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Werewolf Keep Trilogy #1
Guardian of Werewolf Keep
Philomena Davenport is shocked at her first sight of Breckenhill Keep, the monstrous ruin she had inherited from the father who had deserted her as a child. Even more shocking was the mysterious stipulation in the will that required her to remain at the Keep for three months, before she could claim her inheritance. How could she do that when the Guardian of the Keep, the handsomely daunting Byron Carstairs, wants her gone, and the spine chilling howls echoing up from the bowels of the ruin urge her to escape while she can? But Phil is made of firmer stuff than that. She will take on the denizens of this dark domain, and make the place her own. No monster or man would keep her from it, and only love could drive her away.
For Byron, Phil is a light in the darkness of his duty-bound life. He had never expected to meet someone as beautiful, courageous or compassionate as she. In only days, she manages to spin her magic around the hearts of all who dwell within the sanctuary. But no matter how much they needed her, it is no kindness to keep her there. She deserved far better than a burdened man and a castle filled with monsters. For her own good, he must drive her light from his dark life.
For Byron, Phil is a light in the darkness of his duty-bound life. He had never expected to meet someone as beautiful, courageous or compassionate as she. In only days, she manages to spin her magic around the hearts of all who dwell within the sanctuary. But no matter how much they needed her, it is no kindness to keep her there. She deserved far better than a burdened man and a castle filled with monsters. For her own good, he must drive her light from his dark life.
130 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 19, 2013
36 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
About the author
Nhys Glover
108 books78 followersNhys Glover is an Australian born award-winning author of over 75 romance novels. She is known for blending heart, heat, and a touch of the extraordinary in her stories. From time-traveling lovers to soul-deep polyamory connections, her work explores love in all its transformational forms.
Now living in Durham County UK, Nhys draws on her background in teaching and spiritual inquiry for inspiration in her writing. As she sits at her desk, staring out at the windy moors, she often reflects on what it means to stay human in an increasingly digital world. It is, after all, the subject of her newest book, a non-fiction called Authenticity, as Taught by a Machine.
But no matter the genre, Nhys is always chasing one thing: the truth at the heart of every story.
Now living in Durham County UK, Nhys draws on her background in teaching and spiritual inquiry for inspiration in her writing. As she sits at her desk, staring out at the windy moors, she often reflects on what it means to stay human in an increasingly digital world. It is, after all, the subject of her newest book, a non-fiction called Authenticity, as Taught by a Machine.
But no matter the genre, Nhys is always chasing one thing: the truth at the heart of every story.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
April 30, 2024
From a governess to a heiress, a woman deserted by her father found love and a home in the least expected place of prison in "Guardian of Werewolf Keep."
In Nhys Glover's romance novel, "Guardian of Werewolf Keep," a glorious woman felt that places don't matter; instead, people matter.
Philomena (Phil) Davenport and her mother have no clue why her father, Patrick Davenport, abandoned them. In what could be shocking news, her father’s assistant informed her that her father left a will, stipulating that she had to live three months at Breckenhill Keep—a place she doesn't even know exists—before she could inherit her immense wealth.
Traveling from London, she and her comrades arrived at the Keep, expecting hospitable accommodation. However, the guardian of the Keep, Byron Carstairs, acted surprised and unwelcoming. She was stubborn enough to stay in front of the unopened door until Byron conceded. The place is so eerie and horrifying; she heard howls from seemingly monstrous beings. She has a feeling that the place holds secrets she wants to uncover. What she found out was unthinkable, yet it answered all her confronting questions for her father. It becomes clear why her father did what he did.
Glover portrays her characters with lifelike vividness, as each of the leading characters, down to the secondary ones, is relatable. Phil and Byron's progressing intimacy flows at the right speed; it adds a layer of aliveness to the text. Phil becomes a light in the darkness, bringing back laughter to Byron and sixteen other residents in the sanctuary, where their lives suffered with self-loathing. Unexpectedly, she found love and belonging in a place where denizens are ninety percent humans and ten percent monsters.
Glover excels at storytelling. She delivers the major and minor plots flawlessly. For instance, the attraction between Phil and Byron, with all their desirous thoughts for each other, was palpable. Phil fully appreciates Byron's self-sacrifice for nine years, protecting humankind from the infections of werewolves.
With realistic dialogue portrayed by well-rounded characters, the book is easy to follow and connect with. Even the book transparently delivers the backstories of Charlotte, Ellen, Will, Bobby, and the rest of the characters. The dark place filled with courageous and kind denizens felt like a home for Phil, despite the danger it may bring. It was praiseworthy how Patrick runs the dark castle of egalitarianism, where equality reigns. Phil is a humble heroine to every resident in the Keep, especially to Mary, since she remembered where she came from.
At a moderate speed, the book peels layer by layer as the secrets are revealed. Patrick creates a compassionate haven for himself and others like him to save humanity from contagion. What stands out from the rest is Phil and Byron’s love, which they developed over time and built on familiarity and trust.
Told from a third-person perspective, the book is free from confusion, as the author throws every scene with clarity and immersion. Glover irresistibly crafts a narrative with detail and depth, drawing readers with endless interest in finishing the story.
With engaging prose and flawless timeline shifting, the book ends with exquisite scenes. The author saved the lover’s descriptive copulation for last. Indeed, the author didn't rush everything, as the intimate scene occurs in perfect timing. And the realization of their dream party brought joy, making their asylum a place of hope and light.
Excellent and engrossing, the book is a story of self-sacrifice, equality, humbleness, belonging, and love. It is a gem that romance enthusiasts will enjoy. First in the Werewolf Keep Trilogy, "Guardian of Werewolf Keep" revisits the profound truth that freedom is found where the heart is.
In Nhys Glover's romance novel, "Guardian of Werewolf Keep," a glorious woman felt that places don't matter; instead, people matter.
Philomena (Phil) Davenport and her mother have no clue why her father, Patrick Davenport, abandoned them. In what could be shocking news, her father’s assistant informed her that her father left a will, stipulating that she had to live three months at Breckenhill Keep—a place she doesn't even know exists—before she could inherit her immense wealth.
Traveling from London, she and her comrades arrived at the Keep, expecting hospitable accommodation. However, the guardian of the Keep, Byron Carstairs, acted surprised and unwelcoming. She was stubborn enough to stay in front of the unopened door until Byron conceded. The place is so eerie and horrifying; she heard howls from seemingly monstrous beings. She has a feeling that the place holds secrets she wants to uncover. What she found out was unthinkable, yet it answered all her confronting questions for her father. It becomes clear why her father did what he did.
Glover portrays her characters with lifelike vividness, as each of the leading characters, down to the secondary ones, is relatable. Phil and Byron's progressing intimacy flows at the right speed; it adds a layer of aliveness to the text. Phil becomes a light in the darkness, bringing back laughter to Byron and sixteen other residents in the sanctuary, where their lives suffered with self-loathing. Unexpectedly, she found love and belonging in a place where denizens are ninety percent humans and ten percent monsters.
Glover excels at storytelling. She delivers the major and minor plots flawlessly. For instance, the attraction between Phil and Byron, with all their desirous thoughts for each other, was palpable. Phil fully appreciates Byron's self-sacrifice for nine years, protecting humankind from the infections of werewolves.
With realistic dialogue portrayed by well-rounded characters, the book is easy to follow and connect with. Even the book transparently delivers the backstories of Charlotte, Ellen, Will, Bobby, and the rest of the characters. The dark place filled with courageous and kind denizens felt like a home for Phil, despite the danger it may bring. It was praiseworthy how Patrick runs the dark castle of egalitarianism, where equality reigns. Phil is a humble heroine to every resident in the Keep, especially to Mary, since she remembered where she came from.
At a moderate speed, the book peels layer by layer as the secrets are revealed. Patrick creates a compassionate haven for himself and others like him to save humanity from contagion. What stands out from the rest is Phil and Byron’s love, which they developed over time and built on familiarity and trust.
Told from a third-person perspective, the book is free from confusion, as the author throws every scene with clarity and immersion. Glover irresistibly crafts a narrative with detail and depth, drawing readers with endless interest in finishing the story.
With engaging prose and flawless timeline shifting, the book ends with exquisite scenes. The author saved the lover’s descriptive copulation for last. Indeed, the author didn't rush everything, as the intimate scene occurs in perfect timing. And the realization of their dream party brought joy, making their asylum a place of hope and light.
Excellent and engrossing, the book is a story of self-sacrifice, equality, humbleness, belonging, and love. It is a gem that romance enthusiasts will enjoy. First in the Werewolf Keep Trilogy, "Guardian of Werewolf Keep" revisits the profound truth that freedom is found where the heart is.
May 7, 2013
‘Guardian of Werewolf Keep’ by Nhys Glover is a very heartfelt read. Young Phil –short for Philomena- must travel to the lonely end of the moors and live among werewolves for three months, as stated by her father’s will, in order to receive her inheritance -Her father’s legacy, which answers many questions regarding their estranged relationship.
While there were many unexpected pleasures, there were a few things that I did not care for, such as the instant chemistry between Phil and Byron (the guardian). It is easy to understand how Byron could become immediately captivated with Phil after being surrounded by grief and burden for many years. Though, with Phil’s background as a simple worker surrounded by men who thought they were too good for her, I would have expected Phil to react firstly by throwing up her learned guards rather than surrendering to her lust. But as the story progresses, the ups and downs of their relationship feel very sincere and realistic, as does their love. (After all, Byron is a genuine, sweet hottie. Who’s gonna toss HIM back? ;)
Also, I felt that the letter from Phil’s deceased father disclosed too much information. Rather, it would have been more natural for Phil to learn these things while staying in his room and investigating. In letter form, the information sank in as fact, but did not garner much of an emotional response from the reader.
However, the positives far outweigh the negatives. I loved the solitary feel of the moor and the utterly fantastic way that Glover brings the residents and the Keep, its self, alive. It is a very unique experience. Though readers meet the Keep and the residents by way of Phil’s initial presumptions, Glover makes sure that the way the residents view themselves and their predicament are equally explored. Because this information is so intricately layered throughout the book, the entire storyline is richer. I honestly enjoyed all of the characters and look forward to Glover’s spin-off story about Jasper. (But I have to say that my favorite character is Charlotte. :)
If you are looking for a fast-paced, action-packed read, this story is not for you.
‘Guardian of Werewolf Keep’ is perfect for readers who enjoy love stories with substance and a classical supernatural touch.
While there were many unexpected pleasures, there were a few things that I did not care for, such as the instant chemistry between Phil and Byron (the guardian). It is easy to understand how Byron could become immediately captivated with Phil after being surrounded by grief and burden for many years. Though, with Phil’s background as a simple worker surrounded by men who thought they were too good for her, I would have expected Phil to react firstly by throwing up her learned guards rather than surrendering to her lust. But as the story progresses, the ups and downs of their relationship feel very sincere and realistic, as does their love. (After all, Byron is a genuine, sweet hottie. Who’s gonna toss HIM back? ;)
Also, I felt that the letter from Phil’s deceased father disclosed too much information. Rather, it would have been more natural for Phil to learn these things while staying in his room and investigating. In letter form, the information sank in as fact, but did not garner much of an emotional response from the reader.
However, the positives far outweigh the negatives. I loved the solitary feel of the moor and the utterly fantastic way that Glover brings the residents and the Keep, its self, alive. It is a very unique experience. Though readers meet the Keep and the residents by way of Phil’s initial presumptions, Glover makes sure that the way the residents view themselves and their predicament are equally explored. Because this information is so intricately layered throughout the book, the entire storyline is richer. I honestly enjoyed all of the characters and look forward to Glover’s spin-off story about Jasper. (But I have to say that my favorite character is Charlotte. :)
If you are looking for a fast-paced, action-packed read, this story is not for you.
‘Guardian of Werewolf Keep’ is perfect for readers who enjoy love stories with substance and a classical supernatural touch.
September 19, 2016
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
When Phil’s father dies leaving everything to her there is one condition, that she stay there for a full three months. When Phil first arrives she can see that she is very much an unwanted guest, but she is determined to give it a try. Phil quickly finds out that there are secrets within the keep that could change her life and she intends to find out just what they are.
The concept of the story was an interesting one, and I quite enjoyed the gothic setting but I did find the historic elements a little confusing at times. The other thing that I found difficult was the amount of introspection Phil goes through. I think the story would have benefitted from more action and less heartfelt rants. The steamy scenes are well-written; Phil’s lack of experience and knowledge about such things was both amusing and probably quite realistic for the times.
I liked the other characters and would have liked to get to know them better, particularly Jasper, so I hope they get a voice in book two.
When Phil’s father dies leaving everything to her there is one condition, that she stay there for a full three months. When Phil first arrives she can see that she is very much an unwanted guest, but she is determined to give it a try. Phil quickly finds out that there are secrets within the keep that could change her life and she intends to find out just what they are.
The concept of the story was an interesting one, and I quite enjoyed the gothic setting but I did find the historic elements a little confusing at times. The other thing that I found difficult was the amount of introspection Phil goes through. I think the story would have benefitted from more action and less heartfelt rants. The steamy scenes are well-written; Phil’s lack of experience and knowledge about such things was both amusing and probably quite realistic for the times.
I liked the other characters and would have liked to get to know them better, particularly Jasper, so I hope they get a voice in book two.
May 13, 2024
Guardian of the Werewolf Keep is a book about Philomena, who discovers after her father's death that she is to inherit his wealth after thinking he died long ago in the Crimean War. To claim this inheritance, though, she has to spend 3 months at the Breckenhill Keep, where she is soon to find out a secret about her father that would change her entire view and belief system. In her first night at the Keep, she, despite warnings from Byron, stands firm on her feet and refuses to leave her rightful place, leading to her being threatened by noises whose nature she does not know. The longer she stays at the Keep, the closer she gets to finding out the haunting truth about it, and the stronger she starts to feel for Byron. Will she be able to survive an entire three months surrounded by forces that are inhuman? The book is really fast-paced and easy to read. For one, I think the relationship between Phil and Byron progresses way too fast because they were already all up in each other's arms on the second day, but I get the whole sexual tension thing. After discovering the truth about the Keep, Phil wants to run as far away as possible, but after reading her father's letter and finding out the real reason why he did not show up for her and her mother despite all their suffering, she decides to stay and know more about his legacy. Charlotte is a character I really like, despite her behaviour on the first night when she raged at Phil for taking her 'room'. I enjoyed every bit of the book and would recommend it to lovers of fantasy and adventure. A potential content warning would be the mention of blood, and aside from the pace of their relationship, I have no other criticism.
March 13, 2024
Guardian of WereWolf Keep by Nhys Glover is more of a romantic read. The story revolves around Byron and Phil. The story is not much interesting and is an obvious one. I don't find anything new and different. It is a typical story of werewolves. However, the characters are quite interesting, not all though but some are really amazing. The story is written in a very fast pace and is not very much engaging. There are some typing errors. The only thing I like about the story is how everyone have accepted their truth and is living their lives like a family and supporting each other. Phil's live for Byron and the way she supported him during full moon days is such a beautiful gesture.
There is dark romance so it is not recommended for children under the age of 18. This book is recommended for those who love reading romantic stories and haven't read about werewolves. The writing style is simple and easy to understand. There are elements which can make you laugh, blush , emotional like when Byron called Phil "My dearest". The book is no doubt is full of emotions and i appreciate author for adding such great scenes. Charlote is one of my favourite character from the book. Her love for gardening reminds me of my childhood. Overall the book is good but not best.
There is dark romance so it is not recommended for children under the age of 18. This book is recommended for those who love reading romantic stories and haven't read about werewolves. The writing style is simple and easy to understand. There are elements which can make you laugh, blush , emotional like when Byron called Phil "My dearest". The book is no doubt is full of emotions and i appreciate author for adding such great scenes. Charlote is one of my favourite character from the book. Her love for gardening reminds me of my childhood. Overall the book is good but not best.
May 18, 2024
Guardian of Werewolf Keep, written by Nhys Glover, is a well crafted romantically themed story that delves into the mysteries of inheritance and the haunting appeal of supernatural intrigue. The forceful flight of Philomena Davenport all the way from the lone Breckenhill Keep because of her father’s demise demanded that she live in the same for month and a half to claim her inheritance. This job, however, is made more complicated by the menacing posture of Byron Carstairs, and the worrying howls that can be heard from the very depths of the Keep.
December 17, 2018
Eerie
Ok this one is different than most werewolf stories I have read . It's not enough to make me buy the second book.
Ok this one is different than most werewolf stories I have read . It's not enough to make me buy the second book.
September 22, 2016
A copy of this book was given to me by e-book Discovery in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the story! It was frightening, angry and filled with love, too.
Enjoy.
I loved the story! It was frightening, angry and filled with love, too.
Enjoy.
May 3, 2015
This was alright, I suppose. The writing was fine, if a little stiff at times. I enjoyed the characters, some of the side ones more than the main ones actually. It just wasn't really my cup of tea though. I didn't expect it to be historical for one thing. I thought it was a modern tale, but I can't hold an unfounded assumption against it. Honestly it was just a little too hearts and flowers for my taste. Everything Phil touched turned effortlessly to gold. You would think the people of The Keep were dead before she showed up instead of just victims of unfortunate circumstances. I have a hard time imagining there was NO JOY there before her, that no one had ever so much as cracked a joke on their own. Then there was the insta-love. Seriously, in less than 24 hours the two main characters were admitting love to themselves! They'd only ever even spoken about twice and the first time was a confrontation. Then there was the very Victorian sex. Am I seriously supposed to believe that Phil didn't know what her own vagina was, as if she hadn't been walking around with it between her legs for 22 years? Then there was the absolutely endless declarations of affection at the end. I know this is all meant to be about the feel-good factor, but after a point (which I passed very early in the book) it starts to make my skin crawl.
April 21, 2013
This was another of those books that you do and don't like.
It was cool it was 'classic' werewolf, in that one scratch and they're a werewolf, along with they only turn on the full moon and are not in control of their wolf. Very gothic with the era and the surroundings.
On the downside I wanted to read more about each of the characters, and for their feelings during the change and how their wolf felt, how the character felt about the Keep. At the end of the book it says there are sequels planned/in progress, the first one being about Jasper (I think, can't remember at the mo), so I'm hoping that what I'm missing in this book will be realised in the next.
Also the book just ends, so I'm hoping that this is continued in the next book. I'm giving it 4 stars on this basis, that the bits I want more depth to are covered in future books and that this is essentially an introduction.
It was cool it was 'classic' werewolf, in that one scratch and they're a werewolf, along with they only turn on the full moon and are not in control of their wolf. Very gothic with the era and the surroundings.
On the downside I wanted to read more about each of the characters, and for their feelings during the change and how their wolf felt, how the character felt about the Keep. At the end of the book it says there are sequels planned/in progress, the first one being about Jasper (I think, can't remember at the mo), so I'm hoping that what I'm missing in this book will be realised in the next.
Also the book just ends, so I'm hoping that this is continued in the next book. I'm giving it 4 stars on this basis, that the bits I want more depth to are covered in future books and that this is essentially an introduction.
October 13, 2016
I received a free copy from eBookDiscovery. This is my honest review. 5 stars.
I started by reading the prequel "Insane"; it gave me an insight of where the story would progress and land. Charlotte/Charlie appears in both books. I was actually quite shocked by the differences in character between the 2 books; then again, when you learn what happens to her, you kind of understand. Do not judge a mansion by its looks; it can be gloomy and depressing on the outside but inside it's sunny, warm, and full of laughter. Such is the keep 25 days a month. I like the steady growth in the H/h and in the secondary people; and the interaction between all of them. The love scenes were written with taste. Even in fantasy, the story was believable (conditional inheritance, unwelcome mistress, coping with diseases, etc.). Well done again Nhys Glover! Looking forward to read installation #2.
I started by reading the prequel "Insane"; it gave me an insight of where the story would progress and land. Charlotte/Charlie appears in both books. I was actually quite shocked by the differences in character between the 2 books; then again, when you learn what happens to her, you kind of understand. Do not judge a mansion by its looks; it can be gloomy and depressing on the outside but inside it's sunny, warm, and full of laughter. Such is the keep 25 days a month. I like the steady growth in the H/h and in the secondary people; and the interaction between all of them. The love scenes were written with taste. Even in fantasy, the story was believable (conditional inheritance, unwelcome mistress, coping with diseases, etc.). Well done again Nhys Glover! Looking forward to read installation #2.
March 17, 2014
A young woman from an impoverished military family receives a large inheritance from the father she thought had long been dead. Philomena must stay in a remote keep for three months to receive her inheritance. Of couse, it's scary and gothic, and full of howling scary things, and she falls in love with the head honcho. A fairly good story idea, although the book was poorly written and edited. This is set in a vaguely Regency period, yet the author seemed to think that the reactions of a sheltered young miss were not intriguing enough, so set up the story as though a modern forward thinking woman was there instead. Historic inconsistencies are irritating, and make this book less then it could have been.
September 19, 2016
I received a free copy of this book from ebook discovery in exchange for an honest review.
This is an interesting take on the werewolf story. Select people are in the know and bring victims to the keep that our heroine's father converted to a safe haven for them.
The story starts with Phil arriving at night during the full moon having just discovered the father she thought died many years ago had, in fact, only just passed away and left a stipulation that in order to inherit she had to spend 3 months at the keep.
After a rocky start she learns to see the humanity and vulnerable sides of people who have often been cast out of their homes as a danger or different.
This is an interesting take on the werewolf story. Select people are in the know and bring victims to the keep that our heroine's father converted to a safe haven for them.
The story starts with Phil arriving at night during the full moon having just discovered the father she thought died many years ago had, in fact, only just passed away and left a stipulation that in order to inherit she had to spend 3 months at the keep.
After a rocky start she learns to see the humanity and vulnerable sides of people who have often been cast out of their homes as a danger or different.
September 29, 2013
Guardian of Werewolf Keep was a interesting and fast read. The world was set in the Victoria aera and the writing was acustomed to it. There were editing mistakes, but nothing an editor could fix (for example' for dialog). But overall I loved the writing and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author. The story and plot was very realistic for a paranormal romance and there is no instant love in this story.
I would recommend this to readers who love historical romances with a paranormal twist.
I would recommend this to readers who love historical romances with a paranormal twist.
September 20, 2016
This was a suspense filled fast paced read. I liked the cast of characters as well as the story, this group of people coming together from different walks of life trying to life with their affliction. I really liked Bryon, to take such a responsibility himself he was an amazing person. I really liked it and plan on reading more of the series.
October 19, 2016
I have found another author to keep my eye on. I don't normally read this type of book. It reminds me of what I would call a gothic romance. It was well written. There were a few typos but it wasn't to the point of preventing you from enjoying the storyline. I am looking forward to reading the other 2 books that are available.
June 8, 2013
The only reason this book got 2 stars is because the end got a little better in the end! The story was okayish, but the characters fell flat for me and the emotions were mostly non existant, especially in the first part of the book! I dont know, i am just not a fan of this book!
October 12, 2014
Guardian of Werewolf Keep is a Victorian Gothic romance. It did not follow the usual story of the reclusive master being the werewolf. A young lady inherited an asylum for werewolves. It was pretty cool.
April 19, 2013
it was kind of an interesting take on a werewolf story and while I liked it, it did seem to move a little slow.
June 26, 2013
Was okay......story line was good but the writing style bothered me so it was hard to keep my attention throughout the book. Meh it was a take it or leave it for me!
March 16, 2014
unbearably cutesie.
March 21, 2015
Very "Victorian" feel, loved the whole thing. Old fashioned and modern at the same time.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews