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Guild Hunter #3
Archangel's Consort
Nalini Singh steps back into the shadows of her “heartbreakingly original”* world where angels rule, vampires serve, and the innocent can pay the greatest price of all…
Vampire hunter Elena Deveraux and her lover, the lethally beautiful archangel Raphael, have returned home to New York only to face an uncompromising new evil…
A vampire has attacked a girls’ school—the assault one of sheer, vicious madness—and it is only the first act. Rampant bloodlust takes vampire after vampire, threatening to make the streets run with blood. Then Raphael himself begins to show signs of an uncontrolled rage, as inexplicable storms darken the city skyline and the earth itself shudders.
The omens are suddenly terrifyingly clear.
An ancient and malevolent immortal is rising. The violent winds whisper her name: Caliane. She has returned to reclaim her son, Raphael. Only one thing stands in her way: Elena, the consort who must be destroyed…
*Errant Dreams Reviews
Vampire hunter Elena Deveraux and her lover, the lethally beautiful archangel Raphael, have returned home to New York only to face an uncompromising new evil…
A vampire has attacked a girls’ school—the assault one of sheer, vicious madness—and it is only the first act. Rampant bloodlust takes vampire after vampire, threatening to make the streets run with blood. Then Raphael himself begins to show signs of an uncontrolled rage, as inexplicable storms darken the city skyline and the earth itself shudders.
The omens are suddenly terrifyingly clear.
An ancient and malevolent immortal is rising. The violent winds whisper her name: Caliane. She has returned to reclaim her son, Raphael. Only one thing stands in her way: Elena, the consort who must be destroyed…
*Errant Dreams Reviews
324 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 25, 2011
About the author
Nalini Singh
250 books24.7k followersI've been writing as long as I can remember and all of my stories always held a thread of romance (even when I was writing about a prince who could shoot lasers out of his eyes). I love creating unique characters, love giving them happy endings and I even love the voices in my head. There's no other job I would rather be doing. In September 2002, when I got the call that Silhouette Desire wanted to buy my first book, Desert Warrior, it was a dream come true. I hope to continue living the dream until I keel over of old age on my keyboard.
I was born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand. I also spent three years living and working in Japan, during which time I took the chance to travel around Asia. I’m back in New Zealand now, but I’m always plotting new trips. If you’d like to see some of my travel snapshots, have a look at the Travel Diary page (updated every month).
So far, I've worked as a lawyer, a librarian, a candy factory general hand, a bank temp and an English teacher and not necessarily in that order. Some might call that inconsistency but I call it grist for the writer's mill.
I was born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand. I also spent three years living and working in Japan, during which time I took the chance to travel around Asia. I’m back in New Zealand now, but I’m always plotting new trips. If you’d like to see some of my travel snapshots, have a look at the Travel Diary page (updated every month).
So far, I've worked as a lawyer, a librarian, a candy factory general hand, a bank temp and an English teacher and not necessarily in that order. Some might call that inconsistency but I call it grist for the writer's mill.
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January 27, 2011
I discovered yesterday that I own more than eight hundred romances. Straightforward, luridly-covered paperbacks from Messrs Harlequin Mills & Boon and associated publications. So I've decided that one of these days, when I'm done with my more important chores, like cleaning the toilet and reorganizing my groceries in alphabetical order, I will collate all of these romances, borrowing maybe a paragraph in total from each of these books, to achieve a manuscript approximately one hundred and eighty pages long. This novel will be full of best-selling sexplicit imagery, where she will "slide her wet, warm heat along the length of his hard throbbing manhood" while "his silver eyes watched her with a strong and hawkish possessiveness that screamed 'Mine!'" And of course, I will put in some fairies (for the sex), some werewolves (for the sex), some angels (for the duh! sex) and some vampires (to be the bad guys... and also, for some sex). I can almost see my name up there on the New York Times Bestseller list already.
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I have discovered the secret to becoming a bestselling author. It's quite simple, really, all you need is one Alpha alpha male (that means hairy, chest thumping, caveman-type alpha male), one liberated woman who secretly just wants to be possessed and dominated and told to keep to her place in the kitchen, a few million cliches and lots and lots of SEX! Now don't go stealing my formula just cause I've put it out there in the webosphere, you plagiaristic bitches!
I have no problems with lots and lots of sex. I'm fairly sure that at least fifty percent of my eight-hundred strong collection of romances is built solely on the foundation of lots and lots of sex, and since I'm not suddenly expecting Marquez to start writing for Mills & Boon, I'm not shocked that these books are formulaic, predictable and have no plotline whatsoever. However, I expected better of Nalini Singh, yessir, I did. Within her selected genre of paranormal romance, I think Singh has been doing a good job. Much, much better than a lot of the tripe out there. She's done some decent worldbuilding, especially with her Psy-Changeling Universe, and the stories don't annoy me the way most romances do these days. Aah, I long for my younger, more uncritical days when the sameness of romantic fiction never palled!
Despite the arrant inequality displayed by the relationship in the Guild Hunter series, I still liked the first two books. Probably because it had only a couple of sex scenes, max. In the first book, it took until almost the end for the thousand-year old archangel to stop trying to intimidate the puny human and seduce her instead. In the second book, the puny human had become a puny angel from whom the overprotective archasshole withheld sex because she was too... hmm, let me think... yes, that's it! Too puny! But they sure made up for it by fucking like bunnies in the third book! Seriously, at times I was tempted to tell Singh to stop trying to come up with a plotline and just describe their endless sexathons throughout the book. That way, at least, I wouldn't have spent the last two days propping my eyelids open with matchsticks and flipping though at least eighty percent of the book in an attempt to avoid the 'meaty' parts and get to the story.
This book had no point. The mystery was thin and unappealing, like day old porridge (gasp! Was that a cliche? Oh no!) and sandwiched between too many sex scenes to count. Had a bad day, Elena? Let's make it all better by having some sex. Your daddy was mean to you, darling? DOn't worry, you'll be much happier as soon as we have some sex! Finishing sparring practice that's left you limp and sweaty and exhausted? You'll be all sprightly again with just a little sex! Having a shower? Let's accompany that with some sex, shall we? Oh, you're breathing? That means we must have sex now. And so on. There's just so much throbbing cock and jutting nipples a person can take before you want to gag and start wondering if you'll ever have sex again.
And when they're not having sex, they're arguing about Raphael's need to cosset his puny angel. And her desire to be conidered his equal. And flashbacks to the same few scenes of her past that I have already revisited, SEVERAL TIMES, in the previous books. All of the things that made the earlier books bearable, such as a storyline, and Elena's sassiness and humour, tight, fast-paced writing, it's all just GONE. Elena's so manic-depressive in this book, and she's always running to Raphael to kiss her wounds better, and then she wonders why he's mollycoddling her all the time! This book was such a huge disappointment. Nalini Singh brought me back to reading romances after I had given up in disgust post the unending boredom of Pregnant Mistress, Playboy Prince type stories, and I expected better of her. I just hope the next installment in the Psy-Changeling series brings the romance back into her stories. Literally.
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I have discovered the secret to becoming a bestselling author. It's quite simple, really, all you need is one Alpha alpha male (that means hairy, chest thumping, caveman-type alpha male), one liberated woman who secretly just wants to be possessed and dominated and told to keep to her place in the kitchen, a few million cliches and lots and lots of SEX! Now don't go stealing my formula just cause I've put it out there in the webosphere, you plagiaristic bitches!
I have no problems with lots and lots of sex. I'm fairly sure that at least fifty percent of my eight-hundred strong collection of romances is built solely on the foundation of lots and lots of sex, and since I'm not suddenly expecting Marquez to start writing for Mills & Boon, I'm not shocked that these books are formulaic, predictable and have no plotline whatsoever. However, I expected better of Nalini Singh, yessir, I did. Within her selected genre of paranormal romance, I think Singh has been doing a good job. Much, much better than a lot of the tripe out there. She's done some decent worldbuilding, especially with her Psy-Changeling Universe, and the stories don't annoy me the way most romances do these days. Aah, I long for my younger, more uncritical days when the sameness of romantic fiction never palled!
Despite the arrant inequality displayed by the relationship in the Guild Hunter series, I still liked the first two books. Probably because it had only a couple of sex scenes, max. In the first book, it took until almost the end for the thousand-year old archangel to stop trying to intimidate the puny human and seduce her instead. In the second book, the puny human had become a puny angel from whom the overprotective archasshole withheld sex because she was too... hmm, let me think... yes, that's it! Too puny! But they sure made up for it by fucking like bunnies in the third book! Seriously, at times I was tempted to tell Singh to stop trying to come up with a plotline and just describe their endless sexathons throughout the book. That way, at least, I wouldn't have spent the last two days propping my eyelids open with matchsticks and flipping though at least eighty percent of the book in an attempt to avoid the 'meaty' parts and get to the story.
This book had no point. The mystery was thin and unappealing, like day old porridge (gasp! Was that a cliche? Oh no!) and sandwiched between too many sex scenes to count. Had a bad day, Elena? Let's make it all better by having some sex. Your daddy was mean to you, darling? DOn't worry, you'll be much happier as soon as we have some sex! Finishing sparring practice that's left you limp and sweaty and exhausted? You'll be all sprightly again with just a little sex! Having a shower? Let's accompany that with some sex, shall we? Oh, you're breathing? That means we must have sex now. And so on. There's just so much throbbing cock and jutting nipples a person can take before you want to gag and start wondering if you'll ever have sex again.
And when they're not having sex, they're arguing about Raphael's need to cosset his puny angel. And her desire to be conidered his equal. And flashbacks to the same few scenes of her past that I have already revisited, SEVERAL TIMES, in the previous books. All of the things that made the earlier books bearable, such as a storyline, and Elena's sassiness and humour, tight, fast-paced writing, it's all just GONE. Elena's so manic-depressive in this book, and she's always running to Raphael to kiss her wounds better, and then she wonders why he's mollycoddling her all the time! This book was such a huge disappointment. Nalini Singh brought me back to reading romances after I had given up in disgust post the unending boredom of Pregnant Mistress, Playboy Prince type stories, and I expected better of her. I just hope the next installment in the Psy-Changeling series brings the romance back into her stories. Literally.
November 23, 2019
5 stars
RE-READ in order to read Archangel's Propechy and Archangel's War.
Okay, I'm still on my Guild Hunter marathon, and boy, the week turn out as a blast for me even though I can't read this book in one sitting since I must go to work. I'm so tempted to take a paid leave just so I can devour all the series, but eh, girl gotta do work if she want to buy her book wishlist :P
Archangel's Consort happen directly after the event in Archangel's Kiss and still my favorite book to date, but this re-read proved that I still liked Kiss compared to Consort. The book still so slow and some sentences or part can be too repetitive, but well, it's Singh signature and who am I to complaint when I just want to read this book oh, so slowly. While I read my early review that said Elena perhaps too lusty for Raphael, re-read make me think that "eh, it's okay, tho". So often I read about the hero that go ham and possessive toward his heroine and its can be too much to read them act so alpha. Yet, the possessiveness between Elena and Raphael goes both ways and I find myself feel delighted.
Consort so far are the steamiest of Guild Hunter books I'd read and I remember once I complaint why the book become less steamy, especially in Archangel's Heart, lol. I did notice both Elena and Raphael jumped to each other plenty, but again, who am I to complaint. Beside, Singh write this erotic scenes wonderfully like she always do! The way she describe the sensual angel's dance might be physically impossible to did in reality, but well they are supernatural beings. Aside of the steaminess factor, I must praised Singh for her capability to write the mechanic of the angels, especially with how they flight. Its always feel surreal to read about her angels and archangels.
Angels Blood feels like urban fantasy with hints of romances, but Kiss and Consort are purely paranormal romances that emphasize of how Elena and Raphael work their relationship. Theirs is of course not an easy ones. Elena still deal with her barely made immortality also take her ground when it comes to Raphael and his protectiveness streak. Raphael is struggle not just with his mother issues, but also how to not try to bend Elena to all his will. Of course there will be angst, but I always like that Elena never did back from the challenge. She's willing to fight for her heart and her Archangel. It's funny that she like her freedom much in Blood, and in Consort she willing to compromise. Even Elena herself feel it too. This is why I feel the relationship feel real. Elena might be seems like blinded by love if you see her fierceness to her mate, but Raphael is always worth to fighting for. And it's not just from Elena side, but Raphael too. This pairing will always be my favorite, simply because how they feel balanced without try to shadowed each other.
I correct my earlier opinion that said the ending feel a little bit plain, because it's actually not, lol. Raphael always talked over by Lijuan, that he will become mortal since he take Elena as his mate, therefore make him weak and easy to killed. Yet, its not what it seems to be. And I like even he's so powerful, he still need Elena while Elena also grow her power. I will not repeat about the world building. It's still wonderful, still beautiful with a hint of gore and horror. Nah, can't go without the horror, lol.
Another great installment of Guild Hunter that in another time I would love to read again :)
First read review below. Not many squeeing, tho:
What I must said?
After my long time waiting for this book, 2 months, if you want to know, I'm almost weep when this book finally arrived at my home. And I don't wanna waste a time, that night I read it and I found, when I'm finish reading this, I re-read again!
How odd for me. But it's true...
Archangel's Consort must be my top ten list in this year, and this book is #1!! (with the fact that I don't read many book this year, thank you very much! And I must ashamed until March I just read 27 books! It is a disaster for me! *lol* )
I can't describe how the story, the characterization, how the relationship between Elena-Raphael, about Raphael' s Seven... I just feel, stunned.. when I'm read this..
The writing is so beautiful, flow like water, and like I said, it's rather I see a beautiful picture rather than read a book. The way angel flying, and don't forget the scene when Elena and Raphael dancing in the sky, I don't know when first Raphael mention how Angel dance, but when it's happen, I just "wow", I never expected that Angel Dance is like...... (you must read yourself, no spoiler here *wink2*)
So many event happen in this book, like The Seven's past, Dmitri, Aodhan, Jason, Illium and Venom (my disappointment is, there's no Naasir :(( , but I think I'd explain at the beginning, why he's not here ;)), Elena deal with her father (really I want to smack Jeffrey, for his behavior to Elena), the disaster, murderer and strange behavior of Cadre because Caliane (Raphael' s mom) 's awakening and the important part is Raphael and Elena themselves..
I found myself intrigued and loving Raphael for the first book, it's increasing in Archangel's Kiss, but Raphael in Consort is more than that. He's no like sidekick for Elena, they are together and can;t be separated. I'm not blame Elena for lusting after Raphael, because it's the normal reaction for her (Hey, if I have a gorgeous boyfriend like Raphael, I'll lusting after him too).
The ending is just feel a little plain for me, because I want something big happen, but it's no prob, because, overall this book is GREAT!
RE-READ in order to read Archangel's Propechy and Archangel's War.
Okay, I'm still on my Guild Hunter marathon, and boy, the week turn out as a blast for me even though I can't read this book in one sitting since I must go to work. I'm so tempted to take a paid leave just so I can devour all the series, but eh, girl gotta do work if she want to buy her book wishlist :P
Archangel's Consort happen directly after the event in Archangel's Kiss and still my favorite book to date, but this re-read proved that I still liked Kiss compared to Consort. The book still so slow and some sentences or part can be too repetitive, but well, it's Singh signature and who am I to complaint when I just want to read this book oh, so slowly. While I read my early review that said Elena perhaps too lusty for Raphael, re-read make me think that "eh, it's okay, tho". So often I read about the hero that go ham and possessive toward his heroine and its can be too much to read them act so alpha. Yet, the possessiveness between Elena and Raphael goes both ways and I find myself feel delighted.
Consort so far are the steamiest of Guild Hunter books I'd read and I remember once I complaint why the book become less steamy, especially in Archangel's Heart, lol. I did notice both Elena and Raphael jumped to each other plenty, but again, who am I to complaint. Beside, Singh write this erotic scenes wonderfully like she always do! The way she describe the sensual angel's dance might be physically impossible to did in reality, but well they are supernatural beings. Aside of the steaminess factor, I must praised Singh for her capability to write the mechanic of the angels, especially with how they flight. Its always feel surreal to read about her angels and archangels.
Angels Blood feels like urban fantasy with hints of romances, but Kiss and Consort are purely paranormal romances that emphasize of how Elena and Raphael work their relationship. Theirs is of course not an easy ones. Elena still deal with her barely made immortality also take her ground when it comes to Raphael and his protectiveness streak. Raphael is struggle not just with his mother issues, but also how to not try to bend Elena to all his will. Of course there will be angst, but I always like that Elena never did back from the challenge. She's willing to fight for her heart and her Archangel. It's funny that she like her freedom much in Blood, and in Consort she willing to compromise. Even Elena herself feel it too. This is why I feel the relationship feel real. Elena might be seems like blinded by love if you see her fierceness to her mate, but Raphael is always worth to fighting for. And it's not just from Elena side, but Raphael too. This pairing will always be my favorite, simply because how they feel balanced without try to shadowed each other.
I correct my earlier opinion that said the ending feel a little bit plain, because it's actually not, lol. Raphael always talked over by Lijuan, that he will become mortal since he take Elena as his mate, therefore make him weak and easy to killed. Yet, its not what it seems to be. And I like even he's so powerful, he still need Elena while Elena also grow her power. I will not repeat about the world building. It's still wonderful, still beautiful with a hint of gore and horror. Nah, can't go without the horror, lol.
Another great installment of Guild Hunter that in another time I would love to read again :)
First read review below. Not many squeeing, tho:
What I must said?
After my long time waiting for this book, 2 months, if you want to know, I'm almost weep when this book finally arrived at my home. And I don't wanna waste a time, that night I read it and I found, when I'm finish reading this, I re-read again!
How odd for me. But it's true...
Archangel's Consort must be my top ten list in this year, and this book is #1!! (with the fact that I don't read many book this year, thank you very much! And I must ashamed until March I just read 27 books! It is a disaster for me! *lol* )
I can't describe how the story, the characterization, how the relationship between Elena-Raphael, about Raphael' s Seven... I just feel, stunned.. when I'm read this..
The writing is so beautiful, flow like water, and like I said, it's rather I see a beautiful picture rather than read a book. The way angel flying, and don't forget the scene when Elena and Raphael dancing in the sky, I don't know when first Raphael mention how Angel dance, but when it's happen, I just "wow", I never expected that Angel Dance is like...... (you must read yourself, no spoiler here *wink2*)
So many event happen in this book, like The Seven's past, Dmitri, Aodhan, Jason, Illium and Venom (my disappointment is, there's no Naasir :(( , but I think I'd explain at the beginning, why he's not here ;)), Elena deal with her father (really I want to smack Jeffrey, for his behavior to Elena), the disaster, murderer and strange behavior of Cadre because Caliane (Raphael' s mom) 's awakening and the important part is Raphael and Elena themselves..
I found myself intrigued and loving Raphael for the first book, it's increasing in Archangel's Kiss, but Raphael in Consort is more than that. He's no like sidekick for Elena, they are together and can;t be separated. I'm not blame Elena for lusting after Raphael, because it's the normal reaction for her (Hey, if I have a gorgeous boyfriend like Raphael, I'll lusting after him too).
The ending is just feel a little plain for me, because I want something big happen, but it's no prob, because, overall this book is GREAT!
June 12, 2019
Gosh, how I enjoy reading this series. Especially about Elena and Raphael. They truly are one of my all time fav couples. They simply support each other so well and their love is unbreakable. Even when it at times seems that one might be in a bad and cold place, the other doesn't give up and pulls till they see light again. Their journey is amazing and this new adventure hits very close to Raphael's past and heart. We also get to see more of China's archangel, who developed into something else than what we'd call a living creature. Death is her friend and she will use it to get what she wants and in the end that is always going to be more power. There are some hints about how the story will continue in the six book and I already know that the action is going to be epic! Besides her, I loved Bluebell and the slight introduction to his mother, so touching! Also we get to see more of Elena's past and family drama and what the Guild thinks of her new form of being.
I really loved the story and I cannot wait to get into the next story. :)
I really loved the story and I cannot wait to get into the next story. :)
November 12, 2010
This is a spoiler-FREE review for book three, Archangel's Consort, but there are spoilers relating to the first two books in this series.
Although Elena is now an angel, she is still very young in the immortal world. With the help of her lover, archangel Raphael and his Seven, those that have vowed their loyalty to him, Elena is getting stronger and wise in the immortal ways every day. She is able to fly now, although the vertical lift off and endurance still eludes her. Now that she is stronger, she has left the refuge and is back in New York City. Since she is the first made angel anyone has ever seen, she creates quite the spectacle.
Although she is now an angel, she still has hunter blood in her, and has gone back to occasionally helping The Guild track rogue vampires. She would be working their full time, but Raphael is scared to keep her out of his sights. She is also still dealing with a father that disowned her many years ago, and giving up her “normal” hunter life. She has moved in with Raphael, and although he accepts her and loves unconditionally, everything is still new and raw.
Terrible storms and deadly weather events have been taking place all over the world. Raphael knows this weather is no coincidence. There is legend that talks of these extreme events when an ancient awakens – and that ancient that is coming to, is his mother. The archangel Caliane. The rebirth of an archangel is on the horizon, and it is disrupting everything and everyone. The awakening process can take up to a year, things slowly building until the unknown occurs. When Caliane went under the Sleep, she was insane. Has her sanity been restored? Will this all-power being cause mass destruction, or take her place among the angels again?
When a child is murdered by a vampire at the same school that Elena’s half-sisters attend, she knows the attack is aimed at her. But soon they discover this is not the normal vampire that goes into bloodlust. Someone else is pulling the strings. As vampires rage, and Caliane slowly awakens, Elena and Raphael must turn to each other when family matters become overbearing, and the love they share for each other deepens even more.
I devoured Archangel’s Consort and it only makes me love this serious more, if that is even possible. Where to start? First, I loved the conflict in this one. The idea of Raphael’s mother, slowly waking (possibly over a year) is just an awesome concept. As Raphael says, “my mother is the monster that scares other monsters.” As she wakes, these tumultuous events occur all over the world, wreaking havoc. Vampires rage, angels rage, and of course there are twists thrown in that make it all that much more fun in the end.
Elena herself is still struggling. Physically, she is getting stronger every day, mentally she is still playing games with Dmitri and the other angels trying to find her place. I LOVE that Nalini Singh gives Elena such a hard road once she becomes an angel. It is so interesting to read her about her immortality, because it is such a struggle. Her wings are heavy and ache, she can’t lift off vertically, which can be devastating during certain situations. She must play these mind games with the other immortals, always fearful they may take their hatred towards her one step too far. She also faces with off with Raphael on more than one occasion. He is overprotective of his hunter, and she doesn’t like to have babysitters.
In this one we get lots of good things with Dmitri, Illium, my favorite Blue Bell, and the dark, mysterious Jason. I’m dying for those three books – their stories are so intriguing and I can not wait to learn more about them. We also learn more from vampire Venom and the angel Aodhan. Nalini Singh’s supporting characters are amazing in this series and add so much to these books.
I saved the best for last – oh Raphael. One of the most intense alphas I have ever read about. There is no cracking jokes there is no goofing off. He is alpha, he is archangel, and he means business. In and out of bed. Oh yes. Although Raphael is ancient, and extremely powerful, he needs his little hunter. He needs her on a level that is so intimate. I think that is a good word to describe their relationship. The romance scenes between Raphael and Elena are powerful, raw, intense, dark – and so intimate. Nalini Singh writes their passion on another level.
The way she writes the angels, their flying, landing, taking off, soaring in the skies – it really sets up for a beautiful book. To offset their exquisite beauty, the angels are so far from mortality that they are these creatures that are sometimes so abhorrent. Mortals to many of them are just play things. They can be so violent and cruel. I love the contrast.
This book comes out January 25th and if you have not picked up the first two books (Angels’ Blood and Archangel’s Kiss), I urge you to try this series. All three books are about Raphael and Elena, although in book two and three you also get Raphael's point of view. They are much darker and intense than her Psy/Changeling books. This is a paranormal series not to be missed.
Although Elena is now an angel, she is still very young in the immortal world. With the help of her lover, archangel Raphael and his Seven, those that have vowed their loyalty to him, Elena is getting stronger and wise in the immortal ways every day. She is able to fly now, although the vertical lift off and endurance still eludes her. Now that she is stronger, she has left the refuge and is back in New York City. Since she is the first made angel anyone has ever seen, she creates quite the spectacle.
Although she is now an angel, she still has hunter blood in her, and has gone back to occasionally helping The Guild track rogue vampires. She would be working their full time, but Raphael is scared to keep her out of his sights. She is also still dealing with a father that disowned her many years ago, and giving up her “normal” hunter life. She has moved in with Raphael, and although he accepts her and loves unconditionally, everything is still new and raw.
Terrible storms and deadly weather events have been taking place all over the world. Raphael knows this weather is no coincidence. There is legend that talks of these extreme events when an ancient awakens – and that ancient that is coming to, is his mother. The archangel Caliane. The rebirth of an archangel is on the horizon, and it is disrupting everything and everyone. The awakening process can take up to a year, things slowly building until the unknown occurs. When Caliane went under the Sleep, she was insane. Has her sanity been restored? Will this all-power being cause mass destruction, or take her place among the angels again?
When a child is murdered by a vampire at the same school that Elena’s half-sisters attend, she knows the attack is aimed at her. But soon they discover this is not the normal vampire that goes into bloodlust. Someone else is pulling the strings. As vampires rage, and Caliane slowly awakens, Elena and Raphael must turn to each other when family matters become overbearing, and the love they share for each other deepens even more.
I devoured Archangel’s Consort and it only makes me love this serious more, if that is even possible. Where to start? First, I loved the conflict in this one. The idea of Raphael’s mother, slowly waking (possibly over a year) is just an awesome concept. As Raphael says, “my mother is the monster that scares other monsters.” As she wakes, these tumultuous events occur all over the world, wreaking havoc. Vampires rage, angels rage, and of course there are twists thrown in that make it all that much more fun in the end.
Elena herself is still struggling. Physically, she is getting stronger every day, mentally she is still playing games with Dmitri and the other angels trying to find her place. I LOVE that Nalini Singh gives Elena such a hard road once she becomes an angel. It is so interesting to read her about her immortality, because it is such a struggle. Her wings are heavy and ache, she can’t lift off vertically, which can be devastating during certain situations. She must play these mind games with the other immortals, always fearful they may take their hatred towards her one step too far. She also faces with off with Raphael on more than one occasion. He is overprotective of his hunter, and she doesn’t like to have babysitters.
In this one we get lots of good things with Dmitri, Illium, my favorite Blue Bell, and the dark, mysterious Jason. I’m dying for those three books – their stories are so intriguing and I can not wait to learn more about them. We also learn more from vampire Venom and the angel Aodhan. Nalini Singh’s supporting characters are amazing in this series and add so much to these books.
I saved the best for last – oh Raphael. One of the most intense alphas I have ever read about. There is no cracking jokes there is no goofing off. He is alpha, he is archangel, and he means business. In and out of bed. Oh yes. Although Raphael is ancient, and extremely powerful, he needs his little hunter. He needs her on a level that is so intimate. I think that is a good word to describe their relationship. The romance scenes between Raphael and Elena are powerful, raw, intense, dark – and so intimate. Nalini Singh writes their passion on another level.
The way she writes the angels, their flying, landing, taking off, soaring in the skies – it really sets up for a beautiful book. To offset their exquisite beauty, the angels are so far from mortality that they are these creatures that are sometimes so abhorrent. Mortals to many of them are just play things. They can be so violent and cruel. I love the contrast.
This book comes out January 25th and if you have not picked up the first two books (Angels’ Blood and Archangel’s Kiss), I urge you to try this series. All three books are about Raphael and Elena, although in book two and three you also get Raphael's point of view. They are much darker and intense than her Psy/Changeling books. This is a paranormal series not to be missed.
January 27, 2011
SEVEN REASONS WHY I LOVE SINGH’S SEVEN:
1. They are seven of the hottest vamps and angels out there! Singh answered my call to heaven for a book about angels and vampires. Sexy angels + Sexy vampires = enflamed panties. Genius!
2. They like to trash talk like this:
“Sure you can handle me, pretty, pretty Bluebell?”
“Did I ever tell you about my snakeskin boots?”
“I do think I need some new feathers for my pillow.”
3. They dress like GQ models in black-on-black suits. Venom, you smexy beast!
4. Even better, Illium – the blue-winged angel is shirtless. Need I say more? *waggles eyebrows*
5. Dmitri’s got a scent so sexually potent and alluring that even a woman in love like Elena falls prey to his lures. It’s like BREATHING SEX. I cannot wait for his book! (Archangel’s Blade, September 2011).
6. They are as lethal as they are graceful. Singh writes vivid and gory action scenes that juxtapose well against the beauty of the hunters, angels and vamps .
7. And lastly, Dmitri, Illium, Aodhan, Venom, Galen, Naasir, and Jason would give their life for their Sire, Raphael and in turn, for his consort as well. Their loyalty is a sign of friendship of the deepest level. I love it when characters have strong bonds with others outside of their relationships.
I ADORED THIS BOOK!! I wish I could live in this world soo badly! I’ve said this countless times, but Singh’s worldbuilding is so spectacular! How does she come up with this?
Elena is my favourite UF heroine ever! My favourite scene is where she falls through the ceiling and sets her flamethrower on those bastard vamps! BAD.ASS. And even though she may not be in 100% hunter shape, she’s still got her hunter-born senses and can definitely spar with Venom, Galen or even Raphael any day. She also has vulnerabilities that make her such an appealing heroine that I can’t help but adore.
Familiar faces show up and I loved reading about Sara, Deacon (aka gorgeous manflesh), Zoe and Ransom! Even Ash shows up briefly! I adore them just as much as the Seven. Well, maybe not as much.
But probably the most mind-blowing thing about this book is Singh’s writing. Each line is quotable on its own and written with such heart. My favourite parts are when she describes her characters.
This is a particularly good one:
His heart stopped beating as he watched her come toward him, an archangel of such piercing beauty that she spawned legends and caused empires to fall. Her hair was a waterfall of ebony down her back, thick and wild with silken curls his father had loved to fist in his hands as he kissed her, her eyes a piercing hue that he saw in the mirror every single day of his life.
Caliane had given him her eyes, her power...perhaps her madness.
Bottom line? Guild Hunter is one of my top three favourite series of all-time. LOVED IT!
1. They are seven of the hottest vamps and angels out there! Singh answered my call to heaven for a book about angels and vampires. Sexy angels + Sexy vampires = enflamed panties. Genius!
2. They like to trash talk like this:
“Sure you can handle me, pretty, pretty Bluebell?”
“Did I ever tell you about my snakeskin boots?”
“I do think I need some new feathers for my pillow.”
3. They dress like GQ models in black-on-black suits. Venom, you smexy beast!
4. Even better, Illium – the blue-winged angel is shirtless. Need I say more? *waggles eyebrows*
5. Dmitri’s got a scent so sexually potent and alluring that even a woman in love like Elena falls prey to his lures. It’s like BREATHING SEX. I cannot wait for his book! (Archangel’s Blade, September 2011).
6. They are as lethal as they are graceful. Singh writes vivid and gory action scenes that juxtapose well against the beauty of the hunters, angels and vamps .
7. And lastly, Dmitri, Illium, Aodhan, Venom, Galen, Naasir, and Jason would give their life for their Sire, Raphael and in turn, for his consort as well. Their loyalty is a sign of friendship of the deepest level. I love it when characters have strong bonds with others outside of their relationships.
I ADORED THIS BOOK!! I wish I could live in this world soo badly! I’ve said this countless times, but Singh’s worldbuilding is so spectacular! How does she come up with this?
Elena is my favourite UF heroine ever! My favourite scene is where she falls through the ceiling and sets her flamethrower on those bastard vamps! BAD.ASS. And even though she may not be in 100% hunter shape, she’s still got her hunter-born senses and can definitely spar with Venom, Galen or even Raphael any day. She also has vulnerabilities that make her such an appealing heroine that I can’t help but adore.
Familiar faces show up and I loved reading about Sara, Deacon (aka gorgeous manflesh), Zoe and Ransom! Even Ash shows up briefly! I adore them just as much as the Seven. Well, maybe not as much.
But probably the most mind-blowing thing about this book is Singh’s writing. Each line is quotable on its own and written with such heart. My favourite parts are when she describes her characters.
This is a particularly good one:
His heart stopped beating as he watched her come toward him, an archangel of such piercing beauty that she spawned legends and caused empires to fall. Her hair was a waterfall of ebony down her back, thick and wild with silken curls his father had loved to fist in his hands as he kissed her, her eyes a piercing hue that he saw in the mirror every single day of his life.
Caliane had given him her eyes, her power...perhaps her madness.
Bottom line? Guild Hunter is one of my top three favourite series of all-time. LOVED IT!
October 10, 2016
*** 4 ***
A Buddy Read with my Wednesday Warrior lovers at BB&B! Make the warriors angels, and we go nuts!
Raphael, the Archangel of New York and his newly made consort, the angel in training and hunter extraordinaire Elena, are still trying to figure out how a relationship of a very human and recently mortal hunter and a very powerful, over 1000 years old Archangel, son of two of the most powerful ancient Archangels and member of the Cadre, could possibly work and be fair and satisfying for both of them. Their view and reference points are so different and far apart, that it seems as if they could create an insurmountable reef between them. But they do not give up. Knowing that what they have is very special and unique, that she has been given a chance to enter his world and become a part of it, that she is strong enough to hold her own in a world of predators, of beings so powerful and apart from humanity, that the lives of thousands mean nothing to them, and that he has a hunger and need inside of him which only she can fill, they are ready to learn to be what each-other needs... And Elena is going to try to stay strong, try to be there for her Archangel, the man who needs more of her humanity in order to stay sane.
" ... "“Death holds no allure for me, Elena.” The power of him cut against his skin, a cold white fire. “Not when I have yet to sate my hunger for you.”... "
However, despite their determination to make things work, it does seem that the world is set on doing everything possible in order to break them, change them, and put up all traps and barriers to make them fail in their attempts. And the parents are being very unhelpful. It is not enough that Elena's dad has been acting like her adversary ever since the death of her mother and sisters, but Raphael's crazy mommy-dearest is beginning to awaken from her thousand year beauty-sleep and she already is sending not so veiled threats to her son's lover, whom of course she finds completely inappropriate and far, far beneath him. Ooooo, what wonder our families can be sometimes!!!
" ... "“A lot of women have trouble with their mothers-in-law.”
Raphael’s look was priceless. “My mother is an insane archangel.”... "
Oooo, don't they sound like an average everyday family though:):):) Mmmmmeybe not...
On top of the daddy from hell and mommy-nightmare, Elena finds out that one of her half-sisters is dealing with issues close to her heart and it opens old wounds in her soul... Insane and threatening creatures are in abundance and the two lovebirds, Raphael's Seven, and Elena's family and friends are all caught in the crossfire. Action, blood, torture and intrigues ensue and we are once again compelled by the story not to put the book down until the end! I got so caught-up in it, that I forgot to post on the BR thread... Sorry about that, guys...
I love this world and I have grown to truly appreciate Nalini's style, which is deceptively simple and unassuming. I already am invested in the story, Love Elena, and am beginning to care for Raphael, if not for any other reason, then that he makes her very happy. I loooooove Bluebell!!! He is wonderful and I can not wait to find out everything about him and his story!!
" ... "“Raphael, tell him you won’t do anything to him if I get ‘damaged.’ ”
“That would be a lie, Elena. I would tear out his throat.”... "
So, if you love Fantasy and like Paranormal Romance, this is for you! A perfect read for the fans of the genre!
I wish you all Happy Reading and may the whimsy of Fantasy never leave you cold!!!
A Buddy Read with my Wednesday Warrior lovers at BB&B! Make the warriors angels, and we go nuts!
Raphael, the Archangel of New York and his newly made consort, the angel in training and hunter extraordinaire Elena, are still trying to figure out how a relationship of a very human and recently mortal hunter and a very powerful, over 1000 years old Archangel, son of two of the most powerful ancient Archangels and member of the Cadre, could possibly work and be fair and satisfying for both of them. Their view and reference points are so different and far apart, that it seems as if they could create an insurmountable reef between them. But they do not give up. Knowing that what they have is very special and unique, that she has been given a chance to enter his world and become a part of it, that she is strong enough to hold her own in a world of predators, of beings so powerful and apart from humanity, that the lives of thousands mean nothing to them, and that he has a hunger and need inside of him which only she can fill, they are ready to learn to be what each-other needs... And Elena is going to try to stay strong, try to be there for her Archangel, the man who needs more of her humanity in order to stay sane.
" ... "“Death holds no allure for me, Elena.” The power of him cut against his skin, a cold white fire. “Not when I have yet to sate my hunger for you.”... "
However, despite their determination to make things work, it does seem that the world is set on doing everything possible in order to break them, change them, and put up all traps and barriers to make them fail in their attempts. And the parents are being very unhelpful. It is not enough that Elena's dad has been acting like her adversary ever since the death of her mother and sisters, but Raphael's crazy mommy-dearest is beginning to awaken from her thousand year beauty-sleep and she already is sending not so veiled threats to her son's lover, whom of course she finds completely inappropriate and far, far beneath him. Ooooo, what wonder our families can be sometimes!!!
" ... "“A lot of women have trouble with their mothers-in-law.”
Raphael’s look was priceless. “My mother is an insane archangel.”... "
Oooo, don't they sound like an average everyday family though:):):) Mmmmmeybe not...
On top of the daddy from hell and mommy-nightmare, Elena finds out that one of her half-sisters is dealing with issues close to her heart and it opens old wounds in her soul... Insane and threatening creatures are in abundance and the two lovebirds, Raphael's Seven, and Elena's family and friends are all caught in the crossfire. Action, blood, torture and intrigues ensue and we are once again compelled by the story not to put the book down until the end! I got so caught-up in it, that I forgot to post on the BR thread... Sorry about that, guys...
I love this world and I have grown to truly appreciate Nalini's style, which is deceptively simple and unassuming. I already am invested in the story, Love Elena, and am beginning to care for Raphael, if not for any other reason, then that he makes her very happy. I loooooove Bluebell!!! He is wonderful and I can not wait to find out everything about him and his story!!
" ... "“Raphael, tell him you won’t do anything to him if I get ‘damaged.’ ”
“That would be a lie, Elena. I would tear out his throat.”... "
So, if you love Fantasy and like Paranormal Romance, this is for you! A perfect read for the fans of the genre!
I wish you all Happy Reading and may the whimsy of Fantasy never leave you cold!!!
January 3, 2016
That she was loved.. it was wonder enough. That she was loved by this man, it was beyond wonder.
...
He would not hurt her, this hunter with a mortal heart who held his own in her hands.
Nalini Singh knows how to write relationships. It is always beautiful the way she captures the magical feelings of falling in love. She has a way of pulling you in and making you feel all of those wonderful moments. I noticed it in the psy-changling series, and in this one. Along with writing the feelings of new love, she writes in all of those small touches and the body language of couples that are so natural that you don't even think about it. She will write in how he is holding on to her waist, or she is leaning in to him as they are having a conversation. Those are the things that couples do when they are near each other - that they are compelled to do. Even after 26 years together, I am automatically touching my husband in some way whenever we are next to each other. It's the magnetism that brings couples together in the first place that continually draws them together whenever they are in the same space. Singh captures this phenomenon beautifully.
Elena and Raphael are an awesome couple. I can be turned off by a male character who is so much and alpha that he is just a plain old dick, but I love Raphael and how he appreciates Elena's strength.
When she sees a painting he had done of her for his apartment bedroom:
The painting was a full-length portrait of her, knives in hand, wings spread, and feet planted in a combat-ready stance as her hair few off her face in a playful wind. The artist had captured her with her head tilted slightly to the side, a smile mingled challenge and desire on her face, laughter in her eyes...
"Most men would choose a painting of a nude for the bedroom," she teased. "You chose a hunter with knives."
"You are the only woman allowed in my bedroom, Elena."
Yeah, baby!
Elena also accepts that Raphael is not a mortal man and some of the things he does are tough for a mortal to understand. He has power, and the huge responsibilities that go with it, that depends upon his ability to keep deadly and immortal creatures in line. His justice can be brutal, but it's necessary.
In this book, there are crazy things happening in the world like earthquakes, tsunamis, and strange weather. There are also vampires suddenly going crazy and going off on killing rampages. This can possibly mean that Raphael's mother, a powerful archangel who went crazy and then went to "sleep" a millennium ago, is waking up. And, mommy-dearest is a scary bitch who could kill the world. Raphael and Elena have to decide what to do about Mom along with dealing with all of the murderous vampire rages happening. It's just a typical day at the office.
"My mother is the monster that scares other monsters."
Great.... just great...
And, of course, Mother-in-law from hell doesn't approve of Elena. Mother in laws....always trying to kill you. Am I right?
The supporting characters are also intriguing and I hope we get books that focus on them. This series is worth reading if you like PNR.
...
He would not hurt her, this hunter with a mortal heart who held his own in her hands.
Nalini Singh knows how to write relationships. It is always beautiful the way she captures the magical feelings of falling in love. She has a way of pulling you in and making you feel all of those wonderful moments. I noticed it in the psy-changling series, and in this one. Along with writing the feelings of new love, she writes in all of those small touches and the body language of couples that are so natural that you don't even think about it. She will write in how he is holding on to her waist, or she is leaning in to him as they are having a conversation. Those are the things that couples do when they are near each other - that they are compelled to do. Even after 26 years together, I am automatically touching my husband in some way whenever we are next to each other. It's the magnetism that brings couples together in the first place that continually draws them together whenever they are in the same space. Singh captures this phenomenon beautifully.
Elena and Raphael are an awesome couple. I can be turned off by a male character who is so much and alpha that he is just a plain old dick, but I love Raphael and how he appreciates Elena's strength.
When she sees a painting he had done of her for his apartment bedroom:
The painting was a full-length portrait of her, knives in hand, wings spread, and feet planted in a combat-ready stance as her hair few off her face in a playful wind. The artist had captured her with her head tilted slightly to the side, a smile mingled challenge and desire on her face, laughter in her eyes...
"Most men would choose a painting of a nude for the bedroom," she teased. "You chose a hunter with knives."
"You are the only woman allowed in my bedroom, Elena."
Yeah, baby!
Elena also accepts that Raphael is not a mortal man and some of the things he does are tough for a mortal to understand. He has power, and the huge responsibilities that go with it, that depends upon his ability to keep deadly and immortal creatures in line. His justice can be brutal, but it's necessary.
In this book, there are crazy things happening in the world like earthquakes, tsunamis, and strange weather. There are also vampires suddenly going crazy and going off on killing rampages. This can possibly mean that Raphael's mother, a powerful archangel who went crazy and then went to "sleep" a millennium ago, is waking up. And, mommy-dearest is a scary bitch who could kill the world. Raphael and Elena have to decide what to do about Mom along with dealing with all of the murderous vampire rages happening. It's just a typical day at the office.
"My mother is the monster that scares other monsters."
Great.... just great...
And, of course, Mother-in-law from hell doesn't approve of Elena. Mother in laws....always trying to kill you. Am I right?
The supporting characters are also intriguing and I hope we get books that focus on them. This series is worth reading if you like PNR.
October 16, 2016
Buddy read with the UF lovers of Buddies Books and Baubles
I'm pretty behind on reviews so this one will be shorter.
The series is picking up for me now in this third book. There is an old power rising and it is affecting the Angels in ways they didn't predict. Elena must be there for Raphael to help him through some of his more human feelings as the power rises and he has to decide whether to kill it or wait and see if the long sleeping Angel well be sane when it wakes.
I really liked the premise of this book and the unintended side affects. Elena is really coming into her Angel abilities over time and I see her being a good match to Raphael. He is changing a little and I think she helps his ability to empathize. There relationship is growing and even though they have sex like rabbits some is now fade to black so more of the story is dominant in this installment.
Still this is the last book focused on them for awhile so I forward to seeing what some of the others deep dark secrets are.
I'm pretty behind on reviews so this one will be shorter.
The series is picking up for me now in this third book. There is an old power rising and it is affecting the Angels in ways they didn't predict. Elena must be there for Raphael to help him through some of his more human feelings as the power rises and he has to decide whether to kill it or wait and see if the long sleeping Angel well be sane when it wakes.
I really liked the premise of this book and the unintended side affects. Elena is really coming into her Angel abilities over time and I see her being a good match to Raphael. He is changing a little and I think she helps his ability to empathize. There relationship is growing and even though they have sex like rabbits some is now fade to black so more of the story is dominant in this installment.
Still this is the last book focused on them for awhile so I forward to seeing what some of the others deep dark secrets are.
September 16, 2019
05/10/2016 Buddy read with my amazing friends over at BB&B.
A consort was more than a lover, more than a wife. She was ... someone with whom an archangel could discuss the darkest of secrets, someone he could trust to speak only the truth, even if it wasn’t something he wanted to hear.
Elena Deveraux has barely returned to New York after the devastating events of Beijing, before her skills as a vampire hunter is needed. A vampire attacks a girls’ school, the very school where her half-sisters attend. Could this be a mere coincidence, or is there a more sinister evil at work?
Archangel legends proclaims that when an Ancient awakens, mountains will shake, rivers will overflow, ice will creep across the world and fields will drown in rain. And when more vampires suddenly succumbs to bloodlust, weather across the world become turbulent and Raphael struggles with uncontrollable rage, it becomes clear that a terrifying immortal is rising.
That she was loved . . . it was wonder enough. That she was loved by this man, it was beyond wonder.
Elena is such a fantastic heroine. She’s still weaker than she used to be, having to strengthen her muscles and learning to use her wings, and it’s so much fun seeing her train and growing stronger. I love how she continues to stand up to Raphael when he becomes overbearing, and how hard she fought for him when things got bad for him in this book.
“You hold me to the earth, Elena.”
Raphael is still the sexy and ruthless archangel that we’ve come to know, but I love how much he’s changed because of his love for Elena. I loved seeing how romantic he could be, and how protective he is over her. The evolvement of his powers are very interesting, and I wonder how much of it has to do with his bond with Elena.
“I’m not used to negotiating.” Most people gave him everything he demanded.
A slow, slow smile that melted away the lingering tendrils of the cold rage within him. “I guess the next several hundred years are going to be an education then, huh?”
I just love the romance between these two, and how their relationship continues to grow with every secret, every truth they share. The sexy times were deliciously hot, especially that angel’s dance scene ;-)
I am utterly captivated by Raphael’s Seven. They are so fascinating, each so broken that I just crave to know their stories. I really hope they get their own books soon. And we got to spend some time with Elena’s wonderful friends: Sara, Deacon, little Zoe and Ransom. Oh, and the dog Slayer! :-D
My mother is the monster that scares other monsters.
In this instalment we learn a lot more about Elena’s father and her half-siblings. I hate how Jeffrey continues to hurt Elena. We also learn something about Elena’s mother, which was very interesting….And then there’s Raphael’s mother, Caliane. She was so loved before she went mad the way all old archangels do.
Lijuan continues to grow in power, and what a terrifying thought that is. I have no idea how they are going to defeat her, or even if they can.
This is such a fantastic series, and with every book I read by this author I fall more in love with her writing and her worlds. Her spin on angels and vampires are unique and amazing. Highly recommended.
June 24, 2021
The final book about Raphael and Elena, I’ll sure miss them.
The events in this book began when Elena arrived back in New York, most people still don’t know that she is now an angel.
Just like the previous books, this one is also fast paced and action packed. I love the way Elena and Raphael’s relationship progresses over three books. It’s so admirable, I also love that though they compromise for each other they still remain the same person.
Elena’s relationship with Raphael’s seven is another thing that I love in this boos, especially Illium aka blue bell. I also admire Elena’s loyalty to her family, despite how her father treats her.
Raphael is also a great character, he didn’t shy away from love despite all that it poses to him, even though Lijuan warned him.
Just like the previous books this is written in third person dual POV of Elena and Raphael.
This book doesn’t have a specific villain, they tackled some things but it wasn’t as bad a Lijuan in book two. This book is more about Elena’s adapting to human world when she is no longer one.
The events in this book began when Elena arrived back in New York, most people still don’t know that she is now an angel.
Just like the previous books, this one is also fast paced and action packed. I love the way Elena and Raphael’s relationship progresses over three books. It’s so admirable, I also love that though they compromise for each other they still remain the same person.
Elena’s relationship with Raphael’s seven is another thing that I love in this boos, especially Illium aka blue bell. I also admire Elena’s loyalty to her family, despite how her father treats her.
Raphael is also a great character, he didn’t shy away from love despite all that it poses to him, even though Lijuan warned him.
Just like the previous books this is written in third person dual POV of Elena and Raphael.
This book doesn’t have a specific villain, they tackled some things but it wasn’t as bad a Lijuan in book two. This book is more about Elena’s adapting to human world when she is no longer one.
July 10, 2019
why does paranormal romance feel like a warm hug to me???
i enjoyed this installment! i'm curious to see where things go from here and i think that the plot set up in this book will make for an interesting continuation in the next book.
i will say, there were a couple things i didn't like
- too much sex (i know) between elena and raphael... like y'all have been together since book 1, i really do not care about your love story anymore i'm sorry
- kind of a lackluster ending... same with the second book. we get a cool set up at the beginning and then the ending is kind of a let down
that being said, i know the fourth book follows a different couple, so i'm sincerely excited to continue on. listening to these on audio is strangely comforting (i mean twilight was my best friend in middle school so i shouldn't be shocked).
i enjoyed this installment! i'm curious to see where things go from here and i think that the plot set up in this book will make for an interesting continuation in the next book.
i will say, there were a couple things i didn't like
- too much sex (i know) between elena and raphael... like y'all have been together since book 1, i really do not care about your love story anymore i'm sorry
- kind of a lackluster ending... same with the second book. we get a cool set up at the beginning and then the ending is kind of a let down
that being said, i know the fourth book follows a different couple, so i'm sincerely excited to continue on. listening to these on audio is strangely comforting (i mean twilight was my best friend in middle school so i shouldn't be shocked).
January 27, 2011
I strongly recommend not reading this review if you have not read the previous two books, Angels’ Blood and Archangel’s Kiss. It is impossible for me to write this review without including HUGE spoilers for the first book. So, just know that the first two books were five stars for me and I recommend them!
This book takes us back to New York and all the family and friends that Elena hasn’t seen since being Made. I’ve been eager to see the reaction to Elena’s wings since the end of the first book, so this was pretty exciting for me. Unfortunately for her, not everything goes smoothly, despite her new prestige. Her family hasn’t improved—although we do see glimmers of possible better relations—and not all her old acquaintances are pleased with her new status.
I’m very glad that the author hasn’t made Elena’s journey easy. She doesn’t automatically gain status because she’s the consort of an Archangel. If anything, she’s scorned even more for it. She struggles to learn the rules of her new life and to find acceptance, even with Raphael’s Seven. Nothing comes easily for her. She’s used to being the baddest Hunter on the block, but now she finds herself back to square one. She also struggles to master flying tricks and works to build muscle so she won’t be so easily fatigued. Seeing Elena work step by step to adjust to her new life makes any achievements all the sweeter for me.
Elena continues to jockey with Raphael for cooperation and control. Neither of them are really used to a partnership, and trust comes hard for them. The love is there, but there are plenty of bumps along the path to happiness. Elena and Raphael both slowly open themselves to each other and it’s lovely watching them strengthen as a couple. Raphael still has a hard time trusting himself with Elena when he’s in a mood and trusting Elena to protect herself well enough to ensure nothing will happen to her. But Elena values their relationship enough to keep working at it.
We get some nice details about various members of the Seven here. Before rereading the first two books (right before I started this one) I wasn’t that interested in Venom. I don’t know what happened, but all of a sudden he drew my attention like a lodestone. I really liked watching his fighting techniques and hope that we get more of him soon. Illium was someone I’ve been interested in from the start. I like his flirty, fun-loving attitude, but it’s also nice to see a little more depth too.
I had heard that the next book focused on Dmitri before I reread the first two. I paid particular attention to him looking for clues and thought that I had spotted his future love interest, but then I heard Singh had leaked that we hadn’t met her yet. So I suppose I spotted clues where there were none.
Even though I enjoyed this book I didn’t like it as much as the first two. I had to take a while to let it stew after reading it to figure out why I wasn’t as happy with it. I’m still not sure I’ve totally figured it out. Honestly, if I had read this book first I wouldn’t have become obsessed with the series like I am now. The relationship is still good, but it doesn’t have the compelling factor going for it that I’m used to seeing.
I think one of the biggest problems with this book was the pacing. It all felt a bit slow to me. There was a lot of focus on Raphael and Elena—which I definitely do want—but it didn’t feel like the quality time I was craving. It just felt like they were rehashing things when I wanted new development. That’s not to say that it was unsatisfying though. I still enjoyed them together, I just wish there had been more of a spark.
The end fight was a pretty big letdown for me. I wasn’t displeased with the final resolution (because I saw it coming early on) but I did expect more excitement.
Before ending this I do have to mention one thing. We finally get to see Raphael teach Elena how Angels dance! It definitely wasn’t what I was expecting, but I liked it all the better for it.
While this was my least favorite of the series I still think it was pretty good. It also didn’t hurt that there was an excerpt of Kiss of Snow at the end of it! Read that at your own risk though, because I couldn’t resist reading it and then I got bummed and crabby when I ran out of pages.
Favorite Quote:
Review originally posted at Fiction Vixen.
This book takes us back to New York and all the family and friends that Elena hasn’t seen since being Made. I’ve been eager to see the reaction to Elena’s wings since the end of the first book, so this was pretty exciting for me. Unfortunately for her, not everything goes smoothly, despite her new prestige. Her family hasn’t improved—although we do see glimmers of possible better relations—and not all her old acquaintances are pleased with her new status.
I’m very glad that the author hasn’t made Elena’s journey easy. She doesn’t automatically gain status because she’s the consort of an Archangel. If anything, she’s scorned even more for it. She struggles to learn the rules of her new life and to find acceptance, even with Raphael’s Seven. Nothing comes easily for her. She’s used to being the baddest Hunter on the block, but now she finds herself back to square one. She also struggles to master flying tricks and works to build muscle so she won’t be so easily fatigued. Seeing Elena work step by step to adjust to her new life makes any achievements all the sweeter for me.
Elena continues to jockey with Raphael for cooperation and control. Neither of them are really used to a partnership, and trust comes hard for them. The love is there, but there are plenty of bumps along the path to happiness. Elena and Raphael both slowly open themselves to each other and it’s lovely watching them strengthen as a couple. Raphael still has a hard time trusting himself with Elena when he’s in a mood and trusting Elena to protect herself well enough to ensure nothing will happen to her. But Elena values their relationship enough to keep working at it.
We get some nice details about various members of the Seven here. Before rereading the first two books (right before I started this one) I wasn’t that interested in Venom. I don’t know what happened, but all of a sudden he drew my attention like a lodestone. I really liked watching his fighting techniques and hope that we get more of him soon. Illium was someone I’ve been interested in from the start. I like his flirty, fun-loving attitude, but it’s also nice to see a little more depth too.
I had heard that the next book focused on Dmitri before I reread the first two. I paid particular attention to him looking for clues and thought that I had spotted his future love interest, but then I heard Singh had leaked that we hadn’t met her yet. So I suppose I spotted clues where there were none.
Even though I enjoyed this book I didn’t like it as much as the first two. I had to take a while to let it stew after reading it to figure out why I wasn’t as happy with it. I’m still not sure I’ve totally figured it out. Honestly, if I had read this book first I wouldn’t have become obsessed with the series like I am now. The relationship is still good, but it doesn’t have the compelling factor going for it that I’m used to seeing.
I think one of the biggest problems with this book was the pacing. It all felt a bit slow to me. There was a lot of focus on Raphael and Elena—which I definitely do want—but it didn’t feel like the quality time I was craving. It just felt like they were rehashing things when I wanted new development. That’s not to say that it was unsatisfying though. I still enjoyed them together, I just wish there had been more of a spark.
The end fight was a pretty big letdown for me. I wasn’t displeased with the final resolution (because I saw it coming early on) but I did expect more excitement.
Before ending this I do have to mention one thing. We finally get to see Raphael teach Elena how Angels dance! It definitely wasn’t what I was expecting, but I liked it all the better for it.
While this was my least favorite of the series I still think it was pretty good. It also didn’t hurt that there was an excerpt of Kiss of Snow at the end of it! Read that at your own risk though, because I couldn’t resist reading it and then I got bummed and crabby when I ran out of pages.
Favorite Quote:
For the first time in forever, he was stunned to silence. Not by her words, but by the tenderness in her hands, the worry in her eyes. He was an archangel. He’d been wounded far, far worse and shrugged it off. But then, there had been no woman with sun kissed by the sunset and eyes of storm gray to tear into him for daring to get himself hurt.
Review originally posted at Fiction Vixen.
September 3, 2015
The story itself was good, but it just couldn't capture my interest as much as I thought it would. The suspense part didn't excite me. I felt like I wasn't eager to find out what was going to happen next. The sex scenes were great though. They were not only well-written, but also intense and passionate!
I couldn’t care less about these crazy archangels who were trying to usurp each other’s powers. So far I would say I enjoy this series just because of Raphael, a super hot archangel hero with a protective streak!
Now that I've come this far, finishing the third book, I might as well continue the series.
I couldn’t care less about these crazy archangels who were trying to usurp each other’s powers. So far I would say I enjoy this series just because of Raphael, a super hot archangel hero with a protective streak!
Now that I've come this far, finishing the third book, I might as well continue the series.
May 5, 2022
Reread: September, 2019
Still a favorite and an AMAZING read!
I love these characters!!!
Elana and Raphael's relationship is so intense!
Can't wait for the next book in the series, so much can happen with Lijian and Caliane's characters!.... and the hint of Elana and Raphael having a child....(in the future of coarse)... amazing!
Guild Hunter is one of my favorite series' and this book did not disappoint!
Still a favorite and an AMAZING read!
I love these characters!!!
Elana and Raphael's relationship is so intense!
Can't wait for the next book in the series, so much can happen with Lijian and Caliane's characters!.... and the hint of Elana and Raphael having a child....(in the future of coarse)... amazing!
Guild Hunter is one of my favorite series' and this book did not disappoint!
January 13, 2022
What do I like the most about these stories? Everything that happens and surrounds Raphael. I cannot get enough of this archangel!
After taking out Uram, who was killing all willy-nilly in NYC in Angels' Blood, and somewhat defeating Lijuan, who was making the dead walk the Earth in Archangel's Kiss, I was beyond curious to see what Raphael and Elena would have to face next. Would Lijuan rejoin the living? Who would be the 'enemy' in this one?
I guess I should have figured with all of the information bandied back and forth between this couple about their mothers, Raphael's mom would feature in some way. There was a lot of interesting lead up (questionable storms and deaths), however, I found the eventual come to mama moment to be kinda anticlimactic. I can already feel the venom coming my way from die-hard fans, but I was expecting more. And while I'm not complaining about all of the scenes that helped to solidify Raphael and Elena as a couple, I found myself being a bit over Elena. She started grating on my nerves, which could be why the big moment didn't land they way it should have.
No, I don't hate Elena. I'm just not a fan. I admire her fight, her doggedness, her determination and her strength, but I didn't like how unrealistic and ditzy she could be. I kept rolling my eyes and internally screaming grow the heck up at times. But overall, she was okay. I wanted her to really accept that although she was Raphael's consort and that he loved her above all others, she wasn't his equal. Stop it. And the whole hunter-born repetitiveness became boring. I get it. You're hunter-born. So...
I have no clue what the many books in the series following this are about, but I'll definitely start reading them. This author can write and I want more of her words echoing in my head.
Find more on the blog
After taking out Uram, who was killing all willy-nilly in NYC in Angels' Blood, and somewhat defeating Lijuan, who was making the dead walk the Earth in Archangel's Kiss, I was beyond curious to see what Raphael and Elena would have to face next. Would Lijuan rejoin the living? Who would be the 'enemy' in this one?
I guess I should have figured with all of the information bandied back and forth between this couple about their mothers, Raphael's mom would feature in some way. There was a lot of interesting lead up (questionable storms and deaths), however, I found the eventual come to mama moment to be kinda anticlimactic. I can already feel the venom coming my way from die-hard fans, but I was expecting more. And while I'm not complaining about all of the scenes that helped to solidify Raphael and Elena as a couple, I found myself being a bit over Elena. She started grating on my nerves, which could be why the big moment didn't land they way it should have.
No, I don't hate Elena. I'm just not a fan. I admire her fight, her doggedness, her determination and her strength, but I didn't like how unrealistic and ditzy she could be. I kept rolling my eyes and internally screaming grow the heck up at times. But overall, she was okay. I wanted her to really accept that although she was Raphael's consort and that he loved her above all others, she wasn't his equal. Stop it. And the whole hunter-born repetitiveness became boring. I get it. You're hunter-born. So...
I have no clue what the many books in the series following this are about, but I'll definitely start reading them. This author can write and I want more of her words echoing in my head.
Find more on the blog
October 18, 2021
One of the things that I love most in this series is that the characters have real growth - which means they're not always "good." Sometimes trust takes time to build, and we get to see that. Sometimes characters are assholes, and slowly - oh-so-slowly - begin to change. Sometimes, a relationship takes a while to settle and for the people to really find their place in it. The fact that Elena and Raphael are working towards a working relationship, the love that it takes to never give up, even when frustrated and angry, when not used to giving an inch or compromising, is ... amazing. I love this about this. I love how they fight for the love they have, and how it's not always easy.
Original review:
First of all, this cover is absolutely stunning. I found myself staring at it for several minutes. I think it captures Elena beautifully and think that this series continues to have some of the best covers out there.
After the devastating events in Beijing, Guild Hunter Elena and her Archangel, Raphael, have returned home to New York. Elena doesn’t expect her return to be easy, after all she is the first angel-Made in the even not-so-recent history of angels. She’s determined to reclaim her place in her city, but knows that there will be a period of adjustment.
What she doesn’t expect is for the world to be under onslaught of terrible natural disasters, where the ground shakes, the waters crash and the winds blow cutting ice. Then shortly after their return vampires begin descending into bloodlust that’s too intelligent to not be calculated. When Raphael shows signs of a foreign rage, the signs are only too clear.
An Ancient rises from Sleep, and the madness gripping the city, and the world, begins to carry the hint of a scent – whispering the name Caliane. Raphael fears his mother will rise as insane as he last saw her, but even more worrying is the knowledge that only one being stands in the way of Caliane reclaiming the son she used to sing lullabies for—Elena.
Elena definitely doesn’t receive an easy acceptance by Raphael’s Seven, even after all she’s been through with her Archangel and his most trusted. She’s still struggling to find her place, and earn their respect. I really enjoyed seeing her continue to work at this. She fights for the right to be by Raphael’s side, and even if some of the Seven are reluctant in giving her their respect, she’s definitely earned mine.
Raphael continues to fascinate me. He’s absolute, powerful, beautiful, utterly immortal with a new vein of mortal consciousness from Elena. Even while his love for her is so wonderfully apparent, he is still autocratic – expecting to be obeyed. But this doesn’t stand in the way of Elena calling him on it, and him examining his own decisions – and her feelings on them. He’s willing to make compromise for the one who holds his heart, and, from Raphael, that is incredibly sexy.
Their relationship continues to grow, to bloom, with them both fighting – sometimes with each other – to give themselves the strong foundation that they need to thrive with each other. I loved seeing each little development, each bit of trust given and accepted. Elena and Raphael are both so strong, unused to relying on others, that to witness them beginning to not only acknowledge, but count on each other, was striking.
I’ve spoken a lot about Elena, Raphael and their relationship. The reason is that I feel this book, even more so than the last two, focuses on them. Yes, there are external things happening in the world, and that aspect of the story definitely doesn’t suffer, but each one of them serves to also further develop these two that I’ve come to love so much.
The events that take place strive to break open old wounds in both Elena and Raphael. They must face even more of their past, breaking themselves open to each other in order to stand stronger together. Elena has to face the difficulties of coming back to her city so changed that she’s stared at, an anomaly, an oddity. Then her family, her father, are suddenly entering back into her life for reasons that hit entirely too close to home. Raphael struggles with the conflicting memories of his mother, struggling against the knowledge that if she has returned still mad he will most likely have to be the one to carry out the execution. As the deaths, and rages, continue to mount, both of them must prepare to face things they never expected.
The last thing that I want to mention is the simple grace that Nalini Singh writes with. With a few words she can convey the beauty of angels flying, the darkness of storms that threaten to overtake the world, and the heart-wrenching reality of facing histories long thought buried.
And, fear not, there’s plenty of Dmitri, Illium, Aodhan and even some Venom. I can’t wait to read more about them, and am greatly looking forward to Dmitri’s book, Archangel’s Blade (isn’t that a sexy title?) due to come out in September 2011.
Archangel’s Consort just added another layer to the love I have for this series. It’s a wonderfully deep addition to Elena and Raphael’s story that is absolutely not to be missed. Nalini Singh continues to enchant and exceed expectations. If you haven’t yet started this series, I urge you to go pick up all three books and dive in.
Original review:
First of all, this cover is absolutely stunning. I found myself staring at it for several minutes. I think it captures Elena beautifully and think that this series continues to have some of the best covers out there.
After the devastating events in Beijing, Guild Hunter Elena and her Archangel, Raphael, have returned home to New York. Elena doesn’t expect her return to be easy, after all she is the first angel-Made in the even not-so-recent history of angels. She’s determined to reclaim her place in her city, but knows that there will be a period of adjustment.
What she doesn’t expect is for the world to be under onslaught of terrible natural disasters, where the ground shakes, the waters crash and the winds blow cutting ice. Then shortly after their return vampires begin descending into bloodlust that’s too intelligent to not be calculated. When Raphael shows signs of a foreign rage, the signs are only too clear.
An Ancient rises from Sleep, and the madness gripping the city, and the world, begins to carry the hint of a scent – whispering the name Caliane. Raphael fears his mother will rise as insane as he last saw her, but even more worrying is the knowledge that only one being stands in the way of Caliane reclaiming the son she used to sing lullabies for—Elena.
Elena definitely doesn’t receive an easy acceptance by Raphael’s Seven, even after all she’s been through with her Archangel and his most trusted. She’s still struggling to find her place, and earn their respect. I really enjoyed seeing her continue to work at this. She fights for the right to be by Raphael’s side, and even if some of the Seven are reluctant in giving her their respect, she’s definitely earned mine.
Raphael continues to fascinate me. He’s absolute, powerful, beautiful, utterly immortal with a new vein of mortal consciousness from Elena. Even while his love for her is so wonderfully apparent, he is still autocratic – expecting to be obeyed. But this doesn’t stand in the way of Elena calling him on it, and him examining his own decisions – and her feelings on them. He’s willing to make compromise for the one who holds his heart, and, from Raphael, that is incredibly sexy.
Their relationship continues to grow, to bloom, with them both fighting – sometimes with each other – to give themselves the strong foundation that they need to thrive with each other. I loved seeing each little development, each bit of trust given and accepted. Elena and Raphael are both so strong, unused to relying on others, that to witness them beginning to not only acknowledge, but count on each other, was striking.
I’ve spoken a lot about Elena, Raphael and their relationship. The reason is that I feel this book, even more so than the last two, focuses on them. Yes, there are external things happening in the world, and that aspect of the story definitely doesn’t suffer, but each one of them serves to also further develop these two that I’ve come to love so much.
The events that take place strive to break open old wounds in both Elena and Raphael. They must face even more of their past, breaking themselves open to each other in order to stand stronger together. Elena has to face the difficulties of coming back to her city so changed that she’s stared at, an anomaly, an oddity. Then her family, her father, are suddenly entering back into her life for reasons that hit entirely too close to home. Raphael struggles with the conflicting memories of his mother, struggling against the knowledge that if she has returned still mad he will most likely have to be the one to carry out the execution. As the deaths, and rages, continue to mount, both of them must prepare to face things they never expected.
The last thing that I want to mention is the simple grace that Nalini Singh writes with. With a few words she can convey the beauty of angels flying, the darkness of storms that threaten to overtake the world, and the heart-wrenching reality of facing histories long thought buried.
And, fear not, there’s plenty of Dmitri, Illium, Aodhan and even some Venom. I can’t wait to read more about them, and am greatly looking forward to Dmitri’s book, Archangel’s Blade (isn’t that a sexy title?) due to come out in September 2011.
Archangel’s Consort just added another layer to the love I have for this series. It’s a wonderfully deep addition to Elena and Raphael’s story that is absolutely not to be missed. Nalini Singh continues to enchant and exceed expectations. If you haven’t yet started this series, I urge you to go pick up all three books and dive in.
March 30, 2011
So, if you like a book about angels "doin' it" this is def the book for you.
I think the overall plot here was a little thin, and I got sick of Elena's family "problem" stuff. The romance stuff was RACY and well done, but most the time I got distracted about where their wings were going during all this...ahem...athletics.
I do enjoy this author;s writing, just thought I could use some more conflict and plot instead of teh sexing. Of course I'll read the next one, haha.
I think the overall plot here was a little thin, and I got sick of Elena's family "problem" stuff. The romance stuff was RACY and well done, but most the time I got distracted about where their wings were going during all this...ahem...athletics.
I do enjoy this author;s writing, just thought I could use some more conflict and plot instead of teh sexing. Of course I'll read the next one, haha.
July 13, 2014
Archangel's Consort was far from perfect with it's superfluous sex scenes and slow build up to an uncertain and frankly lack lustre ending. It pains me to say all of that because Nalini Singh is one of my favourite authors with her Psy-Changeling books being my favourite paranormal romance series. My disloyalty is blasphemous but it needs to be said.
The numerous sex scenes led to boredom and skimming, not because they weren't hot, they were, there were just too damn many of them. Especially if you include all the lustful admiration/adoration Elena and Raphael do of each other. It felt like filler and it screwed up the pacing, slowed everything down. I needed more action. I mean, of course, there was death and distruction and political manoeuvring (this is a Nalini Singh book we're talking about here after all!) but it wasn't exciting enough to suck me completely out of reality and into this angel-dominated world.
This is unusual. Singh is usually the master at balancing plot, kick-ass action and romance with a good sense of pace. But not this time it seems. I had a fantastic time reading Angels' Blood but I experienced similar problems with Archangel's Kiss. The slow build had us waiting...and waiting...and waiting for Raphael's mother to awaken to show us whether she was 'batshit crazy' or not. 'Kiss' had us anticipating the confrontation with Lijuan. I am not a patient woman. I have trouble waiting for the kettle to boil for my morning cuppa tea. That we were left as uncertain about Raphael's mother at the end as we were in the beginning didn't help matters.
I believe also that the romance element in this series isn't as appealing to me as it should be. Elena and Raphael are both very alpha, dominant characters and their relationship is a difficult one, even without the emotional scars they both have. Together, they're learning to compromise, trust each other with their secrets and are generally growing into their relationship. This is good. However, sometimes they feel very un-relateable when they become aloof and formal with one another. Even in private. I understand a working and personal relationship is being attempted but it's not working for me.
After complaining about what I didn't like it's time for what I did:
The cover is absolutely gorgeous!
I now know how angels dance and it was breath taking, death defying and if I should ever take part in this activity I'd probably suffer a heart attack! It brings a whole new meaning to "mile high club". ;)
We get to see a little more of the intriguing Seven: Aodhan (we'll be seeing more of him in future, yay!), Illium, Jason, Dmitri and Venom, in particular. All of the Seven are mysterious, with a few tortured souls I want to comfort and kiss it all better. The introduction of Illium's mother, the Hummingbird is cloaked in mystery. So many questions and no place to start...
The character development is amazing with their distinct personalities and realistic dialogue. Evelyn's innocence captured my heart when she divulged her pent-up feelings to Elena. So sweet. Actually, Elena around any child is a heart-melting experience.
Singh explores the fact that immortality though highly sought after, isn't always everything it's cracked up to be. Some would give it up in a heartbeat if they could. It would be interesting to see a conversation between Beth and Jason on this subject.
And finally, Janvier and Ashwini. Honey, eh? Wink, wink. Details, please?! I need details. Ever since I read their short story, Angels' Pawn I've been eager for a follow-up. We only get a sneak peek at them in this but it was Juicy.
Tepid. Okay. Unenthusiastic. Halfhearted. Harsh words, well to me and any other fan but this was my overall reaction upon finishing Archangel's Consort. This makes me sad because I know Singh can do better. A little more action earlier on, a little less romance, gushing and sex, and a faster pace would've done wonders for this.
The Kiss of Snow excerpt at the end however...GIVE. ME. MORE....NOW!
The numerous sex scenes led to boredom and skimming, not because they weren't hot, they were, there were just too damn many of them. Especially if you include all the lustful admiration/adoration Elena and Raphael do of each other. It felt like filler and it screwed up the pacing, slowed everything down. I needed more action. I mean, of course, there was death and distruction and political manoeuvring (this is a Nalini Singh book we're talking about here after all!) but it wasn't exciting enough to suck me completely out of reality and into this angel-dominated world.
This is unusual. Singh is usually the master at balancing plot, kick-ass action and romance with a good sense of pace. But not this time it seems. I had a fantastic time reading Angels' Blood but I experienced similar problems with Archangel's Kiss. The slow build had us waiting...and waiting...and waiting for Raphael's mother to awaken to show us whether she was 'batshit crazy' or not. 'Kiss' had us anticipating the confrontation with Lijuan. I am not a patient woman. I have trouble waiting for the kettle to boil for my morning cuppa tea. That we were left as uncertain about Raphael's mother at the end as we were in the beginning didn't help matters.
I believe also that the romance element in this series isn't as appealing to me as it should be. Elena and Raphael are both very alpha, dominant characters and their relationship is a difficult one, even without the emotional scars they both have. Together, they're learning to compromise, trust each other with their secrets and are generally growing into their relationship. This is good. However, sometimes they feel very un-relateable when they become aloof and formal with one another. Even in private. I understand a working and personal relationship is being attempted but it's not working for me.
After complaining about what I didn't like it's time for what I did:
The cover is absolutely gorgeous!
I now know how angels dance and it was breath taking, death defying and if I should ever take part in this activity I'd probably suffer a heart attack! It brings a whole new meaning to "mile high club". ;)
We get to see a little more of the intriguing Seven: Aodhan (we'll be seeing more of him in future, yay!), Illium, Jason, Dmitri and Venom, in particular. All of the Seven are mysterious, with a few tortured souls I want to comfort and kiss it all better. The introduction of Illium's mother, the Hummingbird is cloaked in mystery. So many questions and no place to start...
The character development is amazing with their distinct personalities and realistic dialogue. Evelyn's innocence captured my heart when she divulged her pent-up feelings to Elena. So sweet. Actually, Elena around any child is a heart-melting experience.
Singh explores the fact that immortality though highly sought after, isn't always everything it's cracked up to be. Some would give it up in a heartbeat if they could. It would be interesting to see a conversation between Beth and Jason on this subject.
And finally, Janvier and Ashwini. Honey, eh? Wink, wink. Details, please?! I need details. Ever since I read their short story, Angels' Pawn I've been eager for a follow-up. We only get a sneak peek at them in this but it was Juicy.
Tepid. Okay. Unenthusiastic. Halfhearted. Harsh words, well to me and any other fan but this was my overall reaction upon finishing Archangel's Consort. This makes me sad because I know Singh can do better. A little more action earlier on, a little less romance, gushing and sex, and a faster pace would've done wonders for this.
The Kiss of Snow excerpt at the end however...GIVE. ME. MORE....NOW!
October 10, 2016
Our MC’s are back from Beijing and recovering from the maelstrom of events that took place, but they are not afforded a breathing chance as vampires are acting strangely all over. Someone or something seems to be influencing their behavior and Elena is immediately called in to investigate when death visits a school in the form of a vampire with bloodlust. Problem is, this seems to be only the beginning with similar incidents taking place all over. And to top it all the unusual behavior is not isolated to vampires alone as even Archangels seem to be randomly taken by a rage. When the earthquakes and extreme weather rear their ugly head though, everything starts pointing to an ancient story…
“There is a legend,” Raphael murmured, his wings flaring out as he tugged her into the curve of his body—as if he would protect her. “That mountains will shake and rivers overflow, while ice creeps across the world and fields drown in rain.” He looked down her at, his eyes that impossible, inhuman chrome blue. “All this will come to pass ... when an Ancient awakens.”
The chill in his tone raised every hair on her body.
There are many stories about the ancients, the ones who sleep. No-one knows how many of them there are, but there have been disappearances throughout time. And now it seems one of them is waking, one who was possibly insane before she disappeared, one who may be more powerful than any other…
Raphael, Elena and his Seven need to do everything in their power to find this ancient one’s resting place in order to determine the threat posed and what can be done, but they are not the only ones seeking this ancient being. Before this is over, they will come to encounter an evil heretofore unbeknownst to them. And the bonds that tie Raphael and Elena together will be tested beyond anything they have known before.
“We fall, we fall together.”
The story is well written, fascinating and hot. Nalini Singh is similarly adept at portraying the nuances and depths of emotion that make up the complex relationships her characters develop with each other as she is at creating vast and intricate worlds with compelling histories and engrossing cultures. If you love paranormal romance but are yet to read this author, you are, without a doubt, missing out. While this is not my preferred genre, I am thoroughly enjoying it and more than happy that I am part of this BB&B buddy read. Thank you for asking me to read it with you Jo :D
Two thumbs up to Nalini Singh.
“There is a legend,” Raphael murmured, his wings flaring out as he tugged her into the curve of his body—as if he would protect her. “That mountains will shake and rivers overflow, while ice creeps across the world and fields drown in rain.” He looked down her at, his eyes that impossible, inhuman chrome blue. “All this will come to pass ... when an Ancient awakens.”
The chill in his tone raised every hair on her body.
There are many stories about the ancients, the ones who sleep. No-one knows how many of them there are, but there have been disappearances throughout time. And now it seems one of them is waking, one who was possibly insane before she disappeared, one who may be more powerful than any other…
Raphael, Elena and his Seven need to do everything in their power to find this ancient one’s resting place in order to determine the threat posed and what can be done, but they are not the only ones seeking this ancient being. Before this is over, they will come to encounter an evil heretofore unbeknownst to them. And the bonds that tie Raphael and Elena together will be tested beyond anything they have known before.
“We fall, we fall together.”
The story is well written, fascinating and hot. Nalini Singh is similarly adept at portraying the nuances and depths of emotion that make up the complex relationships her characters develop with each other as she is at creating vast and intricate worlds with compelling histories and engrossing cultures. If you love paranormal romance but are yet to read this author, you are, without a doubt, missing out. While this is not my preferred genre, I am thoroughly enjoying it and more than happy that I am part of this BB&B buddy read. Thank you for asking me to read it with you Jo :D
Two thumbs up to Nalini Singh.
September 12, 2018
I'm re-reading this series. The latest installment is out so I want to be in the zone. But oh wow. This is awkward. I could not finish it.
I COULD NOT FUCKING FINISH IT.
And I used to love it. I used to love it a lot. People change. Indeed they do.
What made me feel this way? There's no fucking story. It's all about Raphael banging Elena, Elena banging Raphael and so on. I also have a big problem with Raphael's caveman attitude. Nope, cannot stand it.
So that's it for me. I'm dropping the series. Sad, but not really.
------------------
Old review:
September 6th 2011… now that’s cruel if you ask me. *sighs* And so ends the final book in my Guild Hunter collection. I have two short stories that I need to read but it’s still not the same thing… total sadness… *dramatic music playing in the background * The HORROR!!!! *shakes fist in the air*
Now that I’m done with that breakdown I’ll continue my review. Excuse my outburst…
So, we start with an annoying Raphael. I really don’t know wtf was wrong with him at the beginning of the book but I was pretty sure their relationship would get maimed somehow. Just check out this quote:
“I was worried about you.”
‹I am an archangel.›
Unsaid were the words that he found the worry of a woman who’d been mortal not long ago—who was still not a true immortal—laughable.
Wtf again! I mean you go through so much shit to be together and now you take this asshole attitude. Where’s a baseball bat when you need one…
If this crap Raphael was giving would have lasted till the middle of the book, or something like this, I would have given it a bad review. Yep, that’s the sad, very sad truth. But of course the wonderful Nalini Singh wouldn’t do this to us. *eyes sparkle with awe* By the end of the book the change in Raphael is so huge (heh, pun intended – if you know what I mean) that he seems a totally different pers- eeerr… archangel… Sooo happy day for a problem solved! Wilson, you may serve the tea and crackers!
Some of you may have booed the book because of the pretty huge (heeh, can’t get enough of this) amount of sex scenes it has. Yes, you may be right. But I know you’re all perverts and you enjoyed each second of it. So suck it up and quit whining! It’s just the couple’s way of letting out steam. So yeah, therapy. That’s the way you should see it. Looooong sweaty sexy therapy. The best there ever was.
My favorite scene, or maybe one of my favorites, is where Elena spars with Raphael. I always found fighting, or sparring as you wish to put it, between lovers erotic. Wish I could do that myself one day. But first I have to get some lessons. Which is also sexy if the tutor is a hottie. I guess I can go on with this all day so I’ll just stop here. *coughs* Uhm so yes, sparring… sexy… moving on… *wipes her forehead*
The story itself was really great, loved the fact that the enemy is someone with a colossal amount of power. And Raphael’s mum. That’s just freaky if you ask me. I always knew mum-in-laws had problems with their sons’ wives, or whatever, but come on! Imagine dating Raphael and one day having dinner with Caliane. That’s nightmare material if you ask me.
The city is in ruins – nah scratch that! The world is in ruins. Chaos everywhere. Vamps going crazy, you don’t know who’s sane and who’s not anymore. The end is uncertain. And I loved it all. I can’t say it’s as good as the previous books, but this series can easily be called a masterpiece. And also Elena and Raphael are one of the best couples ever created. Their little (heh – it was huge *grins*) angel dance was interesting. I must admit I was expecting something else so I can’t form an opinion about this. I won’t look at the world with the same eyes anymore *sad music playing in the background*
I’ve missed Michaela’s death in the book. Since it didn’t happen so far I’m sure Nalini Singh has something special hidden somewhere for her. I’m still hoping it involves lots of pain and torture but I doubt it. *looks towards the sky* WHY?!?! Why must she live?!?!?!
Wilson! Bring me my secret-kill-Michaela-in-the-next-book plan!
Yeeees!!! *pats the folder* Soon my precious…
Now, to prove my point of how this epic the book is, I will just paste a simple scene. No spoilers, nothing to ruin the mood. This is one of the reasons why Nalini Singh grew on me so much.
She was hunter-born, could handle vampires twice her size without blinking. The crowd might overpower her, but not before she took down a significant percentage of their number. Noting that the walls of humanity had blocked all other traffic on both ends of the street, she walked to stand in the middle . . . and looked up at the sky. And there he was, his wingspan creating a massive shadow as he swept down to land in front of her. “Are you well, Consort?”
Silence held their audience in thrall, their awe now licked with dread. “They’re only curious.” She saw the danger in his eyes, knew he had the capacity to execute every human on the street. “I should’ve considered it. I just ... forgot that nothing’s the same anymore.”
How can you not love it?!?! Seriously!
Top five quotes:
#5 “A lot of women have trouble with their mothers-in-law.”
Raphael’s look was priceless. “My mother is an insane archangel.”
#4 He was an archangel. He’d been wounded far, far worse and shrugged it off. But then, there had been no woman with skin kissed by the sunset and eyes of storm gray to tear into him for daring to get himself hurt.
#3 Elena.
Hush, let me talk to the crazy lady.
#2“Death holds no allure for me, Elena.” The power of him cut against his skin, a cold white fire. “Not when I have yet to sate my hunger for you.”
#1“Raphael, tell him you won’t do anything to him if I get ‘damaged.’ ”
“That would be a lie, Elena. I would tear out his throat.”
Read the review on ZombieHazard.
I COULD NOT FUCKING FINISH IT.
And I used to love it. I used to love it a lot. People change. Indeed they do.
What made me feel this way? There's no fucking story. It's all about Raphael banging Elena, Elena banging Raphael and so on. I also have a big problem with Raphael's caveman attitude. Nope, cannot stand it.
So that's it for me. I'm dropping the series. Sad, but not really.
------------------
Old review:
September 6th 2011… now that’s cruel if you ask me. *sighs* And so ends the final book in my Guild Hunter collection. I have two short stories that I need to read but it’s still not the same thing… total sadness… *dramatic music playing in the background * The HORROR!!!! *shakes fist in the air*
Now that I’m done with that breakdown I’ll continue my review. Excuse my outburst…
So, we start with an annoying Raphael. I really don’t know wtf was wrong with him at the beginning of the book but I was pretty sure their relationship would get maimed somehow. Just check out this quote:
“I was worried about you.”
‹I am an archangel.›
Unsaid were the words that he found the worry of a woman who’d been mortal not long ago—who was still not a true immortal—laughable.
Wtf again! I mean you go through so much shit to be together and now you take this asshole attitude. Where’s a baseball bat when you need one…
If this crap Raphael was giving would have lasted till the middle of the book, or something like this, I would have given it a bad review. Yep, that’s the sad, very sad truth. But of course the wonderful Nalini Singh wouldn’t do this to us. *eyes sparkle with awe* By the end of the book the change in Raphael is so huge (heh, pun intended – if you know what I mean) that he seems a totally different pers- eeerr… archangel… Sooo happy day for a problem solved! Wilson, you may serve the tea and crackers!
Some of you may have booed the book because of the pretty huge (heeh, can’t get enough of this) amount of sex scenes it has. Yes, you may be right. But I know you’re all perverts and you enjoyed each second of it. So suck it up and quit whining! It’s just the couple’s way of letting out steam. So yeah, therapy. That’s the way you should see it. Looooong sweaty sexy therapy. The best there ever was.
My favorite scene, or maybe one of my favorites, is where Elena spars with Raphael. I always found fighting, or sparring as you wish to put it, between lovers erotic. Wish I could do that myself one day. But first I have to get some lessons. Which is also sexy if the tutor is a hottie. I guess I can go on with this all day so I’ll just stop here. *coughs* Uhm so yes, sparring… sexy… moving on… *wipes her forehead*
The story itself was really great, loved the fact that the enemy is someone with a colossal amount of power. And Raphael’s mum. That’s just freaky if you ask me. I always knew mum-in-laws had problems with their sons’ wives, or whatever, but come on! Imagine dating Raphael and one day having dinner with Caliane. That’s nightmare material if you ask me.
The city is in ruins – nah scratch that! The world is in ruins. Chaos everywhere. Vamps going crazy, you don’t know who’s sane and who’s not anymore. The end is uncertain. And I loved it all. I can’t say it’s as good as the previous books, but this series can easily be called a masterpiece. And also Elena and Raphael are one of the best couples ever created. Their little (heh – it was huge *grins*) angel dance was interesting. I must admit I was expecting something else so I can’t form an opinion about this. I won’t look at the world with the same eyes anymore *sad music playing in the background*
I’ve missed Michaela’s death in the book. Since it didn’t happen so far I’m sure Nalini Singh has something special hidden somewhere for her. I’m still hoping it involves lots of pain and torture but I doubt it. *looks towards the sky* WHY?!?! Why must she live?!?!?!
Wilson! Bring me my secret-kill-Michaela-in-the-next-book plan!
Yeeees!!! *pats the folder* Soon my precious…
Now, to prove my point of how this epic the book is, I will just paste a simple scene. No spoilers, nothing to ruin the mood. This is one of the reasons why Nalini Singh grew on me so much.
She was hunter-born, could handle vampires twice her size without blinking. The crowd might overpower her, but not before she took down a significant percentage of their number. Noting that the walls of humanity had blocked all other traffic on both ends of the street, she walked to stand in the middle . . . and looked up at the sky. And there he was, his wingspan creating a massive shadow as he swept down to land in front of her. “Are you well, Consort?”
Silence held their audience in thrall, their awe now licked with dread. “They’re only curious.” She saw the danger in his eyes, knew he had the capacity to execute every human on the street. “I should’ve considered it. I just ... forgot that nothing’s the same anymore.”
How can you not love it?!?! Seriously!
Top five quotes:
#5 “A lot of women have trouble with their mothers-in-law.”
Raphael’s look was priceless. “My mother is an insane archangel.”
#4 He was an archangel. He’d been wounded far, far worse and shrugged it off. But then, there had been no woman with skin kissed by the sunset and eyes of storm gray to tear into him for daring to get himself hurt.
#3 Elena.
Hush, let me talk to the crazy lady.
#2“Death holds no allure for me, Elena.” The power of him cut against his skin, a cold white fire. “Not when I have yet to sate my hunger for you.”
#1“Raphael, tell him you won’t do anything to him if I get ‘damaged.’ ”
“That would be a lie, Elena. I would tear out his throat.”
Read the review on ZombieHazard.
December 10, 2018
I am having so much fun with these.
Review to come
Review to come
September 6, 2020
1st Read - April 2013
2nd Read - September 2016
3rd Read - September 2020
Original Review
It is time for Vampire Hunter Elena to return to New York and let the world see the changes she has gone through but as nothing ever goes smoothly for the couple they soon find themselves caught up in the hunt of their lives. As more and more vampires are taken over by bloodlust they quickly realise that all is not what it seems, a powerful enemy is rising, a face from Raphael's past that he hoped never to see again and one who is determined to get Elena out of the way. Even working together this enemy may be too strong for them, their only hope is to defeat them before they regain their full power but that would mean breaking one of the most ancient angelic laws.
I'm a huge fan of this series and I really enjoyed this instalment of Elena and Raphael's adventures. Elena is still coming to grips with her immortality and the new abilities she gained when she became an angel. Although she is stronger and heals faster than she ever did as a human she is still weak compared to other angels and even the older vampires who protect Raphael. She is determined to train as hard as possible though because she doesn't want to be seen as Raphael's weakness but anyone who knows how much he cares for her automatically sees her as a target. It isn't easy for her to adjust to her new life, she is still learning the rules and learning what her body is now capable of but she is just as brave and determined as she ever was. She may be weaker than her enemies but she refuses to back down and wants to stand by Raphael. The two of them will always be stronger together than they are separately and I love that although they are both uncertain when it comes to relationships and find it difficult to trust they work together to overcome their issues.
We learn a lot more about both of their pasts in this book and discover a lot about their families that make us question things we thought we already knew. Elena has always had a very poor relationship with her father (I can't stand the man!) but although they are a long way from a close father / daughter relationship we do see a glimmer of hope that he isn't all bad. One new thing that Elena has to contend with though is the mother-in-law from hell, seriously if you think your MIL is bad she's got nothing on Caliane! Of course Elena isn't going to put up with crap from anyone and there are some really amusing moments where she stands up for both herself and Raphael. We already knew that Raphael didn't have the best relationship with his mother but what we find out about his past is heartbreaking and goes a long way to explaining why he is so closed off to the people around him. He is lucky to have his Seven to rely on but it is Elena who has really started to bring him out of himself. Raphael has changed so much from when we first met him, he is still dangerous and he still scares the crap out of me sometimes but he can also be so unbelievably sweet and protective over Elena. Their relationship has come on leaps and bounds since they first met but they still have their ups and downs, they have to work hard and find ways to compromise so that they can both be happy but they are both willing to put the effort in.
Archangel's Consort is just as sexy as the first two books in the series, there is no missing the fireworks when Raphael and Elena are in the same room, but there is also a deeper connection between them now that wasn't there in the beginning. We are also getting to learn more about Raphael's Seven and I can't wait to spend more time with each of them. Illium is a particular favourite of mine and I really hope he gets a book of his own at some point but even Dimitri and Venom are growing on me now that I know them better. Alongside the hot sex and great character development Nalini Singh has created a fast moving plot that had me gripping the pages. I didn't want the story to end and I'm just relieved that I already have the next book waiting for me to read it. This remains one of my favourite paranormal series and I don't see that changing any time soon.
________________
2nd Read
Buddy read with Aly, Ange & Maru
I'm totally addicted and loving this series even more the second time around.
2nd Read - September 2016
3rd Read - September 2020
Original Review
It is time for Vampire Hunter Elena to return to New York and let the world see the changes she has gone through but as nothing ever goes smoothly for the couple they soon find themselves caught up in the hunt of their lives. As more and more vampires are taken over by bloodlust they quickly realise that all is not what it seems, a powerful enemy is rising, a face from Raphael's past that he hoped never to see again and one who is determined to get Elena out of the way. Even working together this enemy may be too strong for them, their only hope is to defeat them before they regain their full power but that would mean breaking one of the most ancient angelic laws.
I'm a huge fan of this series and I really enjoyed this instalment of Elena and Raphael's adventures. Elena is still coming to grips with her immortality and the new abilities she gained when she became an angel. Although she is stronger and heals faster than she ever did as a human she is still weak compared to other angels and even the older vampires who protect Raphael. She is determined to train as hard as possible though because she doesn't want to be seen as Raphael's weakness but anyone who knows how much he cares for her automatically sees her as a target. It isn't easy for her to adjust to her new life, she is still learning the rules and learning what her body is now capable of but she is just as brave and determined as she ever was. She may be weaker than her enemies but she refuses to back down and wants to stand by Raphael. The two of them will always be stronger together than they are separately and I love that although they are both uncertain when it comes to relationships and find it difficult to trust they work together to overcome their issues.
We learn a lot more about both of their pasts in this book and discover a lot about their families that make us question things we thought we already knew. Elena has always had a very poor relationship with her father (I can't stand the man!) but although they are a long way from a close father / daughter relationship we do see a glimmer of hope that he isn't all bad. One new thing that Elena has to contend with though is the mother-in-law from hell, seriously if you think your MIL is bad she's got nothing on Caliane! Of course Elena isn't going to put up with crap from anyone and there are some really amusing moments where she stands up for both herself and Raphael. We already knew that Raphael didn't have the best relationship with his mother but what we find out about his past is heartbreaking and goes a long way to explaining why he is so closed off to the people around him. He is lucky to have his Seven to rely on but it is Elena who has really started to bring him out of himself. Raphael has changed so much from when we first met him, he is still dangerous and he still scares the crap out of me sometimes but he can also be so unbelievably sweet and protective over Elena. Their relationship has come on leaps and bounds since they first met but they still have their ups and downs, they have to work hard and find ways to compromise so that they can both be happy but they are both willing to put the effort in.
Archangel's Consort is just as sexy as the first two books in the series, there is no missing the fireworks when Raphael and Elena are in the same room, but there is also a deeper connection between them now that wasn't there in the beginning. We are also getting to learn more about Raphael's Seven and I can't wait to spend more time with each of them. Illium is a particular favourite of mine and I really hope he gets a book of his own at some point but even Dimitri and Venom are growing on me now that I know them better. Alongside the hot sex and great character development Nalini Singh has created a fast moving plot that had me gripping the pages. I didn't want the story to end and I'm just relieved that I already have the next book waiting for me to read it. This remains one of my favourite paranormal series and I don't see that changing any time soon.
________________
2nd Read
Buddy read with Aly, Ange & Maru
I'm totally addicted and loving this series even more the second time around.
November 23, 2021
This is the third book in this series it again focuses on Elena and Raphael and takes place after the events in the previous book and back in New York.
Something is awakening a powerful Archangel whose been asleep for aeons.
Power fluctuations are affecting all regions angels and vampires acting out of character,
Vampires Committing crimes without their usual fear of reprisal even Raphael is affected luckily he has Elena to help ground him.
Elena’s enemies are still numerous and it seems she's acquired a new one just on account of being Raphael’s consort.
Her awakening mother in law doesn’t approve of their bond and wants her gone.
This moved the story along nicely but was a tad slow in places. The finale more than made up for that though and was gripping and fast-paced.
For me it’s Raphael and Elena’s bond that is my favourite part of this story, it’s intense and this does impart I could feel the love and devotion between them so easily.
One thing though I don’t understand why Elena is so resistant to having Raphael’s seven guard her.
She’s not exactly got a good track record of calling for assistance until the end and she’s practically a breakable newborn compared to other angels.
I can definitely get why he wants her guarded and think it’s a bit arrogant and selfish of her to fight this as stubbornly as she does. Raphael would go on a rampage if she was hurt or god forbid killed.
Overall this series is fabulous and I’m really enjoying rereading this.
The world-building itself is so detailed and vivid and each book expands on this a little bit more.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
May 12, 2017
OK. Wow, so I’m officially on the Guild Hunter train.
When I read the 1st book a year ago, I was feeling somewhat lukewarm, and then, by the 2nd book, I started truly enjoying it. This book, however, has me realize how much I appreciate the author’s craft: the world-building, the plot, the characters – I love it.
The plot is more on the slow side, but for once, I am actually totally OK with that. There is a nice gradual build-up to every development in the plot and characters. It is fun discovering and learning something new about this world and its people. In addition, I love the romance because it’s just so sweet and thoughtful and good! The huge emphasis on mutual respect has my heart sighing contently.
I think it has helped me to thoroughly enjoy this book – page by page – by spreading it across 2 months (not intentionally 2 months, but it just happened that way). I did not read it every single day, but the urge would strike me every few days, and I would sometimes read a few pages or a few chapters, depending on my mood. Overall, I give Archangel’s Consort (Guild Hunter #3) 4 stars. My feelings for this book have certainly shifted since the 1st book and the 2nd book. I am excited to see what happens next (6 more books to go at the moment?)~
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Is there a happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
Favorite scene?
What age level would be appropriate?
-------
I haven't continued this series in monthsssss, and I sorta-kinda miss it now.
When I read the 1st book a year ago, I was feeling somewhat lukewarm, and then, by the 2nd book, I started truly enjoying it. This book, however, has me realize how much I appreciate the author’s craft: the world-building, the plot, the characters – I love it.
The plot is more on the slow side, but for once, I am actually totally OK with that. There is a nice gradual build-up to every development in the plot and characters. It is fun discovering and learning something new about this world and its people. In addition, I love the romance because it’s just so sweet and thoughtful and good! The huge emphasis on mutual respect has my heart sighing contently.
I think it has helped me to thoroughly enjoy this book – page by page – by spreading it across 2 months (not intentionally 2 months, but it just happened that way). I did not read it every single day, but the urge would strike me every few days, and I would sometimes read a few pages or a few chapters, depending on my mood. Overall, I give Archangel’s Consort (Guild Hunter #3) 4 stars. My feelings for this book have certainly shifted since the 1st book and the 2nd book. I am excited to see what happens next (6 more books to go at the moment?)~
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Is there a happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
Favorite scene?
What age level would be appropriate?
-------
I haven't continued this series in monthsssss, and I sorta-kinda miss it now.
April 18, 2017
Swathed in the silken shadows of the deepest night, New York was the same . . . and altered beyond compare.
Elena and Raphael are back in New York. Elena is still trying to adjust to her wings to becoming stronger and to dealing with mortality or immortality. But throughout other things are stirring. Weather patterns are changing and a lot of the Cadre are becoming even more unpredictable than before. There is once again no rest for the wicked as there are more murders to solve that leads Raphael to believe that an Ancient is awaking. I mean give the poor angel a break Elena soon as a mother in law to contend with and that isn’t going to be easy.
We get more background on Elena’s family and where the hunter gene truly comes from and that there are other hidden secrets as well. His sister Eve is also hunter born.
I love Ms. Singh’s writing and the world that she has created it has been created with such ease that I just can’t get enough it is like coming home. I love the secondary characters especially Bluebell but Dimitri and Venom have also grown on me as well. This is a series that I can read over and over again.
Reading this for the second time I have to say that although I did day that it is my least favorite in the series l have bumped it up from 3 Stars to 4 Stars.
September 15, 2019
This is a pretty addictive series. Raphael and Elena's relationship is one of my favorite kind to read about. Raphael is the big, bad, I-can-kill-all, kind of Angel. Elena is no longer human but she is basically a baby Angel. While she's one of the best vampire hunters, she's still more weak and vulnerable in this supernatural world.
Raphael is still cold and distant but you can see his love for Elena very clearly. He is very protective of her and puts her above all others. She's had fear of him in the beginning but that has never stopped herself from fighting back with him. She fell just as hard for him as he had for her. Addictive.
Each book seem to start right where the last one leaves off. In Archangel's Consort, Raphael's mom is waking from sleep and causing all kinds of havoc. They learn pretty quickly that she does not approve of Elena. Typical mother-in-law right there. Caliane was already considered mad before she disappeared and now she will be even stronger. Raphael must make a choice about whether she should live or die.
Raphael is still cold and distant but you can see his love for Elena very clearly. He is very protective of her and puts her above all others. She's had fear of him in the beginning but that has never stopped herself from fighting back with him. She fell just as hard for him as he had for her. Addictive.
Each book seem to start right where the last one leaves off. In Archangel's Consort, Raphael's mom is waking from sleep and causing all kinds of havoc. They learn pretty quickly that she does not approve of Elena. Typical mother-in-law right there. Caliane was already considered mad before she disappeared and now she will be even stronger. Raphael must make a choice about whether she should live or die.
July 6, 2019
4 1/2 "You're mine." Stars!
Once again I have fallen hard for Elena and Raphael. They are quickly becoming one of my all time favorite couples. Their push and pull; give and get is my kind of swooney. These two hold their own with each other. There is certainly physical power differences, but brute strength is not everything. True love certainly evens the field. That goes both ways...
However, I feel like the ending was quite anticlimactic compared to all the action that built up throughout. I was expecting an epic battle. It was just an okay battle. That is not at al going to stop me from diving into the next book with my girls over at TPAM next month. I really do like this series a lot so far. Clearly there are some interesting characters and possibilities to explore. Happy reading!
Once again I have fallen hard for Elena and Raphael. They are quickly becoming one of my all time favorite couples. Their push and pull; give and get is my kind of swooney. These two hold their own with each other. There is certainly physical power differences, but brute strength is not everything. True love certainly evens the field. That goes both ways...
However, I feel like the ending was quite anticlimactic compared to all the action that built up throughout. I was expecting an epic battle. It was just an okay battle. That is not at al going to stop me from diving into the next book with my girls over at TPAM next month. I really do like this series a lot so far. Clearly there are some interesting characters and possibilities to explore. Happy reading!
September 14, 2015
OMFG, and to believe I was afraid I would not like it as much as the first 2 books. I have no idea how so many rated this book lower than those because for me it was way better than book 2. I loved it, absolutely adored it. I had been waiting to read anything about this series for so long, and to finally be able to do so was amazing, better than everything I could have ever expected. So many things happened in this book, many all time changing events, and I can't wait to read how everything will turn out now. There better be one more book about this couple before NS starts with Raphael's seven because I definitely haven't had enough of this 2. This is one of the best UF series there is out there, I love every book in it and if there where more books in it I know I would be even more obsessed.
NS is definitely one of the best writers and knows how to get you hooked right away. I always find myself trapped in the pages and can't put down her books, it feels as if you were watching a movie and you just can't pause, not even to go to the bathroom because it is THAT addictive. **SIGH**, now one more year to read more about this amazing characters, not fair, I need more NOW!!! I still have to find a book from this author which is not absolutely fantastic.
In this installment we see so much more about our amazing couple that it will make you go crazy. I loved this book so much because while in the first 2 installments we saw a lot of this couple I always had the feeling it wasn't enough. Well, let me tell you that THAT will never happen to you on this book because you definitely read everything, and I mean EVERYTHING, there is to know about this 2 in here. And it was everything I wanted it to be. They make such an amazing couple and you never get tired of getting to know more about them or seeing them together. Their love just feels right, PERFECT. They are one of my top fav couples and I need more from them still. I believe they can become much powerful than they already are and that reading about it will be amazing. I just can't wait for the next books.
NS is definitely one of the best writers and knows how to get you hooked right away. I always find myself trapped in the pages and can't put down her books, it feels as if you were watching a movie and you just can't pause, not even to go to the bathroom because it is THAT addictive. **SIGH**, now one more year to read more about this amazing characters, not fair, I need more NOW!!! I still have to find a book from this author which is not absolutely fantastic.
In this installment we see so much more about our amazing couple that it will make you go crazy. I loved this book so much because while in the first 2 installments we saw a lot of this couple I always had the feeling it wasn't enough. Well, let me tell you that THAT will never happen to you on this book because you definitely read everything, and I mean EVERYTHING, there is to know about this 2 in here. And it was everything I wanted it to be. They make such an amazing couple and you never get tired of getting to know more about them or seeing them together. Their love just feels right, PERFECT. They are one of my top fav couples and I need more from them still. I believe they can become much powerful than they already are and that reading about it will be amazing. I just can't wait for the next books.
May 1, 2021
Wowzers...!!!
Nalini Singh I’m ready to worship the ground you walk on.
~ Just in case if it wasn’t clear, let me just say that I’m absolutely loving this series!
Nalini Singh I’m ready to worship the ground you walk on.
~ Just in case if it wasn’t clear, let me just say that I’m absolutely loving this series!
January 27, 2011
Advance Excerpt from Archangel's Consort
Chapter 1
Swathed in the silken shadows of deepest night, New York was the same . . . and altered beyond compare. Once Elena had watched angels take flight from the light-filled column of the Tower as she sat in front of the distant window of her cherished apartment. Now, she was one of those angels, perched high atop a balcony that had no railing, nothing to prevent a deadly fall.
Except of course, she would no longer fall.
Her wings were stronger now. She was stronger.
Flaring out those wings, she took a deep breath of the air of home. A fusion of scents--spice and smoke, human and vampire, earthy and sophisticated--hit her with the wild fever of a welcoming rainstorm. Her chest, tight for so long, relaxed, and she stretched her wings out to their greatest width. It was time to explore this familiar place become foreign, this home that was suddenly new again.
Diving down from the balcony, she swept across Manhattan on air currents kissed by the cool bite of spring. The bright green season had thawed the snows that had kept the city in thrall this winter, and now held court, summer not even a peach-colored blush on the horizon. This was the time of rebirth, of blooming things and baby birds, bright and young and fragile even in the frenetic rush of a city that never slept.
Home. I'm home.
Letting the air currents sweep her where they would above the diamond-studded lights of the city, she tested her wings, tested her strength.
Stronger.
But still weak. An immortal barely-Made.
One whose heart remained painfully mortal.
So it was no surprise when she found herself trying to hover outside the plate-glass window of her apartment. She didn't yet have the skill to execute the maneuver, and she kept dropping, then having to pull herself back up with fast wingbeats. Still, she saw enough in those fleeting glimpses to know that while the once-shattered glass had been flawlessly repaired, the rooms were empty.
There wasn't even a bloodstain on the carpet to mark the spot where she'd spilled Raphael's blood, where she'd tried to staunch the crimson river until her fingers were the same murderous shade.
Elena.
The scent of the wind and the rain, fresh and wild, around her, inside her, and then strong hands on her hips as Raphael held her effortlessly in position so she could look her fill through the window, her hands flat on the glass.
Emptiness.
No sign remained of the home she'd created piece by precious piece.
"You must teach me how to hover," she said, forcing herself to speak past the knot of loss. It was just a place. Just things. "It'll be a very good way to spy on potential targets."
"I intend to teach you many things." Tugging her back against his body, her wings trapped in between, the Archangel of New York pressed his lips to the tip of her ear. "You are full of sorrow."
It was instinct to lie, to protect herself, but they'd gone beyond that, she and her archangel. "I guess I somehow expected my apartment to still be here. Sara didn't say anything when she sent me my things." And her best friend had never lied to her.
"It was as you left it when Sara visited," Raphael said, drawing back enough that she could flare out her wings and angle her body into the air currents once again. Come, I have something to show you.
The words were in her mind, along with the wind and the rain. She didn't order him to get out--because she knew he wasn't in it. This, the way she could sense him so deeply, speak to him with such ease, was part of whatever it was that tied them to one another . . . that taut, twisting emotion that ripped away old scars and created new vulnerabilities in a whip of fire across the soul.
But as she watched him fly through the lush black of the sky high over the glittering city, her archangel with his wings of white-gold and eyes of endless, relentless blue, she wasn't sorry. She didn't want to turn back the clock, didn't want to return to a life in which she'd never been held in the arms of an archangel, never felt her heart tear open and reform into something stronger, capable of such furies of emotion that it scared her at times. Where are you taking me, Archangel?
Patience, Guild Hunter.
She smiled, her grief at the loss of her apartment buried under a wave of amusement. No matter how many times he decreed that her loyalty was now to the angels and not to the Hunters' Guild, he kept betraying how he saw her--as a hunter, as a warrior. Shooting down below him, she dove then rose through the biting freshness of the air with hard, strong wingbeats. Her back and shoulder muscles protested the acrobatics, but she was having too much fun to worry--she'd pay for it in a few hours, no doubt about it, but for now, she felt free and protected in the dark.
"Do you think anyone is watching?" she asked, breathless from the exertion, once they were side by side once more.
"Perhaps. But the darkness will conceal your identity for the moment."
Tomorrow, she knew, when light broke, the circus would begin. An angel-Made . . . Even the oldest of vampires and the angels themselves found her a curiosity. She had no doubts about how the human population would react. "Can't you do your scary thing and make them keep their distance?" However, even as she spoke, she knew it wasn't the reaction of the general population that worried her.
Her father . . . No. She wouldn't think about Jeffrey. Not tonight.
As she forced away thoughts of the man who had repudiated her when she'd been barely eighteen, Raphael swept out over the Hudson, dropping so hard and fast that she yelped before she could catch herself. The Archangel of New York was one hell of a flier--he skimmed along the water until he could've trailed his fingers in its rushing cold, before pulling himself up in a steep ascent. Showing off.
For her.
It made her heart lighten, her lips curve.
Dipping down to join him at a lower altitude, she watched the night winds whip that sleek ebony hair across his face, as if they could not resist touching him.
It will do no good.
"What?" Fascinated by the almost cruel beauty of him, this male she dared call her lover, she'd forgotten what she'd asked him.
For me to scare them away--you are not a woman to stay in seclusion.
"Damn. You're right." Feeling her shoulder muscles begin to pull in ominous warning, she winced. "I think I need to set down soon." Her body had been damaged in the fight against Lijuan. Not much--and the injuries had healed, but the enforced rest period meant she'd lost some of the muscle she'd built up prior to the battle that had turned Beijing into a crater, its voice the silent cry of the dead.
We're almost home.
Concentrating on keeping herself going in a straight line, she realized he'd shifted position so she was effectively riding his wake--meaning she no longer had to make as much effort to hold herself aloft. Pride had her scrunching her face into a scowl, but contrasting with that was a deep warmth that came from knowing she was important, more than important, to Raphael.
And then she saw it, the sprawling mansion that was Raphael's clifftop home on the other side of the river. Though the land backed up against the Hudson, the place was hidden from casual view by a thick verge of trees. However, they were coming at it from above, and from there it looked like a jewel set in the velvet darkness, warm golden light in every window--turning into pulses of color where it hit the clean lines of the stained glass on one side of the building. The rose bushes weren't visible from this angle, but she knew they were there, their leaves luxuriant and glossy against the elegant white of the house, hundreds of buds ready to bloom in a profusion of color as the weather grew warmer.
She followed Raphael down as he landed in the yard, the light from the stained glass turning his wings into a kaleidoscope of wild blue, crystalline green, and ruby red. You could've landed on one of the balconies , she said, too focused on ensuring a good landing to speak the words aloud.
Raphael didn't disagree, waiting until she was on the ground beside him to say, "I could have." Reaching out as she folded away her wings, he gripped her gently at the curve where her neck flowed into her shoulder, his fingers pressing into the sensitive inner seam of her right wing. "But then your lips would not have been so very close to mine."
Her toes curled as he tugged her forward, pleasure blooming in her stomach. "Not here," she murmured, voice husky. "I don't want to shock Jeeves."
Raphael kissed away her words with a slow thoroughness that had her forgetting all about his butler, her body warming with a slow, luscious sense of anticipation. Raphael.
You tremble, Elena. You are tired.
Never too tired for your touch. It terrified her how addicted she'd become to him. The only thing that made it bearable was that his hunger, too, was a raw, near-violent craving.
A lick of storm against her senses before he drew back with a hotly sexual promise. Later. A slow, intimate stroke along the upper curve of her wing. I would take my time with you. His lips parted, his spoken words far less incendiary. "Montgomery will like having you for his mistress, Elena."
She licked her lips, tried to breathe--and heard the rapid tattoo of her heart against her ribs. Yeah, the archangel knew how to kiss. "Why?" she finally managed to say, falling into step beside him as he walked to the door.
"You're likely to get dirty and destroy your clothes on a regular basis." Raphael's humor was dry, his voice an exquisite caress in the night. "It is the same reason he likes it when Illium occasionally stays here. You both give him plenty to do."
She made a face at him, but her lips kicked up at the corners. "Is Illium coming to join us?" The blue-winged angel was part of Raphael's Seven, the vampires and angels who had given their loyalty to the Archangel of New York--even to the extent of placing his life before their own. Illium was the only one of the Seven who saw her human heart not as a weakness, but as a gift. And in him, she saw a kind of innocence that had been lost in the other immortals.
The door opened at that moment to expose the beaming face of Raphael's butler. "Sire," he said in a plummy English accent she was certain could turn cold and intimidating on command. "It is good to have you home."
"Montgomery." Raphael placed a hand on the vampire's shoulder as he passed.
Elena smiled at the butler, delighted by him all over again. "Hello."
"Mistress."
She blinked. "Elena," she said firmly. "I'm no one's mistress but my own." Then there was the fact that though he chose to work in the service of an archangel, Montgomery was a strong vampire, hundreds of years old.
The butler's spine went stiff as a board, his eyes shooting to Raphael--who gave a languid smile. "You must not shock Montgomery so, Elena." Reaching out to take her hand, he tugged her to his side. "Perhaps you will allow him to call you Guild Hunter?"
Elena looked up, certain the archangel was laughing. But his expression was clear, his lips set with their familiar sensual grace. "Um, yes, okay." She nodded at Montgomery, then felt compelled to ask, "Will that do?"
"Of course, Guild Hunter." He gave a small bow. "I was not sure if you would wish a meal, Sire, but I have sent a small tray up to your rooms."
"That will be all for tonight, Montgomery."
As the butler whispered away, Elena looked with growing suspicion at a large Chinese vase in one corner of the hall, opposite the stained glass wall beside the door. It was decorated with a pattern of sunflowers that seemed oddly familiar. Letting go of Raphael's hand, she stepped closer . . . closer. Her eyes went wide. "This is mine!" Given as a gift by an angel in China after Elena completed a particularly dangerous hunt, one that had taken her into the bowels of the Shanghai underworld.
Raphael touched his fingers to the small of her back, a searing brand. "All of your things are here." He waited until she looked up before saying, "They were moved to this house for safekeeping until your return.
"However," he continued when she remained silent, her throat a knot of emotion, "it seems Montgomery could not help himself when it came to this vase. I'm afraid he has a weakness for beautiful things and has been known to relocate an item if he feels it is not being accorded the proper appreciation. Once, he 'relocated' an ancient sculpture from the home of another archangel."
Elena stared down the corridor where the butler had disappeared in refined silence. "I don't believe you. He's too prim and proper." It was easier to say that, to focus on the humor, than to accept the tightness in her chest, the feelings locking up her throat.
"You would be surprised." Touching her lower back again, he nudged her down the hall and up a flight of stairs. "Come, you can look at your belongings in the morning."
She dragged her feet at the top of the staircase. "No."
Raphael measured her expression with those eyes no mortal would ever possess, a silent visual reminder that he had never been human, would never be anything close to mortal. "Such will." Leading her to a room that flowed off what she knew to be the master bedroom, he opened the door.
Everything from her apartment lay neatly stacked, slipcovers over the furnishings, her knickknacks in boxes.
She froze on the doorstep, uncertain how she felt--relief and anger and joy all battled for space inside of her. She'd known she could never go back to the apartment that had been her haven, and more, a furious rebuttal against her father's abandonment. The place wasn't built for a being with wings--but the loss had hurt. So much.
Now . . . "Why?"
His hand closed around her nape with no attempt to hide the possession inherent in the act. "You are mine, Elena. If you choose to sleep in another bed, I will simply pick you up and bring you home."
Arrogant words. But he was an archangel. And she'd made a claim of her own. "As long as you remember that goes both ways."
Acknowledged, Guild Hunter. A kiss pressed to the curve of her shoulder, his fingers tightening on her nape just a fraction. Come to bed.
Arousal kicked her hard, her body knowing full well what pleasure awaited her at those strong, lethal hands. "So we can talk knives and sheaths?"
Sensual male laughter, another kiss, the caress of teeth. But he released his hold, watching in silence as she stepped into the room and lifted a slipcover to run her fingers over the delicately embroidered comforter on the bed that had been her own, before she moved to explore the vanity with its store of pretty glass bottles and brushes set tidily inside a small box. She felt like a child, wanting to reassure herself that everything was here, the need visceral enough to hurt.
As she gave in to the emotional hunger, her mind disgorged images of another homecoming, of the shock and humiliation that had burned her throat when she'd found her things piled up like so much garbage on the street. Nothing would ever erase that hurt, the pain of the knowledge that that was exactly what she was to her father, but tonight, Raphael had crushed the memory under the weight of a far more powerful act.
She had no illusions about her archangel, knew he'd done it in part precisely for the reason he'd given her--so she wouldn't be tempted to treat her apartment as a bolt-hole. But had that been his sole motivation, he could as easily have sent her stuff to the dump. Instead, every single piece had been packed with care and moved here. Some of it had been exposed to the elements when her window shattered that night, and yet now looked pristine, speaking of meticulous restoration.
Heart aching at the wonder of being so cherished, she said, "We can go now." She'd come back later, decide what to do with everything. "Raphael--thank you."
The brush of his wing against her own, a silent tenderness as they entered the master suite. No one else ever saw this part of him, she thought, eyes on her archangel as he moved closer to the bed and began to strip without flicking on the lights. His shirt fell off his body, revealing that magnificent chest she'd kissed her way across more than once. Suddenly, the overwhelming weight of her emotions was gone, buried under an avalanche of gut-wrenching need.
Raphael looked up at that moment, his gaze glittering with an earthy hunger that said he'd sensed her arousal. Deciding to save the talking for later, she was raising her fingers to tug off her own top when rain--no, hail --hit the windows in staccato bullets that made her jump. She'd have ignored it, except the hard little pellets of ice kept smashing into the glass over and over again. "Must be a storm." Dropping her hands, she walked to one of the windows after glancing over to ensure the French doors to the balcony were secure.
Lighting flashed in vicious spikes in front of her as savage winds began to pound the house with unremitting fury, the hail turning to torrential rain between one blink and the next. "I've never seen it come in this hard, this fast."
Raphael walked to stand beside her, his naked upper body patterned with the image of the raindrops against the window. She looked up when he didn't say anything, saw the shadows that had turned his gaze turbulent in an unexpected reflection of the storm. "What is it? What am I not seeing?" Because that look in his eyes . . .
"What do you know of recent weather patterns across the world?"
Elena traced a raindrop with her gaze as it tunneled across the glass. "I caught a weather update while we were at the Tower. The reporter said a tsunami had just hit the east coast of New Zealand, and that the floods in China are getting worse." Sri Lanka and the Maldives had apparently already been evacuated, but they were starting to run out of places to put people.
"Earthquakes have been rocking Elijah's territory," Raphael told her, speaking of the South American archangel, "and he fears that at least one major volcano is about to erupt. That is not all. Michaela tells me most of Europe is shuddering in the grip of an unseasonal ice storm so vicious, it threatens to kill thousands."
Elena's shoulder muscles went stiff at the mention of the most beautiful--and most venomous--of archangels. "The Middle East, at least," she said, forcing herself to relax, "seems to have escaped major catastrophe from what I saw on the news."
"Yes. Favashi is helping Neha deal with the disasters in her region."
The Archangel of Persia and the Archangel of India, Elena knew, had worked together on previous occasions. And now, when Neha hated almost everyone else in the Cadre, she seemed to be able to tolerate Favashi--perhaps because the other archangel was so much younger. "It means something, doesn't it?" she said, turning to place her hand on the wild heat of Raphael's chest, the shadowy raindrops whispering over her skin. "All this extreme weather."
"There is a legend," Raphael murmured, his wings flaring out as he tugged her into the curve of his body--as if he would protect her. "That mountains will shake and rivers overflow, while ice creeps across the world and fields drown in rain." He looked down her at, his eyes that impossible, inhuman chrome blue. "All this will come to pass . . . when an Ancient awakens."
The chill in his tone raised every hair on her body.
Chapter 1
Swathed in the silken shadows of deepest night, New York was the same . . . and altered beyond compare. Once Elena had watched angels take flight from the light-filled column of the Tower as she sat in front of the distant window of her cherished apartment. Now, she was one of those angels, perched high atop a balcony that had no railing, nothing to prevent a deadly fall.
Except of course, she would no longer fall.
Her wings were stronger now. She was stronger.
Flaring out those wings, she took a deep breath of the air of home. A fusion of scents--spice and smoke, human and vampire, earthy and sophisticated--hit her with the wild fever of a welcoming rainstorm. Her chest, tight for so long, relaxed, and she stretched her wings out to their greatest width. It was time to explore this familiar place become foreign, this home that was suddenly new again.
Diving down from the balcony, she swept across Manhattan on air currents kissed by the cool bite of spring. The bright green season had thawed the snows that had kept the city in thrall this winter, and now held court, summer not even a peach-colored blush on the horizon. This was the time of rebirth, of blooming things and baby birds, bright and young and fragile even in the frenetic rush of a city that never slept.
Home. I'm home.
Letting the air currents sweep her where they would above the diamond-studded lights of the city, she tested her wings, tested her strength.
Stronger.
But still weak. An immortal barely-Made.
One whose heart remained painfully mortal.
So it was no surprise when she found herself trying to hover outside the plate-glass window of her apartment. She didn't yet have the skill to execute the maneuver, and she kept dropping, then having to pull herself back up with fast wingbeats. Still, she saw enough in those fleeting glimpses to know that while the once-shattered glass had been flawlessly repaired, the rooms were empty.
There wasn't even a bloodstain on the carpet to mark the spot where she'd spilled Raphael's blood, where she'd tried to staunch the crimson river until her fingers were the same murderous shade.
Elena.
The scent of the wind and the rain, fresh and wild, around her, inside her, and then strong hands on her hips as Raphael held her effortlessly in position so she could look her fill through the window, her hands flat on the glass.
Emptiness.
No sign remained of the home she'd created piece by precious piece.
"You must teach me how to hover," she said, forcing herself to speak past the knot of loss. It was just a place. Just things. "It'll be a very good way to spy on potential targets."
"I intend to teach you many things." Tugging her back against his body, her wings trapped in between, the Archangel of New York pressed his lips to the tip of her ear. "You are full of sorrow."
It was instinct to lie, to protect herself, but they'd gone beyond that, she and her archangel. "I guess I somehow expected my apartment to still be here. Sara didn't say anything when she sent me my things." And her best friend had never lied to her.
"It was as you left it when Sara visited," Raphael said, drawing back enough that she could flare out her wings and angle her body into the air currents once again. Come, I have something to show you.
The words were in her mind, along with the wind and the rain. She didn't order him to get out--because she knew he wasn't in it. This, the way she could sense him so deeply, speak to him with such ease, was part of whatever it was that tied them to one another . . . that taut, twisting emotion that ripped away old scars and created new vulnerabilities in a whip of fire across the soul.
But as she watched him fly through the lush black of the sky high over the glittering city, her archangel with his wings of white-gold and eyes of endless, relentless blue, she wasn't sorry. She didn't want to turn back the clock, didn't want to return to a life in which she'd never been held in the arms of an archangel, never felt her heart tear open and reform into something stronger, capable of such furies of emotion that it scared her at times. Where are you taking me, Archangel?
Patience, Guild Hunter.
She smiled, her grief at the loss of her apartment buried under a wave of amusement. No matter how many times he decreed that her loyalty was now to the angels and not to the Hunters' Guild, he kept betraying how he saw her--as a hunter, as a warrior. Shooting down below him, she dove then rose through the biting freshness of the air with hard, strong wingbeats. Her back and shoulder muscles protested the acrobatics, but she was having too much fun to worry--she'd pay for it in a few hours, no doubt about it, but for now, she felt free and protected in the dark.
"Do you think anyone is watching?" she asked, breathless from the exertion, once they were side by side once more.
"Perhaps. But the darkness will conceal your identity for the moment."
Tomorrow, she knew, when light broke, the circus would begin. An angel-Made . . . Even the oldest of vampires and the angels themselves found her a curiosity. She had no doubts about how the human population would react. "Can't you do your scary thing and make them keep their distance?" However, even as she spoke, she knew it wasn't the reaction of the general population that worried her.
Her father . . . No. She wouldn't think about Jeffrey. Not tonight.
As she forced away thoughts of the man who had repudiated her when she'd been barely eighteen, Raphael swept out over the Hudson, dropping so hard and fast that she yelped before she could catch herself. The Archangel of New York was one hell of a flier--he skimmed along the water until he could've trailed his fingers in its rushing cold, before pulling himself up in a steep ascent. Showing off.
For her.
It made her heart lighten, her lips curve.
Dipping down to join him at a lower altitude, she watched the night winds whip that sleek ebony hair across his face, as if they could not resist touching him.
It will do no good.
"What?" Fascinated by the almost cruel beauty of him, this male she dared call her lover, she'd forgotten what she'd asked him.
For me to scare them away--you are not a woman to stay in seclusion.
"Damn. You're right." Feeling her shoulder muscles begin to pull in ominous warning, she winced. "I think I need to set down soon." Her body had been damaged in the fight against Lijuan. Not much--and the injuries had healed, but the enforced rest period meant she'd lost some of the muscle she'd built up prior to the battle that had turned Beijing into a crater, its voice the silent cry of the dead.
We're almost home.
Concentrating on keeping herself going in a straight line, she realized he'd shifted position so she was effectively riding his wake--meaning she no longer had to make as much effort to hold herself aloft. Pride had her scrunching her face into a scowl, but contrasting with that was a deep warmth that came from knowing she was important, more than important, to Raphael.
And then she saw it, the sprawling mansion that was Raphael's clifftop home on the other side of the river. Though the land backed up against the Hudson, the place was hidden from casual view by a thick verge of trees. However, they were coming at it from above, and from there it looked like a jewel set in the velvet darkness, warm golden light in every window--turning into pulses of color where it hit the clean lines of the stained glass on one side of the building. The rose bushes weren't visible from this angle, but she knew they were there, their leaves luxuriant and glossy against the elegant white of the house, hundreds of buds ready to bloom in a profusion of color as the weather grew warmer.
She followed Raphael down as he landed in the yard, the light from the stained glass turning his wings into a kaleidoscope of wild blue, crystalline green, and ruby red. You could've landed on one of the balconies , she said, too focused on ensuring a good landing to speak the words aloud.
Raphael didn't disagree, waiting until she was on the ground beside him to say, "I could have." Reaching out as she folded away her wings, he gripped her gently at the curve where her neck flowed into her shoulder, his fingers pressing into the sensitive inner seam of her right wing. "But then your lips would not have been so very close to mine."
Her toes curled as he tugged her forward, pleasure blooming in her stomach. "Not here," she murmured, voice husky. "I don't want to shock Jeeves."
Raphael kissed away her words with a slow thoroughness that had her forgetting all about his butler, her body warming with a slow, luscious sense of anticipation. Raphael.
You tremble, Elena. You are tired.
Never too tired for your touch. It terrified her how addicted she'd become to him. The only thing that made it bearable was that his hunger, too, was a raw, near-violent craving.
A lick of storm against her senses before he drew back with a hotly sexual promise. Later. A slow, intimate stroke along the upper curve of her wing. I would take my time with you. His lips parted, his spoken words far less incendiary. "Montgomery will like having you for his mistress, Elena."
She licked her lips, tried to breathe--and heard the rapid tattoo of her heart against her ribs. Yeah, the archangel knew how to kiss. "Why?" she finally managed to say, falling into step beside him as he walked to the door.
"You're likely to get dirty and destroy your clothes on a regular basis." Raphael's humor was dry, his voice an exquisite caress in the night. "It is the same reason he likes it when Illium occasionally stays here. You both give him plenty to do."
She made a face at him, but her lips kicked up at the corners. "Is Illium coming to join us?" The blue-winged angel was part of Raphael's Seven, the vampires and angels who had given their loyalty to the Archangel of New York--even to the extent of placing his life before their own. Illium was the only one of the Seven who saw her human heart not as a weakness, but as a gift. And in him, she saw a kind of innocence that had been lost in the other immortals.
The door opened at that moment to expose the beaming face of Raphael's butler. "Sire," he said in a plummy English accent she was certain could turn cold and intimidating on command. "It is good to have you home."
"Montgomery." Raphael placed a hand on the vampire's shoulder as he passed.
Elena smiled at the butler, delighted by him all over again. "Hello."
"Mistress."
She blinked. "Elena," she said firmly. "I'm no one's mistress but my own." Then there was the fact that though he chose to work in the service of an archangel, Montgomery was a strong vampire, hundreds of years old.
The butler's spine went stiff as a board, his eyes shooting to Raphael--who gave a languid smile. "You must not shock Montgomery so, Elena." Reaching out to take her hand, he tugged her to his side. "Perhaps you will allow him to call you Guild Hunter?"
Elena looked up, certain the archangel was laughing. But his expression was clear, his lips set with their familiar sensual grace. "Um, yes, okay." She nodded at Montgomery, then felt compelled to ask, "Will that do?"
"Of course, Guild Hunter." He gave a small bow. "I was not sure if you would wish a meal, Sire, but I have sent a small tray up to your rooms."
"That will be all for tonight, Montgomery."
As the butler whispered away, Elena looked with growing suspicion at a large Chinese vase in one corner of the hall, opposite the stained glass wall beside the door. It was decorated with a pattern of sunflowers that seemed oddly familiar. Letting go of Raphael's hand, she stepped closer . . . closer. Her eyes went wide. "This is mine!" Given as a gift by an angel in China after Elena completed a particularly dangerous hunt, one that had taken her into the bowels of the Shanghai underworld.
Raphael touched his fingers to the small of her back, a searing brand. "All of your things are here." He waited until she looked up before saying, "They were moved to this house for safekeeping until your return.
"However," he continued when she remained silent, her throat a knot of emotion, "it seems Montgomery could not help himself when it came to this vase. I'm afraid he has a weakness for beautiful things and has been known to relocate an item if he feels it is not being accorded the proper appreciation. Once, he 'relocated' an ancient sculpture from the home of another archangel."
Elena stared down the corridor where the butler had disappeared in refined silence. "I don't believe you. He's too prim and proper." It was easier to say that, to focus on the humor, than to accept the tightness in her chest, the feelings locking up her throat.
"You would be surprised." Touching her lower back again, he nudged her down the hall and up a flight of stairs. "Come, you can look at your belongings in the morning."
She dragged her feet at the top of the staircase. "No."
Raphael measured her expression with those eyes no mortal would ever possess, a silent visual reminder that he had never been human, would never be anything close to mortal. "Such will." Leading her to a room that flowed off what she knew to be the master bedroom, he opened the door.
Everything from her apartment lay neatly stacked, slipcovers over the furnishings, her knickknacks in boxes.
She froze on the doorstep, uncertain how she felt--relief and anger and joy all battled for space inside of her. She'd known she could never go back to the apartment that had been her haven, and more, a furious rebuttal against her father's abandonment. The place wasn't built for a being with wings--but the loss had hurt. So much.
Now . . . "Why?"
His hand closed around her nape with no attempt to hide the possession inherent in the act. "You are mine, Elena. If you choose to sleep in another bed, I will simply pick you up and bring you home."
Arrogant words. But he was an archangel. And she'd made a claim of her own. "As long as you remember that goes both ways."
Acknowledged, Guild Hunter. A kiss pressed to the curve of her shoulder, his fingers tightening on her nape just a fraction. Come to bed.
Arousal kicked her hard, her body knowing full well what pleasure awaited her at those strong, lethal hands. "So we can talk knives and sheaths?"
Sensual male laughter, another kiss, the caress of teeth. But he released his hold, watching in silence as she stepped into the room and lifted a slipcover to run her fingers over the delicately embroidered comforter on the bed that had been her own, before she moved to explore the vanity with its store of pretty glass bottles and brushes set tidily inside a small box. She felt like a child, wanting to reassure herself that everything was here, the need visceral enough to hurt.
As she gave in to the emotional hunger, her mind disgorged images of another homecoming, of the shock and humiliation that had burned her throat when she'd found her things piled up like so much garbage on the street. Nothing would ever erase that hurt, the pain of the knowledge that that was exactly what she was to her father, but tonight, Raphael had crushed the memory under the weight of a far more powerful act.
She had no illusions about her archangel, knew he'd done it in part precisely for the reason he'd given her--so she wouldn't be tempted to treat her apartment as a bolt-hole. But had that been his sole motivation, he could as easily have sent her stuff to the dump. Instead, every single piece had been packed with care and moved here. Some of it had been exposed to the elements when her window shattered that night, and yet now looked pristine, speaking of meticulous restoration.
Heart aching at the wonder of being so cherished, she said, "We can go now." She'd come back later, decide what to do with everything. "Raphael--thank you."
The brush of his wing against her own, a silent tenderness as they entered the master suite. No one else ever saw this part of him, she thought, eyes on her archangel as he moved closer to the bed and began to strip without flicking on the lights. His shirt fell off his body, revealing that magnificent chest she'd kissed her way across more than once. Suddenly, the overwhelming weight of her emotions was gone, buried under an avalanche of gut-wrenching need.
Raphael looked up at that moment, his gaze glittering with an earthy hunger that said he'd sensed her arousal. Deciding to save the talking for later, she was raising her fingers to tug off her own top when rain--no, hail --hit the windows in staccato bullets that made her jump. She'd have ignored it, except the hard little pellets of ice kept smashing into the glass over and over again. "Must be a storm." Dropping her hands, she walked to one of the windows after glancing over to ensure the French doors to the balcony were secure.
Lighting flashed in vicious spikes in front of her as savage winds began to pound the house with unremitting fury, the hail turning to torrential rain between one blink and the next. "I've never seen it come in this hard, this fast."
Raphael walked to stand beside her, his naked upper body patterned with the image of the raindrops against the window. She looked up when he didn't say anything, saw the shadows that had turned his gaze turbulent in an unexpected reflection of the storm. "What is it? What am I not seeing?" Because that look in his eyes . . .
"What do you know of recent weather patterns across the world?"
Elena traced a raindrop with her gaze as it tunneled across the glass. "I caught a weather update while we were at the Tower. The reporter said a tsunami had just hit the east coast of New Zealand, and that the floods in China are getting worse." Sri Lanka and the Maldives had apparently already been evacuated, but they were starting to run out of places to put people.
"Earthquakes have been rocking Elijah's territory," Raphael told her, speaking of the South American archangel, "and he fears that at least one major volcano is about to erupt. That is not all. Michaela tells me most of Europe is shuddering in the grip of an unseasonal ice storm so vicious, it threatens to kill thousands."
Elena's shoulder muscles went stiff at the mention of the most beautiful--and most venomous--of archangels. "The Middle East, at least," she said, forcing herself to relax, "seems to have escaped major catastrophe from what I saw on the news."
"Yes. Favashi is helping Neha deal with the disasters in her region."
The Archangel of Persia and the Archangel of India, Elena knew, had worked together on previous occasions. And now, when Neha hated almost everyone else in the Cadre, she seemed to be able to tolerate Favashi--perhaps because the other archangel was so much younger. "It means something, doesn't it?" she said, turning to place her hand on the wild heat of Raphael's chest, the shadowy raindrops whispering over her skin. "All this extreme weather."
"There is a legend," Raphael murmured, his wings flaring out as he tugged her into the curve of his body--as if he would protect her. "That mountains will shake and rivers overflow, while ice creeps across the world and fields drown in rain." He looked down her at, his eyes that impossible, inhuman chrome blue. "All this will come to pass . . . when an Ancient awakens."
The chill in his tone raised every hair on her body.
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