Level: 4 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Blurb:

When desire bites, there’s no patience for a slow burn.

While all seems quiet in Gladium Province, the Morgon Guard—the global justice force for the dragon hybrid race—knows their enemy is rebuilding its forces in the underground.

Valla Moonring, an assassin for the Order of the Morgon Guard, is ordered on a mission into the Wastelands of Aria—a formidable, icy wilderness fraught with all manner of dangers, including outlaws, deadly weather, and big-game predators.

To her great distaste, she’s partnered with a Nightwing Security operative, Conn Rowanflame, a Morgon with the aggravating ability to get under her skin. While she takes her mission seriously, Conn’s confident charm throws her off balance, a dangerous place to be in conditions like these. Especially when cold nights require close contact.

Sensual attraction binds them ever closer, igniting a passion of unexpected force—the soulfire. But when the hunters become the hunted, their bond could prove perilous. Even fatal…

Review:
If there's one family that's got more issues, drama and blood relations than your own extended family it's that of a dragon. There exists so many novels, TV series and movies dedicated to these mystical creatures that it's no wonder that readers can get confused with all the information that is given to them and let's not forget the new information that will be given when a new author or race comes on the scene. Dragon in the Blood by Juliette Cross is the second novel in her Vale of Stars series and I must say that I wished I had the opportunity to read the first book so I could have been better prepared to the first few chapters and underlying storyline/plot of book two. There was so much information in the chapter and changes in the point of views that it took some times to get used to the various ways the dragon characters thoughts to know whose 'eyes' we were seeing through since the names didn't appear at the top of the chapter. When Valla, an assassin, is paired with Conn, a security operative, to go after their enemies who have gone underground in the coldest areas they've ever been- into the Wastelands of Aria. In search of the dragons who kidnap human women only to sacrifice them, Valla and Conn begin to feel a strong attraction for one another that even though they keep fighting it, they're unsure how long they can deny it.
Juliette Cross wasn't an unknown author to me before I picked up Dragon In The Blood, but I never had the opportunity to read one of her novels and now I wished I hadn't waited so long to do so. The details she painstakingly adds in each scene is well balanced so that I was able to clearly 'see' what was happening - there was no guessing game. There was another balance between the fighting/action scenes and the romance scenes - which may sounds ridiculous and pointless to mention, but having said so, the way that Juliette Cross has done so in her book has made sure that readers are continuously kept intrigued; there's never too much fighting at one time for those who don't enjoy it and never too much of the 'hitting the sack' sessions for those who prefer it in small doses. Each character is believable, even with their supernatural aspects, and the chemistry, suspense and the action is never ending and at times tangible, making Dragon In The Blood a novel I'd easily recommend for the paranormal and romance fans.





Review Copy of Dragon In The Blood provided by the Author, Juliette Cross for an honest Review.
Reviewed by Kathleen from Alpha Book Club

[Suzanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Vale of stars series which follows the Nightwing series in the Morgon dragon world. I love each story in this world and really enjoy getting seeing more from the previous characters that have met their mates already. This is a great continuing story line where we meet some new characters that I know I'll continue to love like Bastien and Bowen. I really liked the dual point of view for Valla and Conn to understand what was holding them both back and to see their relationship develop.

I loved Conn and thought he was perfect for Valla. She needed someone sweet to tame her hard warrior persona but also someone who understood and appreciated her toughness and wouldn't hold her back. Valla continually pushing Conn away was starting to get annoying but she really believed she was better on her own until everyone forced her to open her eyes and her heart.

Lots of great action that we've come to expect in the search for the Blood King.

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dragon in the Blood by Juliette Cross is book Two in the Vale of Stars series. This is the story of Valla Moonring and Conn Rowanflame. This book can be made into a standalone book if you wish to do so.
Valla is Kol's sister who we met in the previous book. Valla was raised by Kol and became a strong women who became an assassin for the Morgon Guard. When there is a new mission that needs a women to go with others to the Wastelands of Aria, Valla is on board. Conn is one of the others that will be going which her brother thinks can help keep her safe. Conn has made several attempts to get to know Valla better but she does take well to his attempts. This trip leads them to more than finding answers about the evil blood King...it leads them to not being able to fight their feelings any longer.
Along with being an exciting read, I enjoyed the bickering/play between the two a lot.
Enjoyed this story!

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read!

Loved! Fantastic read! A beautiful world of dragons and magic that you get sucked in and become part of it! Can't wait for More in this series...:) If you love paranormal romance then you must read this 10stars!!!!!

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series Vale of stars. I really love Juliette's writing style. I really liked the fact in this one she put dual first point of view for both the Heroine and the Hero. In the previous book it was only from the Heroines pov. So in my opinion I felt more of their growing relationship in this one.

I really liked Conn. I thought he was sweet. His back story was interesting.
Now Valla on the other hand I liked but she got on my nerves half the time. Yes we know your a warrior and you don't need a man etc. Her pushing him away was annoying. But by the end of the story I did think they made a great couple and liked how Valla made the effort she did.

Great continuing story line. We met a lot of new characters (which i hope Juliette writes books about them! - Bastien and Bowen especially!) Can't wait to see what happens next!

[Jessica Frances · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dragon in the Blood is the second book in the Vale of Stars series and this one revolves around the story of Valla and Conn. First, I want to say how much I love this book cover. It is stunning and I could stare at it for hours. Perfection! Now, onto the book: I loved that we got a better look into the world Juliette has created and this one was full of adventure and speculation. I think seeing things from more than just the hero and heroines POV made this feel so much more intense. The stakes felt higher and the picture of what is going on became clearer. I also loved seeing some beloved characters making some appearances as well as new allies to our heroes introduced. This is such a vast and exciting world and I look forward to reading more with future installments. A must read for fans of paranormal romance!

[Lori R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had missed this world SO MUCH!!! It had been a while since I read the first book in this series. But once I started this one, it was like I’d never left.

I was back in...way in... loving everything and everyone. Seeing all the characters from the other books was such a pleasure and so fulfilling, making my heart happy. I had missed them.

Conn...such a sweet talker, a player, yet he wants Valla. Badly. So he tries to behave. But how can he behave when he wants to be so naughty with her. And there’s this burning ache in his chest screaming at him that he needs her. A lot.

Valla is fierce, independent, a serious badass, doesn’t need anyone...especially someone like Conn. She’s never had to depend on a man before, so no reason to start now. But dang...he sure does make it hard for her to ignore him, and not imagine him doing naughty things to her.

Their chemistry was HOT. I could feel it sparking when they were near each other. Their passion was delicious and I loved them together.

More mystery and suspense had me flipping through the pages. Never a dull moment! More deliciously rich descriptions pulled me into this amazing world of sexy Morgon men and beautiful and fierce women that own their hearts. The talented storytelling of this author blows me away more and more with each book of hers I read.

I couldn’t wait to dive into the next book, Dragon Fire! I think Kieren’s going to be my favorite.

[Stacie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 1/2 Stars!

[Bambi Unbridled · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's no secret that my favorite fantastical creature is the dragon... so I can't help but love Juliette Cross and her dragon-human hybrid Morgons. (Plus, Juliette is like a super cool kickass chick, so I read her other non-dragony stuff too.)

This second installment of the Vale of Stars series has been much anticipated. This is a continuing storyline so I don't recommend you read them out of order... in fact, I recommend that you read the Nightwing series first as the Vale of Stars is a spinoff. Plus those Nightwings are uber yummy alpha males whose beast rides them hard. Why pass that up?

The heroine of Dragon in the Blood is Valla Moonring, sister to Kol Moonring (hero of Waking the Dragon). Valla was raised by her brother to be independent to a fault. Between her brother and the rest of the Morgon Guard, she gets more than her fill of dominant alpha males who think they know what's best. Valla does not want to be mated to one of these alpha males and lose her freedom, so she pushes men away at every turn. Though there has always been something about Conn Rowanflame that has drove her just that extra bit crazy.

It's been a while since I've read the earlier books so I couldn't quite remember the who and what of Conn Rowanflame. I remembered that Conn was a twin, but he seems a bit less fun-loving and reckless than his twin brother, Corbin. They have beautiful deep russet wings to denote their clan and their firedancing abilities. Conn is an alpha male - but he was not over-the-top dominant and bossy as he could have been, which was a good thing for Valla and her self-reliant nature.

The relationship between these two was a bit of a slow burn. Conn was burning with soulfire for Valla, but she was pushing him away as much as she reeled him in. I'm not a huge fan of the heroines that push the hero away, so I got impatient with her towards the end. But overall I liked seeing them grow closer together (when Valla allowed it).

While this wasn't my favorite romance of the two series thus far... I am extremely impressed at Juliette's world-building and development of the storyline. There is a new prophecy that comes out in this book involving the Blood King and the Vale of Stars - and everything is starting to tie together nicely. I loved the new characters that were introduced in the form of Bastien's Bastards and the two very rare Bloodback sisters. I am hoping that Bastien Silverback gets a book - he seems like a fun and interesting Morgon with a good story to tell. The plot that has been hatched by one of the Bloodback sisters is very intriguing and I look forward to seeing how it unfolds going forward.

I received an advanced copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. 4 stars / 3 flames. Full review posted at Bambi Unbridled.

[Anne Z. · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! I LOVED this one!
It has all the amazing sexy tension and drama you would hope from a pnr.
It focuses on Kol's sister, Valla. We meet her briefly in Waking the Dragon. She is an assassin for the Order of the Morgan Guard and Kol sends her to a mission with a Morgan she despises.
Valla is independent to the max. She was brought up by her brothers who are both very alpha and the last thing she needs or wants is another dominating man in her life.
Conn is hilarious. Or at least the way he provokes Valla is. I loved reading their interactions.
He doesn't know at first how to feel about the mission, he loves teasing Valla but that is because she stirs feelings in him and he knows those feelings are not reciprocated.
The sexual tension between them is off the charts and the romance was written to perfection!

The background story that ties the books together continues here and it is a much more pleasurable read than it was on the first book (that is not a criticism though, first books on series often need that background building so that the series can carry on). There are two evils at work now though, the Blood King who has not yet been captured, and a poison priestess. The Blood King thinks she is working with him, but she has evil plans of her own.

I cannot say enough times how much I loved this one! It had everything a great romance book needs and I cannot wait for the next book.
Because yah... one more thing: the ending although a hea for Valla and Conn has one fabulous and exciting cliffhanger too.

“Being alone does not make you stronger, Valla. Or more independent. It just means you’re alone.”

"I didn't realize I had such a profound effect on you, or that I was on your mind- all the time" (Conn being his sarcastic self)

[Cherie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great read from a great author. In the 2nd book of the Vale of Stars series we get to know Valla Moonring and Conn Rowanflame. Raised by her protective and domineering older brother, Valla isn't your typical heroine, instead she is an assassin for the elite Order of the Morgon Guard. And she can kick butt!! Conn has his hands full with his attraction to her during a dangerous mission they are assigned together. His protective instincts tend to step all over Valla's toes and he has to learn to back off and allow her to use her strengths and training. Together they traverse the wilds of Aria, a forbidding icy world full of hidden dangers and surprising helping hands. Keep reading for the next adventure of the Morgons in the Gladium Province.

[Jennifer · Rating 2 out of 5]

I figured this series/author warranted one more chance before I leave them on the it's-not-you-it's-me shelf. Unfortunately, this installment cemented for me that this author and Ijust don't click. I found this world a little silly. I'm not sure if it's the humans with wings bit or the writing in general. Considering the fact that there are some pretty out-there high fantasies that I adore and can't get enough of, I think it's probably the writing. The world building just isn't strong enough, the romantic relationship is just meh, and the characters are too simplistic.

If you love dragons and a safe story, you might really like this series. Please don't let my lack of enjoyment discourage you from giving this a try. :)

[Bethan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really loving Juilette Cross's books at the moment!
Started reading her for the first time a few days (or week) ago, and I've now been on a big of a book binge! No need to overly delve into the plot, as I feel the synopsis really sells it. I would definitely recommend. I do have to say, I really like how Juliette makes both her male and female characters equally as bad ass. I think Valla has to be my favourite character in the entire series / other series ! :)

[Clara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This. Book. Not only was it a real treat to see both perspectives but from Morgons as well. I was so excited to see Conn find love because I really enjoyed his character in the previous books. And that ending! I don't know how I'm going to wait for the next book on this. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review published on my blog, Musings of a Bookish Kitty:
http://www.literaryfeline.com/2017/05...

[Stacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed traveling though another part of the Vale of Stars world. I love that the worlds in both this series and the Nightwing series are so vast.

I loved Valla in WAKING THE DRAGON, but getting to know her in DRAGON OF BLOOD made me love her more. She was extremely stubborn and completely baddass but it was easy to connect with and understand her. Conn is new to me—at least I think he is, I don't remember him from past books if he's not—but he sure made himself known in DRAGON OF BLOOD. He was super charming and quite a bit cocky, but I enjoyed him. Both characters are super stubborn, but manage to compliment each other rather well when they are actually on the same page. Valla has issues with depending on a man and I really loved that Conn knew that Valla wouldn't tolerate a super protective male and managed to curb his alpha male instincts to allow her to be her. Valla was extremely stubborn, but managed to grow and open herself up to Conn as the story evolved.

There are a few things that kept me from giving book two 5 stars. I didn't love the villain's POV interludes in DRAGON IN THE BLOOD. We of course are meant to dislike them as a character, but I couldn't get into their voice and I really really really wanted to skip them all together. I did however get a better understanding of them and understood their motives more when their evil deeds were committed. I really love updates on previous couples even if they aren't the main focus of a book. We got a few teeny glimpses in DRAGON IN THE BLOOD, but I wanted more.

If you're new to the Vale of Stars series, I would personally suggest starting with the Nightwing series so you can learn about both the world and a good amount of the characters you will read about. You don't HAVE to read it to understand the books in the Vale of Stars series, but I am all for getting the full backstory. Juliette also has a few other series that will rock your world.

* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Diane Lynch Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Juliette Cross’ DRAGON IN THE BLOOD is an exciting addition to the Vale of Stars Series. Morgon Guard assassin, Valla Moonring, is assigned the task to go on a dangerous expedition to Aria. To her dismay, she is partnered with Nightwing Security operative, Conn Rowanflame. While their attraction grows they uncover a deadly plot by the Larkosian army. This urban fantasy is suitable for adult audiences.

Juliette Cross does a great job with her character development and plot. Vella was raised by her dominant brothers. She is stubborn and determined. She is tough and an excellent assassin. That is not surprising since her brother Kol is the captain of the Morgon Guard. She does not want to be partnered with Conn Rowanflame. Her brother does not give her a choice because the Morgan Guard is aware of a mole in their ranks, and Conn is one of the few men he trusts with his sister. Vella has an issue with dominate males and does not want to be seen as weak. Conn is a dominant handsome flirt. He is a highly skilled firedancer; meaning he can control fire. He is thoughtful and a capable fighter. They have great chemistry and dialog.

The plot was full of mystery and conspiracy. I love the game of Truth or Lie that Bowen, Conn, and Valla played. We discovered some interesting things about the characters that became pertinent throughout the novel. I enjoyed their encounter with Bastien’s Bastards. I thought it was gripping how Bowen’s sisters were involved in the story. The threat of the Larkosian army was significant. I was impressed with how every little detail was thought out. DRAGON IN THE BLOOD It was exciting from start to finish. This is a wonderful series. I am looking forward to reading the next book.

Complimentary copy provided in exchange for an honest review.

[taylor.talks.books · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Book 2 in the series, and the search for the Blood King continues. If you love dragons, this series is for you. I absolutely love the names of the different clans, and how it speaks of their gifts and the color/shapes of their wings. I have been impatiently waiting for Book 3 for a while, can’t wait to see how the prophecy of the times to come will play out!

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore this series and the Nightwing books too. This author knows how to write about smexy dragons finding their soul mate and that's without the storyline, fantasy world and everything else....can't wait for the next.

[Vicky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic sequel. Love this world and the characters.