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Hellhounds #2
Leashed
A good dog heels when Fate calls. Others take their chance in hell.
On earth, Hellhound Bo Echidna chases his vices and embraces his bad luck, hoping to ease the monotony of his immortal existence while he waits for his master’s call. Bound to the will of Hades and touched by the hand of Dionysus, he drifts from bar to bar and bed to bed on the hunt for his next rush, knowing it will never ease his eternal torment.
Librarian and art history student Sage Marcellus‘s only vice is the caffeine that fuels her revolving schedule of two jobs, school, and her passive position as Nixon’s Girlfriend. Accommodating and quiet, she lives in the periphery of her own life until she meets Bo, whose unexpected friendship leads Sage to ponder her life choices.
While Bo and Sage grapple with their growing attraction, ancient forces and grudges work against them to ensure that Bo never gets his happily ever after. And when Sage is in peril, Bo must play a rigged game against Fate to save them both.
On earth, Hellhound Bo Echidna chases his vices and embraces his bad luck, hoping to ease the monotony of his immortal existence while he waits for his master’s call. Bound to the will of Hades and touched by the hand of Dionysus, he drifts from bar to bar and bed to bed on the hunt for his next rush, knowing it will never ease his eternal torment.
Librarian and art history student Sage Marcellus‘s only vice is the caffeine that fuels her revolving schedule of two jobs, school, and her passive position as Nixon’s Girlfriend. Accommodating and quiet, she lives in the periphery of her own life until she meets Bo, whose unexpected friendship leads Sage to ponder her life choices.
While Bo and Sage grapple with their growing attraction, ancient forces and grudges work against them to ensure that Bo never gets his happily ever after. And when Sage is in peril, Bo must play a rigged game against Fate to save them both.
263 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 13, 2021
108 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Katja Desjarlais
15 books29 followersKatja Desjarlais is a music teacher by day and a paranormal romance writer by moonlight. She is an unapologetic music addict and has an obsession for bad Bach puns despite her irrational aversion to Baroque. Her favorite words include 'plethora' and 'dapper', and she is physically repulsed by the word 'moist'.
Desjarlais recently moved into the Okanagan valley with her husband, three children, and polydactyl cat. Her ideal summer vacation is spent driving Route 66 with her family and attending heavy metal concerts.
Releases:
CONNECTION: The Haunt Vault Book One (The Wild Rose Press, October 2018)
JUNKYARD DOG (Tule Publishing, September 2019)
Desjarlais recently moved into the Okanagan valley with her husband, three children, and polydactyl cat. Her ideal summer vacation is spent driving Route 66 with her family and attending heavy metal concerts.
Releases:
CONNECTION: The Haunt Vault Book One (The Wild Rose Press, October 2018)
JUNKYARD DOG (Tule Publishing, September 2019)
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
September 27, 2021
Loved Bo! He character is a little bit dark but you immediately see behind his carefree, partying façade, to the vulnerable and fighter inside. Loved the character growth that he goes through. His relationship with Sage, which started as a friendship that grows into something so much stronger, was the main focus of this story and personally, I enjoyed it much more.
Sage's character was a little harder to warm up to because of her stubbornness and seemingly easy acceptance of her circumstances. There were outside forces that influenced her decisions but in a world of the supernatural, I would have loved to see her fight off that influence and break through on her strengths and beliefs. I wanted her to embrace her real feelings for Bo and push through any obstacle to be with him. I guess in the long run, she was too passive for me. She was a great friend and I liked her character overall, except for the fact that she plays zero parts in her own rescue. She never even know she was in danger until after the fact.
Bo pulls all the stops and makes an epic, EPIC, grand gesture that completely won me over! That whole scene, it was pretty entertaining and painted a vivid picture of the underworld. Which reminds me of a certain Fate who I did not like! Oh if only Karma would to visit this chick!
Overall I liked the story. I'm already imagining a very angsty ending to the series with Ryan! The loyal to a fault older brother will have an even bigger obstacle than a meddling Fate and I'm guessing it's gonna end with a Bang!
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
Sage's character was a little harder to warm up to because of her stubbornness and seemingly easy acceptance of her circumstances. There were outside forces that influenced her decisions but in a world of the supernatural, I would have loved to see her fight off that influence and break through on her strengths and beliefs. I wanted her to embrace her real feelings for Bo and push through any obstacle to be with him. I guess in the long run, she was too passive for me. She was a great friend and I liked her character overall, except for the fact that she plays zero parts in her own rescue. She never even know she was in danger until after the fact.
Bo pulls all the stops and makes an epic, EPIC, grand gesture that completely won me over! That whole scene, it was pretty entertaining and painted a vivid picture of the underworld. Which reminds me of a certain Fate who I did not like! Oh if only Karma would to visit this chick!
Overall I liked the story. I'm already imagining a very angsty ending to the series with Ryan! The loyal to a fault older brother will have an even bigger obstacle than a meddling Fate and I'm guessing it's gonna end with a Bang!
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
August 1, 2021
The second book in the series brings Bo's story. The author brings a cast of strong characters in this interesting paranormal/mythological story. She does a great job pulling you in with her descriptive and detailed scenes and moves the story fluidly. I enjoyed reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
August 28, 2021
"Lachesis has had it out for me since I stopped banging her. Not like I have some magic dick or anything, she's just a vindictive bitch."
How the hell did Bo manage to make me like him?!?! I thought the first book was a masterpiece, but now I'm forced to admit that this one was even better!
After his twin, Alex, retreated from actively searching for the Pirithous bloodline - or, at least, brought it down a notch - the Echidna brothers have been forced to work overtime. Bo is not happy about it, but anything's better than getting back down to the Underworld and the leash that awaits him there. And then he meets a mousy librarian. Sage strikes something in his chest - something he thought never existed. Now he has a new goal - spend as much time as he can with her. Even if he knows she has a fiancé - as douchy as said fiancé is - and that one of the Fates is out to get him. He still can be friends with her.... right? Except, when something is meant to be... well, it will be.
I didn't like Bo in the first book. I thought he was insensitive, a mere addict that was a burden for his brothers. I was interested in his connection with Dionysus, but that was it. So I was surprised when I saw that he was not at all what I expected. Sure, Bo was still very much connected with Dio and his intoxicated ways, but in this story, we see more of the reasons behind this link. The first book made it look like it was Bo's choice, but it wasn't that way at all. This relationship with the god was like a bad drug addiction Bo was trying to cut off, but was not allowed to, as his life line was promised to the deity. There was no willing choice made, he just tried to make it seem so -and it hurt me to read the countless times everything in Bo and those around him kept forcing him to accept his fate. It also explained Bo's general behavior in such a painful and enlightening way.
Way to go, Mrs. Desjarlais! This is how you hint at a character when it's not his story we're focusing on, yet wait for his own book to showcase the reality. For all the readers out there, if you think you know Bo from Alex's book - don't. Read the damn second book, I promise you can't finish it without simping for the wayward twin, too!
Bo was so much more than what his brothers, the pantheon, and generally anyone but Clotho gave him credit for! If Alex is boyfriend material, Bo is the husband you need in your life! Sweet, caring in a funny, not clingy way, thoughtful when it came to boundaries, helpful and serious when the occasion called for it - and yet, still sexy and perverted to spice things up. The dude has it all! My new Cerberus fantasy is now Bo reading softcore smut, with his feet on the coffee table, and commenting on the damn thing as he goes - I kid you not!
Sage was also a worthy heroine to put beside the freedom-loving goofdog. She completed him perfectly, and made him better. And he made her stronger. These two were endgame from the get-go, and yet the author gave us a full-fledged story, with a real, developing relationship, a slow burner I admittedly did not expect from Bo's book. With its ups and downs, and fights where both sides talked and hurt, gave and took.
The only downside - which isn't exactly a downside, given that they were meant to be hated - were Lachesis and Nixon. Honestly, I kinda hoped Nixon was of the cursed bloodline, just so I could see Bo beat his ass...
And Lachesis was a downright bitch. I'm glad she was cornered by the team in the end for the atrocities she had caused in Bo's life just because she felt slighted.
One thing I truly find a work of true art was the back-and-forth with the wedding plans and the quest. Scene by scene, Bo was fighting for his life, getting in all kinds of danger, and with every obstacle passed, Sage kept... "waking up", slowly, but surely. It was beautiful and one can only hope to write that kind of masterpiece in a lifetime that Katja Desjarlais gifted us with.
Now I can't wait for Ryan's book. I loved him from the start, but given the fact Bo was not who I thought, I'm curious to see the sides this loyal boy hasn't shown us yet. And with the sacrifice he made, his HEA will be the most difficult to happen. I'm eager to see how the author will work things out with that kind of handicap she gave her character.
***I was given an ARC from the writer in exchange for an honest review. The opinion stated in this review is solely mine, and no compensation was given or taken to alter it.***
Read this and other reviews at: http://cupcakesandpopcorn.wordpress.com/
How the hell did Bo manage to make me like him?!?! I thought the first book was a masterpiece, but now I'm forced to admit that this one was even better!
After his twin, Alex, retreated from actively searching for the Pirithous bloodline - or, at least, brought it down a notch - the Echidna brothers have been forced to work overtime. Bo is not happy about it, but anything's better than getting back down to the Underworld and the leash that awaits him there. And then he meets a mousy librarian. Sage strikes something in his chest - something he thought never existed. Now he has a new goal - spend as much time as he can with her. Even if he knows she has a fiancé - as douchy as said fiancé is - and that one of the Fates is out to get him. He still can be friends with her.... right? Except, when something is meant to be... well, it will be.
I didn't like Bo in the first book. I thought he was insensitive, a mere addict that was a burden for his brothers. I was interested in his connection with Dionysus, but that was it. So I was surprised when I saw that he was not at all what I expected. Sure, Bo was still very much connected with Dio and his intoxicated ways, but in this story, we see more of the reasons behind this link. The first book made it look like it was Bo's choice, but it wasn't that way at all. This relationship with the god was like a bad drug addiction Bo was trying to cut off, but was not allowed to, as his life line was promised to the deity. There was no willing choice made, he just tried to make it seem so -and it hurt me to read the countless times everything in Bo and those around him kept forcing him to accept his fate. It also explained Bo's general behavior in such a painful and enlightening way.
Way to go, Mrs. Desjarlais! This is how you hint at a character when it's not his story we're focusing on, yet wait for his own book to showcase the reality. For all the readers out there, if you think you know Bo from Alex's book - don't. Read the damn second book, I promise you can't finish it without simping for the wayward twin, too!
Bo was so much more than what his brothers, the pantheon, and generally anyone but Clotho gave him credit for! If Alex is boyfriend material, Bo is the husband you need in your life! Sweet, caring in a funny, not clingy way, thoughtful when it came to boundaries, helpful and serious when the occasion called for it - and yet, still sexy and perverted to spice things up. The dude has it all! My new Cerberus fantasy is now Bo reading softcore smut, with his feet on the coffee table, and commenting on the damn thing as he goes - I kid you not!
Sage was also a worthy heroine to put beside the freedom-loving goofdog. She completed him perfectly, and made him better. And he made her stronger. These two were endgame from the get-go, and yet the author gave us a full-fledged story, with a real, developing relationship, a slow burner I admittedly did not expect from Bo's book. With its ups and downs, and fights where both sides talked and hurt, gave and took.
The only downside - which isn't exactly a downside, given that they were meant to be hated - were Lachesis and Nixon. Honestly, I kinda hoped Nixon was of the cursed bloodline, just so I could see Bo beat his ass...
And Lachesis was a downright bitch. I'm glad she was cornered by the team in the end for the atrocities she had caused in Bo's life just because she felt slighted.
One thing I truly find a work of true art was the back-and-forth with the wedding plans and the quest. Scene by scene, Bo was fighting for his life, getting in all kinds of danger, and with every obstacle passed, Sage kept... "waking up", slowly, but surely. It was beautiful and one can only hope to write that kind of masterpiece in a lifetime that Katja Desjarlais gifted us with.
Now I can't wait for Ryan's book. I loved him from the start, but given the fact Bo was not who I thought, I'm curious to see the sides this loyal boy hasn't shown us yet. And with the sacrifice he made, his HEA will be the most difficult to happen. I'm eager to see how the author will work things out with that kind of handicap she gave her character.
***I was given an ARC from the writer in exchange for an honest review. The opinion stated in this review is solely mine, and no compensation was given or taken to alter it.***
Read this and other reviews at: http://cupcakesandpopcorn.wordpress.com/
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2021
Leashed (Hellhounds #2) by Katja Desjarlais is Hellhound Bo Echidna’s story. The one that is controlled not only by Hades but has ties to Dionysus too. This book has little to do with their task on earth but more with Bo’s struggles with addictions. The Fates are also involved in ways that can be seen as benevolent but also vindictive. So Bo has his hands full just surviving through it all.
Sage Marcellus couldn’t be more opposite to Bo. However a friendship develops between the two of them. As I saw it she was one of the few good things in his life, his brothers being the other. Dionysus is seen as the encourager of the extreme drink, drugs, and seeking pleasure that wreck so many lives today. His hold on Bo is so sad but such a true metaphor. It was difficult for me to find anything likable about Dionysus even by the end of the story when his actions improve.
Mythology like you have never had it before. Forever I will see Hercules through the lens of Cerberus. Also I totally get the comparisons or thoughts between vampire, shifter novels or other romance novels that Bo would made. That was extremely entertaining.
For ninety percent of this book the book was 5 stars. The problems, the relationships between the mythological characters, the friendship, the tension between Bo and Sage was riveting. Of course, I too want Sage to smarten up. Boy was I surprised to find out what had been holding her to the position of “Nixon’s girlfriend.” Then the last couple of chapters seen to be making up for all the sex that had not been earlier in the story. This did little to move the story along at this point. So overall it is a 4 star read. There is a big question about the last brother that makes the third head of Cerberus near the end. It will be interesting to see how his future works out in the next book.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Sage Marcellus couldn’t be more opposite to Bo. However a friendship develops between the two of them. As I saw it she was one of the few good things in his life, his brothers being the other. Dionysus is seen as the encourager of the extreme drink, drugs, and seeking pleasure that wreck so many lives today. His hold on Bo is so sad but such a true metaphor. It was difficult for me to find anything likable about Dionysus even by the end of the story when his actions improve.
Mythology like you have never had it before. Forever I will see Hercules through the lens of Cerberus. Also I totally get the comparisons or thoughts between vampire, shifter novels or other romance novels that Bo would made. That was extremely entertaining.
For ninety percent of this book the book was 5 stars. The problems, the relationships between the mythological characters, the friendship, the tension between Bo and Sage was riveting. Of course, I too want Sage to smarten up. Boy was I surprised to find out what had been holding her to the position of “Nixon’s girlfriend.” Then the last couple of chapters seen to be making up for all the sex that had not been earlier in the story. This did little to move the story along at this point. So overall it is a 4 star read. There is a big question about the last brother that makes the third head of Cerberus near the end. It will be interesting to see how his future works out in the next book.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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August 6, 2021Bo and Sage's Story . . .
Hellhound Bo Echidna, influenced by both Hades and Dionysus, is firmly stuck in his vices since being immortal gives far too much time to become bored and seek diversions, just as Bo is doing. Yet all his vices never satisfy. And if he does try to settle down, Dionysus stirs him up again with the touch of a hand, dampening his controls and increasing his cravings so that the god’s own power would be fed.
Sage Marcellus is totally different from Bo. Sage is a librarian and art history student. Caffeine, her only so-called vice, keeps her energized to handle her two jobs, school, and at least acknowledge Nixon’s existence. They don’t seem to pay attention to each other or listen or interact in any positive way. But she is supposed to be his girlfriend. Sage is a quiet person who may truly benefit from meeting Bo unless he drags her into his own vices. Oddly enough, the two become friends. Their closeness stirs a growing attraction between them. But seeing Bo happy has never pleased the gods and, when Sage is put in danger, can Bo find a way to save them both?
Hellhound Bo Echidna, influenced by both Hades and Dionysus, is firmly stuck in his vices since being immortal gives far too much time to become bored and seek diversions, just as Bo is doing. Yet all his vices never satisfy. And if he does try to settle down, Dionysus stirs him up again with the touch of a hand, dampening his controls and increasing his cravings so that the god’s own power would be fed.
Sage Marcellus is totally different from Bo. Sage is a librarian and art history student. Caffeine, her only so-called vice, keeps her energized to handle her two jobs, school, and at least acknowledge Nixon’s existence. They don’t seem to pay attention to each other or listen or interact in any positive way. But she is supposed to be his girlfriend. Sage is a quiet person who may truly benefit from meeting Bo unless he drags her into his own vices. Oddly enough, the two become friends. Their closeness stirs a growing attraction between them. But seeing Bo happy has never pleased the gods and, when Sage is put in danger, can Bo find a way to save them both?
August 16, 2021
Bo and Sage story hits you with a bang. This story had a lot going on but it has great flow and it delves into the character development spectacularly! I really enjoyed seeing all the drama that unfolds with these two characters! It provides with an escape that is brilliantly derived and the follow through is really amazing how this author pieced together this world. You will find a bit of jaggedness but nothing that you cannot overcome. I really enjoyed this story and honestly I would not being Leashed by Bo! LOL!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 31, 2021
I love stories that are rooted in mythology! This story was definitely a different and original spin on mythology and I really enjoyed it. I love anything that takes me to another place. I truly liked the book and think that it was a good read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 16, 2023
awesome series
Excellent writing and interesting Greek History that sucked me in and would not let me go. Bo’s story was exciting and adrenaline filled to match his character. Lots of romance which was unexpected but fun loving was tastefully written. A great trilogy of that puts Cerberus in a new light. Great HEA. Happy reading.
Excellent writing and interesting Greek History that sucked me in and would not let me go. Bo’s story was exciting and adrenaline filled to match his character. Lots of romance which was unexpected but fun loving was tastefully written. A great trilogy of that puts Cerberus in a new light. Great HEA. Happy reading.
April 13, 2025
I liked this, I dreaded reading this with the implication of addicted tendencies but was pleasantly surprised when Bo, even though he fell off a few times, actively tried getting sober.
No OtherWomanDrama thank god too, minus a crazy Ex with a vendetta.
I liked seeing Bo & Sage’s relationship blossom and grow.
🌶️ scenes LATE into the book (90%) so you get more plot in this book
No OtherWomanDrama thank god too, minus a crazy Ex with a vendetta.
I liked seeing Bo & Sage’s relationship blossom and grow.
🌶️ scenes LATE into the book (90%) so you get more plot in this book
June 17, 2021
I loved this paranormal novel because of all the mythological characters combined with the romance of a shifter dog and a librarian.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 2, 2021
Amazing book! I absolutely love this author and can't wait to read more. I would definitely recommend. I couldn't put it down.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 3, 2021
This is the second "Hellhounds" story and this one is about Bo. This is a very interesting story laced with mythology. It is a paranormal story that is riveting and very intriguing. I love the characters and the plot. It is a very addicting read that I could not put down.
August 9, 2023
The characterization is superb, not just of the main characters but the Greek pantheon (and the horrible protagonist) as well. Besides loving the story, I have to say, that is the BEST ending I have ever read! It made me laugh and laugh! Well done!!!!
September 9, 2024
What a Great Read!
OMG, I didn’t see the twist coming. Loved this story of Bo and his lady. Great Adventure, romance and wowza! Highly recommend this series, although you can read a standalone, but why would you?
OMG, I didn’t see the twist coming. Loved this story of Bo and his lady. Great Adventure, romance and wowza! Highly recommend this series, although you can read a standalone, but why would you?
August 4, 2021
Interesting take on mythology with plenty of emotion, plot, and near the end, plenty of steamy scenes. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 5, 2023
Delightful follow up to Alex & Charlotte’s story: this one belongs to Alex’s brother Bo & grad student Sage. All I’ll say is this guy literally waded through hell for his woman.
January 28, 2024
Loved it and want more
August 20, 2024
I loved it!
Bo has met his match. But, she is getting married to someone else. Who has messed with his lifeline? Now, he must battle a dragon for her!
Bo has met his match. But, she is getting married to someone else. Who has messed with his lifeline? Now, he must battle a dragon for her!
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September 15, 2024Enjoyable book
October 9, 2025
Must read
This series is a great combination of Greek mythology and supernatural romance. The characters jump off the pages and into your heart!
This series is a great combination of Greek mythology and supernatural romance. The characters jump off the pages and into your heart!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews