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Mission #1
Blood Guard
Enter a world of immortal danger and desire—and discover an incredible fate borne of blood.
One minute, I’m a bartender in gritty Mission City; the next, I’m whisked away by a vampire named Athan who tells me that I’m the lifeblood of his clan. It sounds unbelievable, but he’s got evidence I can’t deny. Turns out, Athan belongs to an underground society of vampires who feed only on humans with their consent. Their enemies have no such qualms, and they want me dead. The only thing standing in their way is strong, sexy Athan. And the closer we get, the more tempted I am to let Athan feed. . . .
How could I have known when I snatched this snarky, beautiful human off the streets that she would change my destiny? As a loyal soldier, I must deliver Tendra to our future king—my brother. Empowered with the blood of ten generations of the Gregorie breed, she is fated to rule as our queen. But there’s something between us that’s so intoxicating, so carnal, I can’t help wanting Tendra for myself . . . even if it’s treason.
One minute, I’m a bartender in gritty Mission City; the next, I’m whisked away by a vampire named Athan who tells me that I’m the lifeblood of his clan. It sounds unbelievable, but he’s got evidence I can’t deny. Turns out, Athan belongs to an underground society of vampires who feed only on humans with their consent. Their enemies have no such qualms, and they want me dead. The only thing standing in their way is strong, sexy Athan. And the closer we get, the more tempted I am to let Athan feed. . . .
How could I have known when I snatched this snarky, beautiful human off the streets that she would change my destiny? As a loyal soldier, I must deliver Tendra to our future king—my brother. Empowered with the blood of ten generations of the Gregorie breed, she is fated to rule as our queen. But there’s something between us that’s so intoxicating, so carnal, I can’t help wanting Tendra for myself . . . even if it’s treason.
213 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 12, 2017
51 people are currently reading
719 people want to read
About the author
Megan Erickson
50 books1,844 followersMegan Erickson is a USA Today bestselling author of romance that sizzles. Her books have a touch of nerd, a dash of humor, and always have a happily ever after. A former journalist, she switched to fiction when she decided she likes writing her own endings better.
She lives in Pennsylvania with her very own nerdy husband and two kids. Although rather fun-sized, she's been told she has a full-sized personality. When Megan isn't writing, she's either lounging with her two cats named after John Hughes characters or... thinking about writing.
For more, visit meganerickson.org
She lives in Pennsylvania with her very own nerdy husband and two kids. Although rather fun-sized, she's been told she has a full-sized personality. When Megan isn't writing, she's either lounging with her two cats named after John Hughes characters or... thinking about writing.
For more, visit meganerickson.org
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 283 reviews
September 12, 2017
4 Stars! And it's out today! 9-12-17
This was a great start to what will no doubt be an amazing series.
Tendra works nights bartending in the town of Mission. She recently lost her mother and is feeling quite alone in the world since her mother was the only family she had. Well, besides her cat, Brex. While growing up Trenda spent a lot of time moving from one place to another with her mother. Their moves were often caused by unusual things happening. Like the murder of their landlords daughter or their house being trashed. Tendra never stopped to wonder why these odd predicaments kept happening. Until she meets, Athan.
Athan has been training his whole life to become the Blood Guard of the Sanguivita, which just happens to be Tendra. His duty is to collect her and bring her safely to his brother and future King, Idris where he can feed upon her since her blood is suppose to be special and to fulfill a prophecy. Things don't go to plan though because they have two different vampire clans hot on their heels and even some in his own who've decided to betray their clan and work with the enemy. Plus there is also the small problem of Athan and Trendra falling for each other.
I was very pleased with Tendra. She was a complete badass. I loved her attitude. She didn't dwell on what was happening. She accepted it and would have her small moment of panic and then move on. She put on a brave face and fought back. I really liked her. Athan was quite the badass as well. He was very protective and had a kindness about him that made me adore him instantly. They both were very honest and told each other everything. I liked that they didn't hold anything back from one another.
The ending was EPIC and I can not wait for the next book.
If your a fan of this author as I am then you know the writing is good. She gave us some good vampire in this book. I highly recommend it for anyone who enjoys a good paranormal read with awesome MC's then one click the crap outta it when it comes out in September. I'll be reposting my review on its release date just to remind you!
Happy reading dolls! xx
***ARC provided by Netgalley and publisher in exchange for an honest review***
This was a great start to what will no doubt be an amazing series.
Tendra works nights bartending in the town of Mission. She recently lost her mother and is feeling quite alone in the world since her mother was the only family she had. Well, besides her cat, Brex. While growing up Trenda spent a lot of time moving from one place to another with her mother. Their moves were often caused by unusual things happening. Like the murder of their landlords daughter or their house being trashed. Tendra never stopped to wonder why these odd predicaments kept happening. Until she meets, Athan.
Athan has been training his whole life to become the Blood Guard of the Sanguivita, which just happens to be Tendra. His duty is to collect her and bring her safely to his brother and future King, Idris where he can feed upon her since her blood is suppose to be special and to fulfill a prophecy. Things don't go to plan though because they have two different vampire clans hot on their heels and even some in his own who've decided to betray their clan and work with the enemy. Plus there is also the small problem of Athan and Trendra falling for each other.
I was very pleased with Tendra. She was a complete badass. I loved her attitude. She didn't dwell on what was happening. She accepted it and would have her small moment of panic and then move on. She put on a brave face and fought back. I really liked her. Athan was quite the badass as well. He was very protective and had a kindness about him that made me adore him instantly. They both were very honest and told each other everything. I liked that they didn't hold anything back from one another.
The ending was EPIC and I can not wait for the next book.
If your a fan of this author as I am then you know the writing is good. She gave us some good vampire in this book. I highly recommend it for anyone who enjoys a good paranormal read with awesome MC's then one click the crap outta it when it comes out in September. I'll be reposting my review on its release date just to remind you!
Happy reading dolls! xx
***ARC provided by Netgalley and publisher in exchange for an honest review***
September 13, 2017
3.5 stars
I’m really only familiar with Megan Erickson’s co written cyber love series, this was my first book by her as a solo writer. I enjoyed it, but I am not eager to read the rest of the series.
Blood Guard is about a young woman named Tendra who discovers she’s meant to be a king vampire’s bride because of her bloodline. Her blood guard Athan, brother of the king, retrieves her from her normal life and tries to whisk her off to safety, but a rival vampire clan seeks to kill Tendra.
We got ourselves a breakdown review folks! What I liked and didn’t like about this book:
Liked:
-Tendra as a heroine, she was kick ass and was able to handle almost everything thrown her way. She processed things in her own way and was able to survive when most women in her situation wouldn’t be able to handle much of what was going on.
-Worldbuilding: Megan Erickson accomplished the difficult task of creating a believable urban fantasy setting with a hidden world of vampires and other creatures. She stuck to the basics but also made it distinctly her own.
-Brex: I am allergic to cats and I still wanted Brex by my side. Honestly after being tossed around in a duffel bag in this book, he reminded me of the Hurricane Harvey angry cat.
Didn’t like:
-The big one people. I didn’t care for the romance. I wasn’t sold on Tendra and Athan’s love. I don’t feel it was developed well and that it was rushed. It felt like the majority of the book they were just surviving and then BOOM sexy times. And that’s where the book kind of lost me because I wasn’t really rooting for the main couple (at least not at appropriate fangirl levels) so I began to not really care about the story. So the last 25-30% of the book was meh for me.
Anyways, this is a sexy and steamy vampire romance readers will love! While it wasn’t my favorite, I can appreciate that this book is better than a lot of PNR romance out there.
ARC provided by the publisher via netgalley. All/any quotes in this review came from an advance unedited copy and may be subject to change in the final product.
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I’m really only familiar with Megan Erickson’s co written cyber love series, this was my first book by her as a solo writer. I enjoyed it, but I am not eager to read the rest of the series.
Blood Guard is about a young woman named Tendra who discovers she’s meant to be a king vampire’s bride because of her bloodline. Her blood guard Athan, brother of the king, retrieves her from her normal life and tries to whisk her off to safety, but a rival vampire clan seeks to kill Tendra.
We got ourselves a breakdown review folks! What I liked and didn’t like about this book:
Liked:
-Tendra as a heroine, she was kick ass and was able to handle almost everything thrown her way. She processed things in her own way and was able to survive when most women in her situation wouldn’t be able to handle much of what was going on.
-Worldbuilding: Megan Erickson accomplished the difficult task of creating a believable urban fantasy setting with a hidden world of vampires and other creatures. She stuck to the basics but also made it distinctly her own.
-Brex: I am allergic to cats and I still wanted Brex by my side. Honestly after being tossed around in a duffel bag in this book, he reminded me of the Hurricane Harvey angry cat.
Didn’t like:
-The big one people. I didn’t care for the romance. I wasn’t sold on Tendra and Athan’s love. I don’t feel it was developed well and that it was rushed. It felt like the majority of the book they were just surviving and then BOOM sexy times. And that’s where the book kind of lost me because I wasn’t really rooting for the main couple (at least not at appropriate fangirl levels) so I began to not really care about the story. So the last 25-30% of the book was meh for me.
Anyways, this is a sexy and steamy vampire romance readers will love! While it wasn’t my favorite, I can appreciate that this book is better than a lot of PNR romance out there.
ARC provided by the publisher via netgalley. All/any quotes in this review came from an advance unedited copy and may be subject to change in the final product.
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September 15, 2017
Very run-of-the-mill paranormal romance.
While I haven't read much by Megan Erickson, most of my friends adore her and I'm a HUGE paranormal romance fan, so picking up this book was a no-brainer for me. Alas, it wasn't quite what I was hoping it would be.
I really, really wanted this to be amazing. I'm always looking for a new PNR series as urban fantasy and PNR have been my obsession for many years. However, the fact that paranormal romance is a genre with tons of stand-out series makes it tough to stand up to scrutiny. And I scrutinize the heeeeellll out of every book that I read.
Almost from the start, this book didn't grab me. In fact, I didn't like it until the last 40% or so, where I became more invested in the plot.
I really, REALLY hated the female MC's too stupid to live (TSTL) moment at ~40%, and I almost threw the book down then. One of my biggest, absolute biggest pet peeves is a female MC who is made out to be smart and strong but then acts like a brainless idiot the first chance she gets. Ugh.
The ending was predictable, but I was a little more into it by then. I still didn't feel the love between the two MCs (it was very insta, for my tastes), and I thought the plot was full of holes, but I finished the story and I didn't hate it.
I guess that's something.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
While I haven't read much by Megan Erickson, most of my friends adore her and I'm a HUGE paranormal romance fan, so picking up this book was a no-brainer for me. Alas, it wasn't quite what I was hoping it would be.
I really, really wanted this to be amazing. I'm always looking for a new PNR series as urban fantasy and PNR have been my obsession for many years. However, the fact that paranormal romance is a genre with tons of stand-out series makes it tough to stand up to scrutiny. And I scrutinize the heeeeellll out of every book that I read.
Almost from the start, this book didn't grab me. In fact, I didn't like it until the last 40% or so, where I became more invested in the plot.
I really, REALLY hated the female MC's too stupid to live (TSTL) moment at ~40%, and I almost threw the book down then. One of my biggest, absolute biggest pet peeves is a female MC who is made out to be smart and strong but then acts like a brainless idiot the first chance she gets. Ugh.
The ending was predictable, but I was a little more into it by then. I still didn't feel the love between the two MCs (it was very insta, for my tastes), and I thought the plot was full of holes, but I finished the story and I didn't hate it.
I guess that's something.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
August 30, 2017
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️4.5 STARS⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love it when I discover an author who can satisfy my different cravings. Megan Erickson writes, contemporary romance, M/M, as well as PNR and after sampling a little of each I can safely say I’m impressed with her ability to switch genres whilst delivering solid world building and dependable characters.
Something to know about me, Fantasy is my first love. I came to romance books super late but I remember loving the light romantic aspects in my fantasy reads back then.
Now with PNR, both my favorites genre are colliding to deliver two of my favorite things. A way to escape reality through imaginary worlds combined to the seductive and titillating side of romance.
The blurb of Blood Guard is pretty self explanatory, I didn’t hesitate one second after reading it, it screamed three things for me : alpha male, fiery heroine and adventure. I had to read it. Now.
With Blood Guard , Megan Erickson certainly delivered beyond my expectations.
First with her compelling and clever world building, she managed to efficiently set out a complete universe without drowning the rest of the story. I liked learning about the different vampire species and customs through Tendra and Athan's discussions. It wasn’t as deep and extended as say—a Tolkien novel— but just enough to establish the basics without smothering the reader with pages of descriptions. The advantage was to learn about the world and follow the events unfold at the same time.
Second I knew she could write sexy. And boy did she prove me again that she was devilishly skilled to set the pages ablaze! I mean a book with vampires, I was expecting some level of hedonism and iniquity, right? Well, safe is to say, Megan Erickson knows quite a few things in the debauchery department. And she gave just enough to make this book sexy, dirty without feeling depraved. Or maybe just a tiny bit! ;)
Third, I love a great alpha male, especially in paranormal romance I like a man that takes charge, but what I loved even more here—against all odds— was how strong, capable and fierce the heroine, Tendra, was!!! Such a smart ass young woman! I loved how rather than feeling sorry for herself she faced her troubles and big bad vampires with a heavy dose of sarcasm and derision. It gave the whole story a refreshing and fun side.
I need to point out how easy it was to connect with the heroine. I’m not a huge fan of the 1st person POV but here it worked like a charm. The characterization was on point, and I was especially pleased to meet a vampire in touch with his feelings, showing more humanity than I thought was possible. It gave another layer to their forbidden affair and I loved the heartache behind it! Just the right dose of angst!
And last, by successfully mixing romance, heartache, humor and action, Megan Erickson hooked me from page one, with Blood Guard she put her own spin on Vampires and gave life to interesting and complex characters, opposing snark and bite. Jut amazing all around!
My thirst for hot vampires was not only quenched but it turned me into an addict! I need more. It was extremely entertaining and a perfect start to a new series. I can’t wait for the next book, Blood Veil , which should release early 2018.
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for my review.
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
I love it when I discover an author who can satisfy my different cravings. Megan Erickson writes, contemporary romance, M/M, as well as PNR and after sampling a little of each I can safely say I’m impressed with her ability to switch genres whilst delivering solid world building and dependable characters.
Something to know about me, Fantasy is my first love. I came to romance books super late but I remember loving the light romantic aspects in my fantasy reads back then.
Now with PNR, both my favorites genre are colliding to deliver two of my favorite things. A way to escape reality through imaginary worlds combined to the seductive and titillating side of romance.
The blurb of Blood Guard is pretty self explanatory, I didn’t hesitate one second after reading it, it screamed three things for me : alpha male, fiery heroine and adventure. I had to read it. Now.
With Blood Guard , Megan Erickson certainly delivered beyond my expectations.
First with her compelling and clever world building, she managed to efficiently set out a complete universe without drowning the rest of the story. I liked learning about the different vampire species and customs through Tendra and Athan's discussions. It wasn’t as deep and extended as say—a Tolkien novel— but just enough to establish the basics without smothering the reader with pages of descriptions. The advantage was to learn about the world and follow the events unfold at the same time.
Second I knew she could write sexy. And boy did she prove me again that she was devilishly skilled to set the pages ablaze! I mean a book with vampires, I was expecting some level of hedonism and iniquity, right? Well, safe is to say, Megan Erickson knows quite a few things in the debauchery department. And she gave just enough to make this book sexy, dirty without feeling depraved. Or maybe just a tiny bit! ;)
Third, I love a great alpha male, especially in paranormal romance I like a man that takes charge, but what I loved even more here—against all odds— was how strong, capable and fierce the heroine, Tendra, was!!! Such a smart ass young woman! I loved how rather than feeling sorry for herself she faced her troubles and big bad vampires with a heavy dose of sarcasm and derision. It gave the whole story a refreshing and fun side.
I need to point out how easy it was to connect with the heroine. I’m not a huge fan of the 1st person POV but here it worked like a charm. The characterization was on point, and I was especially pleased to meet a vampire in touch with his feelings, showing more humanity than I thought was possible. It gave another layer to their forbidden affair and I loved the heartache behind it! Just the right dose of angst!
And last, by successfully mixing romance, heartache, humor and action, Megan Erickson hooked me from page one, with Blood Guard she put her own spin on Vampires and gave life to interesting and complex characters, opposing snark and bite. Jut amazing all around!
My thirst for hot vampires was not only quenched but it turned me into an addict! I need more. It was extremely entertaining and a perfect start to a new series. I can’t wait for the next book, Blood Veil , which should release early 2018.
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for my review.
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
September 10, 2017
4 stars
I enjoyed Blood Guard a lot, the plot was interesting and the characters enjoyable.It was fast paced and sexy, I loved the world Megan created.I always had a soft spot for vampires and Athan was delicious.He is sexy,mysterious,dark and strong.Tendra is also an interesting heroine, she is smart and strong.Their romance was sexy and in some parts sweet.
Overall, it was a great start to a new series, and now I'm excited to read the next book.If you like vampires and you need a quick read this will definitely perfect for you.
I enjoyed Blood Guard a lot, the plot was interesting and the characters enjoyable.It was fast paced and sexy, I loved the world Megan created.I always had a soft spot for vampires and Athan was delicious.He is sexy,mysterious,dark and strong.Tendra is also an interesting heroine, she is smart and strong.Their romance was sexy and in some parts sweet.
Overall, it was a great start to a new series, and now I'm excited to read the next book.If you like vampires and you need a quick read this will definitely perfect for you.
July 4, 2018
4 stars
So it was predictable, so it had one moment of TSTL by the heroine (just the once thankfully) but did I care? Nope! Did it detract from my enjoyment of this? Nope! The writing pulled me in, even if I saw certain things coming, I loved taking the ride. Especially as Megan Erickson put her own little stamp on vampires.
Tendra is a bartender in Mission. A dead end city, the latest in a long string of cities she and her mom keep moving in to. After losing her mother in an accident, she's grief stricken, a little bit lost and vulnerable. She's finally starting to get out of her grief fog when she runs into Athan. Or more accurately, taken by him.
All his life Athan has been training for this exact moment. When he will finally get to the Sanguivita (Tendra) and take her to his brother, the future King. Her destined mate.He feels duty bound to take her but his empathy and understanding elevate him from brute, muscle bodyguard to a true alpha protector. His conflicting emotions and guilt torture him but he is determined to keep Ten safe above everything else. As her blood guard he's been trained to guard her and deliver her safely. But what he wasn't trained for is his attraction to her. And of course, nothing goes according to his plan.
I liked Tendra, apart from one moment of blind stupidty, she was a kickass heroine. She finds out that she is the culmination of ten generations of women with elder vampire blood running through their veins. Confronted with the existence of vampires and her own apparent destiny to feed the future king and help him defeat the vampires that wish to enslave humans, she decides to fulfill her duty for the sake of humanity. She might not like it but she wants to do the right thing. Trained in self defense with balls of steel she makes up her mind to help but she wont let anyone take away her choices. Her attraction to Athan is almost immediate and equally thrilling and terrifying. Trying to survive, being near kidnapped and killed builds the bond between them.
Even though I could mostly see where this was going I enjoyed it immensely and read it in a day. If you feel like a vampire romance with a difference do pick it up.
P.S. The sexy times were delicious with a bit of my favorite, dirty talk.
P.P.S. I'm probably gonna edit this heavily later on when I manage to find more time. For some reason it just doesn't flow right to me...
So it was predictable, so it had one moment of TSTL by the heroine (just the once thankfully) but did I care? Nope! Did it detract from my enjoyment of this? Nope! The writing pulled me in, even if I saw certain things coming, I loved taking the ride. Especially as Megan Erickson put her own little stamp on vampires.
Tendra is a bartender in Mission. A dead end city, the latest in a long string of cities she and her mom keep moving in to. After losing her mother in an accident, she's grief stricken, a little bit lost and vulnerable. She's finally starting to get out of her grief fog when she runs into Athan. Or more accurately, taken by him.
All his life Athan has been training for this exact moment. When he will finally get to the Sanguivita (Tendra) and take her to his brother, the future King. Her destined mate.He feels duty bound to take her but his empathy and understanding elevate him from brute, muscle bodyguard to a true alpha protector. His conflicting emotions and guilt torture him but he is determined to keep Ten safe above everything else. As her blood guard he's been trained to guard her and deliver her safely. But what he wasn't trained for is his attraction to her. And of course, nothing goes according to his plan.
I liked Tendra, apart from one moment of blind stupidty, she was a kickass heroine. She finds out that she is the culmination of ten generations of women with elder vampire blood running through their veins. Confronted with the existence of vampires and her own apparent destiny to feed the future king and help him defeat the vampires that wish to enslave humans, she decides to fulfill her duty for the sake of humanity. She might not like it but she wants to do the right thing. Trained in self defense with balls of steel she makes up her mind to help but she wont let anyone take away her choices. Her attraction to Athan is almost immediate and equally thrilling and terrifying. Trying to survive, being near kidnapped and killed builds the bond between them.
Even though I could mostly see where this was going I enjoyed it immensely and read it in a day. If you feel like a vampire romance with a difference do pick it up.
P.S. The sexy times were delicious with a bit of my favorite, dirty talk.
P.P.S. I'm probably gonna edit this heavily later on when I manage to find more time. For some reason it just doesn't flow right to me...
September 22, 2017
***4.5 Stars***
"Do you trust me?"
"Of course."
"You didn't hesitate."
"Because I didn't have to. I trust you."
This book was SO DAMN GOOD!! It gave me so many things I absolutely love:
FANTASTIC Heroine - Oh yes, folks! Be prepared to fall in love with Tendra! A delicate flower needing rescue she is not! She's badass, and straight-forward, and a warrior against bullshit. She didn't let her vulnerabilities turn into weakness, but used it to fuel her...to motivate her, and to give her the strength she needed to deal with what her future would be. Oh...and she was also hilarious as hell! "Because I'll tell you right now, I will fight you to my dying breath and then come back from the dead and haunt you until I convince you to cut your own dick off."
Protective, Badass Hero - Oh Athan, Athan! [insert dreamy sigh] I just loved him. He was so loyal to his clan, protective of Tenda, and just a caring soul. He treated Tendra with respect and care. She wasn't an object or just his duty, but a person with feelings, with fears, and with a future she didn't choose. Addicting Plot - This book is so hard to put down. There's a constant momentum pulling you forward while reading...which translates to damn near perfect pacing. Never a dull moment and not a single scene feels like filler. The world building is on the lighter side, so there isn't an information dump you have to wade through in order for the story to feel like it's finally starting (that's sometimes a drawback for me when I read PNR). Swoony Romance - Tendra is meant for Idris, Athan's brother, but in their journey to the Gregorie compound a deep bond is formed between the two that's impossible to ignore. Telling myself over and over again that protecting her was my job, and that was why she felt so right. That was why she fit me so well. I was born to protect her.
That was it. Protect. Protect. Protect.
Not touch. Not love. Certainly not that.
Never that.
I closed my eyes and focused on all my training, all I was taught.
But nothing had prepared me for Tendra Parrish.
The tension between Tendra and Athan just keeps building as the story unfolds. It's clear the two belong together, but the prophecy looms over their head. Lives are at stake...both for humans and vampires. But are Athan and Tendra just fighting the inevitable?
I swallowed, wondering how the hell I was going to deal with my future, when the man I could see myself with was the man I wasn't meant to have.
"Tendra. How will I ever let you go? Tell me I'm strong enough to do it."
Blood Guard is such a fantastic start to what looks to be a suspenseful, sexy, and interesting PNR series. And Tendra goes on my list as one of my favorite heroines EVER. Seriously...she's damn awesome!
I can't wait to see where Megan Erickson goes with this series. The setup for the next book sounds like it's gonna be a bumpy ride....enemies to lovers. I'm soooo ready for Book 2!!
***ARC courtesy of Netgalley in exchange for an honest review***
June 6, 2017
I am a big sucker for vampires, so when I saw this baby on Netgalley, I knew I had to read it.
Tendra is a waitress, who one day after her shift, gets snatched off the street and kidnapped. She is thrown into a world, where all of a sudden vampires are real and she herself is supposed to be "Sanguivita" ( mealticket) for the clans king, because of her "special" blood.
Of course Tendra was quite shocked at first, but evidence suggest, her kidnapper Athen, is not talking out of his ass :P
Apparently there are different kinds of vampires. Those that only feed with consent, and those that don't give a damn about the human envolved. Those are the dangerous kind and they are now after Tendra....This is where Athen comes in.
He is her Blood Guard and he is supposed to keep her safe and deliver her to the clan's king, who is also his brother.
The two of them go on the run...but being chased by bad vampires isn't the only problem they are facing.... There is also the little fact of them falling for each other.
I really enjoyed reading this one and I think it was a promissing start to a new series. I also got a few laughs in, which is always a plus for me. It was definitely inst-lovey, but for some reason, with PNR books, I don't care so much. I also really liked the MC's. Kendra was pretty badass, though Athen was a bit softer then I expected him to be.
I am very curious about book 2.
An ARC was kindly provided to me via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been posted on Dirty Books Obsession
September 2, 2017
4 stars
An ARC has been kindly provided by Random House Publishing Group – Loveswept via NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
I don’t know what was in the book but I read it in nearly one sitting. Maybe Megan Erickson sprinkled some somnus to captivate the reader?
This is one of these stories where everything works really well together to give you a great time. The characters, the pace, the plot with some unexpected twists, the side characters (I particularly love the feline one)…
Tendra is a feisty and strong heroine. She’s been on the run since she was a child and her mother just died some weeks ago. She has to work hard as a waitress to pay the bills and feed her cat Brex. Tendra is not one missy you want to mess up with. She’s been trained to protect herself by her mother and is the “MacGyver” of fights as even a stiletto can become a deadly tool.
That’s a good trick to know ladies: high heels can save your life! One more reason to go on a shoe shopping spree.
She feels like moving again and has just decided to leave the town of Maddison when she is “kidnapped” by a huge and intimidating stranger.
Imagine the guy: six foot seven, black eyes, pale skin, abs rippling and shoulders too wide not to cross doors sideway. Yes you’ve just met Athan.
Athan is a vampire warrior and the king’s youngest son of Gregories clan.
You see in this world there are good vampires: The Gregories, bad vampires the Valarians and very, very bad vampire the Quellens who are just plain killers to hire and weird looking.
The Valarian’s grand plan is to enslave the human race while the Gregories want to maintain a truce, stay hidden and feed only from willing humans. To defeat the Valerians they need to up their game thanks to a specially bred human: the Sanguivita. The Sanguivita is meant to feed Idris Athan’s brother and future king granting him extraordinary powers and strength.
And who is the Sanguivita? Of course none other than Tendra.
Now how would you react if a very intimidating man kidnapped you and explained you’ve been created to feed a vampire and your duty was to save the human race?
Well I would freak out and call the police. Or ask for him to be put in the psych ward. Or if I realized it was all true I would maybe do my duty but very, very reluctantly. And I would need compensation. Lots and lots of compensation!
But not Tendra. After the initial shock she accepts her fate and wants to do what is right for the humans.
OK she will need Athan’s support. He is her blood guard after all. And her badass of a cat with a “bad guy” detector to survive the journey
Megan Erickson portrayed a fantastic heroine. She was real, strong, smart, opinionated, caring and had no shame in her sexuality. When the time come expect very hawt sex scenes! Vampires are sex driven and humans they feed from need their release so…. Just buy some spare set of panties maybe.
I really loved her sass!
When someone tells her cat weighs enough for three cats she tells to quit fat-shaming him because he is just “big-boned”.
And when she learned of the Valarians were a rival vampire clan her thoughts was “Oh great, so this was like Goodfellas but with fangs”. Ha! She made me smile so often :-D
I’m gushing about Tendra but Athan was a great hero. Alpha (I love that kind of heroes), excellent fighter, easy on the eye, determined to do his duty but not afraid to listen to Tendra’s opinion. For one big badass vampire raised not to feel anything and respect humans but not especially care for them he did a 180° turn!
Cherry on top: if the plot is not overtly complicated you still have some run and hide to keep it interesting and several twists that will change the whole plan. What happened to Athan was so unexpected I was “Holy sh@t”!
If you are looking for a story easy to read filled with handsome vampires, sustained by strong characters with a prophecy to fulfill as background this book would be a great choice!
Thanks for reading
Find me on:
Wordpress: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook besties: Best Reading Blogs Ever
Instagram: @bewareofthereader
Twitter: @BewareOffReader
An ARC has been kindly provided by Random House Publishing Group – Loveswept via NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
I don’t know what was in the book but I read it in nearly one sitting. Maybe Megan Erickson sprinkled some somnus to captivate the reader?
This is one of these stories where everything works really well together to give you a great time. The characters, the pace, the plot with some unexpected twists, the side characters (I particularly love the feline one)…
Tendra is a feisty and strong heroine. She’s been on the run since she was a child and her mother just died some weeks ago. She has to work hard as a waitress to pay the bills and feed her cat Brex. Tendra is not one missy you want to mess up with. She’s been trained to protect herself by her mother and is the “MacGyver” of fights as even a stiletto can become a deadly tool.
That’s a good trick to know ladies: high heels can save your life! One more reason to go on a shoe shopping spree.
She feels like moving again and has just decided to leave the town of Maddison when she is “kidnapped” by a huge and intimidating stranger.
Imagine the guy: six foot seven, black eyes, pale skin, abs rippling and shoulders too wide not to cross doors sideway. Yes you’ve just met Athan.
Athan is a vampire warrior and the king’s youngest son of Gregories clan.
You see in this world there are good vampires: The Gregories, bad vampires the Valarians and very, very bad vampire the Quellens who are just plain killers to hire and weird looking.
The Valarian’s grand plan is to enslave the human race while the Gregories want to maintain a truce, stay hidden and feed only from willing humans. To defeat the Valerians they need to up their game thanks to a specially bred human: the Sanguivita. The Sanguivita is meant to feed Idris Athan’s brother and future king granting him extraordinary powers and strength.
And who is the Sanguivita? Of course none other than Tendra.
Now how would you react if a very intimidating man kidnapped you and explained you’ve been created to feed a vampire and your duty was to save the human race?
Well I would freak out and call the police. Or ask for him to be put in the psych ward. Or if I realized it was all true I would maybe do my duty but very, very reluctantly. And I would need compensation. Lots and lots of compensation!
But not Tendra. After the initial shock she accepts her fate and wants to do what is right for the humans.
OK she will need Athan’s support. He is her blood guard after all. And her badass of a cat with a “bad guy” detector to survive the journey
Megan Erickson portrayed a fantastic heroine. She was real, strong, smart, opinionated, caring and had no shame in her sexuality. When the time come expect very hawt sex scenes! Vampires are sex driven and humans they feed from need their release so…. Just buy some spare set of panties maybe.
I really loved her sass!
When someone tells her cat weighs enough for three cats she tells to quit fat-shaming him because he is just “big-boned”.
And when she learned of the Valarians were a rival vampire clan her thoughts was “Oh great, so this was like Goodfellas but with fangs”. Ha! She made me smile so often :-D
I’m gushing about Tendra but Athan was a great hero. Alpha (I love that kind of heroes), excellent fighter, easy on the eye, determined to do his duty but not afraid to listen to Tendra’s opinion. For one big badass vampire raised not to feel anything and respect humans but not especially care for them he did a 180° turn!
Cherry on top: if the plot is not overtly complicated you still have some run and hide to keep it interesting and several twists that will change the whole plan. What happened to Athan was so unexpected I was “Holy sh@t”!
If you are looking for a story easy to read filled with handsome vampires, sustained by strong characters with a prophecy to fulfill as background this book would be a great choice!
Thanks for reading
Find me on:
Wordpress: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook besties: Best Reading Blogs Ever
Instagram: @bewareofthereader
Twitter: @BewareOffReader
September 12, 2017
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.
I liked this one. I was in the mood for a vampire book when I decided to pick this book up and it ended up being a pretty good fit for me. I read another book written by Megan Erickson earlier this year and was curious about what she would do with a completely different kind of story. I really liked what she did with the start of this new series. This was a fairly short book that I ended up reading cover to cover in a single day and really enjoyed the experience.
I really liked the world at the center of this story. The rules of the vampire society are worked into the story gradually so that it was never too much new information given at the same time. We learn things little by little right along with Tendra but everything makes sense in connection with the plot. There were a few really original ideas built into this world which I really enjoyed.
I really liked both of the main characters. Athan is the perfect combination of honorable, tough, caring, and loyal. He is a great leader who isn't afraid to make tough decisions when needed. He cares about the vampires in the clan and tries to help when he can. Tendra accepts what she is told about her destiny pretty quickly. She wants to do what her ancestors have set up as her calling. I loved these two together and thought that the chemistry between them was really well done.
The overall plot was rather exciting. Athan and Tendra have to travel together so that she can be delivered to the future king of the clan while other groups are trying to stop them. They run into quite a few obstacles and things become desperate several times. There are a few sexy scenes worked into the story that do a great job at balancing out some of the action.
I would recommend this book to fans of paranormal romance. I had a lot of fun reading this fun little vampire story. I am looking forward to reading future books in this series.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley.
Initial Thoughts
I liked this one. I was in the mood for a vampire romance and this fit the need quite well. I liked the characters and the world that they were in. Looking forward to following this new series.
I liked this one. I was in the mood for a vampire book when I decided to pick this book up and it ended up being a pretty good fit for me. I read another book written by Megan Erickson earlier this year and was curious about what she would do with a completely different kind of story. I really liked what she did with the start of this new series. This was a fairly short book that I ended up reading cover to cover in a single day and really enjoyed the experience.
I really liked the world at the center of this story. The rules of the vampire society are worked into the story gradually so that it was never too much new information given at the same time. We learn things little by little right along with Tendra but everything makes sense in connection with the plot. There were a few really original ideas built into this world which I really enjoyed.
I really liked both of the main characters. Athan is the perfect combination of honorable, tough, caring, and loyal. He is a great leader who isn't afraid to make tough decisions when needed. He cares about the vampires in the clan and tries to help when he can. Tendra accepts what she is told about her destiny pretty quickly. She wants to do what her ancestors have set up as her calling. I loved these two together and thought that the chemistry between them was really well done.
The overall plot was rather exciting. Athan and Tendra have to travel together so that she can be delivered to the future king of the clan while other groups are trying to stop them. They run into quite a few obstacles and things become desperate several times. There are a few sexy scenes worked into the story that do a great job at balancing out some of the action.
I would recommend this book to fans of paranormal romance. I had a lot of fun reading this fun little vampire story. I am looking forward to reading future books in this series.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley.
Initial Thoughts
I liked this one. I was in the mood for a vampire romance and this fit the need quite well. I liked the characters and the world that they were in. Looking forward to following this new series.
August 27, 2017
This is a good read and a promising start to a new series.
I’m just not sure that this series is for me.
I always hope that I will find a vampire series that I will love. I’m still working on that one.
The story flows well and there are exciting elements to the stories. The world building takes a while as there are three different vampire clans and at times especially when they were fighting I got confused. But with vampires there always seems to be a prophecy involved so that kind gets old.
As to the characters. Tendra is a strong heroine and she goes with the flow of the situation she is in and that she is vital to the Clan yet she fell in my estimation. She did something really quite idiotic. A TSTL moment.
Athan is a fantastic Hero, overprotective and gets attached to Tendra. They develop something that wasn’t meant to be. And go against tradition. I didn’t see that twist coming but it did add to the plot of the story.
August 22, 2017
4.25 I found a new PNR series Stars
Blood Guard is a standalone and is part of the Mission series by Megan Erickson. This is my SECOND Megan Erickson book, but I didn’t know that. I didn’t know that my first book by this author was a contemporary MM read, so I LOVE it when an author changes direction in writing.
Blood Guard is a New Adult Paranormal Read with Vampires. Yum!
The thing that I like about new PNR books is the world building. I like to learn all the rules and magical stuff that happens. Sometimes it’s kind of far fetch and sometimes it’s on point. For me, Blood Guard was on point.
Tendra isn’t the ordinary girl she thought she was. In fact her blood is extra special. So special, that the King needs it.
There are two types of Vampires in this world, let’s just say the good guys and the bad guys. Athan is one of the good guys and he is royalty. His job is to deliver Tendra to his future King, also known as his older brother.
I love a good bodyguard book and you throw in a royal bodyguard, well I’m all over that. The thing that made me enjoy this book so much was the TENSION between Tendra and Athan because she had to remain a blood virgin. Yup. No bite until the future King does.
Gah, the tension was off the charts good and I kept on rooting for the two main characters to well, HOOK UP!
The book is about the journey they both face on their way to the future king. There’s a lot that happens since the bad vampires are hunting Tendra.
I enjoyed Blood Guard a lot and I read it in one sitting. It was a really easy read and I kind of wished the book was dragged out between three books so I could get a little more, but I’m happy with what I got. I liked Tendra, I found her strong, faithful and somewhat a damsel and hey there’s nothing wrong with that. I liked Athan because he is so tortured with wanting to bite Tendra, but also his need to do his duty.
Megan Erickson just has a way in getting characters to connect and have full blown chemistry. It really makes a book good regardless of the plot and storyline.
I’m happy I found a new series to love.
AN ARC was provided
http://amzn.to/2wkgjQn
Blood Guard is a standalone and is part of the Mission series by Megan Erickson. This is my SECOND Megan Erickson book, but I didn’t know that. I didn’t know that my first book by this author was a contemporary MM read, so I LOVE it when an author changes direction in writing.
Blood Guard is a New Adult Paranormal Read with Vampires. Yum!
The thing that I like about new PNR books is the world building. I like to learn all the rules and magical stuff that happens. Sometimes it’s kind of far fetch and sometimes it’s on point. For me, Blood Guard was on point.
Tendra isn’t the ordinary girl she thought she was. In fact her blood is extra special. So special, that the King needs it.
There are two types of Vampires in this world, let’s just say the good guys and the bad guys. Athan is one of the good guys and he is royalty. His job is to deliver Tendra to his future King, also known as his older brother.
I love a good bodyguard book and you throw in a royal bodyguard, well I’m all over that. The thing that made me enjoy this book so much was the TENSION between Tendra and Athan because she had to remain a blood virgin. Yup. No bite until the future King does.
Gah, the tension was off the charts good and I kept on rooting for the two main characters to well, HOOK UP!
The book is about the journey they both face on their way to the future king. There’s a lot that happens since the bad vampires are hunting Tendra.
I enjoyed Blood Guard a lot and I read it in one sitting. It was a really easy read and I kind of wished the book was dragged out between three books so I could get a little more, but I’m happy with what I got. I liked Tendra, I found her strong, faithful and somewhat a damsel and hey there’s nothing wrong with that. I liked Athan because he is so tortured with wanting to bite Tendra, but also his need to do his duty.
Megan Erickson just has a way in getting characters to connect and have full blown chemistry. It really makes a book good regardless of the plot and storyline.
I’m happy I found a new series to love.
AN ARC was provided
http://amzn.to/2wkgjQn
September 26, 2017
3.5 stars. The good thing was that there was NO drama or love triangle.
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Blood Guard by Megan Erickson
Book One of the Mission series
Publisher: Loveswept
Publication Date: September 11, 2017
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
Summary (from Goodreads):
Enter a world of immortal danger and desire—and discover an incredible fate borne of blood.
Tendra: One minute, I’m a bartender in gritty Mission City; the next, I’m whisked away by a vampire named Athan who tells me that I’m the lifeblood of his clan. It sounds unbelievable, but he’s got evidence I can’t deny. Turns out, Athan belongs to an underground society of vampires who feed only on humans with their consent. Their enemies have no such qualms, and they want me dead. The only thing standing in their way is strong, sexy Athan. And the closer we get, the more tempted I am to let Athan feed. . . .
Athan: How could I have known when I snatched this snarky, beautiful human off the streets that she would change my destiny? As a loyal soldier, I must deliver Tendra to our future king—my brother. Empowered with the blood of ten generations of the Gregorie breed, she is fated to rule as our queen. But there’s something between us that’s so intoxicating, so carnal, I can’t help wanting Tendra for myself . . . even if it’s treason.
What I Liked:
I'm going to be honest: I've always loved (adult) vampire romance novels, specifically male vampire/female human ones. I know the vampire thing has been exhausted and beat dead over the last ten years or so, and there are certainly many novels that sound the same when it comes to this trope. I've not read a good PNR novel featuring vampires in a long time, and Blood Guard was exactly what I wanted and needed. I've been a huge fan of Erickson's so I would have read this book even if I hated vampire romance novels. But luckily, I love them, and I love Erickson's books, so this book is a huge win for me! And even better - it was a good book.
Tendra has been living in Mission for a short time, since her mother passed away. She and her mother moved a lot over the years, and the latest place was Mission. Tendra has no attachments to Mission, but she likes her job and her coworkers. One night at the bar she works at changes everything. She finds out (the hard way) that her blood is special and will make the head of the Gregorie vampire clan stronger and more powerful. Oh yeah, and she finds out that vampires exist. Athan Gregorie has come to take her to his brother, Idris, who is the vampire who will be strengthened by Tendra's blood. Athan's duty is to bring Tendra safely to Idris, with none of her blood spilled. Tendra's duty is to be the queen of the Gregorie clan by giving her blood to the king (Idris). But duty comes up against their growing feelings for each other, and they will find that the closer they get to the Gregorie stronghold, the harder it is to let go.
Sometimes in romance novels, I adore the hero and HATE the heroine. It's so sad when that happens, because the story is pretty much ruined at that point. I'm always slightly nervous when starting a new romance novel, for that reason. In this book's case... I loved Athan, and I loved Tendra.
Tendra is such a likable heroine. She is tough and smart, and she speaks her mind. One thing I hate about some heroines is how they seem feisty and assertive, but when it comes down to some things, they shut their mouth. This definitely isn't the case with Tendra. She makes many things clear - that she doesn't want to be some guy's blood bank, that she doesn't want to have her free will taken from her, that she doesn't want to leave Athan. Tendra doesn't lie back and accept fate - no, she fights for what she wants. Her safety, Athan's well-being, their relationship, the fate of the Gregorie clan and the human world... Tendra understands her duty as Sanguivita, but she also isn't letting an old prophecy rule her life. I'm a huge fan of Tendra.
I also loved Athan, just as much as or even more than Tendra. He is gruff and unsmiling, the kind of hero that doesn't really joke around but isn't a total grump either. He's the broody, protective type, who is a warrior but also a sweetheart. Athan puts his duty and his respect for his brother above everything... or he tries, when it comes to Tendra especially. But I liked how even though he was always trying to carry out his duty (bring Tendra safely to Idris), he still accepts his growing feelings for Tendra. It's tricky, falling in love with someone who will be crucial in keeping peace between vampires and humans.
This book was a little on the short side - not novella short, but not a full-length romance novel. So it seems fairly fast-paced and it almost seems like the plot is too simple. I know some readers didn't like how it seemed like there was nothing going on. The main objective of the story is getting Tendra to Idris without getting killed or anyone drinking her blood. It's a journey of action and high stakes, so it isn't boring by any means. Simple, yes, but not boring. There weren't huge twists and turns, and the one "big thing" didn't surprise me, but I liked it.
Speaking of that, the ending of the book was fantastic. There is no drama in this book and absolutely no love triangle. By the time Athan and Tendra get to the Gregorie home, they are very much in lust and in love. Idris never enters the picture as a love interest, and it's clear from him and Tendra meeting that he has no interest in her. There is no drama in this book - no shenanigans, no lies, no fighting between the brothers. I loved this! I hate it when romance novels involve a woman coming between two brothers, whether it's because of a love triangle, or anything else.
I should mention that the romance is lovely! There is definitely lust at first sight, but no insta-love. I liked seeing Athan and Tendra get more and more comfortable with each other, and fall for each other. They have really hot chemistry and there are several scorching hot scenes in this book. It's a short book, and I definitely wanted more!
Also worth noting - I love the bodyguard/protector trope. In contemporary novels, it's usually a male bodyguard and a female woman to be protected. I love those stories, and I liked this one. I don't usually go for novels involving a brother (or friend) falling for his brother's/friend's intended, but there was no drama and no love triangle in this story. Which was awesome!
Overall, this was a great start to the series. I liked Athan and Tendra a lot, and I hope they will appear in the future books of this series.
What I Did Not Like:
Nothing really major, but like I mentioned before, this book is a little short, and its plot is pretty simple. It's a quick read, but I would have loved more. I definitely would not have wanted any drama and love triangles though.
I also kind of wanted some answers on Brex, Tendra's cat. Is he a supernatural kitty? Maybe a familiar or something? This isn't a huge thing, but the author made it seem like the cat was going to play a huge role in the book, and that there was something significant that would be revealed about him. But then there never was. Honestly, I half-expected Brex to shape-shift into a human form. (Surprise, I've been peeping you two all along, during all of your hot sexy times! That would be weird. Never mind.) Here's hoping Brex will show up in the next book!
I'm hoping the next book features a little more vampire politics and whatnot. I feel like this book had a lot of good vampire/bad vampire politics, where it is black and white. But are all of the Valarian vampires bad? The Quellen? Probably not. I definitely want to see more of both of those clans of vampires, to better understand them.
But, these are minor things!
Would I Recommend It:
If you're in the mood for a quick and steamy paranormal romance novel, this is definitely for you. It's a good vampire romance novel, not a generic repetitive one. I doubt vampire novels are making a comeback, but this one felt so refreshing and satisfying.
Rating:
3.5 stars -> rounded up to 4 stars. I only wish this book was longer! I really enjoyed it and wanted much more. This is a companion series so the next books won't feature Athan and Tendra as the protagonists. But, I'm excited to read Idris's story (I'm assuming he is the hero of Blood Veil)!
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Blood Guard by Megan Erickson
Book One of the Mission series
Publisher: Loveswept
Publication Date: September 11, 2017
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
Summary (from Goodreads):
Enter a world of immortal danger and desire—and discover an incredible fate borne of blood.
Tendra: One minute, I’m a bartender in gritty Mission City; the next, I’m whisked away by a vampire named Athan who tells me that I’m the lifeblood of his clan. It sounds unbelievable, but he’s got evidence I can’t deny. Turns out, Athan belongs to an underground society of vampires who feed only on humans with their consent. Their enemies have no such qualms, and they want me dead. The only thing standing in their way is strong, sexy Athan. And the closer we get, the more tempted I am to let Athan feed. . . .
Athan: How could I have known when I snatched this snarky, beautiful human off the streets that she would change my destiny? As a loyal soldier, I must deliver Tendra to our future king—my brother. Empowered with the blood of ten generations of the Gregorie breed, she is fated to rule as our queen. But there’s something between us that’s so intoxicating, so carnal, I can’t help wanting Tendra for myself . . . even if it’s treason.
What I Liked:
I'm going to be honest: I've always loved (adult) vampire romance novels, specifically male vampire/female human ones. I know the vampire thing has been exhausted and beat dead over the last ten years or so, and there are certainly many novels that sound the same when it comes to this trope. I've not read a good PNR novel featuring vampires in a long time, and Blood Guard was exactly what I wanted and needed. I've been a huge fan of Erickson's so I would have read this book even if I hated vampire romance novels. But luckily, I love them, and I love Erickson's books, so this book is a huge win for me! And even better - it was a good book.
Tendra has been living in Mission for a short time, since her mother passed away. She and her mother moved a lot over the years, and the latest place was Mission. Tendra has no attachments to Mission, but she likes her job and her coworkers. One night at the bar she works at changes everything. She finds out (the hard way) that her blood is special and will make the head of the Gregorie vampire clan stronger and more powerful. Oh yeah, and she finds out that vampires exist. Athan Gregorie has come to take her to his brother, Idris, who is the vampire who will be strengthened by Tendra's blood. Athan's duty is to bring Tendra safely to Idris, with none of her blood spilled. Tendra's duty is to be the queen of the Gregorie clan by giving her blood to the king (Idris). But duty comes up against their growing feelings for each other, and they will find that the closer they get to the Gregorie stronghold, the harder it is to let go.
Sometimes in romance novels, I adore the hero and HATE the heroine. It's so sad when that happens, because the story is pretty much ruined at that point. I'm always slightly nervous when starting a new romance novel, for that reason. In this book's case... I loved Athan, and I loved Tendra.
Tendra is such a likable heroine. She is tough and smart, and she speaks her mind. One thing I hate about some heroines is how they seem feisty and assertive, but when it comes down to some things, they shut their mouth. This definitely isn't the case with Tendra. She makes many things clear - that she doesn't want to be some guy's blood bank, that she doesn't want to have her free will taken from her, that she doesn't want to leave Athan. Tendra doesn't lie back and accept fate - no, she fights for what she wants. Her safety, Athan's well-being, their relationship, the fate of the Gregorie clan and the human world... Tendra understands her duty as Sanguivita, but she also isn't letting an old prophecy rule her life. I'm a huge fan of Tendra.
I also loved Athan, just as much as or even more than Tendra. He is gruff and unsmiling, the kind of hero that doesn't really joke around but isn't a total grump either. He's the broody, protective type, who is a warrior but also a sweetheart. Athan puts his duty and his respect for his brother above everything... or he tries, when it comes to Tendra especially. But I liked how even though he was always trying to carry out his duty (bring Tendra safely to Idris), he still accepts his growing feelings for Tendra. It's tricky, falling in love with someone who will be crucial in keeping peace between vampires and humans.
This book was a little on the short side - not novella short, but not a full-length romance novel. So it seems fairly fast-paced and it almost seems like the plot is too simple. I know some readers didn't like how it seemed like there was nothing going on. The main objective of the story is getting Tendra to Idris without getting killed or anyone drinking her blood. It's a journey of action and high stakes, so it isn't boring by any means. Simple, yes, but not boring. There weren't huge twists and turns, and the one "big thing" didn't surprise me, but I liked it.
Speaking of that, the ending of the book was fantastic. There is no drama in this book and absolutely no love triangle. By the time Athan and Tendra get to the Gregorie home, they are very much in lust and in love. Idris never enters the picture as a love interest, and it's clear from him and Tendra meeting that he has no interest in her. There is no drama in this book - no shenanigans, no lies, no fighting between the brothers. I loved this! I hate it when romance novels involve a woman coming between two brothers, whether it's because of a love triangle, or anything else.
I should mention that the romance is lovely! There is definitely lust at first sight, but no insta-love. I liked seeing Athan and Tendra get more and more comfortable with each other, and fall for each other. They have really hot chemistry and there are several scorching hot scenes in this book. It's a short book, and I definitely wanted more!
Also worth noting - I love the bodyguard/protector trope. In contemporary novels, it's usually a male bodyguard and a female woman to be protected. I love those stories, and I liked this one. I don't usually go for novels involving a brother (or friend) falling for his brother's/friend's intended, but there was no drama and no love triangle in this story. Which was awesome!
Overall, this was a great start to the series. I liked Athan and Tendra a lot, and I hope they will appear in the future books of this series.
What I Did Not Like:
Nothing really major, but like I mentioned before, this book is a little short, and its plot is pretty simple. It's a quick read, but I would have loved more. I definitely would not have wanted any drama and love triangles though.
I also kind of wanted some answers on Brex, Tendra's cat. Is he a supernatural kitty? Maybe a familiar or something? This isn't a huge thing, but the author made it seem like the cat was going to play a huge role in the book, and that there was something significant that would be revealed about him. But then there never was. Honestly, I half-expected Brex to shape-shift into a human form. (Surprise, I've been peeping you two all along, during all of your hot sexy times! That would be weird. Never mind.) Here's hoping Brex will show up in the next book!
I'm hoping the next book features a little more vampire politics and whatnot. I feel like this book had a lot of good vampire/bad vampire politics, where it is black and white. But are all of the Valarian vampires bad? The Quellen? Probably not. I definitely want to see more of both of those clans of vampires, to better understand them.
But, these are minor things!
Would I Recommend It:
If you're in the mood for a quick and steamy paranormal romance novel, this is definitely for you. It's a good vampire romance novel, not a generic repetitive one. I doubt vampire novels are making a comeback, but this one felt so refreshing and satisfying.
Rating:
3.5 stars -> rounded up to 4 stars. I only wish this book was longer! I really enjoyed it and wanted much more. This is a companion series so the next books won't feature Athan and Tendra as the protagonists. But, I'm excited to read Idris's story (I'm assuming he is the hero of Blood Veil)!
September 13, 2017
Guest review for ❥ CGSR Blog.
Rating:
5 stars
Genres:
MF, Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy
My thoughts:
This book has an old school traditional PNR vibe. It's clean with no boundary pushing or overt attempts to be OTT edgy. A little bit of the common violence often found in these type of Urban Fantasy genres but nothing gratuitous.
The hero was strong & noble. The heroine a mix of tough & vulnerable.
A lot of this book can be described as classic tropes or traditional themes. And yet it was still a unique story. I felt like the author took those traditional tropes/themes & made them her own. I really don't know how she did it 'cause even though the vampire/human romance thing has been done a lot, everything still felt new.
It really is just an awesome story.
Overall:
This book was pretty much perfect. I highly recommend it to fans of the PNR genre.
(Review is on the ARC version. Received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.)
September 13, 2017
*ARC received from publisher via Netgalley*
A PNR from Megan, you say, eh? Oh I'm sold alright!!
I’m really glad that Megan has decided to expand her repertoire and dip her toes some more in the PNR world. Not long ago, she gave her readers shifter-rom. Now, she’s giving her readers vampire-rom. And no complaints here at all, no ma’am!
What a delish start to a new series! In this world, Tendra (or Ten as she prefers) learns really quickly of another world that exists and what role she plays in it. Athan was the one sent to guard her so he can deliver her safely to his family and so she can do what she was born to do.
To put it succinctly, there are lots of things I love about this book. First, love the palpable tension between these 2, sexual or otherwise. It’s sharp and stimulating all at once. Second, love the suspense and action that drove the story. I’m grinning as I’m typing this. Just imagine a kickass action movie that you enjoyed. I’m a total sucker for those things. Megan’s words had me right smack in the middle of the action so that I was anxious when they were anxious and just as exhilarated when they were exhilarated. Third, the alternating POVs that just provided such an insight to these 2. Fourth, the side characters who didn’t just fade in the background. You sense who will be getting their stories told in the future. Fifth, the world building that I bought right from the start. Fifth, the smexy times!!!! Need I say more?
And this now brings me to the sixth and seventh reason why I love this book. Athan and Ten.
Athan is your quiet brooding guy with lotsa layers that you just want to unpeel. He’s bound by honor and duty, which is sexy AF on its own merit when done right. LOVE how protective he was of Ten. LOVE how unsettled he was by her. LOVE how he kicked a$$ right til the end. Squeeee!!!!
And Ten!! A woman after my own heart! LOVE how feisty she is. LOVE her humor and how she can make fun of herself. LOVE how protective she was of Athan. LOVE her ‘tude. LOVE how she owned every aspect of herself, from her insecurities to her strength. Even in moments of weakness, she had control, no doubt about it. LOVE how she kicked a$$ right til the end. Squeeee!!!!
And there you have it, folks, my reasons why I love this book, why I’m continuing to fangirl over Megan, and why I recommend this one, even if you’re not a PNR reader. Well she sold it to me, so I’m pretty sure she can sell it to you too.
A PNR from Megan, you say, eh? Oh I'm sold alright!!
I’m really glad that Megan has decided to expand her repertoire and dip her toes some more in the PNR world. Not long ago, she gave her readers shifter-rom. Now, she’s giving her readers vampire-rom. And no complaints here at all, no ma’am!
What a delish start to a new series! In this world, Tendra (or Ten as she prefers) learns really quickly of another world that exists and what role she plays in it. Athan was the one sent to guard her so he can deliver her safely to his family and so she can do what she was born to do.
To put it succinctly, there are lots of things I love about this book. First, love the palpable tension between these 2, sexual or otherwise. It’s sharp and stimulating all at once. Second, love the suspense and action that drove the story. I’m grinning as I’m typing this. Just imagine a kickass action movie that you enjoyed. I’m a total sucker for those things. Megan’s words had me right smack in the middle of the action so that I was anxious when they were anxious and just as exhilarated when they were exhilarated. Third, the alternating POVs that just provided such an insight to these 2. Fourth, the side characters who didn’t just fade in the background. You sense who will be getting their stories told in the future. Fifth, the world building that I bought right from the start. Fifth, the smexy times!!!! Need I say more?
And this now brings me to the sixth and seventh reason why I love this book. Athan and Ten.
Athan is your quiet brooding guy with lotsa layers that you just want to unpeel. He’s bound by honor and duty, which is sexy AF on its own merit when done right. LOVE how protective he was of Ten. LOVE how unsettled he was by her. LOVE how he kicked a$$ right til the end. Squeeee!!!!
And Ten!! A woman after my own heart! LOVE how feisty she is. LOVE her humor and how she can make fun of herself. LOVE how protective she was of Athan. LOVE her ‘tude. LOVE how she owned every aspect of herself, from her insecurities to her strength. Even in moments of weakness, she had control, no doubt about it. LOVE how she kicked a$$ right til the end. Squeeee!!!!
And there you have it, folks, my reasons why I love this book, why I’m continuing to fangirl over Megan, and why I recommend this one, even if you’re not a PNR reader. Well she sold it to me, so I’m pretty sure she can sell it to you too.
September 16, 2017
2.5 stars
I went in to this with really high hopes. I enjoy this author's shifter series. It's a really unique world and contains plot elements I haven't seen before. I chose this expecting to see more of the same but with vampires.
What I got was a mediocre plot that was no different than a million other vampire paranormal romances I've read before. Heroine was moved around a lot by her secretive mother. She learns to fight because secretive mother says she should. Vampires show up and uproot her life as there is a prophecy about her (because of course there is). Heroine isn't really freaked out and goes with the flow. Heroine then doesn't listen to good vampire and does something that endangers her life and she has to be saved (because what would a pnr be without a too stupid to live heroine?)
The first half of this was painfully slow. I almost dnf'd it. It picked up around 50% and I was able to finish it but I never enjoyed it. As I said, I've read this same basic plotline a million times before. And the bad news for this book is I've read it done MUCH better at least half of those times.
Huge disappointment for me and not a book I'd recommend unfortunately.
**ARC received through Netgalley in exchange for an honest opinion.**
I went in to this with really high hopes. I enjoy this author's shifter series. It's a really unique world and contains plot elements I haven't seen before. I chose this expecting to see more of the same but with vampires.
What I got was a mediocre plot that was no different than a million other vampire paranormal romances I've read before. Heroine was moved around a lot by her secretive mother. She learns to fight because secretive mother says she should. Vampires show up and uproot her life as there is a prophecy about her (because of course there is). Heroine isn't really freaked out and goes with the flow. Heroine then doesn't listen to good vampire and does something that endangers her life and she has to be saved (because what would a pnr be without a too stupid to live heroine?)
The first half of this was painfully slow. I almost dnf'd it. It picked up around 50% and I was able to finish it but I never enjoyed it. As I said, I've read this same basic plotline a million times before. And the bad news for this book is I've read it done MUCH better at least half of those times.
Huge disappointment for me and not a book I'd recommend unfortunately.
**ARC received through Netgalley in exchange for an honest opinion.**
September 29, 2017
I know that a lot of people are going to hate me for this review but I still have to say what I really think about it.
First of all, I was TREMENDOUSLY disappointed when I found out this was a MF book and not MM one. I know that this is not author’s fault or anything but still, I was quite disappointed. When I found out Megan Erickson was publishing a new book, I ran my ass off to Kindle store and purchased the book WITHOUT knowing that it was a MF book. I have nothing against MF romances and I also enjoy them quite a lot but I really thought this book was going to be a MM one and the MC female’s name was Tendra so when I read the intro of the book on Amazon, I really thought it was a MM one .. well, enough blurbing and let’s move on to the actual novel.
The novel was VERY predictable. I only read HEA novels and I knew eventually I’ll get it in the end but that doesn’t mean I don’t like the twists and turns along the story. I could guess the plot all along, it was that predictable. There’s nothing THAT exciting or surprising in the storyline and I was quite bored that I literally stopped reading about two days before continuing with the novel. And the language, I don’t mind using fuck in the sentences and I also use them in real life. However, I really feel like the word F was repeated again and again and again chapter after chapter. While the male MC, Athan, was a solid and lovable character, I have to admit the female MC didn’t appeal to me that much. Frankly, I hated her personality in one third of the novel. And the personality and the chapter building of hers was a bit cliche.
I’m not saying this novel is horrible but it wasn’t a wow factor one. Megan’s silver tip series was one of my favorites this year and also one of my all time favorites. From silver tip series and cyber love series, when I compare this novel, it fell pretty short. I think if you read this novel first and the above mentioned ones later, may be you’ll enjoy it better.
And I don’t know which version you will get when you purchase this novel from amazon but mine had a short story which is prequel to the story and called “Bite the hand that bleeds”. The novella is free and also available on Megan’s Facebook page if that wasn’t included in ur edition. I loved that included novella WAY more than the actual novel. 😂😂😂 So I guess that explains a lot.
I won’t say the novel isn’t worth reading but it was really a so so one. A fun read with a guaranteed HEA with not much twists and turns. So if you are looking for a fun read that wasn’t that serious and just wanna read for time pass, this is a good one.
Overall 2.5 stars
⭐️⭐️💫
PS. I have never given her books lower than 4 stars so this book made me so sad. 😭😭😭 Hopefully, I can see more of her works like silver tip series in the future. In fact, I really hope there’d be a third book in that series. Well, a girl can always hope though .. 😌😌😌
First of all, I was TREMENDOUSLY disappointed when I found out this was a MF book and not MM one. I know that this is not author’s fault or anything but still, I was quite disappointed. When I found out Megan Erickson was publishing a new book, I ran my ass off to Kindle store and purchased the book WITHOUT knowing that it was a MF book. I have nothing against MF romances and I also enjoy them quite a lot but I really thought this book was going to be a MM one and the MC female’s name was Tendra so when I read the intro of the book on Amazon, I really thought it was a MM one .. well, enough blurbing and let’s move on to the actual novel.
The novel was VERY predictable. I only read HEA novels and I knew eventually I’ll get it in the end but that doesn’t mean I don’t like the twists and turns along the story. I could guess the plot all along, it was that predictable. There’s nothing THAT exciting or surprising in the storyline and I was quite bored that I literally stopped reading about two days before continuing with the novel. And the language, I don’t mind using fuck in the sentences and I also use them in real life. However, I really feel like the word F was repeated again and again and again chapter after chapter. While the male MC, Athan, was a solid and lovable character, I have to admit the female MC didn’t appeal to me that much. Frankly, I hated her personality in one third of the novel. And the personality and the chapter building of hers was a bit cliche.
I’m not saying this novel is horrible but it wasn’t a wow factor one. Megan’s silver tip series was one of my favorites this year and also one of my all time favorites. From silver tip series and cyber love series, when I compare this novel, it fell pretty short. I think if you read this novel first and the above mentioned ones later, may be you’ll enjoy it better.
And I don’t know which version you will get when you purchase this novel from amazon but mine had a short story which is prequel to the story and called “Bite the hand that bleeds”. The novella is free and also available on Megan’s Facebook page if that wasn’t included in ur edition. I loved that included novella WAY more than the actual novel. 😂😂😂 So I guess that explains a lot.
I won’t say the novel isn’t worth reading but it was really a so so one. A fun read with a guaranteed HEA with not much twists and turns. So if you are looking for a fun read that wasn’t that serious and just wanna read for time pass, this is a good one.
Overall 2.5 stars
⭐️⭐️💫
PS. I have never given her books lower than 4 stars so this book made me so sad. 😭😭😭 Hopefully, I can see more of her works like silver tip series in the future. In fact, I really hope there’d be a third book in that series. Well, a girl can always hope though .. 😌😌😌
September 11, 2017
I'm still wrapping my head around the awesome experience I had while reading Blood Guard. This is not your mother's vampire PNR. It's edgy, dark, twisted, dirty, and sexy AF.
I love the whole concept of Mission City. There's danger lurking everywhere--human and not so human. In Blood Guard we meet Athan (totally calling dibs on this sexy, broody, loyal vamp) and Tendra.
Athan's been sent to protect Ten, but who's going to protect Athan from her?
I loved this story of love, loyalty, and duty. Athan. Jesus. That man would move heaven and hell to protect his clan and Tendra. I loved their interactions. Loved how Athan communicated with Ten to keep her informed or to inform her of what was going on, what needed to happen. And Ten. Man, she just rolled with the punches. Human bartender one day, fated queen of the vampires the next. Really, not much fazed her. She was kick ass and kicked ass.
I couldn't put Blood Guard down once I started. I was immediately immersed in their world. Totally bought into the hidden world of the Gregorie clan and I can't wait for more! ~ Missy, 5 stars
***
Good gravy, is there anything Megan Erickson can't write?
It appears not.
I mean, I went into this just a tiny bit skeptical. I'm a huge Megan Erickson fan, but it's been a while since I took on a vampire story and I wasn't so sure about the tone of the story when I first picked it up.
And then - it completely hooked me.
I sometimes felt little whispers of Sookie Stackhouse in the writing. The stories aren't particularly similar, but that's how the tone felt to me sometimes. Like a subtle blend of dark and campy. A compelling story that made my heart race and held me on the edge of my seat, but also a tiny bit irreverent in a way that allowed me to giggle on occasion and get swept away in the romance.
I floved Athan in a way that I completely did not expect. Holy hell. Holy hotness. Holy alpha vampire deliciousness. He was perfect. And Ten was perfect for him. It was not difficult to connect to these two - their chemistry was on point and burning up my Kindle from nearly the moment they met. And they were hot, y'all. H-O-T. *fans self* But it was their deeper connection that grabbed hold and kept me reading voraciously - impossible to look away.
Blood Guard was a completely addictive read - sexy, exciting, suspenseful and fun, I couldn't get enough and thank God there's more coming! I want so much more time with the alluring and mysterious Gregorie clan and I Can. Not. Wait. for the next installment! ~ Shelly, 4.5 Stars
I love the whole concept of Mission City. There's danger lurking everywhere--human and not so human. In Blood Guard we meet Athan (totally calling dibs on this sexy, broody, loyal vamp) and Tendra.
Athan's been sent to protect Ten, but who's going to protect Athan from her?
I loved this story of love, loyalty, and duty. Athan. Jesus. That man would move heaven and hell to protect his clan and Tendra. I loved their interactions. Loved how Athan communicated with Ten to keep her informed or to inform her of what was going on, what needed to happen. And Ten. Man, she just rolled with the punches. Human bartender one day, fated queen of the vampires the next. Really, not much fazed her. She was kick ass and kicked ass.
I couldn't put Blood Guard down once I started. I was immediately immersed in their world. Totally bought into the hidden world of the Gregorie clan and I can't wait for more! ~ Missy, 5 stars
***
Good gravy, is there anything Megan Erickson can't write?
It appears not.
I mean, I went into this just a tiny bit skeptical. I'm a huge Megan Erickson fan, but it's been a while since I took on a vampire story and I wasn't so sure about the tone of the story when I first picked it up.
And then - it completely hooked me.
I sometimes felt little whispers of Sookie Stackhouse in the writing. The stories aren't particularly similar, but that's how the tone felt to me sometimes. Like a subtle blend of dark and campy. A compelling story that made my heart race and held me on the edge of my seat, but also a tiny bit irreverent in a way that allowed me to giggle on occasion and get swept away in the romance.
I floved Athan in a way that I completely did not expect. Holy hell. Holy hotness. Holy alpha vampire deliciousness. He was perfect. And Ten was perfect for him. It was not difficult to connect to these two - their chemistry was on point and burning up my Kindle from nearly the moment they met. And they were hot, y'all. H-O-T. *fans self* But it was their deeper connection that grabbed hold and kept me reading voraciously - impossible to look away.
Blood Guard was a completely addictive read - sexy, exciting, suspenseful and fun, I couldn't get enough and thank God there's more coming! I want so much more time with the alluring and mysterious Gregorie clan and I Can. Not. Wait. for the next installment! ~ Shelly, 4.5 Stars
September 12, 2017
This definitely was not my favorite book by Megan Erickson. I adore all her other books, so I’m a bit disappointed. Blood Guard was by no means bad. I just can’t help compare it to her other books, which are pretty amazing.
My main issue was that this had the “chosen one” trope. Which, *sigh*. I think most of us can admit this trope needs to go away, or be done in a new and unique way, which it wasn’t here. Also, don’t expect too much world-building, it wasn’t super complex here.
The romance is what saved the story. Tendra is a waitress who one night gets kidnapped and is thrown into this world she had no idea existed, a world where vampires are real. Athan is her new vampire bodyguard. He’s in charge of making sure she gets to his king’s (a.k.a. his brother) place safely. Tendra and Athan’s romance was really adorable and sexy at the same time. They’re on the run throughout the story, being chased by other vampires, near-death experiences, you know. And it was nice seeing their relationship develop throughout everything that was happening.
Like I said, this wasn’t my favorite Megan Erickson book, but it was a fun and quick read. I recommend it to the people who will enjoy a story more focused on the romance than anything else. I do feel like this series has a lot of potential though, so I will definitely check out book 2, which I think comes out soon.
If you’re looking to check out this author, I definitely recommend her other series – Gamers, Cyberlove, Silver Tip Pack, Mechanics of Love – I think those are her better ones.
**ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
My main issue was that this had the “chosen one” trope. Which, *sigh*. I think most of us can admit this trope needs to go away, or be done in a new and unique way, which it wasn’t here. Also, don’t expect too much world-building, it wasn’t super complex here.
The romance is what saved the story. Tendra is a waitress who one night gets kidnapped and is thrown into this world she had no idea existed, a world where vampires are real. Athan is her new vampire bodyguard. He’s in charge of making sure she gets to his king’s (a.k.a. his brother) place safely. Tendra and Athan’s romance was really adorable and sexy at the same time. They’re on the run throughout the story, being chased by other vampires, near-death experiences, you know. And it was nice seeing their relationship develop throughout everything that was happening.
Like I said, this wasn’t my favorite Megan Erickson book, but it was a fun and quick read. I recommend it to the people who will enjoy a story more focused on the romance than anything else. I do feel like this series has a lot of potential though, so I will definitely check out book 2, which I think comes out soon.
If you’re looking to check out this author, I definitely recommend her other series – Gamers, Cyberlove, Silver Tip Pack, Mechanics of Love – I think those are her better ones.
**ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
September 12, 2017
After reading Daring Fate, Megan's m/m shifter PNR, I had some high expectations going into this. I'm happy to say, this met and exceeded them!
Tendra, a human, is the Sanguivita to Athan's clan. That means her blood is special and she is meant for the future king of the Gregoire clan. Because of this, her mother has moved her around, never putting down roots, so that rival clans can't find her. When her mother ends up dead, Athan, her Blood Guard, comes to retrieve her.
This book takes place in just over a week, most of it with the two of them alone. During that time they do fall in love, and we find out just what her blood can do when She feeds Athan to save his life. Once they make it back to the compound, secrets are revealed.
I loved this, I think it is Megan's best book yet. I loved that there was absolutely no relationship drama, and that despite not knowing each other long, they were committed to each other and were a team. You could feel there chemistry from early on, and when they finally came together, it was explosive.
Highly recommended!
*ARC provided from publisher through Netgalley for honest review*
Tendra, a human, is the Sanguivita to Athan's clan. That means her blood is special and she is meant for the future king of the Gregoire clan. Because of this, her mother has moved her around, never putting down roots, so that rival clans can't find her. When her mother ends up dead, Athan, her Blood Guard, comes to retrieve her.
This book takes place in just over a week, most of it with the two of them alone. During that time they do fall in love, and we find out just what her blood can do when She feeds Athan to save his life. Once they make it back to the compound, secrets are revealed.
I loved this, I think it is Megan's best book yet. I loved that there was absolutely no relationship drama, and that despite not knowing each other long, they were committed to each other and were a team. You could feel there chemistry from early on, and when they finally came together, it was explosive.
Highly recommended!
*ARC provided from publisher through Netgalley for honest review*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2017
Vampire stories are a highly popular subject matter so I'm always impressed when an author can spin a fresh take. I like the differences that Megan Erickson created and want to learn more.
This was an enjoyable story with great main characters. It had enough tension with Tendra being meant for Athan's brother. Watching him battle with his sense of duty over his feelings that grew for her the longer he guarded her.
The epilogue created enough interest to see where Book 2 will continue with the storyline. ARC provided by NetGalley.
This was an enjoyable story with great main characters. It had enough tension with Tendra being meant for Athan's brother. Watching him battle with his sense of duty over his feelings that grew for her the longer he guarded her.
The epilogue created enough interest to see where Book 2 will continue with the storyline. ARC provided by NetGalley.
September 12, 2017
[I was] a little peeved my Disney reference was lost on a vampire bodyguard.
So, I just mentioned in another review how much I like when beloved authors shake up their defaults and try something new. And Erickson's been doing that a lot lately. First by co-authoring some contemporaries, then venturing into shifters, and now vampires. The shifter series (which I need to read more of) didn't wow me but I really enjoyed it. Whereas book one in the Mission series.. well.
With so many flavours and vibes and takes on PNR, it can be hard to find that new niche or that new angle that satisfies longtime readers. Erickson gives us a light-ish take on the human chosen one trope and instead of being the one to vanquish the bloodsuckers, she's the one destined to basically be the King's personal feedbag.. and, oh, I guess the Queen? The soon-to-be-King's brother is sent to retrieve her when rival vampire assassin clans are closing in on her location and it's his duty, as her creatively titled blood guard (no sarcasm, I do think that's a cool title), to get her to her brother so he and the clan can fulfill a prophecy, vanquish the shitty evil vampire foes and live happily ever after.
What did one take to meet their arranged vampire partner?
Hahah except that doesn't happen.
The synopsis already spoils the fact that things get complicated between the soon-to-be-queen and her not-yet-brother-in-law and this reader was definitely prepared for things to go sideways. Which they did. In one sense BLOOD GUARD did have unique aspects but.. I don't know, I was kind of bored? Not really interested? There's a long convoluted journey to get to the Gregorie clan's location, lots of pitstops for food and cat snuggles, and the ending is set up perfectly for book two's couple, but I'm just not sure I'll be reading it.
Erickson infused the read with a few snappy oneliners, a popculture oblivious vampire bodyguard, and a fourlegged furball that almost rivals Binx (from Hocus Pocus) in his usefulness. It's a quick read and the action moreorless starts right away so I think a lot of people will probably enjoy this for what it is : a swoony thrill ride. I think I just wanted a little more substance and a little less predictability to sink my teeth into (sorry, couldn't help it, peace out).
2.5 "oh great, so this was like Goodfellas with fangs" stars
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
So, I just mentioned in another review how much I like when beloved authors shake up their defaults and try something new. And Erickson's been doing that a lot lately. First by co-authoring some contemporaries, then venturing into shifters, and now vampires. The shifter series (which I need to read more of) didn't wow me but I really enjoyed it. Whereas book one in the Mission series.. well.
With so many flavours and vibes and takes on PNR, it can be hard to find that new niche or that new angle that satisfies longtime readers. Erickson gives us a light-ish take on the human chosen one trope and instead of being the one to vanquish the bloodsuckers, she's the one destined to basically be the King's personal feedbag.. and, oh, I guess the Queen? The soon-to-be-King's brother is sent to retrieve her when rival vampire assassin clans are closing in on her location and it's his duty, as her creatively titled blood guard (no sarcasm, I do think that's a cool title), to get her to her brother so he and the clan can fulfill a prophecy, vanquish the shitty evil vampire foes and live happily ever after.
What did one take to meet their arranged vampire partner?
Hahah except that doesn't happen.
The synopsis already spoils the fact that things get complicated between the soon-to-be-queen and her not-yet-brother-in-law and this reader was definitely prepared for things to go sideways. Which they did. In one sense BLOOD GUARD did have unique aspects but.. I don't know, I was kind of bored? Not really interested? There's a long convoluted journey to get to the Gregorie clan's location, lots of pitstops for food and cat snuggles, and the ending is set up perfectly for book two's couple, but I'm just not sure I'll be reading it.
Erickson infused the read with a few snappy oneliners, a popculture oblivious vampire bodyguard, and a fourlegged furball that almost rivals Binx (from Hocus Pocus) in his usefulness. It's a quick read and the action moreorless starts right away so I think a lot of people will probably enjoy this for what it is : a swoony thrill ride. I think I just wanted a little more substance and a little less predictability to sink my teeth into (sorry, couldn't help it, peace out).
2.5 "oh great, so this was like Goodfellas with fangs" stars
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
May 18, 2017
I was provided an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Tendra is a waitress in a city called Mission. As she comes back from a shift, she is pretty much kidnapped off the street by Athan.
Athan later informs her that he is here to protect her, that he is a vampire and that she is the “Sanguivita”, basically a blood bank for the future king of a vampire clan who happens to be Athan’s brother, Idris.
Her first reaction is to believe he’s an insane person but then she starts to believe (seeing him healing helps).
They then both go on the run to try to get to Athan’s clan’s compound without being killed by vampires from opposite clans who are hunting her.
The first books I’ve read from Megan Erickson were her Bowler University series. Since then, I’ve impatiently waited for all of her books to come out, one-clicking them without even reading the synopsis.
This was the second fantasy romance of hers I’ve read. And it was just as good as all her other books were.
See, Megan Erickson writes amazing characters. I always fall in love with them in some ways. They’re all different but they’re always layered, complex and flawed. This is what makes her books so great.
Tendra was amazing, funny, badass, snarky... I fell in love instantly. It took me a bit more time for Athan but it was inevitable.
Their relationship might have grown a little fast for me but I’m a cynic and in the end, it all felt right.
The world it was set it was a pretty classic vampire world in my opinion but it still just worked. I cannot wait to learn more about Mission and those different vampire clans.
I’m really looking forward to the next book.
--------
My crazy on May 15, 2017:
NETGALLEY/PUBLISHER ACCEPTED MY REQUEST AND I AM FREAKING OUT CAUSE IT WAS US ONLY OR SOMETHING (MAIS QUI NE TENTE RIEN N'A RIEN) AND I LOVE MEGAN ERICKSON AND I'VE READ ALL HER BOOKS AND I SOOO DIDN'T BELIEVE I'LL GET THIS, LIKE REALLY DIDN'T THINK I WOULD AND I'M SO READING THIS NEXT.
(my Lady Midnight re-read will have to wait)
PS: Je ne suis pas folle, vous savez.
Tendra is a waitress in a city called Mission. As she comes back from a shift, she is pretty much kidnapped off the street by Athan.
Athan later informs her that he is here to protect her, that he is a vampire and that she is the “Sanguivita”, basically a blood bank for the future king of a vampire clan who happens to be Athan’s brother, Idris.
Her first reaction is to believe he’s an insane person but then she starts to believe (seeing him healing helps).
They then both go on the run to try to get to Athan’s clan’s compound without being killed by vampires from opposite clans who are hunting her.
The first books I’ve read from Megan Erickson were her Bowler University series. Since then, I’ve impatiently waited for all of her books to come out, one-clicking them without even reading the synopsis.
This was the second fantasy romance of hers I’ve read. And it was just as good as all her other books were.
See, Megan Erickson writes amazing characters. I always fall in love with them in some ways. They’re all different but they’re always layered, complex and flawed. This is what makes her books so great.
Tendra was amazing, funny, badass, snarky... I fell in love instantly. It took me a bit more time for Athan but it was inevitable.
Their relationship might have grown a little fast for me but I’m a cynic and in the end, it all felt right.
The world it was set it was a pretty classic vampire world in my opinion but it still just worked. I cannot wait to learn more about Mission and those different vampire clans.
I’m really looking forward to the next book.
--------
My crazy on May 15, 2017:
NETGALLEY/PUBLISHER ACCEPTED MY REQUEST AND I AM FREAKING OUT CAUSE IT WAS US ONLY OR SOMETHING (MAIS QUI NE TENTE RIEN N'A RIEN) AND I LOVE MEGAN ERICKSON AND I'VE READ ALL HER BOOKS AND I SOOO DIDN'T BELIEVE I'LL GET THIS, LIKE REALLY DIDN'T THINK I WOULD AND I'M SO READING THIS NEXT.
(my Lady Midnight re-read will have to wait)
PS: Je ne suis pas folle, vous savez.
September 6, 2017
3.5 “Sexy Vampires” Stars
ARC via NetGalley.
Thank you, Loveswept!
I've been saying this a lot for the past couple of months, but yeah I'm more than ready for paranormal romance to make a comeback. And it's happening, guys. It's happening!!! So, hello all the paranormal romance books I'm seeing out there! *waves*
Now, of the adult PNR romance I've read this year, Blood Guard is definitely my favorite.
I'm relatively new to this author, but I can already tell Megan Erickson has no trouble writing chemistry and sexy romance. And likable heroines.
Tendra was strong, independent and loyal. She knew how to take care of herself, but she also knew when to accept help. I liked that she didn't act like those heroines who are so stuck on being independent that they end up getting themselves in trouble because they can't accept anyone's help. Aside from some silly decisions (everyone's entitled to one or two of those), she came across as really mature for a young woman. The fact that she treated her cat as if he was a person also won her some points with me.
Athan, the sexy vampire who was in charge of keeping Tendra safe and escorting her to his clan so she could sort of marry/bond/serve as blood bag to his soon-to-be-king brother, was also a great character. I liked how he struggled between his sense of loyalty and duty, and his feelings for Tendra. Most of all, I liked how he balanced the fact that he was raised to be a badass killer with his good heart. I'm all for alpha heroes, especially in PNR, but I can get behind a almost-beta male when he's as sexy as Athan.
Speaking of sexy... The chemistry between Athan and Tendra was spot on. I enjoyed how the romance developed and how hot they were together. Some of those sex scenes made me blush, and I read a lot of romance, so that isn't an easy task. I guess the whole feeding while doing other stuff got to me.
The mythology (for a lack of better world) and the plot didn't impress me, to be honest. I had problems with what I saw as plot holes (or inconsistencies) when it came to the war between the vampires clans, and the villain's motivation. I'd also hoped for more of a spin on the vampire mythology, but the main elements were the same as most of the stories out there.
Having said that, Blood Guard gave me sexy vampires, so it's pretty safe to say I enjoyed this book quite a lot.
Read
May 23, 2021Rating removed
*************************************
Original review:
Blood Guard is a fun and solid start to Erickson's new (M/F) paranormal romance series.
There are hunky vampires, foretold prophecies, fighting clans, creepy vamp-assassins, kinky vampire sex clubs and the overall threat of human annihilation - you know, all the regular juicy stuff. Plus, there is lots of action and passion and forbidden love to keep things entertaining.
Yep, I dug it.
Our human MC, Tendra, is suddenly thrust into a world of unknown dangers when she is kidnapped by vampire Athan and told of a prophecy that names her as destined queen to the Gregorie clan (aka the good vamps). With her "special" blood she is intended for Athan's brother and future king, Idris. But getting Tendra to the Gregorie clan compound safely, so she can fulfil her destiny, quickly becomes a complicated mission, especially when a rival vampire clan (aka the bad vamps) send assassins out to kill Tendra.
This story is filled with fun and thrills, and the romance is delicious. Tendra and Athan very quickly begin developing some serious feels for one another on their journey to safety. There is duty and honour and all that other pesky cock-blocking moral stuff that gets in their way for a good long while, but that just served to make the romance more palpable for me.
I liked Tendra. She was spunky. She handled the mind-blowing "vampires are real" news like a champ, too; she was understandably shocked and disbelieving initially, but seeing is believing, and once Athan proved his otherworldly claims, Tendra dived headfirst into her new reality and accepted her destiny as best she could. She made a couple of poor choices throughout the story, as only female MCs are wont to do (grr), but her actions served a purpose within the story and weren't overly enraging so I was able to go with the flow and just accept her silly.
Athan was a god damn dream. As the youngest brother of the royal line, Athan's job as blood guard required him to get Tendra to safety no matter the cost. It obviously became a bit of a problem when he fell for his charge, but I loved his moral standing and his loyalty to his brother, and the care he placed on Tendra and her well-being was all sorts of swoony.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and I'm eager for the next installment.
*************************************
Original review:
Blood Guard is a fun and solid start to Erickson's new (M/F) paranormal romance series.
There are hunky vampires, foretold prophecies, fighting clans, creepy vamp-assassins, kinky vampire sex clubs and the overall threat of human annihilation - you know, all the regular juicy stuff. Plus, there is lots of action and passion and forbidden love to keep things entertaining.
Yep, I dug it.
Our human MC, Tendra, is suddenly thrust into a world of unknown dangers when she is kidnapped by vampire Athan and told of a prophecy that names her as destined queen to the Gregorie clan (aka the good vamps). With her "special" blood she is intended for Athan's brother and future king, Idris. But getting Tendra to the Gregorie clan compound safely, so she can fulfil her destiny, quickly becomes a complicated mission, especially when a rival vampire clan (aka the bad vamps) send assassins out to kill Tendra.
This story is filled with fun and thrills, and the romance is delicious. Tendra and Athan very quickly begin developing some serious feels for one another on their journey to safety. There is duty and honour and all that other pesky cock-blocking moral stuff that gets in their way for a good long while, but that just served to make the romance more palpable for me.
I liked Tendra. She was spunky. She handled the mind-blowing "vampires are real" news like a champ, too; she was understandably shocked and disbelieving initially, but seeing is believing, and once Athan proved his otherworldly claims, Tendra dived headfirst into her new reality and accepted her destiny as best she could. She made a couple of poor choices throughout the story, as only female MCs are wont to do (grr), but her actions served a purpose within the story and weren't overly enraging so I was able to go with the flow and just accept her silly.
Athan was a god damn dream. As the youngest brother of the royal line, Athan's job as blood guard required him to get Tendra to safety no matter the cost. It obviously became a bit of a problem when he fell for his charge, but I loved his moral standing and his loyalty to his brother, and the care he placed on Tendra and her well-being was all sorts of swoony.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and I'm eager for the next installment.
September 3, 2017
4.5 stars- Really good start to a new series
Blood Guard is the first in Miss Erickson’s new vampiric Mission series. As I’ve seen in her other paranormal titles, this author does an outstanding job building intricate worlds I find mesmerizing. There are a few species/types of vampires and paranormal creatures within this world, but I found the explanations thorough enough to keep track of them as they reappeared throughout the book.
I thought the overall premise of the plot was really interesting and it definitely kept me hooked, wondering what would happen next. The action scenes were fast-paced and exciting, and the general pace of the book was pretty brisk. While the faster paced plot echoed the intensity of the fight and chase scenes, that also meant the romance was a bit of a whirlwind. Though it wasn’t quite insta-love between Tendra and Athan, feelings evolved rather quickly in Blood Guard. This is really the only element of the book that didn’t quite work for me. Although there clearly was a connection immediately between the hero and heroine, which isn't all that uncommon in paranormal romances, I would have liked to see it develop slower so I had the opportunity to become a bit more invested in the characters and their romance. Regardless, I did like Tendra and Athan. I always enjoy strong, independent heroines like Ten and I appreciated how well they balanced each other.
Overall, I enjoyed the romance, main characters, and was intrigued by the secondary characters of Blood Guard. The continuing plotline of two vampire clans facing off against each other and the potential impact on the unsuspecting human world grabbed my attention and assured I’ll be tuning in for the second book in Miss Erickson’s Mission series. If you’re a fan of paranormal or vampire books, Blood Guard is certainly worth checking out.
*Received eARC from Netgalley. The author and publisher had no influence over this review*
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
Blood Guard is the first in Miss Erickson’s new vampiric Mission series. As I’ve seen in her other paranormal titles, this author does an outstanding job building intricate worlds I find mesmerizing. There are a few species/types of vampires and paranormal creatures within this world, but I found the explanations thorough enough to keep track of them as they reappeared throughout the book.
I thought the overall premise of the plot was really interesting and it definitely kept me hooked, wondering what would happen next. The action scenes were fast-paced and exciting, and the general pace of the book was pretty brisk. While the faster paced plot echoed the intensity of the fight and chase scenes, that also meant the romance was a bit of a whirlwind. Though it wasn’t quite insta-love between Tendra and Athan, feelings evolved rather quickly in Blood Guard. This is really the only element of the book that didn’t quite work for me. Although there clearly was a connection immediately between the hero and heroine, which isn't all that uncommon in paranormal romances, I would have liked to see it develop slower so I had the opportunity to become a bit more invested in the characters and their romance. Regardless, I did like Tendra and Athan. I always enjoy strong, independent heroines like Ten and I appreciated how well they balanced each other.
Overall, I enjoyed the romance, main characters, and was intrigued by the secondary characters of Blood Guard. The continuing plotline of two vampire clans facing off against each other and the potential impact on the unsuspecting human world grabbed my attention and assured I’ll be tuning in for the second book in Miss Erickson’s Mission series. If you’re a fan of paranormal or vampire books, Blood Guard is certainly worth checking out.
*Received eARC from Netgalley. The author and publisher had no influence over this review*
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
not-worth-my-time-and-money
March 11, 2018Rating removed
September 14, 2017
4.5 Stars
‘Mission was not a city where dreams were made. At least, not for people like me.’
It’s no secret how much we love our paranormal reads! It’s our go to when we’re in a book funk and our pleasurable indulgence. We immediately got sucked into…pun intended…Blood Guard by Megan Erickson and loved the initial world building and introduction of a Vampire world living under the streets upon which humans walk unbeknownst to them what lurks beneath.
‘Maybe we weren’t all meant to belong somewhere.’
This was a slow build romance which perfectly set up a forthcoming series full of vampires, turf war and ultimately love. We have to mention that reading Blood Guard took us back to how we used to feel when reading paranormal books. For want of a better description, the way in which this story was written and how it made us feel was like proper old school PNR which is why we loved it so much. We were filled with nostalgia for the time, back when we first became addicted to this romance genre.
First we meet Tendra, who works as a bartender and comes across as a bit of a loner and orphan to boot; having been shifted from pillar to post by her deceased single mother. She feels unlucky in every aspect of her life yet keeps a sassy attitude with an inner quiet strength that stands her in good stead when her whole world is turned upside down. Along with her cat she finds herself in a situation that shocks her to her core. It all begins when she notices a somewhat intimidating man watching her in the bar where she works who then follows her into the night.
‘The sun on my face was like life. I’d spent all of my life looking at the sun as my killer, and now I saw it as my savior.’
Athan is the sexy warrior brother of the future Vampire king, Idris, and has one mission. To retrieve and bring home the woman whose blood is prophesised to give his brother the ability and strength to fight and overcome a clan of vampires set to destroy the human race and make them blood slaves. There’s a revolt happening and it needs to be stopped. But just who is pulling the strings for a change that will affect not only humans but the vampire race too?
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September 1, 2017
I love all of the things Megan writes and I love vampires, so this seemed like a sure thing.
I liked Tendra and Athan. She's stubborn and stands up for herself. He's guarded and maybe a bit cocky. Together they bicker and have some decent chemistry. Their relationship is strained for obvious reasons, but it was intriguing to see them work it out. I loved Zeb and Idris and I hope to see more of them in the next book.
Plot wise, it was okay. There were several repetitive words/phrases and several things told over and over again. The first 40% of the book was sort of a info dump slash world building, but none of it felt explained well enough. I finally gave up trying to keep track of the various vampire clans and their members and found it much more enjoyable.
Overall, it was a bit of a rough start for me. I cringed at some of the language used {and the f-bomb is my favorite word} and it took me some time to settle into the story. However, it did pick up and I found I really wanted to know how it ended. I'll definitely be reading the next one.
*Huge thanks to Loveswept for providing the arc free of charge**
I liked Tendra and Athan. She's stubborn and stands up for herself. He's guarded and maybe a bit cocky. Together they bicker and have some decent chemistry. Their relationship is strained for obvious reasons, but it was intriguing to see them work it out. I loved Zeb and Idris and I hope to see more of them in the next book.
Plot wise, it was okay. There were several repetitive words/phrases and several things told over and over again. The first 40% of the book was sort of a info dump slash world building, but none of it felt explained well enough. I finally gave up trying to keep track of the various vampire clans and their members and found it much more enjoyable.
Overall, it was a bit of a rough start for me. I cringed at some of the language used {and the f-bomb is my favorite word} and it took me some time to settle into the story. However, it did pick up and I found I really wanted to know how it ended. I'll definitely be reading the next one.
*Huge thanks to Loveswept for providing the arc free of charge**
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