Archangel's Shadows (Guild Hunter Book 7)

Loved this book. I love where the author is going with the characters. Although I wanted more Elena and Raphael, the story of Janvier and Ash was really good and adding them to the "family" was even better. This series get better with each book. Great read, fun.

Ash's story. Finally. Very good continuation of the series, favourite characters from the previous books are here also, continuing not only the personal stories, but the series storyline as a whole. One of my favourite authors, the series is still going strong. Highly recommended.

This book deserves 10 Stars! Beautiful continuation of the Archangel series. I still love Raphael and Ellie but Janvier and Ash won me over too. The story flowed in the author's usual brilliant way and we understood Ash more too. We got to see how Nassiar is so funny and loyal to his friends. This is also the second book by this author that made me cry. The scene of Ash's brother and sister was so emotional and sad. I have loved all the books from this author plus her other series (psy-changlings). I am waiting anxiously for the next book in the series.....Maybe Nassiar! I need to find out what "animal" he is......

This is the latest in her Guild Hunter series and is more of a side story than a main line novel. It contains a great romance between two side characters and further glimpses of how Raphael and Elena are getting along. It also contains hooks that set up stories for some additional main line and side characters.

I love all the books Ms Singh writes, but I have a special place all set aside for her Archangel stories!! Amazing, well written worlds we get to explore!! So sad when this part of the journey is over, and eagerly awaiting the next installment!!!!

I love this series and eagerly await each installment. I especially like that no matter who the main focus of the story is on, the other characters we care about get their own scenes and insights, building continuously on their stories. I've been waiting for Ash and Janvier to have their own story, so was initially disappointed when this book got off to a rather rambling, disconnected start. It just wasn't as polished and tight as previous books. But patience paid iff and about a third of the way through everything smoothed out snd got on track to deliver what we all expect from a Guild Hunter novel. My only complaint is that it was over too soon and we are left waiting and wondering whose story we will get next. There are so many to choose from in this fascinating world of angels and vampires.

Not what I expected but I guess it's a bridge to the next novel. It jumped around too much and there wasn't a lot of action. There has to be more to this series because I need to know what happens to Sorrow.

The ending was predictable, and the plot fell a bit flat, since it was almost a rehash of Honor and Dmitri. But, despite that, I loved learning more about Legion, and the greater inclusion of the Seven. My only real problem is waiting for the next book!! :)

So bored with this one. The main characters seemed to be extra's in their own story. And the big secret reveal for the heroine was anticlimactic. I think my problem was finishing the new Ilona Andrews book "Burn for Me" before reading this. Burn for Me was head and shoulders above this.

Singh's Angel series keeps getting better. Ash and Janvier's story is seductively sweet, continued glimpses of past couples like Ellie and Raphael allow us to catch up with their lives, and teases for future books keep us looking forward to the next, especially Naasir and Illium.

Very enjoyable. The incorporation of the interactions between the major characters from previous books was intriguing and offered more depth to the relationships between the Seven. I found the resolution of the double threats to be a little 'pat' so to speak, and this book came across mire as a bridge between the previous books and the next chain of events rather than its own novel. Necessary, but not as exciting. I still love this universe and world building involved, and look forward to the next release (which I will undoubtedly purchase also.)

This book is awesome, made me laugh and cry and be in wonder at how this world is evolving and growing, a beautiful dangerous world I could almost believe it exists. Plus, it's always good to know how our favorite characters from previous books are doing, love getting pieces and glimpse of their lives and enjoy the flashbacks and bonds of the characters. I am in love with this series, I've reread them so many times and cannot get bored, I totally recommend them.

Spoiler Alert: Don't read if you don't want to know the ending! I have read all the books in the series and pretty much liked them all. This was no exception. However, I thought the ending could have been more detailed, with how Janvier felt during Ashwinis transformation, and even how she felt after. It kind of left me hanging, and then jumped into another storyline. I thought the ending felt rushed, but all in all a good long book and worth the money and time.

Oh Nalini how I love thee let me count the ways. 1. Angel's blood 2.... lol! Another spectacular addition to the Guild Hunter series giving us a deeper look into the story of Ash and her cajun Janvier. Couldn't put it down and hopefully the next installment will be out soon ( fingers crossed it's Nassir's turn )!

Ah, I do love the Archangel Raphael and his consort, Ellie
But the Cajun and his hunter are the main characters... Ash can feel more than makes her comfortable
And fear is a bastard
Residue of the battle over Manhattan, lost cattle, deadly angels and cruel vampires.
All come together and Weave an ongoing tale, but finishes a story in itself
Loved all the characters known to us
Waiting for Naasir and Bluebell's love stories and happily ever afters

I LOVE this series. I love this author. I'm always looking out for new books by Nalini Singh because she's such a wonderful writer, I get completely lost in whichever book I'm reading or re-reading.
Nalini doesn't write your usual paranormal fiction. Her characters are completely unique to the genre. At least, that I've found. She has two well established series and has just started a third in the romance genre. Whichever you choose, you won't be sorry.

Finally, Ash and Janvier get their story! It is wonderful. Nalini knows how to stroke the senses and give her reader exactly what they need. The build up from the previous novels was a perfect lead up to this story as she keeps up the honeyed flow between the two main characters and builds the family of Raphael's Seven.

She has done it again. This is close to, if not the best book in the series so far. Ms Singh manages to give a better look inside her characters. They become ours. Wonderful dialog and she makes them all "just a little human". Bravo. I'm am looking forward to the next in this Archangel series and the upcomig in my favorite Psy/Changing series. Please keep up the good work.

Nalini Singh is one of my absolute favorite authors. My only reason for not giving this one a 5 star is because even though I love the other characters in this story. I felt we missed some of Janviers and Ash's storyline. You can't go wrong with this series is an absolute knockout in the world of paranormal. No matter what this author puts out I buy just because she wrote it.

Ms Singhs books feature wonderful characters. this book continues the story of the archangel Rapheal and his Hunter wife. The war between archangels is starting and the ways and means of it are awesome.

I particularly enjoyed this installment of the Archangel series. I found the delineation of characters really excellent. Ms. Singh continues to keep this series alive with great characters and interesting story lines and arcs. Fun, fun read! Nalini keeps us wanting to know what's going to happen next. Next year's release can't come soon enought!!!

While Nalini Singh's Archangel's Blade remains my all time favorite in this series, Archangel's Shadows is an excellent addition. Her world-building remains fantastic, her characters rich, the storyline rewarding. A Terrific read!

I was already smitten with Janvier and Ash since their first appearance but this bookcase me love them even more. I love their chemistry and the way they truly are partners from the get-go. Can't wait for the next book!!!

Another incredible installment to this great series. Love the raw emotional element between the two main characters; Ashwini(Ash) and Janvier. Excellent world building and actions and most definitely a few heart wrenching moments. As always the good author leaves this reader enthralled and thirsting for the next installment - 2015.

Nalini Singh is one of my all time favourite authors. She has a way of building a world that is so intricate and so cleverly detailed that every reread brings something new. I've been awaiting Ash and Janvier's story for so long and it does not disappoint! She makes your heart hurt in all the best ways and like only she knows how :)

I just love this series and can not get enough! The way nalini changes the storyline so that it's not so repetitive dull and pulls in the reader to every aspect of this angelic world is just amazing!!!!! Counting down the minutes till the next book!!!

Each book in this series only gets better, and Archangel's Shadows doesn't disappoint. Ash and Janvier's interactions have been a favorite of mine, and the story is fantastic... Along with dropping a few nuggets about other key characters. I wonder if Aodhan Illium and Nasir's stories are on the horizon.

Nalini Singh is by far my favorite author! I loved the world she has created in this series. In both her series( pay-changeling). I would definitely recommend this book! This book will not disappoint.

I like this series but sometimes the flowery writing can grate. It was beautiful in the first few books but I think it's ok to branch out. loved Ashwini's story and Naasir was hilarious. I can't wait for the rest of the seven to get their own stories.

I first met Janvier and Ashwini in a novella Nalini Singh wrote in 2009, titled Angels' Pawn. I was intrigued then and my fascination with both Ashwini and Janvier increased with each mention of them in almost every Guild Hunter story that has come since. I thought I knew their story, but as Nalini proved, I was wrong. I only knew the smallest part of their individual stories and only slightly more of the the one they were to take together. Janvier and Ashwini have always had chemistry, but I wasn't sure what it was that held them apart.

The book started off with lots of action happening right from the first page and continued at that pace for quite some time. I think knowing from previous experience the story can always take an unexpected turn, that had me on edge for most of the time I was reading. Some of those unexpected twists did happen and even though I thought I was ready for them, I wasn't. I think some of my favorite moments in this book are the moments of tenderness I saw. These moments weren't just between Ash and Janvier, but between Elena and Raphael, and the Seven who've found their loves. I loved seeing Elena interact with the Legion. I also loved seeing more of the workings of the Guild, something I always find fascinating.

The relationship between Janvier and Ashwini made me swoon. I understood Ashwini's fears over her future, but it was hard to understand why it was holding her back. I was absolutely head over heels for Janvier and it had nothing to do with his physique, looks, or Cajun accent, and everything to do with his love and devotion for Ashwini. I loved seeing their relationship change from undecided and hesitant to resolute and strong. I think what surprised me the most was even though they sparked off each other so much, their romance was such a slow burn and still so satisfying. I loved how they were truly partners in all things and how they looked out for one another.

The mystery and intrigue in this novel was phenomenal. I kept trying to guess who was responsible for all the malevolent incidents in the city, but I was nowhere near close to the truth. I'd read some more, re-calibrate my thoughts and try to guess again, never fully getting my finger on what was going on. It's hard to fully express how emotionally involved I was while reading about what happened to many of the victims in this book.

I'm always very excited to hear news about the Guild Hunter series. It's my one of my favorite paranormal series. I have my hopes on whom will be falling in love next, but know I will enjoy whatever story may come and I can always trust Nalini to keep it fresh, full of action, intrigue, and emotion. I always expect to smile, laugh, and cry because I can't help myself. I think this book is the most unique in this series and I can't wait to see what comes next!

Once again, Nalini Singh draws you fully back into New York as it deals with devastation from the war. The love story between Ash and Janvier is poignant in its depth and the obstacles needed to overcome, while not a grand scale, are truly heart wrenching. Woven in between that, you learn more about Naasir, see how Elena and Raphael as well as Dmitri and Honor are doing. Highly recommended!!

Ash and Janvier have been circling around each other for most of the Guild Hunter series so it was wonderful to see them finally get their own story. Their physical attraction is well-known and it also becomes obvious that their emotions are also involved. The majority of their romance deals with Ash's hesitation to dive into a relationship with Janvier. She has legitimate reasons that force the couple to really evaluate their feelings. I do wish that it hadn't taken so long for the truth to come out because it got a bit tedious. Everything takes place with the aftermath of Raphael and Lijuan's battle as the backdrop. The fight was such a major point of the series that it was fascinating to see how the city and its inhabitants have reacted. I also have to give a huge shout-out to Naasir, the mysterious animal-like vampire who stole every scene he was in.

4.5 stars

This story picks up a little bit after the war and Raphael and Elena trying to rebuild the city. But when a new threat hits the city, Ash and Janvier do their best to stealthy uncover it. Unfortunately, that proves harder than they thought. But as they spend more and more time together, the feelings that have been brewing for years finally come into light. Ash has her own issues, though, ones she doesn’t want to drag someone else into but Janvier won’t take no for an answer. Will Ash be able to let Janvier in completely or will the time they spend trying to find the cause of the city’s new threat push Ash way past her breaking point?

O. M. G. Can I just say how HOT Janvier is?? I absolutely love this cajun and his charming ways!!! He’s so opposite from Ash, who’s really only carefree with her friends that it sometimes amazed me how well they worked and fit together. As individuals I adored them but as a couple I could not get enough! I loved how loyal and possessive Janvier was of Ash and how much Ash’s feelings for Janvier tore her up inside. It was interesting seeing more of Ash and why she’s so distant sometimes but also how Janvier reacts to it. I couldn’t get enough of his devotion towards Ash; he’s the alpha male I absolutely love – completely faithful, will do everything in his power for his love and will follow her into death if need be. *sigh*

I have two minor complaints about this one, though. I felt like the resolution to the overall climax was too tame and quick. I expected a little more effort into dragging it out and making it maybe more suspenseful… or even settled. I also felt a little disappointed that Ash’s psychic ability wasn’t used more. Yes, she uses it but I wanted to see MORE of her control, her power, to see exactly what she can do with and is capable of.

In the end, this was definitely one of the better stories in the series. I loved finally getting to see Ash and Janvier together, they were SO CUTE and ADORABLE. I loved them so much!!!! I also liked getting to see more of the previous couples and how they’re doing while visiting some of the future (hopefully!) pairings. I can’t wait to see what comes next for this series and seriously hope it includes Illium and Aodhan getting their story!

Ash, you go girl! This woman has been in and out of the series and she FINALLY gets to shine in this amazing book! Secrets and whispers are where Ashwini and Janvier love to play because it's their specialty! The world almost ended in the previous book so a lot is being done in the big scenes, while behind the scenes is where these two come in. The loyalty, devotion, and chemistry these two have keeps the pages rolling by in your hands as you desperately try to reach the finish line! I loved finding out why the game of cat and mouse was always keeping Ash and Janvier apart and I can say it was utterly beautiful as it was devastating. I can't get enough of Singh's wonderful world!!

~ Courtney Shockey

I can't believe it either because I've been a strong Raphael x Elena stan but I think this is my favourite book in the series (so far at least; I have high hopes for Naasir's book because he's growing on me, that feral cat).

Janvier and Ashwini, OH MY GOD. They're so perfect and in sync together it's so...*wipes tear* beautiful... I love how they're obviously in love with one another but both of them never admit anything beyond the flirting game they've been playing with each other. They have such a strong chemistry.

Anyway, Naasir really charmed me in this one. The bit he said about wanting a mate because he wants what Janvier and Ash, Raphael and Elena, and Dmitri and Honor all have is so sad *clenches fist* I want him to find his soul mate NOW.

4.5 Stars... We first encounter Ashwini and Janvier in the novella, "Angel's Pawn", which captivated and endeared me to these characters... In this story, we watch the undeniable chemistry ignite between Ash and Janvier as they navigate their past pain and embrace their future potential... Embedded in this read is the ongoing unfolding of the overall storyline of war and destruction by a mounting enemy and the continued evolving emotional connection between this cast of unique characters... The sense of family is strongly developing as hints of secondary characters' abilities and storylines are revealed... This series completely enthralls and fascinates me and I eagerly await each read as it comes:)

This story takes place not long after the Raphael and crew have prevailed in the big battle with Lijuan. No one is quite sure whether she is alive or dead, and whether the city will have any lasting effects from her treachery. So when animals and humans alike are turning up mummified, the angels, vamps and hunters know the mystery must be solved quickly to avoid a city-wide panic.

Ash and Janvier have been dancing around each other for most of the series, so I was stoked to finally get to their book. Ash is such a complicated character. She has been in love with Janvier but holds him at arm's length due to some unknown secret. Let me tell ya that I had no idea what the secret was until it was revealed. Ash's family history is heartbreaking. I'm afraid to say more without including spoilers.

As for Janvier - I love that Cajun! I listened to this book in audio so hearing his Cajun French accent was great and really brought his character to life. Janvier's devotion to Ash, and what he was willing to give up for her, brought tears to my eyes.

But who really stole the book for me was Naasir - I cannot get enough of him. His mannerisms and almost childlike curiosity and innocence beguile me. The narrator also gave him a great accent and does an outstanding job with his character. I cannot wait for his book, he may surpass Dmitri as my favorite for the series.

Archangel’s Shadows is book seven in the Guild Hunter series by Nalini Singh. We get our kickass Guild Hunter and our darling Cajun hottie while adding in an intriguing mystery that will pull you in and keep you engrossed.

Ash has this tough exterior which makes her easy to like. We are treated to some major revelations on of her past that are shocking. It’s sad, but also adds a great deal more depth to her character.

Janvier I feel in love with. He’s an easy character to love. You see from the first page that he loves Ash unconditionally and it only becomes more obvious as the story progresses.

The entire cast of characters is present and we get more on each. One we have not seen much of is Naasir, until now. There's still so much more to discover about him and I’m excited to read his story and see who Singh focuses on next.

Archangel's Shadows was the perfect blend of Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance. This story is full of mystery, suspense, and action. Ash and Janvier’s story was deliciously gripping and satisfying.

Rated: 4 Stars

Archangel’s Shadows goes from fun and flirty one moment to dark and dangerous the next, all without losing that smooth rhythm that is inherent in Nalini Singh’s writing. This seventh Guild Hunter novel keeps the action hot, the sexual tension high, and the intensity fully charged. There isn’t a dull moment in Ashwini and Janvier’s story, and readers are sure to be entranced until they reach the end and are begging for more.

Ash and Janvier have been circling each other for years, but their dance reaches its climax in Archangel’s Shadows. The sense of history imbued in a relationship already begun at the beginning of the book adds depth to their romance from the start, even as the two of them flirt and tease one another. Every couple in the Guild Hunter series has been unique so far, and Janvier and Ash are no exception. I loved how absolutely head over heels Janvier is for Ash. The sexy, smooth-talking Cajun vampire is lethal, but his devotion to Ashwini is both sweet and heartbreaking. Ash is a Guild Hunter with a talent that may cost her everything, so she keeps part of herself held back from Janvier. But after they team up during the battle in Archangel’s Legion (the previous book), it’s impossible for Ash to keep her distance from Janvier. When a shared assignment involving unusual deaths puts them in close contact once again, Janvier begins to break through the walls Ash has put up. There’s a quiet intensity to their romance that I adored, and I was rooting for these two every step of the way.

The mystery of who is killing humans in a way reminiscent of the series’ big bad means there is danger lurking around every corner. I loved watching this storyline unfold and Ms. Singh wraps this part of the book into the overarching series plotlines extremely well. Though Ash and Janvier’s story is the center of the book, the overall world of the Guild Hunter series continues to develop in the background of Archangel’s Shadows. I absolutely loved this, and truly the only (small) issue I had is that the supporting characters – from Raphael and Elena to Illium to Naasir and beyond – often stole the show from Janvier and Ash by virtue of being such bright and powerful presences on the page. This is by no means a bad thing, but it niggled a bit that I was so taken with all the other characters that at times I’d forget this was Janvier and Ash’s book.

Archangel’s Shadows is an exciting and beautifully written story. There’s heartbreak, humor, hope, and endlessly fascinating worldbuilding. I cannot wait to see where Ms. Singh takes our beloved angels, vampires, and Guild Hunters next when the utterly irresistible Naasir meets his match in Archangel’s Enigma.

Kimberly
Review courtesy of Wit and Sin

Ash and Janvier's story is one I really looked forward to reading. I have enjoyed watching their chemistry anytime they partnered up. In their story, we find out why she kept him at a distance even though they both knew they each loved the other. Everyone knew they were a couple even if they didn't give in to their passions. She was trying to protect him from a heart-wrenching secret that would tear him apart if she were to give in to their flirtations and desires, but she comes to realize that by not telling him why it was hurting him. She wanted the truth to come out to help him understand. Once it does he fights to keep her and love her. Full throttle. During this exploration of their love, they are hunting down a sadistic monster that left mummified carcasses of women in dumpsters. They will not rest until justice is served and the victims are laid to rest. The scenes with her sister Tanu and her brother Arvi left me teary eyed. I enjoyed their adventure, I loved going back to Raphael's New York and seeing all of the other characters again. Nalini knows how to weave a story of passion, mystery, crime solving, and emotion into a well-written page turner. I very much enjoyed this one.

I didn’t know much about Ash or Janvier except that they were chasing each other. A lot. Which was humorous and the few scenes with either one of them were funny or made me like them as one set of my favorite secondary characters.

The Good:

The sweetness and the sadness! The romance!! Lastly, the mystery of what was going on! Lots of story in this with romance of the two longest running courting couple in the series! As always, well-written and entertaining!

The Bad:

The only downside was that this seemed more of an aside from the main storyline. Though not too far as it was more like a break from war-mongering angels; after all, the main one needs to gather her strength again! Or a bit of picking up the pieces after the major battle. Plus not as much Raphael and Elena as I want in the story.

What makes me really sad is no more main books to read and the next one, which is partly why I started this series finally, isn’t about Raphael and Elena either! However, I’ve been dying to know about Naasir anyway….

So, 4.5 stars!

There truly is no rest for the weary. Raphael and his seven are amidst a total reconstruction of New York when an unknown entity takes advantage of this vulnerable time to commit acts of violence.Not wanting the issue to get out of hand, guild leader -Sara sends Ashwini to investigate. Cajun charmer Janvier knew that Ash was just recuperating from a recent injury therefore he decides to tack himself to the case.

If you've read "Archangel's Pawn" you know how intense Ashwini and Janvier history is. You see, hunter Ash was once out on a hunt where Janvier was the hunted. He put her through her paces in that swamp. He became that irresistible challenge and he in turn revered in the chase.

Needless to say Janvier became the " one that got away". Given the threat on New York Ash had to get over that disappointment immediately and they eventually became a team. A team that worked like a well-oiled machine.

Janvier wanted so much more than a working relationship even back then but Ashwini was resistant. Because of her gift and her family history she typically never lets anyone in. Janvier's persistent nature however broke through all those walls and he became exactly what she needed.

When we find out her secrets they are pretty sobering and while most would be hesitant , Janvier remained by her side. There were so many risks being with her but he was willing to sacrifice it all just as long as he had her in his life no matter how short a period that might have been. That's what I call dedication!

What I thought was amazing about this couple (besides how perfect they fit) was despite this all consuming ardor that they were both experiencing they always put their responsibilities first. Even if they weren't part of that immediate circle their loyalty to the archangel and their city was astounding. In fact, every single person under Raphael was just as loyal and devoted. I would have to say that this was the best part...reading how each one of the characters proved just how deep the camaraderie and friendship was.

Just like the previous books in the series, I thought "Archangel's Shadows" was very well written. The characters were engaging, the romance was good and the suspense was thrilling.Enjoyed this one and I for one can not wait to see where Nalini Singh takes Raphael and the Seven to next.

liezelsbookblog.net

Seventh in the Guild Hunter paranormal romance series and revolving around the concept that angels rule the world and are the creators of vampires. The couple focus is on Ashwini and Janvier whom we first encountered in "Angel's Pawn", 0.6. If you're interested, I put together a chronological listing of the Guild Hunter books on my website.

This story takes up during the battle in Archangel's Legion , 6, with a special focus on Ashwini, Janvier, and Naasir's activities.

My Take
Whoa, reading of the precarious battle Ashwini is fighting inside that skyscraper and her resolve to not be imprisoned again…dang, Singh has definitely caught my attention with that statement. Who imprisoned her before? Why? What scarred Ashwini? What broke her?

Then there's that terrifying rescue and you'll be panting as your heart races. Whew. I need a nap.

In spite of Singh's intriguing me with all these comments about imprisoned, that Ashwini can never be with anyone, etc., she makes me nuts. I always hate it when characters are in that whole denial thing, where they expect to never be happy, etc. Oy.

Singh is setting Illium, Naasir, and Aodhan up for their stories. I suspect Naasir will be the next one up and falling for a hunter or a vampire.

It's so sweet. Here is the Legion, definitely a force to consider, and I love that Elena wants to humanize them. To introduce them to joy. Singh makes me want to cry when Elena works with them in her greenhouse.

Oh, crack me up! That Titus sounds a treat, and I can't wait to meet him. Singh sings his praises so well, lol.
"Mostly they just sigh at the sound of his name and lose their train of thought."

I do like Janvier's remembrance of what one very old vampire friend said about keeping cattle, that "he was tired of the constant round of meaningless seduction, wanted only the intimacy and comfort of family around him." Now that's a reason that makes sense.

It could be the Cajun side of Janvier that makes me see him as romantic, but I suspect it's how he plans his seduction of Ash that sets this idea in place. It's a sad conflict with Janvier wanting Raphael to Make Ash that she might live forever while Ash sees vampirism as a horror, and Singh isn't giving anything away!

When Janvier talks of his family… I wanna eat gumbo and listen to zydeco and enjoy being around family. This joy Janvier takes in his family may not last, for he has no intention of living one minute longer than Ash.

I think this is one of the reasons I love Singh's writing. The characters may be deadly, terrifying supernatural creatures, but there's a hominess about them. A caring for others that touches your heart.

For writers having a hard time with info dumps, read Archangel's Shadow. Singh does a nice job of informing without it feeling like an aside, an oh, yeah, here's some information you should read.

Oh, this is so sweet and so perfect. It's been another build-up, this one of humor as the angels and vampires of the Seven talk up Naasir's idea of a host gift. It seems innocuous until it snaps at Elena and Naasir. And it is perfect. Perfect for Elena's interests and in line with what we've been led to expect from Naasir, lol.

Wow. Ash has her own way of holding a vampire prisoner. Ouch, ouch, ouch.

Even more wows…Janvier has figured out how to talk Ash into what he desires.
The Story
It's a three-man team whose mission is to piss the enemy off and distract them. It works, even when one of the enemy slices Ashwini wide open. Worse, it makes Janvier tender, soft…kind.

It's irritating.

Now, not only must Ash investigate a mummified dog, humans, cattle, are complaining about ill-treatment by their vampire. And now there's a question about Lijuan. Is she dead or is she the creature who is sucking animals into a dry husk?

And Raphael's wings now flame with white.

The Characters
Ashwini "Ashblade" Taj is a dyslexic Guild Hunter with a psychometric gift. Honor is her best friend. Dr. Arvan "Arvi" Taj, a neurosurgeon, is Ashwini's brother. Nineteen years older than her and has acted as her father since their parents died when she was nine. Tanushree "Tanu" was/is Arvi's twin sister, but she too is lost. Her father had been a professor literature; her mother was a professor of literature with an emphasis on South Asian texts. The whole family is of a professional bent.

Janvier is a 200 and forty-five-plus-year-old Cajun vampire who now works for the Tower using his ability to charm enemies and make friends wherever he goes on its behalf. The twin kukris he carries were made by Rhys, Neha's trusted general. His mother adored him, and he had two baby sisters: Amelie and Jöelle. Shamiya is the vampire who seduced him.

Raphael is the archangel who rules North America from New York City. He's mated to Elena "Ellie", a Guild Hunter who became an angel (see Angels' Blood , 1). Eve is Elena's younger sister. Caliane is Raphael's mother who only woke recently. She holds Amanat, a lost city that rose to the surface after an eon, and doesn't care for Elena (see Archangel's Consort , 3). At the Angel Enclave where Raphael and Elena have their home, Montgomery, with his larcenous soul, is Raphael and Elena's vampire butler. Sivya is the cook.

The Seven are…
…a group of vampires and angels who are Raphael's trusted men. Dimitri is the most powerful vampire in the world and Raphael's second. Honor St. Nicholas, an expert in ancient languages and history, is his wife whom Raphael turned into a vampire for her safety and Dimitri's love (see Archangel's Blade , 4). Dimitri remembers his first wife, Ingrede, and their children, Misha and Catherina. Illium, a.k.a., Bluebell, is one of the most beautiful angels and renowned for his blue wings. Aodhan, a.k.a., Sparkle, is struggling with darkness. Jason is the spymaster; Mahiya is his mate ( Archangel's Storm , 5). Keir is an angelic healer. Made by Neha, Venom is the youngest of the seven. Izak is one of the wounded angels. Once he heals he will be in Elena's Guard.

Naasir was the third man, er, vampire in the shadow team in Archangel's Legion . He's one of the Seven and their best scout. I don't recall anything being said about Naasir's mindset before Archangel's Shadow, and it's scarily interesting as well as heartbreaking. Trace is one of the young ones with an interest in poetry and art. Emaya is a combat-trained vampire out clubbing with Mateo.

Sorrow is a woman changed by a mad archangel.

The Guild Hunters are…
…bounty hunters. They track the vampires who think they can skip out on their contracts. They also police the vampires…and sometimes the angels themselves. Sara is the Guild Director, and Deacon is her husband and a renowned weapon master (see "Angel's Judgment", 0.5). Saki recommended an oil to help Ashwini with her deep-tissue healing. Other hunters, friends, include Honor; Ransom, a former street kid whose librarian, Nyree, just said yes; Demarco; and, Elena. Vivek runs the computers for the Guild, and he's recovering from being Made by Aodhan. It should give him back use of his paralyzed body. Bracken is the Guild trainer. Hilda is another Hunter.

The Archangels are…
…the Cadre. Terrifying creatures of tremendous power who rule huge areas of the world and take almost no notice of the lowly humans.

Titus is a powerful African archangel and an ally; he shares a border with Charisemnon. Galen's mother, Tanae, is part of Titus' army. Elijah and Hannah are a couple and friends of Elena and Raphael's. Favashi is the Archangel of Persia with the heart of a cobra. Neha is the Queen of Poisons and Snakes and rules in India. Janvier was at her court for most of his 100 years. Michaela is a treacherous bitch of an angel who is already clamoring for some of Lijuan's lands. She's sleeping with Astaad's second, Dahariel.

Lijuan is the oldest of the Cadre and rules China; she is the enemy who came against Raphael in Archangel's Legion . She'll drain her people into husks. Her generals include Xi, Alistair, Philomena, and Cornelius. Charisemnon is one of Lijuan's buddies with a new ability to create disease.

The Refuge is…
… a neutral retreat for angels to heal, teach, work as well as their home and a sanctuary for their young. Galen is the weaponsmaster ensconced at the Refuge. Jessamy is a handicapped angel who teaches the children at the Refuge and is both the angels' historian and librarian (read their story in Angels' Flight: "Angels' Dance", 0.4). She's also been giving Elena lessons in protocol.

The Legion is…
…a repository of power that woke during the battle in Archangel's Legion . They are powerful with wings like bats. They are led by the Primary.

Giorgio and his cattle
Giorgio was once a renowned physician. Brooke is the one who complained. Leisel, Marie May knows "Janni", Penelope, and Laura are the rest of Giorgio's stock.

Dr. Shamar is the vet performing the necropsy. Tony Rocco runs an Italian restaurant. Coby is his son. Nic is the doorman at Ash's apartment building. Carl is a nurse at Banli House, a medical and psychiatric facility. Bill Smith is a vampire under contract who thinks he found a loophole. Maeve is the vampire architect tasked with converting the building into a home for the Legion. Silvan is a vampire who dwells in the bayou in Nimra's territory.

The vampire leaders in New York
Anais and Severin are the worst offenders.

Cattle are humans who choose to be "kept" by vampires. Vampires are made by the archangels after undergoing lots of testing. Part of the deal is a one hundred-year contract of servitude. Umber is a new drug hitting the streets. Gilded lilies are vampires who are old, wealthy, and bored, so bored that they seek out new sins.

Wildfire, born of the Cascade, is a new angelic gift Raphael now has that he can use with his angelfire. Club Masque is an exclusive and dangerous nightclub for the vampire upper class. Rupert and Lacey are a sweet couple. Flynn and Benita Ko, a nasty sadist, are a couple and work at Club Masque. Adele, who owns the club, is pushing her luck. Louis is a bouncer at Hinge. Khalil is a very dark vampire. Blood-for-Less is the blood café where Ellie has an interest.

Felicity Johnson is a woman with many friends, including Aaliyah, Carys, and Sina. Marta and Bridget are more friends. Taffy is Felicity's cat. Seth is a student and works as the building super. Lilly Ying doesn't want her parents to suffer.

The Cover and Title
The cover is a determined Ashwini in her black leathers and a tight black T, one hand fisted on her hip and the other holding a gun pointed at the ground. It's the city at night, fat flakes of snow falling, steam rising from a grate, and Janvier in his leather jacket and jeans, holding a helmet as he half sits on his red motorcycle, waiting for Ash. The rest of the background is a streetlight shining behind Ash, bridge supports behind Janvier, and a windowed building at the very back.

The title is about Ashwini, Janvier — and Naasir, for they are the Archangel's Shadows.

I’ve been waiting for this book, since Ms. Singh first introduced Ash and Janvier, and she didn’t disappoint. The mystery and intrigue in this story left me very satisfied.

I loved that Ash still has her tough side, but that we finally learn more about her past and see what makes and shapes her today. I definitely grew to appreciate her character and the way Ms. Singh builds a character profile through her description of Ash’s past. Janvier loves Ash, there is no way that doesn’t immediately show through, he loves her through it all, and that makes him a fantastic hero.

Full of action and lots of past characters popping up, this is a great book for fans of the series. I wouldn’t recommend it to new readers, since I feel like all the previous stories has built up to this, or at least I know I enjoyed it more because I was already acquainted with the world.

I recommend it because Ms. Singh brings a world of action and passion to life with this Guild Hunter book, and it’s a great thrill ride.

Reviewed by Sheri for Cocktails and Books

I'm a huge fan of the Guild Hunter series, in fact, I would say it's my favorite urban fantasy series. Unfortunately, this book was just okay. There were certainly some enjoyable scenes, but for the most part Ash and Janvier didn't stand out that much to me. The other characters' scenes were much for interesting, like how Elena interacts with the Legion, and Naasir being Naasir. Despite Ash and Janvier being the main characters, there was so much going on with other characters that they ended up feeling like side characters. Maybe that's why I couldn't really get in to it. All in all this felt like a filler book, and it lacked the magnetism from previous book.

What I really enjoyed in this installment was Naasir! He certainly stole the show for me. Also, can we get more Venom. I miss him. And Sorrow.

Give me Venom or give me death! lol

Felt like a mystery/police procedural more than anything else. Basically Ash & Janvier investigate stuff.
But the bad guy was telegraphed early on. So I didn't feel any real suspense personally.
Also, there was very little romantic tension as Ash & Janvier already have a thing going before the book starts.
The romantic conflict is based on a Big Secret of Ash's....but it did not feel very mind-blowing.
Naasir was fascinating, though. I liked his parts

Nice enough installment but central romance didn't wow me. Recommend it for it's place in furthering the series.

I was excited to read this couple, they made me laugh it a lot of the other books so I really couldn't wait. I wish there had been more of her hunting him. Anyways.. what I loved the most was all the other characters. I love when we get to see Elena and read for her pov. Now onto the next book.. while I'm excited (so excited) for Neesar's book, I really hate going two books without it mainly focusing on Elena.

...but I can't help feeling like they got shortchanged. I've been waiting on their story since the first novella and I was so excited when I bought this book, but it reads like she didn't want to give them their own story, I saw way waaayyy more of the other characters than usual in relation to what is Supposed to be the main couple. That really upset me, I had to skim through so many of the parts with Elena and Raphael, this could've been a novel about them just as much as about the purported main characters. I really hate that because Ash is definitely my favourite, and I was so looking forward to this story. I still enjoyed the novel, despite my disappointment, but I feel that Nalini shortchanged them, and those of us who really wanted to see them. I hope I see more of them, though that may be an issue one given how little they showed up elsewhere, even in their own story.

This is a sequel, and like most such there is no point in reading it unles you have read and enjoyed most of the prior books in the series.

This novel has two parts. The better writen part is a series of vignettes showing what happens to characters from prior books. Typically I hate such vignettes, but in this case they are excellently done and quite enjoyable. The downside is that the other plot (Ash and Javier's romance) suffers greatly from the constant interuption, as does the murder mystery they persue. The romance is okay but not great; the mystery enjoyable.

Although well written, this is not a book that will leave you wanting to re-read it. Fans will get their monay's worth; newcomers will just be lost. Expect constant viewpoint changes, though Ash's dominates.

Another problem is the author refusing to tell you why Ash will not date Javier. This leads to a fabulous scene mid book, but in the meantime it is just obnoxious.

I loved Ash and Janvier from the first moment I met them and I had really high hopes for their book because all the chemistry between them had to go somewhere :)

This book takes place shortly after Archangels Legion and suddenly there are a new drug for vampires and dead bodies - a development the city can't afford shortly after the last battle. Ash is tasked to find the responsible person and Janvier does not plan to let her go alone.

this is a good, a really good book and there is so much emotion there that it is sometimes hard to read. we learn so much about Ash and Janvier, which gives there characters even more depth and let us understand their behaviour. the emotions between them are beautiful and really intense but still they have the humouros banter going on between them. what kept my rating at four stars was that I expected a bit more sizzeling spark between and that was missing for a big part of the book, which was a bit surprising for me - although the end made up for that ;)

Ms. Singh did the nearly impossible with this book and gave us a whole story about Ash and Janvier, but also enough opportunities to see the other characters and the developments since Archangels Legion

All in all this was a very emotional book with an intriguing mystery going on - it developed the world of Raphael and Elena a bit further and as always I can't wait to get the next one.
I really hope for one of the seven - at this point I will take each of them, because they are all great. but maybe Naasir or Aodhan would be my favourites

The Guild Hunter books never disappoint. I was not really interested in reading Janvier and Ash's story, but I really enjoyed it. They already had a love for each other,
it didn't have to "bloom" like in most romances. They're love is so loyal and deep that they cannot even hide from themselves.
Honestly what I loved most about the book was reading more about Elena/Raphael, I love those two, and Naasir. He is so interesting and adorable. Just adorable!
I hope he gets his own book one day, I would love to read about his happy ending, as well as Bluebell's of course!

Originally reviewed for Tea and Book.

I am the first to admit that I was leery of reading Nalini Singh's Guild Hunter Series. All those angels and archangels really made me skeptical. I am so glad I caved and began this journey. First off because they aren't angels and archangels from scripture or in anyway biblical. They are immortal beings with amazing power and yes, wings.

Nalini has this amazing gift for world building and remaining true to her characters and their core selves. Yes, they grow and develop throughout the series, which is good because otherwise they would be stagnant and flat. And Nalini's characters are NEVER stagnant or flat. They are Strong, Powerful, Loyal, Loving, Daring, Brave, Sleazy, Evil... just like real life only more. They have family issues and regrets and fight with their friends and have in law problems, they are just caught up in a world with Immortals (angels), Near Immortals (Vampires) and Humans. And each story mixes they races beautifully, according to what the story needs.

Archangel's Shadows starts right where Archangel's Legion ends.. ok, right before it ends. We hear in Legion that Ashwindi is injured but that's it. In Shadows, we see how she was injured and how that affected Janvier.

Ashwindi (Ash) is a skilled hunter with a dash of the woo woo factor. She knows things, she feels things. Of course this gift/curse has taught her to beware of others. After a disturbing incident in her childhood, Ash found her way to the Guild Hunters and made a place for herself.. and she finally found a home and family of people who accepted her. She is finally content with who and what she is. Tracking down run away vamps pays well and she's good at it. Except, there's this one Vamp.. Always on the brink of capture. Ash will work and track and hunt him down then just before capture, he makes nice with the offended Angel and Voila, Janvier is once again golden. Drives Ash bonkers.. Well that and the fact that there is way more to Janvier than the charming Cajun lets on.

Janvier is one of the good guys, pure and simple, charming and sweet. He became a Vamp because he fell in love (youthful lusts) but he never forgot who he was or where he came from. Grounded in a way few Vamps are. Life was pretty good but then he met Ash and he knew his world changed. Without her, there was no Joie de Vivre. No life at all. Now he just has to convince her of the fact! Which is what lead to his rather unique courtship. But now that Tower's battle has been won (for now), the world knows that there is more to Janvier than he let on. Now he works directly for the Tower and has two purposes (well he always has but now everyone knows) serving Rapheal and Loving Ash.

Honestly, what Guild Hunter fan hasn't been waiting for this story? Hints of Janvier and Ash and their unique courtship have teased us in almost every book. Plus they were featured in the novella Angel's Pawn. So we know them, we already cared about them, now.. well let's just say I freakin LOVED them!

Of course no Guild Hunter Book would be complete without a bit of the fight against evil. Shadows is no exception. Janvier and Ash have been charged with finding out why mummified corpses have started showing up in New York, first a dog and now women. There are layers to the crime and together with those from the Tower and the Guild, they search out the individuals behind the desecration. That mystery alone is worth reading the book.

Then there's the rest of it.. Nalini never just writes about her main characters she writes stories with rich and full secondary stories. Raphael and Elena are NEVER left out. Characters are brought in depending on their importance to the story but are never, ignored. Even when not seen each of the Seven and many from the Guild are felt. They are important to the Overall Arc.

There were beautiful and wonderful scenes of healing (they did just win a battle) growth and friendship interacted around the entire Janvier and Ash story. And that is what truly makes this series a gem.

A must read book in a must read series!

Shauni

It’s hard for me to know where to start with this because I loved, and I do mean LOVED Archangel’s Shadows. I didn’t want it to end. I loved how Ms. Singh gave us a well thoughtout HEA for Ash and Janvier that did them justice, moved the overall story arc moving forward and making sure we get to keep up with what is going on with everyone we’ve come to love as well as giving us teasing little glimpses into the pasts of some of the series favorites, which really is all of them.
I’ve always loved Ash and Janvier together. Their form of flirting always made me laugh, because through it I could see how well they fit together and wondered why Ash fought so hard against it. So finally learning about her past and what she went through had me understanding, but also had me respecting her even more. To go what she went through at a young age and to survive to be the woman that she is, is simply amazing. Then there is Janvier, The Cajun. To learn just how loyal and compassionate is his and how deep his love for his family still runs after all these years just added more depth to the dangerously charming vampire.
Then there were the little glimpses of life with the Legion as well as the Seven. The Legion still freak me out just a little bit, but I love how Elena is determined to make them comfortable and humanize them just a little. And there is Naasir, the third Shadow. I still don’t know exactly what he is, but I simply adore him. I love how playful and protective he is with those he decides are his family and how simple yet insightful his view of the world is, especially through Dimitri’s eyes, which was a delight and surprise. If Naasir told me that he decided not to eat me I’d be a happy girl.
Then there is the rest of the Seven and their women, at least for those that have them. The scenes of them together, in whatever capacity are some of my favorites in the book, especially when Sparkle and Bluebell are involved. Raphael’s burgeoning sense of humor is fun to watch, especially when it comes to Elena’s reactions to it. And catching up with how things are going with Honor and Dmitri, as well as Ransom, Vivek and Demarco were all added bonuses that made this book one of the best I’ve read this year.

This, the latest in the Guild Hunter series, all of which I have loved reading! New twists & foes - and familiar characters give the story a great feel all the way through. The story of Ash & Janvier has been touched on in more than one book in this series, so it was good to see their full stories & bring them together. While not as much action as the other books- Nalini Singh also gave further snippets of other characters we've come to know! With the strengthening of other charecters that have just been 'referred' to, I KNOW there have to be more stories coming, there just has to!!!

I skipped a few books in the Guild Hunter series when the story started branching off to other characters so I wasn't super up to speed on Ash and Janvier. Thankfully I was still able to enjoy ARCHANGEL'S SHADOWS and it was nice that Elenaand Raphael had their POVs told as well.

With everything that happened in the last book (which I did read) it was nice to get back into the swing of things and watch some of the characters as they recover and get back into investigating and keeping the city safe. Ash and Janvier have to work together in their investigations and we get to watch them grow closer and fight their personal demons together. I can't say I was too shocked by the end results of Ash and Janvier's relationship. It was pretty easy to see coming, but I am also glad that it happened. They both deserve happiness and I am glad they found it.

I enjoyed Elana's interaction with the Legion. It seems as though they are really becoming their own persons and I enjoyed the little glimpses into watching them change. Raphael's Mom comes for a visit and I was a little surprised it seemed to go so well.

ARCHANGEL'S SHADOWS was a good mix of urban fantasy and paranormal romance. I enjoyed being in each character's minds and I look forward to seeing what book 8 will be about.

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

For starters, I am a huge Singh Fan. Read all of her Guild Hunter series and the spinoff minor character books with gusto. actually, getting tired of the archangel, his mom etc and those politics, I have liked Dimitri and Jason's books a LOT more than the others lately--and Galen's story. (Although Legion was pretty good). But despite all that, I have been SOOO excited for Ashwini and Janvier's book. So excited!! The kind where you squeal with delight when it is FINALLY HERE!!!! (seriously, I had a hard copy on the way and almost bought the kindle version too because I couldn't wait 2 days!)

I really liked Angel's Pawn (the short story that featured them before). I liked that Ashwini was different than Elena and complex and that she had this interesting power that could be developed more and I really liked her relationship with Janvier. That is was slow and twisty and fun. And I loved the bits in other books where it referred to them--the honey pot incident and finding out who really got those vampires who hurt her.

But this book....
My issues:
1) too much from Janvier's head. Despite him almost being one of the Seven-ish kind of, I wanted Ashwini and more Ashwini and I got annoyed being in his head. He's more fun when you don't know what he's thinking, I think

2) The book started at the point where they're both interested, committed, and the whole book is just... the end of this years-long dance they've been doing. Honestly, there was very little fun tension, teasing or laughter for me--it was just Ashwini dreading sharing her *big secret* with Janvier (or the reader) and Janvier wondering why she's 'putting distance' between them. For all their wild fun-ness, there was very little of it actually in evidence.

3) ALL the secondary characters! yes, I liked Nassir and I look forward (maybe--sad, no more excitement) to his book. So that was nice. I'd like Aodhan's story too. But every time other characters got a WHOLE chapter, it felt like the Ashwini story was just a novella stuck inside another novella.

4) their story... not that interesting. I know Ashwini's adventures won't be as epic scale as Elena's--not being an Archangel's consort, but can't they be interesting? really? sucked dry dog turns into.. well.. I won't tell you the end, but its just 'eh'.

5) Her power. Not interesting or complex. There's little she can do with it, the use of it wasn't very fleshed out and Janvier getting mad at her for using it was weird. That scene didn't read like protective lover, it read... just ... lame

Anyway, I read it, but besides the moment of getting it in the mail, didn't laugh with delight once. Not once.
I'll buy her next book, and her next. It takes at least 3 duds to kill my interest (re: Kristen Ashley--so sad) but I am hoping the next one will be better! I love her world building and characters, I just want to love the books too!

I have enjoyed this series as a whole. This book is about Ash & Janvier. It lets you know how they became who and what they are now. Along with their own personnel demons that is holding one of them back from wanting a relationship.

This city is just recovering from an epic battle when a body is found in similar condition to what the enemy arch angel is capable of doing. But with her banished (for now) they have to get to the bottom of these crimes before the city starts to panic.

In the war against Lijuan and her people, Ashwini was badly hurt. She was working with Janvier and Naasir behind enemy lines when she was caught after planting bombs in a building in hands of the enemy. But now she is all healed up, and ready for some action. Janvier is not so ready to let her walk into danger again, and he is determined to be with her, every step of the way. He has sworn allegiance to the archangel Raphael, so he can act as a liaison between the Guild Hunters and the Tower.

Ash is sent to question a vet who reported the find of a mummified animal. And with the horror or Lijuan fresh in the minds of the population, this has to be investigated thoroughly. Janvier takes her on his bike, and she really enjoys that ride. So does Janvier, and he sure wants more from her than that, but she has always kept him at a distance. But now, perhaps, it is time to live for the moment. Because Ash knows it can never be more than that. And becoming a vampire herself, is totally out of the question. Due to her powers, of seeing inside a person’s head when she touches him or her, physical closeness is impossible for her. But she has never been able to read Janvier.

When next the mummified body of a woman is found in a dumpster behind a restaurant, the investigation becomes serious. This reeks of Lijuan’s power, did she leave some of her people behind? Ash and Janvier have to go into the underbelly of the vampire world, with the sex and blood clubs, the groupies and junkies who sell their blood for their next fix. Some vampires treat their donor’s with respect, but most of the vampires who frequent those clubs only see humans as cattle. To do with as they see fit. But when they find a likely suspect, he is alibied by the women he is keeping in his home, and who are completely in his thrall.

Then there is the new streetdrug Umber, that really affects vampires, awakening their bloodlust. It has to be stopped before the streets of New York color red with blood again.

In the mean time, Elena has to deal with a visit from her mother in law.
She is also interacting well with the Legion, making them feel at home and getting to know them individually. They are not used to act on their own instead of part of a hive mind, but she makes them more “human”. I loved how she finds out that they love to work with the earth, with plants, and need them around. She puts them to work in her green house.

And then there is Naasir. Elena wants to know what he is, and so do I. I am so very curious about him. He brought Elena a gift, and he only does that to people he likes. The whole Seven attended that evening to find out what he brought, as he has some outrageous ideas on proper gifts. He once brought a bucket of piranha’s...

A great new book in a great series. I loved Ashwini and Janvier together, and I do believe that Ashwini has legitimate reasons for not wanting a relationship. I did hurt for her and Janvier. The mystery part, the evil ones who are behind the drugs and the mummifications, that was very well done as well. I am glad justice was served.
I also liked the part where Raphael showed the vampires in town who really is the boss in town: not them!

I love reading about the other characters in this series, and find out more about their lives after they had their love stories. I can’t wait to read the next one, which I hope is about Naasir. Or Bluebell.

10 stars.

Nalini Singh brings readers the latest book in the Guild Hunter series, Archangel's Shadows. This is the seventh book in the series and fans of both paranormal romance and urban fantasy will have something to cheer about. This book is a good blending of the genres and readers get all sexual tension and the possibility of happy ever after found in most good PNR's, but they also get the modern setting and strong character development found in most good UF novels. Singh scores with Ash and Janvier's story in a big way!

What I liked:

If you've been reading the Guild Hunter series from the beginning you will already know that Ash and Janvier have a long history starting with the first book in the series. Throughout the series Ash has hunted Janvier several times and ended up not killing him for one reason or another. I have always loved the love-hate kind of relationship they have going on. Janvier considers it a form of courtship, while Ash thinks of it as an annoyance. Whatever Singh had in mind for this romance, it certainly works. The characters play very well off each other and when the reader finds out what's really been keeping them apart they will be shocked and satisfied with the resolution.

One of the things that I like about this series is the fact that there is an overall story arc that follows one couple, Elena and Raphael and then there are side stories like this one with Janvier and Ash. That is more a trait of good Urban Fantasy novel where the reader gets to see the ups and downs of the main couple throughout several books. But then you have the romance of the current book which is more of a paranormal romance trait. I love how Singh blends the two genres so well. I loved finding out what was going on with Elena and Raphael, but the focus was still on Ash and Janvier in this one and they carried the book with ease. There story was engaging, full of action and tender moments that brought it all together.

Nasir is one of those characters that has been hanging around on the sidelines of the series, but readers get to see a whole lot more of him in this book, which I hope means he will a book of his own soon. Regardless, he nearly steals the show here. Janvier does hold his own because of his wit and charm, but Nasir just about edges him out in this one. Not sure I thought that was a good thing, since essentially this should have been Janvier's show. He's a great character and I want more of him but I think his presence should not have been a prominent in this one.

Janvier and Ash made a great couple, with his swagger and charm and her strength and assertiveness. I wanted Ash to more proactive though. Yes, there was something keeping her from Janvier. It was a very legitimate something, but she didn't seem to want to fight for him and that's not what I expected from her. It was still an awesome book but I wanted her to be more in your face about making it work out instead of complacent and ready to throw in the towel.

Bottom Line:

Overall I thought this was a great addition to the series. We not only get the love story between Ash and Janvier but we get to check in with other characters from previous books and the added bonus of getting more of Nasir. Some things didn't go quite the way I expected but it was still an awesome book. If you're already a fan of the series, this one will be a big win. If not, it will probably make you want to try more from this amazing author.

Rating~ 4.25-4.5 Stars

This is the seventh book in the series. This time its about Ash and Janvier with the rest of the gang also getting few scenes here and there but it mainly focuses on Ashwini and Janvier. We first saw Ash and Janvier together in a novella at the start of the series Angels’ Pawn: A Guild Hunter Novella and over time we have been given glimpses very fascinating ones I might add about what they have been upto. It’s about time that they got their own book.

Ash is a guild hunter with a gift, she can in a way read people’s secrets mostly very dark and twisted ones due to her line of work. Ash was described in the previous books as a eccentric, blood thirsty and ‘crazy’. Ash has always been a fascinating character, from the way she is described by her friends in the previous book and the way she was in Angels Pawn. She is a very competent fighter, a independent women with a hidden soft and vulnerable side that you can’t help but love.

Janvier also known as just ‘Cajun’ is a vampire who is said to very charming and easy to like. Janvier is relatively young to the other vampires in the cast of the series, yet is powerful with connections to more powerful individuals. He always manged to get back in the good graces of the angels he pissed off which in turn pissed Ash off when was charged with hunting him down. I thought he was very laid back, possessive of Ash and funny.

“Such a conscientious landlord. Would you fix the plumbing too?”
“If you let me put my pipe in your sprocket.” Pure wickedness in his smile at her groan.

Ash and Janvier relationship are just lovely together, they understand and love each other for who they really are. Though they were the protagonist in this book, their relationship started since the first moment they met which was about four years ago in the series timeline. They flirted, fought and shared many moments together which is why though only ‘officially’ get together in this book they have been in essence in a relationship for four years though Ash refuses to take the last step, her reasons where valid and I really liked how Nalini handled it and gave Ash her happy ending. I thought their relationship was adorable and in a way frenemies to lovers.

“Don’t get too cocky, cuddlebunny.”
His grin was bright. “What’s a cuddlebunny?” he asked, genuinely curious.

The book also has a few scenes of the main couple of series Raphael and Elena and how they dealing with the aftermath of the last Book Archangel’s legion where they fought Lijuan. It does not matter either they get a whole book or just glimpses, I just love reading about them.

We also get a different look on Naasir, Aodhan and Ilium. Aodhan is finally getting out of his shell with the help of his best friend Ilium. Ilium on the other hand is no longer the young and happy-g0-lucky angel he was at start of the series, he’s changing, growing into power and this has effected his personality . Previously not much was known about Naasir, this was rectified in this book where we get hints of his past along with scenes of him a child. Naasir is a very interesting character and he is very different to others in Rapheal seven not just because of what he is but who he is as a person. He’s a little psycho, a very beautiful one at that. Really looking forward to reading about him and him finding his ‘mate’. All his scenes made me smile.

Raphael on Naasir: “He is a wild creature in an elegant, civilized city.”

Naasir said with a shrug. “We pretend to like people until we get hungry and want fresh meat.” A glance around, a glint in his eye. “I honestly do like you all. I haven’t thought about eating you for at least two centuries.”

The book also felt like one of the earlier books in the series like Angels’ Blood: The Guild Hunter Series, maybe because it takes place between the lull after the ending of the war and the events from the previous book Archangel’s Legion: A Guild Hunter Novel.

Quibbles: I would have liked a bit more scenes of Elena & Raphael though we get a few I just wanted more since I love them and bit more of Mahiya & Jason who I thought were the only ones who did not get a scene. The ending for some reason felt a bit rushed to me.

Overall this was another good edition the series and cannot wait till the next book which of-course is JUST A YEAR AWAY. I really want to know who gets the next book in the series. Happy Reading!

Thoughts: oh Nalini, Nalini, Nalini, once again you have managed to write a story that sucks me in with the first paragraph and keep there until the last sentence and then have me go back and read it again just to relive it all over again.
This book picks up weeks after the end of Legion and combines two story lines, that of Raphael and Elena and Ash and Janvier.
There is a lot happening in the world as they all deal with what Lijuan and her allies tried to do to New York City.
Ash and Janvier, we've been waiting for this book for YEARS it feels like, and what a story it is. Unlike the other characters in this world who have the whole meet and fall in love during the course of the book, Ash and Janvier have been doing a dance around their feelings for a couple of years - books - so we all ready know they love each other. What we've never understood was why they weren't together. We find out, and it's heartbreaking. I fell even more in love with Janvier in this story than I already was, and my heart broke for them and what they were going through.
Raphael and Elena are in a good place in their relationship. They've survived Lijuan's attack, the arrival of the Legion and now are in the process of rebuilding New York City. There are some lighthearted moments, and some intense moments, like we've all come to expect from these two.

Nassir, oh how he stole the book. He snuck in and stole the book so much that the third time (are you really surprised I've already read this book more than once) I only read the parts with him. They way he is with Ash and Janvier you know he thinks of them like siblings. The relationship he has with Dimitri was a surprise to me, and I hope it's one for the readers as well. Watching them interact and Dimitri remember him as a child, it made me wonder about him. Then there was the way he was with Honor. I wouldn't be surprised if he viewed Dimitri and Honor as his parents, from the way he was with them. There were times he was very childlike, and others where he was a warrior. One of my favorite scenes is when all the Seven in New York City including Ash and Janvier go to dinner at Raphael and Elena's. It's really the first time you see just how the bonds of family are with them.

The mystery of who is committing atrocities in the city that resemble Lijuan leads the tower to make changes in how they deal with mortal's and creates some interesting ties.

I didn't think I could love any book in this series as much as I do Archangel's Blade, but this one is up there with my favorites in the series.

Grade A+
Review by: Heather
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com

Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy

I was thrilled to finally get a novel length story featuring Ash and Janvier and jumped at the chance to read and review it. I fell in love with these Ash and Janvier in ANGEL'S PAWN and have been waiting impatiently for more about these two. There is some POV with Raphael and Elena which is great to see and it serves to push the main plot along as well as gives us a little glimpse of what these two have been up to since the ARCHANGEL'S LEGION. Now the reason I adore Ash and Janvier is the excellently hilarious and antagonistic relationship they had in ANGEL'S PAWN. There is definitely more of the same violent flirting as I like to call it between these two in ARCHANGEL'S SHADOWS.

The plot revolving around the horrific death of a woman who's body was left in a dumpster sends Ash and Janvier on a intense and bloody chase for answers to her death. As is usual with this series there are some very graphic and gory scenes that the faint of heart might want to skim over. I was constantly left on the edge of my seat wanting to know what happens next. While there are some fun action moments this story is more suspenseful than most of the previous books in this series.

Ash and Janvier's relationship is like fire; intense, hot, and dangerous. They spend most of the story flirting and when they finally do decide to try for a relationship, their interactions get even more fun. Truly its the banter between these two that is the highlight of the book. I could read just the clever dialogue between these two and be happy. Janvier is the epitome of a sexy charming Cajun with some wonderful French Cajun language peppering his dialogue. He and Ash fit so well together and I was biting my nails hoping Ash would work through her dark secret that had her keeping Janvier at arms length.

ARCHANGEL'S SHADOWS is everything I expected it to be and more with a great balance of romance and intrigue. Its an beautiful and intense story with a sizzling hot romance that had me enthralled from start to end.

Reviewed by Annie and posted at Under The Covers Book Blog

Fans of the series will be trilled to note that ARCHANGEL’S SHADOWS is Ash and Janvier’s book. As if the novella wasn’t enough, Singh shines the spotlight on the kickass Guild Hunter and our favorite Cajun hottie while also hitting us with an intriguing mystery as well.

Bodies are showing up in various times and places, all involving some suspicious and similar traits. Tasked with finding out who is responsible for this, Ash must go hunting for this unknown killer. Yet Janvier isn’t willing to let her go alone, especially not when he considers her his.

Ash still has that tough exterior which makes her an easy one to love. However, Singh does reveal details of her past that are also quite devastating. While it adds a certain touch of sadness to the book, it also adds so much more depth to her character as well. I felt that I grew to love her more with this book.

I absolutely adored Janvier before reading this book but found myself loving him more now. His unconditional love for Ash is evident from the first page and only becomes more obvious as the story goes on. Paired with the mystery, Singh infuses this story with so much action and suspense, it actually reminds me more of a typical Urban Fantasy with a Nalini Singh twist rather than just your regular romance.

Of course, Singh’s authorial voice remains a strong presence in this book, painting vivid images with her words. The lyrical approach definitely adds another dimension to the series and can be seen as it’s own character with that it brings to this series.

The entire cast of characters are present, some getting more time than others. However, there is one character in particular that intrigued me. We haven’t heard much about Naasir until now. But Singh still leaves a lot of unanswered questions about him. It makes me very excited to see who she will focus on next in the next book. I’ve got my eye on a certain blue-winged angel I’m hoping gets his book told soon too.

ARCHANGEL’S SHADOWS takes the action and suspense of Urban Fantasy and the passion and intimacy of romance and blends them effortlessly together to create a story that grips you until the very end.

*ARC provided by publisher

I fell in love with Ash and Janvier when I read their novella in the Angels' Flight anthology (their story, Angels' Pawn, is also available as a separate ebook but I'd definitely suggest buying the anthology for a fabulous collection of Guild Hunter novellas) so I can't tell you how excited I was to find out that Archangel's Shadows is their story. Nalini Singh's books always go straight to the top of my to read pile and I dropped everything the minute I got my hands on this one, in fact, I loved it so much that I've already read it twice!

The Guild Hunter series really is getting better and better with every book, I can't even begin to put the awesomeness of this series into words so I'm afraid this will be a bit of a fan girl review but if you've yet to discover this world then I really can't recommend it highly enough. The books do need to be read in order though so please don't continue reading this review if you're new to the series - make sure you start with Angel's Blood . Trust me, this series is more than worth investing your time and money in!

Ash and Janvier have fantastic chemistry that practically sizzles the pages but they've been playing a cat and mouse game for years now. Ash is determined to keep Janvier at a distance but he is equally determined to get under her skin and prove just how perfect they are for each other. I love the push and pull between them, their banter and teasing is wonderful but no matter how much they argue I love that they've always had each other's backs. Ash may be wary of getting involved in a relationship but she knows that Janvier would never hurt her and that he'll always be there when she needs him. Their courtship is far from traditional but that doesn't make it any less compelling, in fact I think it was refreshing to see such resistance on Ash's part, she really does make Janvier work for it! Their romance is uniquely suited to them and utterly perfect because of it.

As much as I loved spending time with Ash and Janvier there is so much more to this story and we get regular updates from all of our favourite characters. I will never get enough of Raphael and Elena and their relationship is going from strength to strength, I'm loving seeing Elena grow into her immortality and I really enjoyed watching her interactions with the Legion along with the rest of Raphael's Seven. I'm still dying to get my hands on Illium's story but I have a feeling he's going to go through some tough times before he gets his happy ever after and my heart is already hurting for him. One character who really surprised me in this book was Naasir, he's always flown under my radar in previous books but I'm now absolutely desperate for his story! Naasir managed to make me both laugh and cry throughout this book, I loved seeing how close he is to Dimitri and I thoroughly enjoyed his developing relationship with Elena, she has never had much to do with him before but they're getting close enough to be able to tease each other now and it was so much fun seeing her try to guess what he is.

I honestly didn't think I could love this series any more than I already did but Nalini Singh just makes me more and more addicted with every single book. I don't know how she does it but I'm so happy that she can. This is without a doubt one of my all time favourite series, from the minute I pick up one of the books until the very last page I'm completely and utterly absorbed in the world and the characters and I never want the journey to end. In fact, I think the only way I'm going to survive the wait for the next book is by rereading the series again!

Well it's finally here , the latest book in the Guild Hunter series and I know that there will be an awful lot of readers only too keen to get their hands on this book! This story is set just after the fearsome battle between Archangels played out in the skies above New York. Now Raphael and his consort Elena struggle to rebuild their beloved city but it's those who live within it that need the most help and all too often protection!
Ashwini is a hunter working for the Guild and in the aftermath of the recent battles forced to rest and recover from an almost fatal injury. She is asked to look into a gruesome death with a probable cause too unbearable to contemplate. Ashwini may be smart and tough but she has a gift (which she sees as a curse) that allows her to read peoples emotions often with debilitating effects. Tormented by a secret she carries she has struggled to remain detached but there's one man whose very essence calls out to her.
Janvier is a sexy Cajun vampire who since he first met the beguiling Ashwini has known there is no other woman for him. The very air between them sizzles with sexual tension and yet Ashwini always tries to keep him at a distance . Nearly losing her has sharpened all of Janviers thoughts and now he is more than ready to claim the woman who is clearly " his hunter"! As Ashwinis hunt and Janviers new mission collide it's clear that someone is torturing and cruelly abusing those who cannot protect themselves but there's a new drug on the streets that's about to take the vampire world by storm. Can the hunter and the vampire work together to catch the killer before the humans realise the danger that stalks the streets or have they been outmanoeuvred ? It's fear that keeps the mortals alive in this world of Preditors. Ashwini belongs with Janvier but her secret will tear out his heart as she tries to convince him that together they have no future!
This passionate couple have been dancing around each other for quite some time now and we first really got to know them in the short story Angels Pawn. In the past Ashwini has been tasked with hunting Janvier but the wily Cajun is full of tricks and constantly ties her up in knots. I loved the passion and devotion displayed by Janvier but he's in it for the long hurl and happily bides his time as Ashwini strives to put distance between them. That in itself is almost an impossibility as Janvier is one of the few people whose touch can bring her peace . A hot and almost combustible relationship but nothing is rushed and the relentless Cajun sure knows how to please his hunter!
I feel it's fair to say that this book will be a disappointment to some readers as I know a lot are hoping for the much loved Bluebell to get his happy ending . I would say that this book acts as a bridge and straddles both the romance between Ashwini and Janvier whilst cleverly bringing readers up to date with other much loved characters in the tragic aftermath of the battle with the cruel Archangel Lejuan. Something powerful is happening and changes are on the wind . Those such as Illium are becoming a power and I foresee a lot more will happen before his story is fully told. The ancient Legion have awakened and now will stand beside Raphael and his seven but whilst they are used to working as a whole unit it's important to remember that each is an individual but it's lovely to see their curiosity about this new world they have awakened in. As for the future ? It's still shrouded in mystery but Raphael's mother Caliane seems posed to step into the limelight as well as Aodhan( Sparkle )who is still a very mysterious and intruiging character but I suspect the gentle Kier will surprise the most. If you are a fan then you will know that Ms Singh has been teasing her readers for far too long with a certain vampire Naasir so rest assured there's an awful lot more from him in this book but no, still no definitive answers! I really enjoyed this and if you have not started this series then please please do! Sometimes the author puts the archangel Raphael and his consort Elena in the driving seat and sometimes we get the romance of those who surround them but there is never a dull moment. This is a remarkable series filled with passion and truly magical world building. The author paints pictures with her words that bring the story to life and it's impossible to put her books down. Quite simply a fabulous addition to a truly awesome series .

Brought to you by OBS reviewer Heidi

Guild Hunter, Ashwini, is careful who she comes into contact with because just a simple touch can flood her with a person’s memories and thoughts. As you can imagine, some of those thoughts and images she sees can be pretty ugly. She doesn’t have that problem with her favorite repeat collar, Janvier. She isn’t affected when the sexy Cajun touches her, well not in that way at least! Although he does have the tendency to scramble her brains a bit, filling her with all kinds of sexy images from her own imagination!

Ash, Janvier, and, Naasir made a great team during the battle, even if Ash did get hurt. Something that still haunts Janvier. He could have lost her. Mortals are just too fragile and he will do anything to convince her to become a vampire. Her star cannot go out!

And when Ash’s new, easy, assignment turns out to be more than they expected. Ash and Janvier will get to work together once again.

It started with the discovery of a drained mummified dog, but then a human is found in the same condition. Ash and Janvier, with the help of the Tower and the Guild, must get to the bottom of what is happening, and fast! But neither of them were prepared for the torture that these victims have been put through.

I’ll admit it, I did get downright giddy when I saw that this book was going to be about Ash and Janvier! I love the cat and mouse game that their relationship is! And this book did not disappoint!

I absolutely love Janvier. He’s a lot of fun and I love watching him flirt with Ash, even if he can be a bit crude at times. You can feel his love for her from the very first page of this book all the way to the end. The thought of losing her to spend eternity alone, is a dagger straight to his heart.

I found the mystery in this one to be quite entertaining and it kept me interested throughout the book. And the steamy scenes between Janvier and Ash didn’t hurt either!

The killers in this book were pretty depraved and sickening. Smart, but a typical case of using your skills for evil! I’m glad that Raphael can be so ruthless in his punishments at times, although they deserved Dimitri’s kind of torture!!

This was a solid read that left me with a goofy grin on my face when I was finished! Any Guild Hunter fan will be sure to enjoy it! Especially if they enjoy sexy Cajuns! Full Throttle.

Now I’m left wondering who the next book will be about. Naasir? Keir? Or my favorite angel, Illium? The anticipation is killing me already!

*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*

Archangel’s Shadows by Nalini Singh is the 7th book in her Guild Hunter’s series. I am a big fan of Nalini Singh & her Psy/Changeling series. It bothered me that I did not have a chance to read this series, since Sandy was always telling me how great it was. So I was determined to get ahead on my reading and this summer I was able to sneak in time to read 6 books. I am so glad I did, as it proves that Nalini is a fantastic writer, who can change the format and still put together another fabulous series. Now I had the opportunity to read the latest novel in this series, and do the dual review with Sandy.

Archangel’s Shadows picks up where the last book left off (Archangel’s Legion), right after the battle of New York. Raphael’s angels are recovering, and the newly found Legion are helping rebuild New York. This book belongs to Ash and Janvier, though we get to spend time with many of our favorites, such as Raphael, Elena, Dimitri, Honor, Illium, and Aodhan. I also want to note that Naasir has become another intriguing character that I cannot wait to find out more of him.

Ash is a top notch hunter, who is a friend of Elena and Honor. Janvier is one of Dimitri’s top vampires, and he works closely with Ash. There is no question that Janvier is in love with Ash, but she holds a secret that stops her from any kind of relationship. They do have some wonderful chemistry together, and their banter between each other is awesome….I loved Ash and Janvier together.

They both work together to find out who was committing horrific murders, that left their victims drained. Raphael and his Seven, worried that it looked so much like Lijuan’s doing, though she was either dead or in the throes of a long recovery; they suspected some of her infected angels may have been left behind in New York. Ash and Janvier work quietly and quickly, so not to alarm the city, to discover the culprit. This is a very exciting mystery, with a few twists along the way; though at times early on it was a slower pace, as we learned more about Ash.

As exciting the hunt was for the killers, the best part was watching Janvier and Ash act on their feelings, which will become sizzling. As Ash reveals her secret, it is Janvier’s dedication to Ash, that will help her move forward. I loved both of them, but I totally fell in love with Janvier, as he took care of his Ash. I do not want to give spoilers, but I will say that I worried that they would not be able to stay together.

Nalini Singh does it again, with another wonderful addition to her Guild Hunter series. There are so many more Angels that need their happy endings. I cannot wait for the next book. If you have not started this series, you should not wait, as it is a gem.

In the aftermath of a devastating war, which has pitted archangel factions against each other and left many dead in its wake, something dark and dangerous threatens the citizens of New York, and the archangel Raphael and his contingent are faced with unraveling the mystery of the new and deadly threat. Ash, a human Guild hunter, and Janvier, her vampire partner, are racing against time to unmask the killer before it's too late, all the while fighting an ever-growing attraction that they should not act upon.

ARCHANGEL'S SHADOWS, the seventh book in the Guild Hunter series by Nalini Singh, is an action-packed, edge-of-your-seat read from the first page. Ash and Janvier are a team, the human Guild hunter and vampire working in the service of the archangel Raphael. The attraction which has always existed between them is becoming stronger, with Janvier making no effort to hide his desire to become Ash's partner in every sense of the word. But Ash is hiding a secret that could tear them apart, and that keeps her from giving in to the desire that she feels.

This is the first book that I have read from the series, and while I sense that there is a lot of backstory that I am missing, it did not keep me from thoroughly enjoying this book. I am a huge fan of paranormal romance, and Nalini is a master of the genre. The characters are unique and engaging, and the heat between each of the couples is palpable. I love that the female characters are strong and respected by their male counterparts, with not one delicate flower in the lot. These ladies are capable, and aren't afraid to let everyone know, which is one of the things that resonated most strongly for me. As well, the Seven, whom have all been introduced in earlier books, are fascinating to me, and I really enjoyed the banter and real affection that they have for each other. All of these things, combined with the mysterious threat that Ash and Janvier are facing, made for a read that I couldn't put down. I look forward to going back and starting the series from the beginning, and also continuing to read the upcoming installments.

Ever since I read their short story, I have enjoyed the glimpses of the ongoing courtship of Ashwini and Janvier. This full length story does not disappoint. I also enjoyed the central hunt and mystery which gives us a further glimpse of New York in the aftermath of the angelic battle.

4.5-5 stars

This was a great story. I have loved Janvier and Ash's almost relationship for a while and have been rooting for them to get together so I was very happy to see that Singh decided to finally address them seriously.

This story takes place a few months after the battle in Archangel's Legion. The city is recovering and Elena and Raphael are doing good at leading their people. Ash was injured in the fighting and is mostly recovered and is trying to keep Janvier at arms length...something that she wasn't able to do as well as she'd have liked while she was injured. Ash gets sent on a job for the guild that starts out as nothing but ends up being the start in something bigger, something that could end up being a danger to the city. Janvier is working for the tower and ends up helping her with the investigation. This pushes Ash and Janvier closer and there's some drama as they both try to work past the issues that are keeping them apart. Ash is convinced that issues she has are too much to get past but Janvier is determined not to live without Ash in his life. Ash does have some valid reasons for her reluctance and I really liked how Singh was able to work things out.

I really loved getting to see how things are progressing for everyone and getting glimpses into their lives. It was fun to see Elena starting to settle in to her place as Raphael's consort. The action plot was interesting and kept me wondering how the pieces fit together. It was well balanced by the romance between Janvier and Ash and the brief explorations into the lives of the other main characters. I especially liked the additional exploration into Naasir and I'm kind of hoping the next book is his (although I'm open on that). This was a great addition to the series and I'd recommend it (and the series). 2 thumbs up! :D

* note - I listened to the audio version of this book and the narrator did a great job.

I love this series and nalini singh, but this was a real disappointment. The bits with Elena/Raphael and Honor/Dimitri and other side characters were wonderful. But, Ash and Javier unfortunately weren't interesting, their short story was so much better

Nalini Singh creates a paranormal world like few others can. She makes the reader really believe her angels and vampires are definitely not human and humans are right to be leery. The series has held onto all that made it good even though we are now seven books and several novellas in. The focus has shifted a bit from Elena and Raphael to a few other regular series characters getting the spotlight, but that doesn't alter how much I enjoyed the story.

I don't plan to offer up any spoilers, but for those who haven't started the series or at least gotten to book six, it's possible I'll make a comment or put something in my summary that gives up the goods on something so read ahead at your own risk. And yessiree Bob that means that this is a 'must read in order' series. Sorry all you series hoppers (like me).

The last book in the Guild Hunter series was a boomer when it came to intense emotions and actions along with game changer reveals. War had come to New York. In the aftermath, several things have changed and new elements have become part of the norm. I wasn't sure what to expect about the story that would follow up on the huge battle and big-bang ending. It would take a deft touch to top or at least equal that baby. I trust this author to pull off such a story and I was curious to see where things are headed so I grabbed this latest up with strong anticipation. Oh and the fact that it is Ash and Janvier's story? Icing + cake= yum! I've adored these two since they were introduced early on in their novella and have been playing cat and mouse ever since.

The story opens not long after the war between the archangels and their allies that took place over and in NYC along with the manifestations of the mysterious event known as The Cascade. NYC is shakily recovering and going through a rebirth. Angels that went through The Falling are healing and getting back into fighting trim, the Legion are adjusting to their new home, Rafael is coming to terms with his new power, human and vampire residents also warily start the recovery though something evil still remains among them.

Ashwini Taj, the hunter, was seriously injured doing her part in the war and almost lost her life, but it is not that which shakes her very foundations. It is discovering through it all the depth of Janvier's feelings for her as he tenderly cares for her during the critical part of her recovery. She could have handled it if he had remained his playful, flirting self, but to hold her and even feed her when she was too weak? That feels too good and makes her want what she can't have. Ash has a dark secret that will not allow her to dream of a future and she can't let Janvier get attached either so she pushes him away. He reluctantly goes.

But then they are brought back together when Ash is called in to investigate a seemingly easy case since she is still recovering and not ready to return to full duty. A dead dog is found in a mummified state with all the blood sucked out of him and the Guild is called in because it looks like a crime done by an immortal. This is odd and disconcerting, but then it gets real when a human body is found in the same condition. The case just became priority even as Rafael's people are looking into a new drug on the streets that's causing blood lust amongst the vampires and keeping an eye on the smoldering powder keg in the vampire quarter of the city.

Janvier faithfully assists Ash in her investigation trying to be patient enough so that trust can be built. He wants her to feel like she can share with him what secret hides behind the wall she puts up between them and why she is so set against being Made so they can share a future together longer than the human lifespan. She feels its a big enough thing that she can't have a relationship and he should move on, but Janvier's heart has been hers since the moment she threatened to shoot him with a crossbow years before. Ash is his and he doesn't want to go on living without her. He has to think of a way to change her mind about becoming like him even as their investigation puts them in danger as they stalk a predator that bares uncanny resemblance to someone who should be dead.

The story wasn't as riveting as the last book- which I didn't expect it to be all things considered, but it still kept me pretty engaged. There were a few tender moments and I confess to two that made my eyes burn with tears. I loved the scenes with all the regulars. Elena and Rafael just never get old particularly when they are flying together. And time with any of the Seven is pretty awesome. I was dying to know what Ash's secret was. Janvier was a gorgeous hunk of Cajun heat and his devotion to Ash made him even more so.

The murder mystery was like one of those slow build cozy mysteries as Ash and Janvier pursued clue after clue. Actually, much of the plot was that way. It had ripples of excitement, but it was a slow build that was definitely a change of pace from the last book. I guess that's probably the biggest thing to remember is that the reader has to give this one time as it isn't full of the explosive scenes, but the tension is less obvious, below the surface. It's like the lull between huge storms because there is plenty of foreshadowing for trouble on the horizon. It will be a tight race whether Rafael's people can recover in time for the next big thing.

Speaking of Rafael's people, I have no idea which of the Seven will get his story next, but I seriously don't have a preference. All those guys intrigue me. Now I have to patiently wait until next year to see who it is and what his story will be.

To wrap it up, this one was good though not intense with action, but more of a suspense type read. The romance is a bit more backseat, but it does get hot once they cut loose. This is a paranormal romance series, but it has an Urban Fantasy tone so might appeal to either or both camps of readers particularly if they like their angels and vampires more along the scary lethal type.

My thanks to Penguin Group and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

I had to sit through this one twice in one sitting because to me it was so epic. There are so many authors who's work become jaded or fake after writing so many books for a series but Nalini is nothing of the sort. Archangel's Shadows is a reunion mix of new suspense mystery and old time favorites. She manages to pull readers into a strong story packed with her brilliant creativity and after making us wait in anticipation readers get a novel with Elena, Raphael, Ash, Janvier, and not to mention Naasir!
I couldn't believe how naturally Nalini has managed to bond her worlds and embrace them so naturally together that it flows perfectly. As if that wasn't enough she has built multiple plots and questions that can continue this wonderful series we fans have come to love that will create even more explosive books for us to read.
I won't give any spoilers but I will say that Archangels Shadows is a little slower than usual but you can tell Nalini is building something great to follow because it all seems to be creating a major precipice. I can't wait to see what Nalini has in store for us next.

Finally! After teasing us with bits and pieces of Ash & Janvier novella and snippets, Nalini Singh has gifted this couple with a full length novel.

The city is beginning to recover from the archangel wars in the previous book and some are taking advantage of the post battle chaos to wreck havoc on the city. Nassir, Ash & Janvier work together to try to deal with an enemy that is lurking in the shadows. Can they deal with the enemy before it brings forth a fresh wave of chaos and alarm to the city? Will Ash finally let down her barriers and get together with Janvier? What is Nassir?

Pros: We get to see our favourite couples from previous books and more of Elena's hilarious interaction with the Legion, her mother in law and Nassir! I am a fan of Nassir and hope there will be more to come about him. Finally get some resolution on Ash & Janvier.

Cons: Perhaps because Angel's Pawn was a spectacularly good read, but this novel was dreadfully draggy and, I am sorry to say this, boring. Unlike her previous books, the Ash & Janvier storyline is entwined with a couple of secondary storylines and characters. So their tale perhaps takes two thirds or less of the book? Being a fan of Raphael & Elena, I, of course, appreciate it, but it brings into such a sharp contrast of how boring and lack of chemistry that Ash & Janvier storyline has.

We have already more or less sorted out in Angel's Pawn that Ash & Janvier has feelings for each other, so this novel just beats the heck out of the would they or would they not to the point where I just don't care any more and want them to stop wasting my time. The "action" part of the story was, well, boring too, because unlike other novels where each step brings them closer to the truth, this was just a wild goose chase till the end when something suddenly happens to bring things to light (will not say what so as not to spoil the story). Ash also does not use her much "hyped up" and all-so-valuable-that-angels-will-covet gift till much later in the story.

Interesting: On a random note, I notice that some authors, after being popular, will start to "cater" or "twist" their stories to the more vocal, popular or social views and may even become preachy. Well, I suppose there's nothing wrong with making a living, but it's sad as the original story loses much of its original chemistry that originally enticed readers.

Bottomline: If you are new to the series, you are better off reading Angel's Pawn or the first few books of the series. If you are a fan, well, read this, but just borrow it from the library, it is really not worth the money.

I checked Archangel's Shadows out from my local library. This may be my favorite Archangel book. I really loved the development of the characters, although the overall plot didn't advance too much during this book-- in fact, it raised more questions to keep readers hooked on this great series.

I'm a big Nalini Singh fan and this book just reminded me why. While other series are becoming stale, she just keeps finding ways to keep her series fresh. I love the glimpses of the supporting characters - makes me wonder whose story will be next. I've been waiting to learn how Ash and Janvier would end and it was worth the wait. I'm looking forward to the next installment.

When I think about Archangel’s Shadows, I can’t help but let out a happy sigh. Janvier and Ashwini’s story was just what I needed from these two. Insight into Ash’s hardened edge. The unyielding support of Janvier. A nice dose of Cajun romance amid the snowy landscape of New York.

Delightful.

One of the reasons I love Nalini Singh’s Guild Hunter series so much is it brings together my favorite genre elements. I’m an urban fantasy girl. I like mystery and action and heroines taking charge. But, if you read this blog with any frequency, you know I also like a heavy dose of the sweet-and-sexy moments. The Guild Hunter series marries these two elements beautifully. We get to see Ash and Janvier on missions, saving lives, trying to track down a murderer, and when they’re in public they are fierce.

…but alone? It gets hot and steamy and Ash is kind of overwhelmed by it. Touch is such a tricky thing for her, but it’s a non-issue with Janvier. And does that man know how to touch. And bite. (Sexy vampire bite scene included in Archangel’s Shadows, you heard it here first!) Their romance is sweet and supportive and selfless. I really couldn’t get enough of them.

Personally, I like when Singh steps away from Elena and Raphael (as much as I love them) to give us new couples finding their mates—and getting better footing on who they are. It’s probably part of why I loved Archangel’s Blade, too. However, this story gives us more glimpses of the other couples. We get time with the other couples and plenty of teases about who might be next. I know you’re all shouting “Bluebell!” right now, but I found myself very curious about Naasir by the end of Archangel’s Shadows, which kind of shocked me. He says something about relationships and their secrets that is beautiful and intriguing and makes me wonder what’s in store for him a few books down the road.

In the meantime, Archangel’s Shadows delivers. High-stakes mystery, insight into both the Tower and Guild side of things, and make-you-weak-in-the-knees romance merge to make one indulgent read.

This does not read like a stand alone novel. It reads like two novellas poorly intertwined; one that follows Ash, another that follows Elena in the wake of the events of the last novel. There are also two threats: a new drug called Umber and something that is sucking the life out of bodies.

So what worked? Well, not a whole lot honestly. The Legion's interactions with Elena and getting to know Naasir better, plus some civility from Caliane were the highlights of this book. But that's about it. (Notice that I don't put Ash and Janvier anywhere in that list.)

What didn't work? Everything else. There was a lot of head hopping and it resulted in a very disjointed narrative. It really felt like there were two stories Nalini wanted to explore but neither was strong enough to stand on its own. And even though the characters expressed a lot of horror and outrage at the crimes committed... honestly given the scale of the threats in previous books, it felt very forced. Yes, mummified bodies are a tragedy. Yes a drug that causes people to die is a tragedy but neither was very widespread or horrifying on a grand scale. So... the scale of the threat never felt that immediate, that horrifying, despite statements to the contrary, and was much more suited to a novella.

SPOILERS AHEAD:

The two threats were resolved all at once, in what felt like a lazy "let's tie all the loose threads up at once" ending. I am not even sure why the narrative NEEDED two threats if they were both going to be from the same cause. It actually would have been a more cohesive novel if there had been just one threat. And it would have let us and the characters focus on threat. Instead having two threats meant that they were competing in the book and that highlighted the disjointed feeling of the narrative.

Also we know that angels are frankly abusive SOBs from previous books. And we even know that the Archangels approve of the fear they instill in their households. So bad guy Vampire didn't really strike a horrifying cord in me. He was basically a domestic abuser and serial killer. And, in comparison to some of the horrors we've seen in this series his crimes were kind of ho-hum, really. And again,the villain was much more suited to a novella than a novel in this series.

What REALLY didn't work? The short 'creepy' scenes from the villain's POV (these weren't really creepy, though they were intended to be). They were meant to make us think Lijuan was behind the mummified bodies but in truth added nothing but more head hopping to keep track of.

But the worst part for me is that I've been waiting for Ash and Janvier's story for a while now. And I was very saddened that so much of their fire and flirting and fun was buried in this narrative. If their story had instead been told as a true novella, a stand alone it would have been great. We would have been able to concentrate on them and enjoy the ride. Instead we kept getting jerked out of the narrative about them to see Elena doing this or that. It's particularly jarring around page 307 where one moment we are with Ash and Janvier celebrating, and the next we are worried about Caliane's arrival with Elena. As for the final resolution of the conflict between them-- again it felt lazy. Vampirism cures all. Ash needed time. She gets it. There was also no character growth from Janvier. And very little from Ash as well. Plus, frankly Naasir kept stealing the limelight and distracting me from Ash and Janvier.

Overall, this was a very disappointing installment in the Guild Hunter world.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Reckless Reaper - Shawnie:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

When I was tapped to read and review Archangel's Shadows I was really excited. Ashwini and Janvier are two characters I have been waiting for. Their story is one of those things that proves that love is very mysterious. You may hate the one you are to love, at some point in the beginning, but there is a thin line between love and hate.

Starting this book I was excited, five percent into it I was nervous. Ashwini made me nervous with her regret and wants. I truly thought she was going to do something drastic, like leave the Cajun who gave her his heart, years before. Singh has this gift and I say it every time I write a review for one of her books. She can weave emotion so well that you feel like you are experiencing it. The emotion is so strong, your mind doesn't comprehend that you aren't really going through what you are reading.

I did not know what to, expect when I started this book, but I know it isn't what I read. This book was painted in horror and then buffered with untainted love and sometimes feral curiosity from all different sides.

Singh didn't just give us Ashwini and Javier, no, she gave us all our favorite characters and with special spotlight on Naasir. It almost felt like she wrote Archangel's Shadows as an undertone to get us ready for the next full Guide Hunter book. The little side views of The Seven, the interactions at Guild Academy. It was a build up, in my opinion meant to wet our appetites, as well as tell a story that needed telling.

Ashwini and Janvier are a match like no other, they compliment each other. There is no BS or games (aside from the ones they're willing play with one another.) They are equals in every sense and you can see and feel the mutual respect and love they share. It was a beautiful thing to read about and in a way "watch" grow. It was honestly like they shared the same heart, they felt what the other felt just by speaking or looking. It is an intense thing to read about, more so to experience it as Singh has a way of doing.

The evil that is written was gut wrenching and heartbreaking. Anger and sadness mix and you can't tell when one ends and the other begins. The whole of it was so wrong, you didn't even understand the why, until it was explained and then you only understood that people are evil. It cannot be helped. New York is picking up the pieces, but some want to are it fall still. The battle may have been won but the war is still on the horizon.

The bits and pieces we see of Naasir are both eye opening and funny. They are also some times very child-like and wonder-struck. The feral and natural way of him was something amazing to read about. The unguarded nakedness he showed when with people he called his. He is a vampire, no a man who will bask in the sun, face to the sky with no problems and equally kill or eat (whatever fits his tastes) with the same ease. You get the sense that he is uncomplicated. He either likes you, doesn't like you or is withholding judgement. I found myself draw to the enigma that is Naasir. Everyone has a book boyfriend and he is mine.

Archangel's Shadows is an emotional packed, action laced, thought provoking book. It examines all spectrums of love and the compacity for it. It showcases the evil that lives in the world. It gives you hope, in a world possibly going to hell. I loved every word, sentence, paragraph and page.

Five skulls and a must read stamp of approval.

4.75 stars--ARCHANGEL’S SHADOWS is the seventh full length installment in Nalini Singh’s adult, contemporary Guild Hunter paranormal romance series focusing on archangels, angels, vampires and hunters. This is Guild Hunter Ashwini and vampire Janvier’s storyline but one that looks at the aftermath of a war (brought about by the Cascade) that pitted archangel against archangel, and angels against vampires-a war that all but destroyed New York and archangel Raphael’s territory. With a number of angels in recovery, there is a new enemy on the streets of New York known as Umber-and its’ source of power is unlike anything they have ever seen.

The focus of the storyline finds Janvier and Ash on the hunt for a killer. With emaciated and desiccated bodies-both human and animal- finding their way onto the streets, the Guild and the Cadre begin to suspect a very powerful archangel may have returned ‘from the dead’. But clues begin to point in another direction when human vampire feeders go missing.

The relationship between Ash and Janvier is one that began in a previous storyline when Guild hunter Ashwini was sent to retrieve Janvier for being on the lam. Their attraction to one another was immediate but Ash knew that as a hunter there was no room in her life for a vampire who had broken the rules. A portion of the storyline focuses on Ashwini’s family history cursed with the ability to sense and feel the emotions of anyone they touch, hinting that Ash’s mental and emotional well being may be in jeopardy. The sex scenes are intimate and intense but limited in number. Janvier is a man possessed by the need for one woman and he intends to spend the rest of eternity with Ash as his mate.

The secondary characters include a number of the previous storyline players including Honor and Dmitri, Illium, Aodhan, Jason and Naasir, and of course Raphael and Elena. Raphael and Elena’s story continues as we are pulled into the burning love between the Archangel and his consort- a love that was never meant to be. Naasir’s true identity begins to unravel as more clues about his ‘lineage’ are slowly revealed.

Nalini Singh’s GUILD HUNTER series an amazing and startling look at the paranormal. The world building is infinitely detailed and continuous throughout the series; the characters are well developed, colorful and control the storylines of which they are a part. There is conflict, betrayal, emotions and anger; there are cultural nuances that are cleverly injected into the premise. Nalini Singh has developed a political infrastructure of angels and vampires that could rival a human senate or parliament at any give time in history-one that is controlled by the elite of the supernatural world.

I applaud Nalini’s imagination and her ability to pull the reader into a storyline where we become one with the story-touched by the emotions –and fall in love with some very delightful characters.

Five AMAZING stars!

I’ve been waiting for Janvier and Ashwini’s book for what feels like forever, and I was not disappointed. I had such extreme reactions while reading this book, feeling like gorging on the book and reading it as fast as I can while simultaneously wanting to savour the book, read as slowly as possible so that it doesn’t end.

Nalini Singh has such a way with words, especially with the feelings between Janvier and Ashwini, I honestly felt like I could feel, touch and see how Janvier feels about his Ashblade. I absolutely love Janvier! I must admit I was so worried that Janvier and Ash wouldn’t have the HEA that I wanted for them, my heart felt like it was breaking because it just seemed impossible for them to have their eternity together, luckily everything work out in the end.

There was quite a lot of Raphael, Elena and his Seven, and although I loved reading about all of them, there were times I really just wanted more of Janvier and Ashwini :-)

This book certainly met all my important requirements for a great book: wonderful romance, suspense and great storyline.

I don’t know how Ms. Singh does it every time, but this book was another winner.

Janvier and Ash were just so cute together!! Perfect balance of light and shadow, sorrow and joy but still a very bright future!

This book had a different feeling from the other as Janvier was younger and "lighter" than the rest of Raphael's Seven I think. He was still deadly when needed, make no mistake but just not as hardened yet.I love the fact that we kept in touch with the rest of the couples and characters: Elena and her various trouble with being a consort (hilarious!!!), Raphael being funnier than ever, Dmitri and Honor still so in love and intense! And we finally got to know (a bit) more about Naasir!!!! I loved him, seriously my favorite of the Seven I think! I cannot wait to read his story!
Overall, a great read, I hope they keep coming and the sooner the better ;)

The aftermath of the battle with the Archangel of China has left more behind than the wounded and dead. A drug causing bloodlust in the vampires and once again the angels, vampires and Guild Hunters have to unite. The humor and concern of all the characters helps the stories from being too bogged down.

This is another wonderful addition to a series that I have enjoyed from the beginning. Archangel’s Shadow has rich character development and amazing story lines that grab you until the very end and I loved every minute.

The city is healing after the end of the war and with many people, both mortal and immortal injured, the focus is bringing the city together. Unfortunately there is trouble on several fronts, a new drug has been brought into the area creating monsters from otherwise healthy happy individuals and bodies are being found, both animal and human that have been drained. There are questions about Lijuan, a demon archangel, has she come back so soon or is there another monster stalking the city?

Ashwini is a hunter, she can sense secrets when she touches individuals and knows people are capable of horrible things. This ability is hereditary and several generations in her family have had mental issues as they get older, and she is worried about her future. She partners with Janvier and Naasir, they are called the Shadow Team and have an amazing bond, their job is to aggravate the enemy, something they excel at. Janvier is a 247 year old vampire with Cajun ancestors and Naasir reminds me of a feral cat, no one really has much knowledge of what he is, an enigma that is one of the most interesting characters I have ever met.

Between the Guild and the Tower, the teams try to find out who is responsible for the heinous crimes affecting the city; they all want the illusive peace.

Ms. Singh has added another great book to this series. She is one of a handful of authors that I could pick up anything they wrote and know I would enjoy. The world building, characters, humor, danger and romance all create magnificent stories that are hard to put down and I am always impatient for more.

Ashwini and Janvier are amazing together; they are very interesting as individuals but as a couple everything seems right with the world and they are a team in every sense of the word. The chemistry between them sizzles and they seem to gain strength from just touching each other. Of course things never go smoothly and Ashwini fights the attraction throughout the book as she has secrets that she feels prevents her being with Janvier for an eternity.

Even though Ashwini and Janvier’s story is at the forefront, there are several other plot lines that hold the reader’s attention. We are treated to a large dose of Raphael and Elena, an amazing couple leading the city through the healing process, the drug that has permeated the area causing havoc and of course the mystery of the drained people. These issues keep the pace of the story moving along at a fast pace.

The secondary characters in Ms. Singh’s stories are remarkable, the angels that are part of Raphael’s Seven all play pivotal roles here. I love seeing Illium and Aodhan (Bluebell and Sparkle) in many scenes, I am excited to see their stories progress toward their own tales one day (hopefully). I also enjoyed the in-depth view of Naasir we are treated to, his story will be epic, and I find his character so intriguing. Of course there are many more individuals we are privileged to see again and they all bring something extra to the story.

This book is fast pace, the action starts from the first page and does not let up until the end. The mystery is interesting as well as the continuing story arc that has unfolded from the first book. Each ending is satisfying and there are no cliffhangers but the world is complex and intriguing. The author does a great job of keeping the reader up to date and you could possibly read this as a standalone but I feel you would miss so much if you did not read them from the beginning. I highly recommend this author and this series.

Review also posted at Ramblings from a Chaotic Mind

Copy from publisher for an honest review

Oh my goodness did I love this book. I have to admit that I've been anticipating Ashwini and Janvier's story for a long time now, ever since reading their short story, and then all of the little hints and by plays in the rest of the series. The tension between the two was so palatable and oh so yummy. I just knew their story would be fireworks once we finally got there, and I was right. Ash and Janvier have this connection that just sucks you right in, but it's the banter that really seals the deal. There's no gushy love here, but that constant enemies to lovers tension that I absolutely love. Not that they are enemies, or ever really were, it's just that the tension and by play between them has that feeling, making for exactly my kind of romance. I realize I'm probably sounding like a bit of a fan girl here, but the book was simply that perfect for me.

Onto other things aside from my love for Ash & Janvier. The plotline of this one was really intense, and kept me hooked from the start. I also liked the large focus on Elena and Raphael as well, always a plus. But what really stole the show for me was learning more about Nassir. He's always been a bit of a creepy mystery that I wanted to know about, and that wish was granted in this book. I cracked up so many times at what would come out of his mouth or how he would act. He's a bit out there and anything but civilized, unless he's wearing it as a disguise. I loved seeing him shed that and get a glimpse into who he really is. Now I think it's a toss up on whose book I want to see more next, Illium or Nassir.

Let me just say, ARCHANGEL'S SHADOW was worth every bit of the wait. I devoured this book in one setting, staying up until the wee hours of the morning as I just couldn't get enough. Trust me, this is the book fans have been waiting for.

It is always a joy to read a Nalini Singh book. We are always treated to an exciting story full of strength and heart. I could dazzle you with a hundred adjectives and still not be able to explain how wonderful this author’s gift is.

The story begins with Ash and Janvier (pronounced - zhah(n)-v yay) during the battle that began in Archangel’s Legion. Then we catapult three weeks later to a grumpy Ashwini who’s been benched from all hunts after sustaining some pretty serious injuries during the battle. When Ash finally does get an assignment, it’s to go check on a deceased animal.

What Ash thinks is some bullsh*t assignment turns out to be the harbinger for something far worse than a trip to a veterinary clinic and more dangerous than anything the city of New York is prepared for. War is just beginning in the guild hunter world, so sit back and buckle your seatbelts because this ride might just get a bit deadly.

I absolutely LOVED this book! Nalini Singh threw just about everything in there. We are treated to several points of view from Ash and Janvier, Raphael and Elena, Dimitri and a little bit of Illium! We also get to see a lot more of Nassir. I LOVED Nassir! He is…he’s just…I cannot WAIT for his book! You’ll have to read to find out why I’m so speechless.

We are also treated to Dimitri sharing the scenes of the first time he met Nassir and Illium and a little about how the pair were as children. Aodhan got a little more page time also and the archangel Titus makes an appearance as well.

And then there is the super sexy bayou beau, and Ash’s adversary, Janvier. Janvier is GOR-GEOUS! With green eyes, dark brown hair and Cajun accent made for sin, Janvier held all my attention, as well as every other female and even some males. But Janvier only has eyes for one woman.

“She is my eternity, Louis.”

Totally swoon-worthy, Janvier was so romantic and tentative to Ash. You could tell how completely in love with her he is. Theirs is a beautifully fragile love story.

Ash is fighting some huge personal demons and is always keeping Janvier at arm’s length. She is afraid that if she tells him the truth, he won’t want to hang around anymore and that fact alone would shatter Ash.

In previous books, she is portrayed as a kick-ass guild hunter with fire in her veins. In this book, we get to the heart of Ash’s internal pain and how that pain has crippled her with fear. Fear that she compartmentalizes in order to function.

Janvier is tried and true and is beside Ash every step of the way. His love for her is unbreakable. Nothing, not even her mortality will keep him from his Ashwini.

The couple first met in the novella, Angels’ Pawn and I’ve been waiting for their story to come to pass. It was masterfully delivered and it’s just incredible. If you haven’t read Nalini Singh yet, I highly encourage you to do so.

Now, my question to the author is…Who will take center stage in the next book??????

I’d like to give a HUGE thank you to the publisher for gifting me the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own.

It feels like we have been waiting forever for Janvier and Ashwini’s story –and I am happy to say it was absolutely worth the wait. All the teasing, the flirting… the anticipation… pay off here as these two finally face what has been brewing between them all this time. Add to that, pieces of the larger Guild Hunter story and a more in depth look at some of the supporting characters, and I just can’t imagine this won’t be a hit for fans of the series.

The story picks up right on the heels of Archangel’s Legion and we can really see how strong the bond has grown among Janvier, Ash, and Naasir. They had been working as a team to assist Raphael, and Ash was badly injured in the process. In the wake of her recovery, she finds herself less and less able to deny her feelings for the man she has chased, battled, and verbally sparred with all of these years. This is driven home even more as the two of them work together again to figure out who is draining women down to the husk –and treating them like trash.

It’s a pretty good mystery, but it’s really more of a platform for the human angle of the book. Poor Ash has a terrible secret that we learn is the real reason she has kept Janvier at arm’s length. I absolutely loved watching her reveal herself to him, and to the readers at the same time. She is so wonderfully strong and so sure she is damned. That Janvier’s love for her is so true and unwavering is such a joy to read. The sexual tension is top notch, but beyond that, I really believed in this love story and rooted for these characters the entire way. I can’t even decide which character I loved more. Both were so fleshed out and complimented the other so well.

We also get to spend some time with Raphael and Elena, but unlike in Dimitri’s book, I didn’t find that it overpowered the central romance. I liked getting a closer look at the Legion. But even more, I loved, LOVED getting to know Naasir. I have never been terribly interested in his character. But now, I am all about him getting a book. I want more of him. Immediately.

This book wasn’t as big as the last one in the series, but I found it very satisfying. Now I am just sad that I have to wait a year for the next one.

Rating: A-

I am upset... finished "Shadows" and went to immediately get #8 only to realize that it won't be published for another five months. This episode featured Ashwini and Janvier in what is essentially a good police procedural. There is again a good bit of character growth for the main characters, as well, as they cope with the aftermath of the Battle of New York in the last book. Although somewhat different in style and development, the Guild Hunter series has grown to a Kate Daniels-level of enjoyment for me. Can't wait for the next book.

This series continues to deliver. I was concerned I wouldn't see my favourites Elena and Her Archangel or Bluebell, especially after the last book. I enjoyed the relatively low key evil they hunt after the grim attacks in the last few books.

this was an okay read. a nice little treat while waiting for the next novel on Raphael's seven or five should i say. but i can wait because i want the next book to fully fleshed out not a novella hidden within a full length novel like this one was.

Just..perfect. #sigh

Maybe for some readers, this book feels like a filler book, but compared to another GH books that not featured Elena and Raphael, Archangel's Shadows is the best. A perfect combination of stellar world building, beautifully written prose, an engaging mystery and suspense, Archangel's Shadows is another Nalini's masterpiece that can't be missed.

And...I'm curious about Naasir! Forget every reader's favorite angel, Bluebell, it's time for the otherworldly intruiging tiger creature that is Naasir to steal the show ;).

In the aftermath of the devastating war that the archangels and their armies fought, Raphael and Elena are trying to rebuild their city and maintain the normal duties including controlling the vampire population with help from the Guild Hunters. Elena feels the strain of dealing with archangelic politics while trying to fulfill her duties as consort. There is much to be done to revive the battered city's morale and now, a new strange death seems to be stalking the vampire's "cattle" and donors with a signature that is uncomfortably close to the archangel of China's taint. Elena also has the challenging task of integrating the Legion, whom she finds intriguing and a bit creepy, into the world after their eons of sleep in the deep.

The Shadows are comprised of Ashwini, who is still recovering from near fatal wounds received during the battle and, Janvier, the sexy Cajun vampire who cared for her so tenderly while she healed as well as the intriguing Naasir who is very other even among the angels and vampires. Ash is itching to get back to work when a call comes from the Guild Director, Sara, about something strange in the Vampire Quarter. Soon after Ash and Javier begin to investigate, a new victim turns up in a manor too reminiscent of the archangel Lijuan's previous horror show and with obvious vampire feeding scars. The hunt takes them to the world of human cattle, donors, and night clubs where the seamy part of the vampire life is played out.

After four years of playing his wicked games, Ashwini can no longer pretend flirting with Janvier is enough, but she holds a devastating secret that threatens any possibility of a true relationship between them which is related in part to her special talent of reading a person's past with a touch. Ash's ability has intensified threatening to overwhelm her with a darkness she may be incapable of returning from each time she touches someone in whom evil and cruelty lives. Janvier knows that Ashwini is it for him, his goal being to convince her that they should spend eternity together. For Janiver, a future without Ash holds no interest. Janvier and Ash have good chemistry and an interesting relationship with Naasir. He desires intimate relationships; however, he is a strange beast barely leashed with sharp fangs and lethal claws.

Nalini Singh writes a good balance between romance, mystery, and intrigue. I especially enjoyed the parts with my favorites, Raphael and Elena, as well as Aohhan, Illium and Naasir, whose interactions together where we learn more background information whet the appetite for their future stories. ARCHANGEL'S SHADOWS has lighter moments of fun with Naasir coming to dinner and camaraderie in the angelic and guild hunter "families" juxtaposed with the lingering specter of Lijuan, and the looming threat of more war and destruction with the Cascade ascending on the horizon. Nalini Singh's deft hand at PNR/UF provides another enjoyable read. Fans will be quite pleased with this seventh book in the series.

Fans of the Guild Hunter series or other Nalani Singh’s books will not be disappointed with this next installment that has been very much in the making for several books now. The chemistry between Ash and Janvier has been hinted at in several of Singh’s previous works and in Archangel's Shadows we finally get to experience their explosive chemistry firsthand. The story is intense, dark and intimate. Singh continues to build on her paranormal world with amazing results. Readers will enjoy the way she continues to tie in characters and build on a storyline that will keep them coming back for more.

Set in Manhattan in the heart of Archangel Raphael’s territory, Archangel’s Shadows deals with the aftermath of the great battle between Raphael and Lijuan (previous book). While Elena and Raphael work to restore the spirits of their citizens, an undercurrent evil darkness seems to be infiltrating the vampire community. Guild Hunter Ashwini, rested up after she nearly died three weeks prior, is sent out to find out more about an animal that appears to have died in a manner similar to what Lijuan has done to others in the past. When her reconnaissance overlaps with the work vampire Janvier is doing for Raphael and the Tower, the pair team up.

Ashwini is a powerful Hunter and a fierce warrior in her own right, and along with Janvier and Nassir, she is a valuable member of the Archangel’s Shadows. She’s always had a close relationship with Janvier, and the pair clearly desire, if not love, one another. However Ashwini holds a secret which prevents her from giving in to Janvier’s temptations. I thought I would be frustrated by Ashwini - wanting Janvier, but constantly denying herself; however, it was quite the opposite. I admired her strength of will and determination not to break Janvier’s heart, something she holds dearly.

I fell in love with Janvier from the moment of his first point-of-view. I adored how much he wants Ashwini, not just physically, but in all manners. He adores her so very much that he will not push past the flirtations and move to full on seduction because he knows it would be the end of their relationship. *sigh* I love that he has no issues and conflict other than his undying love for Ash. He is the perfect match for Ashwini, and the thing is… she knows it too.

One of the things that I love about the Guild Hunter series is that the story focuses on more than the primary couple. This time around we continue to spent a lot of time with Elena and Raphael, who are one of my favorite couples, ever. In addition, after such a huge shift in the balance of world powers (previous book), it is nice to see the city in the process of rebuilding and rejoicing. I like that the rebuilding of the city and morale is such a big part of the story. In addition, readers learn more about the mysterious group of immortal warriors known as the Legion. Some of the scenes, while small and simple, share not only more about this group, but also about the characters around them, such as Elena’s generosity and “humanness.” And, we also spend time interacting with Nassir, one of Raphael’s inner circle. While I liked learning about Nassir through his actions and conversations, I was uneasy in how others treated him. I can’t put my finger on it, but it was almost as if he was treated like a man with a mental disability. It gave me the impression that he was slow and child-like, which contradicts the warrior he is. I look forward to seeing how this plays out in future books.

The overall conflict and mystery focuses on this dark mood that seems to have permeated the vampire Quarter. Watching Janvier and Ashwini piece together what was going on was both engrossing and entertaining. I loved that I was able to put together most of the clues as they were revealed, making the outcome rewarding when I realized I had solved it correctly. I also appreciate that the victims of these horrendous crimes are not simply faceless bodies. Ms. Singh places huge value on the humanity of the victims, and I love Ash’s observation of Felicity in particular, that she was loved and cared about and probably just didn't know it.

In the end, I enjoyed my return trip to Manhattan and the world of the Guild Hunter. Ms. Singh has created an immensely rich world full of complex characters and exciting attributes. I find myself drawn in from the beginning and sad when the book ends. In particular Archangel's Shadows is another fascinating addition to the overall story. The love story of Ashwini and Janvier is unique in that the pair is already in love before the start of the book (however, they haven’t acted on their mutual attraction). Although readers are denied some emotional turmoil and conflict one would experience at the start of a new relationship, they are rewarded with intense emotions right from the get go. I admire that the pair remain duty-driven, and their affections and friendship enhance all that they accomplish. I always appreciate that conflicts are dealt with and resolved maturely and mostly easily. The Guild Hunter series is one of my absolute favorites and I cannot wait to visit this world again!

My Rating: A- Enjoyed A Lot
Review copy provided by publisher.
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About.

I LOVE this series. Established characters evolve. Its like a family.
This book expanded on Ash & Janvier relationship. oh wow - the journey was AWESOME. And something weird going on in NY - murder - mayhem - vampires. When is next book out?????

Guild Hunter Ash & vampire Janvier have been fun secondary characters flirting with each other since Angels' Pawn. After the battles that take place in Archangel's Legion (Guild Hunter #6) Ash is on the mend from a near fatal injury. It is times like these when you rethink your priorities and Janvier is determined to make Ash see that they are meant to be together. Ash may be stubborn but she isn’t stupid. There are secrets she must reveal before giving herself to Janvier. But first they have to hunt down a monster who is killing young women in a most horrific way.
It never ceases to amaze me that Nalini Singh can build such a terrific landscape and take you on a super fantastic ride with each story she tells. Archangel's Shadows is another such ride and is no less fantastic than rest in this fabulous series.

If this book is indicative of where this series is heading, then i'm afraid, it will be my last. No need to revise the plot here, other than to say that the characters and story did not really progress much beyond the last book. Ashwini's character, in my estimation, doesn't have enough substance to warrant an entire book. A novella, yes. But an outright, "I don't mind waiting a year for the next book" type of thing , "NO." It took me four days to read this book, part of which included skipping pages. I was completely bored and just wanted it to end. This saddens me because Nalini is one of my favorite authors and I may have to give her up..

The saga continues in a world where God has left man to the angels with Ashwini and Janvier's tale. Good story....grabs the attention but may not hold it This hunter and vampire need something.....not sure, they just miss the mark to be really memorable......

There might be spoiler's ahead...

We get to see a lot of character personalities (Naasir is adorable!), interactions and relationships (especially with the Seven) but I wish they elaborated some of the scenes (especially the "block party," Caliane's visit and Titus' visit.) I feel like the book fell a little bit short in describing some of the scenes because there was so many perspective that if you put all of it together the book itself will be really long... or maybe because I just want more. MORE! I'm also delighted with the way Ashiwini and Janvier's story turned out at the end. All in all its was a great read.

Great continuation of the story line between Elena and Raphael, even as the book focuses on Ashwini and Janiver building relationship. An excellent read and dynamite ending that left readers wanting another book for sure!

I finished this book in one night.

As always, Ms. Singh has put together a wonderful story that encompasses almost all characters. She gives "updates" on the main characters while maintaining the flow of the story on Ash and Janvier. Great writing!

I would have liked to read more about the Legion, Ellie and other characters as the focal point of the story as Manhattan rebuilds. It seemed as if everyone else was filler for the Ash/ Janvier coupling which could have been more compelling as a novella.

As always the author's talent for elaborate descriptions and intricately developed characters shines through, drawing the reader in and making her anxious for more! (Naasir, specifically, is a delight!)

Excellent book. The banter between Ash and Janvier is everything you could hope for. She also pops into the lives of previous characters and lets you know how they're doing. The storyline was great and the character interactions terrific. I finished it in one sitting.

Loved it. It was so nice seeing other couples in the book, too. New York is rebuilding, Ellie is humanizing The Legion, characters are growing and changing. All of this unfolds as Ash and Janvier's love story plays out.