Tag Archives: Guardians of Eternity

Darkness Returns (Guardians of Eternity #13) by Alexandra Ivy-a review

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Darkness Returns (Guardians of Eternity #13) by Alexandra Ivy-a review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 16, 2019

More powerful than ever, the Guardians of Eternity are facing their greatest challenge yet: a war within their ranks. Their future is in the hands of one rebel vampire, who must choose between loyalty and love . . .

Blessed with an even more compelling allure than most vampires, Chiron has made a fortune in the human world, creating an empire of resorts and casinos. Since the betrayal and imprisonment of his master, he has existed outside the order of the Guardians, trusting no one. But now, the new vampire king has given him a peace offering: a scroll that could free his master. Following the relic’s magic leads him to a demon hotel deep in the Everglades, a lush paradise owned by a mysterious and
mesmerizing woman . . .

As far as Lilah knows, she’s lived her entire life within the confines of her enchanted estate. Memories of her own past are elusive and cloaked in shadows. Even Chiron can’t figure out exactly what she is, and if her intoxicating beauty is his destiny or an illusion drawing him ever closer to his demise—or perhaps to an even more tormenting choice, between his master and his mate

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: DARKNESS RETURNS is the thirteenth full-length instalment in Alexandra Ivy’s contemporary, adult GUARDIANS OF ETERNITY paranormal romance series. This is hotelier and ancient vampire Chiron, and hotelier Lilah’s story line. DARKNESS RETURNS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: WHEN DARKNESS ENDS was originally intended to be the final book in the author’s Guardians of Eternity series but the storyline ended with a happily ever after –for now, so it was the end of that particular arc. Now it appears Ms. Ivy will be continuing to focus on her Guardians of Eternity with a new story line arc.

Told from several third person perspectives including Chiron and Lilah DARKNESS RETURNS follows ancient vampire Chiron as he is tasked by the Anasso Styx (King of the Vampires) to find the vampire Chiron once called Master and friend, a male whose whereabouts are currently unknown. When the reigning Anasso discovers an ancient scroll, Chiron and the gargoyle Levet are called in to help locate the key that will hopefully free Tarak, the missing male. Strong magic and a veiled resort brings Chiron face to face with his future-enter hotelier Lilah, an immortal woman of unknown origins, and the woman Chiron knows to be his mate. What ensues is the search for the key; the discovery of magic and secrets, and the potential fall-out as the truth is revealed.

DARKNESS RETURNS is a story of betrayal, secrets, lies and loss. Lilah is unaware of the true nature of her past, a past that has been wiped from her mind and her thoughts. Chiron knows his Master is still alive but our hero must battle between head and heart when freeing Tarak could place his mate in mortal danger.

Alexandra Ivy introduces a new species or two to her world of the supernatural, species I suspected early on in the story. Levet’s inaccurate use of words and euphemisms is priceless and fun; the return of Viper, Styx and Ulric lends connection, cohesion and familiarity to the current story line. The premise is captivating; the romance is passionate; the characters are colorful, dark, and dangerous. DARKNESS RETURNS ends on a cliff-hanger, you have been warned.

Previous Reviews (this a list of books we have reviewed at The Reading Cafe. We have read most if not all of the books in the series but have not posted a review !)

When Darkness Comes
Embrace the Darkness
Darkness Everlasting
Darkness Revealed
Darkness Unleashed
Beyond the Darkness
Devoured by Darkness
Taken by Darkness
Darkness Eternal
Bound by Darkness
Where Darkness Lives
Fear The Darkness
Darkness Avenged
Darkness Eternal
Hunt the Darkness
A Very Levet Christmas
When Darkness Ends
Darkness Returns

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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When Darkness Ends (Guardians of Eternity 12) by Alexandra Ivy-a review

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WHEN DARKNESS ENDS (Guardians of Eternity #12) by Alexandra Ivy-a review

When Darkness Ends

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 26, 2015

The Guardians of Eternity are facing a final battle to save their world—but battles of the heart may be the most difficult to fight…

Cyn, the vampire clan chief of Ireland, is an unabashed hedonist whose beauty is surpassed only by his insatiable appetite for pleasure. It’s no wonder he’s furious when he’s transported from the magical land of the pureblooded feys to his desolate private lair—only to have his very existence thrown into a chaos that even he cannot charm his way out of…

Most women may be all but powerless against Cyn, but Fallon, a sharp-witted fairy princess, is less than beguiled by the silver-tongued vampire. She’s a serious soul with no time for the sort of games he plays—especially when they learn that someone is trying to close the veil that separates the dimensions. But seduction may prove the most powerful force of all, as attraction ignites between the unlikely pair even as worlds are colliding around them

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: WHEN DARKNESS ENDS is the final installment in Alexandra Ivy’s GUARDIANS OF ETERNITY paranormal, romance series. This is vampire clan chief of Ireland Cyn, and Chatri princess Fallon’s storyline. WHEN DARKNESS ENDS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from previous storylines is revealed where necessary. Cyn and Fallon were first introduced in book #11 Hunt The Darkness .

Told from several third person perspectives WHEN DARKNESS ENDS follows several intersecting plotlines that culminate in a finality where justice is served. The ancient supernatural Commission of Oracles has come under suspicion, and Cyn and Fallon have been called in to investigate and uncover the person(s) responsible-someone is trying to close the veil between dimensions thus effectively stopping all interactions between demonkind. What ensues is a building relationship between Cyn and Fallon, one that is unacceptable by the Chatri ruler and Fallon’s intended Chatri mate; and a search and destroy mission to stop a potential supernatural apocalypse.

Cyn, like many of Alexandra’s leading men is an alpha male whose protective nature continues to butt heads with his intended mate, but Cyn is also a bit of a man-whore with a reputation for the ladies that finds our heroine ill at ease with her attraction to the ancient vampire. Fallon is pure; a Chatri princess who has been promised to a Chatri male-Prince Magnus- a man Fallon does not love but is quick to defend as her intended husband. But saying that, Fallon is not helpless; there is some powerful mojo hidden beneath the princess’s beautiful façade. Cyn’s attraction to Fallon is that of a mate, and our leading hero is determined to claim Cyn as his own. The $ex scenes are romantic, compelling and provocative without the over the top erotic focus.

WHEN DARKNESS ENDS is an ensemble storyline with many of the previous storyline characters playing a secondary and supporting role including the Anasso (King of the Vampire) Styx, guardian Dante, and vampire chief Viper. We cannot forget about the little gargoyle Levet-who is the bane of everyone’s existence-but is a constant source of help and information. Alexandra brings together vampires, demons, fey, druids and humans in a battle to close the portals between worlds thus eliminating magic and the supernatural powers.

Alexandra Ivy ends the GUARDIANS OF ETERNITY series with a happily ever after-for now: there are no threats against the supernatural powers and everything appears to be right with their world. WHEN DARKNESS ENDS is a fast paced, action packed story with suspense, romance and revenge. The characters are animated, engaging and amusing; charismatic and fun. The requisite evil is over the top but will be justly rewarded for his crimes. GUARDIANS OF ETERNITY is an intoxicating series with sensual couples and passionate mates; the ensemble cast of characters brings familiarity and cohesion for fans of the series, as well as, entertainment and fun.

Just a side note: WHEN DARKNESS ENDS may not be the final book in the series-there is talk that the author may continue to explore the world of her GUARDIANS OF ETERNITY at a future time.

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Darkness Eternal (Guardians of Eternity 7.5) by Alexandra Ivy-a review

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DARKNESS ETERNAL (Guardians of Eternity Novella 7.5) by Alexandra Ivy-a review

Darkness Eternal

Amazon.com / B&N / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 31, 2015

For the Guardians of Eternity, battle is a way of life—whether the plight of their world is at stake, or the fate of their heart…

After being held captive by one vampire for four centuries, Kata had no intention of taking another one to the underworld with her. Yet even in the pits of Hell, there’s no ignoring the intoxicating desire awakened by Uriel’s touch…

••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: DARKNESS ETERNAL is the re-release of a novella originally released in the SUPERNATURAL anthology (January 2011) and second to last installment in Alexandra Ivy’s Guardians of Eternity paranormal romance series. This is Vampire Uriel and Gypsy Kata’s storyline. DARKNESS ETERNAL falls into the series at book 7.5 adding some additional information to an already established storyline; At this particular point in the series timeline, Kata’s daughter Laylah has just recently become protector and guardian to a baby thought to be connected to the Dark Lord.

NOTE: DARKNESS ETERNAL can be read as a stand alone for those readers who enjoy fast paced, paranormal romance storylines. Its’ connection to the Guardians of Eternity series will not be a hindrance to the reader’s enjoyment. If you are a follower and fan of Alexandra Ivy’s Guardians of Eternity series, DARKNESS ETERNAL adds some background information, not previously revealed, which will connect to the final installment-WHEN DARKNESS ENDS.

The storyline follows the angelic looking vampire Uriel as he is tasked, by his clan chief Victor, to find a missing gypsy woman held prisoner in the Underworld for four hundred years. Uriel has no desire to find the human female, as she is the mother of the half-breed Jinn Laylah (Devoured by Darkness 7) who currently guards a most precious child in the hopes of preventing a supernatural war. What ensues is a trip between portals and worlds for Uriel and Kata as they battle Kata’s vampire turned twin in their search for a way home.

Alexandra Ivy adds a little bit of mischief with Yannah, Levet’s demonic and future ‘girlfriend’, as she plays tour guide and matchmaker between Uriel and Kata. Kata wants nothing to do with another controlling or manipulative vampire, but Uriel recognizes that Kata is his mate and will do everything to protect the woman with whom he will fall in love.

DARKNESS ETERNAL is a quick read; a fast paced storyline of insta-love between two unlikely people that adds a little bit of color, humor and history to the series as it approaches the final installment. With the introduction of Kata, Laylah and the child’s purpose in the final battle will come full circle as the Dark Lord seeks his ultimate goal in WHEN DARKNESS ENDS- book 12.

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Hunt The Darkness (Guardians of Eternity #11) by Alexandra Ivy-a review

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HUNT THE DARKNESS (Guardians of Eternity #11) by Alexandra Ivy-a review

Hunt the Darkness png

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 27, 2014

The vampire, Roke, is raw, sensual, always in control. Yet somehow he’s allowed the unthinkable to happen: a nymph-like witch named Sally has used her magic to trick Roke into mating with her. The pair will remain bound for eternity unless Sally breaks the spell. The trouble is, she has no idea how. . .

Mating with Roke was an accident; at least that’s what Sally keeps telling herself. She’s on the hunt for her demon father, whose identity holds the key to releasing the spell. The search won’t be easy with Roke shadowing Sally’s every move. As they mate with a ferocity that leaves them both aching for more, Sally isn’t sure if her world is more dangerous without Roke—or with him. .

••••••••••••••

REVIEW: HUNT THE DARKNESS is the eleventh full length storyline in Alexandra Ivy’s contemporary, adult, romance Guardians of Eternity paranormal series. This is Roke and Sally’s storyline one that started in book ten Darkness Avenged. While being held prisoner in the King of the Vampire’s underground lair hybrid witch Sally will cast an enchantment spell over her less than gracious guard-a vampire named Roke-forcing an accidental mating between two species whose hatred for one another goes back thousands of years-vampires and witches are mortal enemies- and Roke’s clan refuses to accept that their chief is mated to a demon.

The storyline follows Roke and Sally as they endeavor to find a ‘counter’ spell that will render their mating inert. Suspecting that her mother may have hidden the secrets to Sally’s true heritage, Sally takes off for places unknown leaving a desperate vampire struggling with the whereabouts of his reluctant mate. Finding Sally is easy now that their mate bond grows stronger but keeping Sally safe from an unknown enemy is proving to be a little more difficult. Sally hopes to find the father she never knew but someone or something is planning to stop her at all costs.

The relationship between Sally and Roke has been building for two books. Enemies to friends to lovers, Roke was assigned by Styx as Sally’s keeper but the mating bond would prevent him from doing any harm. As the couple travel cross country hoping to find any information that will ‘inactivate’ the accidental mating, Sally will discover that there is more to her DNA than a suspected witch and demon mating-there is much more to Sally than meets the eye. Roke knows in his heart that Sally is his mate but Sally still believes that she has tampered with their mating and Roke may belong to someone else. As Roke struggles to convince Sally she is his mate, Sally continues to search for the spell that will tear them apart.

The secondary characters include a couple of the previous storyline heroes including Styx, Salvatore and a fearless little gargoyle who bring familiarity and humor to a story with the potential for heartbreak and loss. The enemy may not always appear in their true form and oft times they may even be someone close or related by blood.

The majority of the storyline focuses on Sally and Roke’s hunt for Sally’s father and the truth behind a box gifted with magical powers. As the storyline builds so too do Sally’s powers-ones that will reveal themselves in their entirety when her destiny is foretold.

Alexandra Ivy writes another exciting storyline with suspense, mystery, romance and love. As Roke and Sally struggle with their attraction to one another the realization that their mating may not have been a mistake is one that must be pushed out of their minds when a long forgotten enemy reappears at the same time Sally’s future begins to unfold. Choices will be made and passions will be ignited, and in the end, a young witch with unforeseen powers may be the key to uncovering a long forgotten species.

Haven’t read Alexandra Ivy’s GUARDIANS OF ETERNITY? Here is your chance to start at the beginning.

$1.99 ebook deal at Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Barnes & Noble WHEN DARKNESS COMES (Guardians of Eternity #1) by Alexandra Ivy.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Darkness Avenged by Alexandra Ivy-Review, Blog Tour and Character Interview

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Darkness Avenged (Guardians of Eternity # 10) by Alexandra Ivy-Review, Blog Tour and Character Interview

DARKNESS AVENGED Tour Button

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Darkness Avenged (Guardians of Eternity #10)
by Alexandra Ivy
Release Date: May 28, 2013

Darkness Avenged

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

DARKNESS AVENGED (Guardians of Eternity # 10 ) by Alexandra Ivy

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 28, 2013

THE SEARCH FOR A TRAITOR

As the demon world celebrates the defeat of the Dark Lord, the vampire Santiago’s mood remains bleak. He still yearns for the sensual, raven-haired Nefri, who has inexplicably disappeared. But brooding for Nefri is a luxury that Santiago does not have. His traitorous sire, Gaius, is unleashing a violent scourge upon the mortal world, and Santiago must stop him before it’s too late…

LEADS TO A DANGEROUS SEDUCTION

To her dismay, the all-powerful Oracles have sent Nefri on her own mission to find Gaius, and failure is not an option. Nefri’s search leads her to the vampire’s abandoned lair—and straight into Santiago’s path. It’s clear Santiago intends to seduce her, but then an ancient, banished evil reappears, threatening to thrust the world into a madness it cannot survive…

•••••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: Darkness Avenged is the tenth storyline in Alexandra Ivy’s Guardians of Eternity and oh, what a ride. There are three overlapping storylines that culminate in a final scene where the major players all seek retribution against the one vampire who has betrayed them all. At the end of Fear the Darkness, the Dark Lord had been destroyed and the tortured vampire Gaius had escaped through the Veil in search of someone long thought dead.

The main storyline focuses on vampires Santiago and Nefri. Nefri has been ordered by The Commission to locate Gaius. Gaius for all intents and purposes is lost to this world but he is also Santiago’s sire. Santiago is the one person who will be able to locate the missing vampire-presumed taken to the afterlife when the Dark Lord was defeated. Having come through the Veil a mere shadow of his former self, Gaius is lost to a darker power when he is promised the return of his beloved and long dead mate. When Santiago discovers it is Nefri who must hunt down Gaius for The Commission, he decrees himself guardian of the beautiful and enigmatic Clan Chief as she endeavors to locate the missing vampire who is wreaking havoc on the emotions of everyone and everything.

Secondary to Santiago and Nefri’s story, Chicago Vampire Clan Chief Roke suddenly finds himself enchanted by the little witch Sally as she is held prisoner at Styx’s estate. As the King of the vampires, Styx knows that Sally was once a trusted friend and companion of Gaius, and both, at one time, lived behind the veil. Styx needs to know what has happened to the man he once called a friend and Sally is the ticket to that information. But Sally refuses to reveal the information in fear that the more sinister side of Gaius takes his revenge. The others will soon learn that Sally is much more than a witch when she is able to break through the vampire King’s warded estate to discover the truth to her witch heritage and powerful legacy.

Thirdly, part of the storyline focuses on Gaius-a vampire so tortured by the Dark Lord, that he was willing to give up his soul to see his beloved mate one last time. This particular part of the storyline followed Gaius as he struggled with the illusion that all would be right in his world once his mate was brought back from the dead. Gaius is no longer the strong and beautiful vampire, but a mere puppet possessed by something much stronger and much older than anyone thought possible. We have followed Gaius throughout the series-cried when he lost his mate: heartbroken when he pledged himself to the Dark Lord: and defeated when we realized there was no turning back for the once brave and powerful vampire.

All three storylines will cross paths as Gaius brings everyone together for a final showdown in a warehouse where a powerful magic must be contained. When the source of everything evil is finally revealed, one vampire will be dust, another will go in search of his missing mate, and still another will retreat to the other side of the Veil to start a life with his family and new love.

The relationship between Santiago and Nefri is fraught with the usual tug of attraction between two souls meant to be together. Their sexual encounters are both loving and hot, and you know that together they will make a formidable pair. As a powerful Clan Chief, Nefri is held in high esteem and worshipped by many who have heard about her powers. It will take a strong vampire, sure in himself, to become consort and mate to such a powerful Chief.

DARKNESS AVENGED is an exciting storyline that answers many of the questions building in the previous books and novels. Alexandra smoothly blends three parallel stories into one imaginative narration of good vs evil, heartbreak and sorrow, love and lost. With her amazing cast of familiar characters readers will feel at home in Darkness Avenged. If you are a fan of Alexandra’s GUARDIANS OF ETERNITY, Darkness Avenged is a must read. There is NO WAY you can skip this installment.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

•••••••••••••••••••

17207134LEVET (a novella)

LEVET is a bonus novella included with the paper copy of Darkness Avenged. As the little gargoyle shunned by his own kind, LEVET is a hero in his own eyes. At the end of Fear the Darkness, Levet was instrumental in helping to defeat the Dark Lord but he continues to be the bane of many a vampire’s existence. But Levet is a power until himself and returning home to the land of his birthplace, Levet will encounter the family who pushed him aside as a freak and a mistake. And in his mind, Levet deserves to have his name placed on the Wall of Memories for all time and in doing so Levet must face his worst fears-the gargoyles he once called family.

Levet is like a small child who at times craves the attention of adults, but this little gargoyle is trying to find a place in the grand scheme of the supernatural world. Upon his return to Paris, he must not only face his sibling as well as his brutal mother, but also a vampire who is slowly losing his hold on the woman with whom he has fallen in love. And it will take a small gargoyle with a heart of stone, to show the vampire the way to a woman’s heart is through love.

LEVET is a cute storyline that offers up a small peak into the world of a shunned gargoyle who wants to be loved for himself. Both heartwarming and heartbreaking, Levet is a welcome addition to the Guardians of Eternity family of storylines and novels.

••••••••••••••••

Character interview

An interview with Levet:

Levet 2

You are a favorite with the ladies. What’s your secret?

Secret? How can it be a secret when you can see my manly physic and the handsome length of my tail? I use champagne, you know, to keep it glossy. The women adore a man of beauty and strength. And of course, I am quite charming, as well.

You once had a magical wish that allowed you to grow to normal gargoyle size. How did it feel?

It was, a fascinating change. And I suppose that many gargoyles in my position would be disappointed to return to a more…diminutive size. I, however, am a demon who does not need to be a hulking beast to be a formidable adversary. My magic can send entire armies running in fear. Besides, any woman can tell you that size does not matter.

What’s your opinion of Vampires? Werewolves?

Bah. Bloodsuckers are a pain in the ear. No…wait. Is it toe? Neck? Oui. The neck. Did you get the joke? The Vanna gig did not work out so I am rehearsing my monologue for the Tonight Show. It is time for Jay to retire again. And as for those mangy dogs…they should be put into kennels and left to rot.

Unless they are female. And then I find them irresistible.

Have you ever been in love?

Oui. So many, many times. Ah. J’adore être dans l’amour. I am a Frenchman, after all.

What’s your age?

Why. Do you see a wrinkle? Where?

Your favorite movie?

The Hunchback of Notre Dame, of course.

If you could be any leading man, who would you be?

What a silly question. I am considered by many to be an exact duplicate of Brad Pitt. Well, perhaps I am not an exact duplicate. But when you see me in profile in the right lighting…it resemblance is uncanny.

Any words for your fans?

Please know that I adore each and that it has been my very great pleasure to have become a part of your lives. If I can bring a smile to your beautiful face then my work is done.

 

About The Author

Alexandra Ivy

Alexandra Ivy is the New York Times bestselling author of the Guardians of Eternity series, the Immortal Rogues series and the Sentinels.

Alexandra graduated from Truman University with a degree in theatre before deciding she preferred to bring her characters to life on paper rather than stage. She currently lives in Missouri with her extraordinarily patient husband and teenage sons.

Connect with Alexandra: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

 

Series Spotlight

 

Guardians Of Eternity 2

When Darkness Comes (Guardians of Eternity #1)

It’s been a hell of a day for Abby Barlow. In just a few hours, she’s survived an explosion, watched her employer die, had a startling dream, and now she finds herself in a seedy Chicago hotel with the sexy, unearthly Dante, a man she both desires and fears. For 341 years, Dante has stood as guardian to The Chalice, a mortal woman chosen to hold back the darkness. A terrible twist of fate has now made Abby that woman. Three hours ago, Dante would have used all his charms to seduce her. Now she is his to protect. And he will do so until his very death. A terrifying plan has been set in motion, one that will plunge Dante and Abby into an epic battle between good and evil – and a desperate race to save their love…

Available at:  Amazon | B&N | Kobo

••••••••••••••••••••

Fear the Darkness (Guardians of Eternity #9)

The Guardians of Eternity are embroiled in an epic battle for survival. They are as dangerous as they are sensual—and their lustful appetites are legendary…
Her Visions Lead Her To Danger

Beautiful Cassandra is a Were, a prophet both vulnerable and defiant, blessed with visions that portend the fate of the world. A rare and delicate creature, Cassie must be protected at all costs. Enter Caine, a powerful cur turned pureblooded Were whose recent tangles with a demon lord have left him in serious need of redemption. Caine is duty-bound to keep Cassie out of danger—and that means resisting his potent urge to seduce her.

And Only He Can Save Her
As Cassie’s mysterious visions lead them in and out of danger, Caine believes he has found his true mate, the woman with whom he is bound for all eternity. Cassie is both charmed and frightened by Caine’s magnetism, and unsure if he—or her feelings for him—can be trusted. But Cassie can’t afford to doubt Cain now. A deadly enemy bent on destruction is closer than they realize—and only they can keep chaos from ruling the world.

Available at:  Amazon | B&N | Kobo

•••••••••••••••••••

Levet (Guardians of Eternity #9.5)

Just released on March 26, 2013

Gargoyles do not admire difference–and Levet is undeniably different. Of miniscule stature, rather beastly looks, and with fragile, delicate wings, even his family has shunned him, banished him from his beloved Paris. That he is the only gargoyle ever to help defeat the Dark Lord and his hordes of minions makes no impression. But now Levet has come home, determined to be restored to the official Gargoyle Guild. To do so, he must confront the most feared gargoyle in all of Europe. The one who tried to kill him as a child: his own mother. . .

With few allies, Levet’s survival may depend on the aid of two strangers: Valla, a beautiful but damaged nymph, and Elijah, the fiercely possessive, love-struck vampire clan chief to whom she can’t quite surrender–unless Levet has something to do with it. . .

Available at:  Amazon | B&N | Kobo

••••••••••••••••••

Darkness Avenged (Guardians of Eternity #10)

Release Date: May 28, 2013

THE SEARCH FOR A TRAITOR
As the demon world celebrates the defeat of the Dark Lord, the vampire Santiago’s mood remains bleak. He still yearns for the sensual, raven-haired Nefri, who has inexplicably disappeared. But brooding for Nefri is a luxury that Santiago does not have. His traitorous sire, Gaius, is unleashing a violent scourge upon the mortal world, and Santiago must stop him before it’s too late…

LEADS TO A DANGEROUS SEDUCTION

To her dismay, the all-powerful Oracles have sent Nefri on her own mission to find Gaius, and failure is not an option. Nefri’s search leads her to the vampire’s abandoned lair—and straight into Santiago’s path. It’s clear Santiago intends to seduce her, but then an ancient, banished evil reappears, threatening to thrust the world into a madness it cannot survive…

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

Blog Tour Schedule

 

 

 

 

Ivy’s DARKNESS AVENGED Blog Tour Schedule
May 27 – June 9

5/27- The Jeep Diva (interview & review)
http://thejeepdiva.com/
5/27- Under the Covers (guest post)
http://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/
5/28- Books-n-Kisses (interview)
http://www.books-n-kisses.com/
5/28- Musings From An Addicted Reader (series spotlight)
http://musingsfromanaddictedreader.blogspot.com/
5/29- Cocktails and Books (interview)
http://www.cocktailsandbooks.com/
5/29- Books, Books & More Books (series spotlight and review)
http://booksbooksmorebooks.blogspot.com/
5/30- Mad Hatter Reads (guest post)
http://madhatterreads.blogspot.com/
5/30- Vampires, Werewolves & Fairies Oh My!  (series spotlight)
http://vampireswerewolvesfairiesohmy.blogspot.com/
5/30- Scenes From A Chaotic Mind  (series spotlight)
http://scenesfromachaoticmind.blogspot.com/
5/31- Book Lovin Mamas  (guest post)
http://booklovinmamas.blogspot.com//
5/31- Bookin’ It Reviews  (series spotlight)
http://www.bookinitreviews.com/
6/01- Book Lovers Hideaway  (guest post)
http://booklovershideaway.blogspot.com/
6/01- Page Flipperz  (series spotlight)
http://pageflipperz.blogspot.com/
6/02- Wicked Readings by Tawania   (series spotlight)
http://www.wickedreadingsbytawania.blogspot.com/
6/02- Froggarita’s Bookcase  (interview & series spotlight)
http://www.froggaritasbookcase.com/
6/03- The Reading Cafe  (guest post, series spotlight & review)
http://thereadingcafe.com/
6/03- Redheaded Bookworm  (series spotlight)
http://redheaded-bookworm.blogspot.com/
6/04- Paranormal Haven  (guest post)
http://www.paranormalhaven.com/
6/04- Darker Passions  (series spotlight)
http://darkerpassions.net/
6/05- Romance Junkies  (interview)
http://www.romancejunkies.com/rjblog/
6/05- A Total Book Nerd  (interview)
http://atotalbooknerd.com
6/06- Jocelyn Dex Blog  (mini interview & book spotlight)
http://jocelyndex.blogspot.com/
6/06- All The Fun Starts After Dark  (series spotlight & review)
http://allthefunstartsafterdark.blogspot.com/
6/06- Urban Girl Reader  (series spotlight)
http://urbangirlreader.com/
6/07- I Smell Sheep  (guest post)
http://www.ismellsheep.com/
6/08- Book Monster Reviews (guest post)
http://www.bookmonsterreviews.com/
6/08- Literal Addiction  (guest post)
http://www.literaladdiction.com/
6/08- United by Books  (interview)
http://unitedbybooks.blogspot.com/
6/09- GraveTells  (guest post)
http://gravetells.com/
6/09-  Riverina Romantics (series spotlight) 
http://riverinaromantics.blogspot.com/

Rafflecopter Giveaway

Alexandra is giving away the following prizes on her tour:

GRAND PRIZE:
1 – $50.00 Gift card to Amazon

RUNNERS-UP:
2 – winner will receive a $10.00 Gift card to Amazon or B&N (winners choice)

OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL READERS AS WELL. (International winner will get Amazon gift card)

NOTE: The Reading Cafe is NOT responsible for the Rafflecopter Giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the tour promoter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

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Alexandra Ivy-Interview and Giveaway with the Author

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 Alexandra Ivy-Interview with the Author

 

With the release of FEAR THE DARKNESS, number 9 in the Guardians of Eternity, we would like to welcome the author  Alexandra Ivy. 

Follow Alexandra at:
Website
Twitter
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TRC:  Hi Alexandra and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the release of FEAR THE DARNESS.

Alexandra:  Thanks so very much for inviting me!!! I’m really excited that Caine and Cassie’s story is finally here. It has some unexpected twists and turns, so I hope everyone enjoys the story.

 

TRC:  We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Alexandra:  I’m a small town girl from the Midwest. I’ve been married for 28 years (yikes, that hurts to admit) to my very own romantic hero and I have two sons, Chance and Alexander. I love, love, love to read when I have the time and on occasion I indulge my love for traveling.

 

TRC:  Many authors begin their love of writing at an early age. What was the catalyst that sparked your interest in writing?

Alexandra:  From a very young age I intended to become a famous actress. I loved the stage and performing in front of a live audience, but when I took a playwriting class, I knew I’d found my true career. I loved the ability to create my own world that was populated by my own characters. Of course, life intruded and after marrying my college sweetheart I was busy working and having children. It was when I decided to stay home with my boys that I returned to my love of writing. It took a looooong time 😉 , but finally Zebra Publishing bought my regency historical, and as they say, the rest was history.

 

TRC:  What challenges of difficulties have you faced as a writer?

Alexandra:  I was absolutely the tortoise, not the hare. It took me almost ten years of writing before I was ever published. And during my career, I’ve gone through every stage. I definitely wasn’t an overnight success. In fact, I trudged along at the bottom of the publishing world for a quite a few years. Then, I was fortunate enough to find a group of readers who have supported the Guardians of Eternity with amazing loyalty.

 

TRC:  FEAR THE DARKNESS is the 9th installment in your Guardians of Eternity series. Would you please tell us about the premise?

LINKS TO ORDER
The Book Depository
Amazon Paper Books
Amazon Kindle
B&N Nook and Paper Books

Alexandra:  Cassandra is a Were, a blessed with visions that portend the fate of the world. A rare and delicate creature, Cassie must be protected at all costs. Enter Caine, a powerful cur turned pureblooded Were whose recent tangles with a demon lord have left him in serious need of redemption. Caine is duty-bound to keep Cassie out of danger—and that means resisting his potent urge to seduce her…

 

TRC: The couple of note in the storyline is Cassie and Caine, who will finally acknowledge their attraction and obvious mate status, but the overriding premise is the Dark Lord’s obsession with returning to full strength and using any method and everyone possible including Gaius.  How challenging was the writing to include many of the major players from the series as well as trying to keep the focus on Caine and Cassie’s relationship?

Alexandra:  A great question! It was a true balancing act and I had to rewrite more than one scene when I realized that former characters were starting to take over the book! Especially Styx and Viper who always have to be center stage 😉

 

 

 

TRC:  Without giving away the ending, is Gaius storyline next in the series or will he continue to be a slave to the Dark Lord (in more ways than one)?

Alexandra:  He is in the next book. And he’s being tortured on an epic level, but there’s a surprising twist that I hope will keep readers guessing.

 

 

GUARDIANS OF ETERNITY (Reading Order)

1. When Darkness Comes
2. Embrace The Darkness
3. Darkness Everlasting
4. Darkness Revealed
5. Darkness Unleashed
6. Beyond The Darkness
7. Devoured By Darkness
8. Taken by Darkness (Yours for Eternity Anthology)
9. Darkness Eternal (Supernatural Anthology)
10.The Real Werewives of Vampire County (Anthology)
11.Bound by Darkness
12.Fear The Darkness

TRC:  My heart goes out to Gaius. His pain and guilt eats away at his very soul. Will he get another chance at love? At a HEA?

Alexandra: I can’t say yet 😉

 

TRC:  MY LORD ETERNITY is the second release (December 1, 2012) in your IMMORTAL ROGUES series.-a spin off from the Guardians of Eternity. Would you please tell us about the premise?

Alexandra:  To other vampires, mortals are weak, uninteresting creatures. To Lucien Valin, they are infinitely fascinating. Especially Jocelyn Kingly—once the prize of London society, now an outcast. As the vampire assigned to guard her, Lucien is relishing his task. But her beguiling goodness puts her in terrifyingdanger. Not just from the traitor intent on claiming her mysterious amulet, but from the desire Lucien struggles to keep in check.

Youthful infatuation already cost Jocelyn her good name. But even with little to lose, instinct tells her that accepting Lucien as a tenant in her home is a devil’s bargain. As she roams London’s streets at night, helping the most wretched, she feels a dark force drawing near. And Lucien—magnetic, charming, irresistible—may turn out to be her savior, her lover, or the means to change her destiny forever.

 

TRC:  The last book in your Immortal Rogues trilogy is MY LORD IMMORTALITY is set to release December 31, 2012. Would you please tell us something about the premise of the storyline?

Alexandra:  Amelia Hadwell has no time for London’s nightlife. Not when her beloved brother’s odd ways have their family threatening to institutionalize him. And not when she is questioning her own sanity after being confronted by a murderous shadow creature—then being saved by a captivating stranger, a man who belongs to a world she cannot imagine.

Reserved and scholarly, Sebastian St. Ives has been content without human desires—until they are reawakened by the delicate, brave Amelia, whom he is meant to protect. For the young woman has no idea she possesses the key to a ravenous vampire’s dark victory. Now Sebastian must shield her from both a killer and his own growing attraction—or bond with her completely, and forever…

 

TRC:  What was the decision behind the spin-off trilogy? Where the characters demanding their stories be told NOW?

 

Alexandra:  These are actually books that I wrote under the name Debbie Raleigh when I was still writing regencies. Even then I couldn’t resist vampires J It was so much fun to see the books back in print and since the characters are immortal, I used one of the female characters…Nefri…to tie the books into my new series.

 

TRC:  What was the decision behind releasing the IMMORTAL ROGUES trilogy (all three books) within the span of less than 12 months?

Alexandra:  Since they were re-releases it was much easier to schedule them close together and I think readers enjoy when they don’t have to wait for months or sometimes years between books.

 

TRC:  What challenges did you encounter (writing, research, logistics) with the successive release of the novels? Did you find the time to sleep? 😉

Alexandra:  My writing schedule has truly been nuts over the last couple of years J Don’t get me wrong, I’m super happy to have the books being released so close together, but it has meant that I write 10 to 12 hours a day, seven days a week. I keep promising my family I’ll take a break, but there’s always another story to write!!

 

TRC:  Writer’s Block is a real phenomenon that many authors encounter from time to time. How do you handle the anxiety and pressure of writer’s block?

Alexandra:  Thankfully, I’ve never had to struggle through writer’s block. I write every day, and while I might go back and edit what I’ve written or even toss it out, I never, ever stop writing. To be honest, I’ve never really believed in a muse. Some days are easier than others, but it’s actually hard work that gets the story written. Having a deadline keeps me focused.

 

TRC:  If you could virtual ‘cast’ the characters from your Guardians of Eternity series, which actors or models do you feel would be represent the major players in the storylines?

Alexandra:  When I was writing Dante was definitely Johnny Depp and Abby was loosely based on Sandra Bullock. Caine has a bit of early Brad Pitt. Levet is a combination of people with a hint of Pepe La Pew 😉

 

TRC:  Many authors listen to music while writing for inspiration or relaxation. What do you do for inspiration? Relaxation?

Alexandra:  I read!!

TRC:  Your storylines are part of many anthologies. Which do you find more difficult to write: full length novels or short stories and why?

Alexandra:  Short stories are challenging. You have to have a story that can unfold in a third of the space of a normal book, but they’re also a lot of fun. I love the opportunity to take characters that might not be suitable for a full length story and giving them their own adventure!!

 

TRC:  On what are you currently working?

Alexandra:  I’m actually working on a new series. The books are tentatively titled the ‘Sentinels’ and will start off in a short story collection coming May 2013. These will be different from my Guardians, with the stories revolving around people who are ‘gifted’ with special abilities. They’re known as high-bloods and will include witches and psychics and necromancers, as well as the Sentinels. The Sentinels are men and women who are trained warriors who protect the high-bloods when they travel away from their safe-house called Valhalla, or track those high-bloods who are a danger to the mortal population.

 

TRC:  Would you like to add anything else?

Alexandra:  Just a huge thank you to all my readers. I never forget that without them I wouldn’t be allowed to share my crazy world 😉

 

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food
Any kind of Chinese food…mmmm.

Favorite Dessert
Cheesecake

Favorite TV Show
Right now it’s True Blood! Of course, I also love Game of Thrones.

Favorite Movie
Pride and Prejudice–the Colin Firth version.

Dark or Milk Chocolate
Milk

Do you have any pets?
Over the years we’ve had dozens including ferrets, hamsters, dogs, cats…now, we just have one dog.

TRC:  Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. Once again congratulations on the release of your new novel and the upcoming final 2 installments in the Immortal Rogues trilogy. We are looking forward to reading the novels.

Alexandra:  Yay! Thank you so much!

Alexandra Ivy has graciously offered a copy of one of her GUARDIANS OF ETERNITY books (Winner’s Choice) to one eligible member at The Reading Cafe.

1. You must be a member at The Reading Cafe. If you are not a member, please register using the log-in at the top of the page or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in such as Twitter, please leave your email address as Twitter does not allow for email address.

3. Please answer one of the LIGHTNING ROUND questions.

4. Giveaway open to continental USA and Canada only.

5 Giveaway Sept. 5 -8, 2012.

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FEAR THE DARKNESS (Guardians of Eternity #9) by Alexandra Ivy

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FEAR THE DARKNESS (Guardians of Eternity #9) by Alexandra Ivy

FEAR THE DARKNESS (Guardians of Eternity #9 ) by Alexandra Ivy

FEAR THE DARKNESS by Alexandra Ivy is the 9th novel (August 28, 2012 release) in her Guardians of Eternity series. Although the couple in question, for this particular storyline, is the Were Caine and his Prophet mate Cassandra (Cassie), the main premise of this particular novel is stopping the Dark Lord.

Alexandra involves many of her previous storyline characters including Styx, Roke, Viper, Gaius, Salvatore and Levet for the ultimate show of strength when the Dark Lord must face those hoping to close the rift between the veil and the Otherside. Several parallel storylines will coalesce in the final chapters, leaving a grieving mate with more than he bargained, the possibility of peace between Vampire and Were, and the mortality and whereabouts of one of the most feared and powerful beings in question.

Gaius has long sought to be reunited with his deceased mate-Dara, but a mistake made long ago has trapped him beyond the veil in servitude and slavery to the Dark Lord. A promise never forgotten, Gaius continues to play the clown to the Dark Lord’s demands, but the promise of being reunited with Dara has come at a cost. Sentenced to spend eternity serving evil, Gaius knows he must make amends to those he has betrayed but forgiveness will be a nightmare. Only this time, the Dark Lord will follow every move he makes and Gaius will become the pawn that will help the Dark Lord join the Alpha and Omega, once again making the Dark Lord the most powerful supernatural being. But an ominous warning from the Prophet will be lost to Gaius, when the very thing he wanted, may not be exactly what he gets.

Caine suspects Cassie is his mate, but the naïve and innocent Cassandra is only aware that her internal wolf wants Caine’s Were. The call to mate is strong between the couple, but Caine knows his first duty is to protect the Prophet and keep her from the Dark Lord. When he previously rescued the Prophet, he knew his duty, but realizing Cassie was his mate, made the idea of losing her to the Dark Lord that much more dangerous. But when the couple find themselves trapped behind the veil, it is Caine who is caught in the throws of a spell that has no apparent cure. But it will take the love of a very brave mate to tame the beast that wants none other than to kill everything in its path. And Cassie’s visions eventually turn black when the Dark Lord has what it wants.

Throughout the storyline, Styx (King of All Vampires) charges the Clan leaders with the orders to take up arms. Were and Vampire must unite, with imps and fey in order to close the portal between the worlds, only the rifts continue to grow as the Dark Lord increases in power. The Alpha and Omega are to be reunited so that the Gemini will rise, but the power of the Phoenix will get a little help from a an unbelievable source, when the Prophet’s vision reveals a reluctant warrior in the shape of a forgotten gargoyle.

FEAR THE DARKNESS is a fascinating and detailed storyline that re-unites many of the players and family members if only for a few minutes at a time. Personalities and egos will clash, as well as the eternal war between the species, but in order to save the world, sometimes prejudices and fears must be put aside. Another wonderful instalment in Alexandra Ivy’s Guardians of Eternity series.

GUARDIANS OF ETERNITY (Reading Order)

1. When Darkness Comes
2. Embrace The Darkness
3. Darkness Everlasting
4. Darkness Revealed
5. Darkness Unleashed
6. Beyond The Darkness
7. Devoured By Darkness
8. Taken by Darkness (Yours for Eternity Anthology)
9. Darkness Eternal (Supernatural Anthology)
10.The Real Werewives of Vampire County (Anthology)
11.Bound by Darkness
12.Fear The Darkness

LINKS TO ORDER Fear The Darkness
The Book Depository
Amazon Paper Books
Amazon Kindle
B&N Nook and Paper Books

Copy supplied by author.

Reviewed by Sandy

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When Darkness Comes by Alexandra Ivy – a Review

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When Darkness Comes by Alexandra Ivy – a Review

 

When Darkness Comes is the first book in Alexandra Ivy’s Guardians of Eternity’ paranormal series.  We meet Abby, the heroine of this story, in the very beginning. 

She has just dropped a valuable collectible, which she fears will cause her to be fired by her boss, Selena.  Dante, our vampire hero, who lives in the mansion that Selena owns, watches as Abby tries to hide her mishap.  Dante enjoys watching the beautiful Abby, but she keeps him at a distance. 

But suddenly, something very much goes wrong, as explosions are all around them.  Both Dante and Abby find the dying Selena, who on her last breath grabs Abby.  What happens here is none stop action all the way through to the end of the book.   

Dante takes Abby away for safety, since somehow Selena has managed to transfer her powers to Abby.  Dante tries to calm Abby, and explain what he thinks has happened.  He tells her he is a vampire, who has been tied to Selena as her bodyguard, and now that she (Abby) has inherited these powers, he is tied to her for eternity.  Abby now holds the Phoenix within herself, a Chalice, that protects good against an evil dark Prince.  As long as the Chalice remains inside a host, the dark Prince cannot come to earth to destroy everyone. 

Needless to say, Abby doesn’t believe anything Dante tells her, but she is very much in danger, and as she is attacked by demons, wizards, or creatures, who want her dead, to help their evil Prince.  Abby begins to realize that Dante is telling her the truth.  As much as she wasn’t fond of Dante, even if she found herself attracted to him, she knew she needed his help, and in a short time begins to trust him as her savior.

Alexandra Ivy does a fantastic job telling you all of this in the first chapter or two.  Once you start, you are totally hooked.   Of course, once Abby gets past the fact that Dante isn’t human, and a vampire, and knows that with the Phoenix inside her, she too has become immortal…a romance was sure to come.   Dante, having always called Abby…lover, truly cares about her, his finds himself totally enamored and feeling emotions for a human, and besides his being tied to Abby, he has fallen in love with her. 

Abby becomes stronger, and with Dante’s help, begins to depend upon him to get her to safety, and find a way to transfer the Chalice to another human.  Dante wants Abby to lead a normal life, even if it means he would no longer be tied to her.   But first they must find the witches, who have tied him to the Chalice for hundreds of years, and only they can help Abby.  Along the way, they find danger, close calls, and romance.  Their chemistry together is great.  They certainly made a wonderful couple, and you rooted for them from the start.  But first they must fight the evil wizard, who is trying to kill Abby, and find the witches.  Viper is another powerful vampire, who is Dante’s friend, and he is one of the most powerful supernatural beings.  We will see more of Viper in a future book. 

The final ¼ of the book is very exciting, as Abby’s life is on the line, and Dante and Viper and a shallot witch must help save her against another vicious enemy, who is determined to use Abby to kill all supernaturals.  Very exciting.  I really enjoyed this book, and totally loved Abby and Dante.  Was Abby able to transfer the Chalice to someone else?  Will she remain immortal and Dante tied to her? Did the dark Prince get out and come to earth?  Now if I tell you, then I will spoil it.  Go buy the book.  🙂

Reviewed by Barb

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