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A hidden evil stalks the city…

Ari Calin refuses to believe her human friend Eddie murdered a vampire—in spite of his confession. Her human partner Ryan thinks the case is a slam dunk, even though there’s no weapon and no witnesses, but Ari’s not about to let her friend take the rap without finding out more.

When Ari attends a charity event on the arm of a handsome werewolf, she finds someone she never expected to see again—Andreas De Luca, the charismatic vampire she used to date. When their eyes meet across the room, memories come rushing back. His kiss, his touch, a savage death…and a terrifying magical bond. A reconnection is the last thing she wants. Only by staying away and forgetting Andreas can she hope to avoid the Legend of Ramora.

But when vampires keep dying, one thing becomes clear: Riverdale has a serial killer on its hands, and Andreas could be next. Ari begins to fear there’s more to it, though. Something truly evil is stalking the city, waiting to take control…

240 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 6, 2013

14 people are currently reading
1277 people want to read

About the author

Ally Shields

19 books472 followers
Ally Shields is the fantasy pen name of Janet L Buck, who also writes historical mysteries as J L Buck.

Ms Shields' Guardian Witch series was first released between 2012 and 2015 and were withdrawn by Etopia Press in 2023. Revised and updated editions were released later in 2023 with new covers and one title change.

Due to an ongoing story line, the author recommends this series be read in order, beginning with Awakening the Fire.

A sequel trilogy may be re-released in the future.

The Maggie York Paranormal Mystery trilogy, set in New Orleans and the Crosskeys trilogy may also be re-released with revised editions as time permits.

When not writing, Ms Shields reads multiple genres--urban fantasy, thrillers, mysteries, historical romance, and she loves to travel--anywhere, anytime.

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5 stars
215 (27%)
4 stars
313 (39%)
3 stars
218 (27%)
2 stars
36 (4%)
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9 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Profile Image for Kirstin Pulioff.
Author 13 books821 followers
May 2, 2013
Ally Shields has done it again! In only a way a master of words can do, she has twisted and turned ordinary words into an extraordinary story. Reintroducing us to the familiar characters we loved from the first story and giving us a new mystery to solve.

As a string of vampire murders take place in Riverdale, Ari and her partner have to solve the crime before the vampires handle things on their own, or more bodies show up. When Andreas, the charming and charismatic vampire wiggles his way into the case, how will Ari balance her feelings, the past, and solve a mystery that has magic written all over it?

If you’re like me, and you loved the diverse characters, their interactions and their chemistry… you won’t be disappointed in this book. Picking up several months after the first book ended, the characters stay true to form, and answer any of your lingering questions. The connection and chemistry is still there and you will not be disappointed!!!

No doubt about it! A wonderfully written story and a definite MUST READ!!! 5 Stars.
Profile Image for Diane Major.
Author 16 books20 followers
April 3, 2013
Thoroughly enjoyed this read! The Witch as well as Guardian named Arianna Calin (Ari), with human, Ryan Foster have a murder to solve. The murder soon turns out to be more complicated than it at first appears. Sexy vampire, Andreas de Luca soon makes an appearance and offers his help, much to Ari's dismay. There is a connection between Andreas and Ari that the witch initially wants to go away, however it is this relationship that hooks you into the fast paced storyline. The plot becomes more complicated when further murders take place. Is Shale's Agency involved, or could it be the pure bloods. Maybe there is something more sinister at play? With Elfs, werewolves, demons, angry vampires and more, this is a well written book that will grab your attention. Having read Ms Shields first book, I would definitely recommend this sequel!
Profile Image for Theresa Davis.
40 reviews6 followers
May 13, 2013
Arianna is back!! I really enjoy Arianna; she has a backbone and is down to earth too! Ari continues to grow with each book. I am so glad that there is no love triangle!!

In the Otherworld you never know where trouble will come from or rather what creature will be causing trouble. But there is never a dull moment. Following along as Ari with the help of Ryan and Andrea solve the mystery of who is killing the vampires and why. I need more of Ari and Andrea, I love there chemistry.

The real mystery is this connection between Arianna and Andrea; I mean what kind of connection a Fire Witch and a Vampire can have. I really hope it is finally address in the next book.
Profile Image for Isis.
288 reviews26 followers
May 31, 2013
Can I give this book more than 5 stars? It built from the incredible beginning of the series (read Awakening the Fire first), and then shot off into the stratosphere! I'm still looking for the words to give Fire Within a legitimate review, but it was one of the best books I've read this year and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the story. Ally Shields most definitely has a new loyal reader in me!


Note: I was given a copy of this book for review purposes. This had no effect on my review.
Profile Image for we-are-the-dead.
43 reviews
April 23, 2017
This book was good! It felt a little more rushed than the last one, and the yoyo-ing between ari and Andreas was a little frustrating At times.
I'm still glad I read it, but my hope is the author took a step back after this instalment, and that the third book will be written more similar to the first.

Fingers crossed!!!!
Profile Image for Tiki.
241 reviews
March 11, 2013
I really enjoyed this well-written, page-turner!  The 2nd book in this new Urban Fantasy series kept me up reading way too late.  An interesting world with great characters and a well thought out story.... The kind that makes me search websites for info on the next book(s), looking for release schedules, excerpts & extras.

Arianna, a fire witch and guardian for Olde Town, is an interesting and compelling character I want to know more about.  Her magic has a mysterious link to an equally mysterious vampire, Andreas, who becomes involved in solving cases with Ari and her human counterpart Ryan.  With many interesting secondary characters, of the supernatural & demonic variety, there's no lack of intrigue and possibilities for this series.

This book picks up 8 months after the first book ends... Another threat to the city has everyone scrambling to thwart an escalation into all out war between the vampires and humans. Although, for personal reasons, Ari has kept her distance from Andreas since the last book, they must work together again.  Their once developing relationship, which she shut down, picks up again.  But it's sloooow going.  Theirs is a unique bond and the interaction of their magics is intriguing.  

Despite their undeniable attraction to each other, she's wary & cautious about their relationship.  There's a family legacy involved and she can't see how he, as a vampire, fits into it.

But the thing I like about Andreas, besides the fact he's powerful, patient and oh so sexy, is that he is somewhat vulnerable when it comes to Ari. The pull of her magic and this strange bond, strikes a little fear in him, but he wants this relationship anyway.  He seems to think this has to do with destiny.

I can't wait to see where things go in the next book (Burning Both Ends), but I do hope this relationship will get past first base.  Don't mind the slow build up, but it's time!  That's my only complaint... I'd like a little more romance and would like to up the hot & steamy factor between these two!
Profile Image for Chené Tuck.
Author 1 book33 followers
February 28, 2014
Rating 4.5 / 5 stars

This is the second time that I have read this book and it did not disappoint. I always worry about my early review assessments and wonder if I would rate books differently later on, after I have had a bit more reviewing experience. I love it when I see my opinion doesn't change and my thoughts about the series are consistent.

Ally Shields takes this story to a whole new level. The book is gripping from the first chapter and is filled with action. Guardian Witch is a paranormal romance with a CSI drama feel to it.

Characters: 4.5/5
Ally creates great characters, and each of them has their own interesting story.

Ari - I definitely loved Ari in this story and connected with her easily. She is a kick-ass heroine and even with her 'magical disadvantage' she is a worthy guardian.

Andreas - Andreas is awesome. He is mysterious, and I believe that there is still much to be revealed about him. He is smart, witty and very well controlled with his behaviour when it comes to Ari. Andreas challenges her in a good way. As much as I loved Stefan in Book 1, Andreas wins this round.

Ari and Andreas have a slow burn romance, it is developing slowly, yet it still remains intense.

Plot, Pace, Writing style: 4.5/5
The plot is captivating and the pace is perfect. I can definitely see how Ally has grown as a writer in this book, and am excited to see how much more she improves in the books to come. Her writing style is easy to follow and pulls you in easily.

Cover talk: 3.5/5 I really liked the cover, other than the model’s hairstyle! Also, as Stefan did not really feature in this book, I could not understand the reason for the wolf on the cover. It is, however, still a great cover that catches your attention.


Final Thoughts: I love how the love story is unfolding with Ari and Andreas, and cannot wait to see where it goes in the rest of the series.
Profile Image for Dan Levinson.
Author 4 books129 followers
April 15, 2013
Arianna Calin is a witch. Not only that, she is the Guardian of Riverdale, sanctioned by the Council of Magic — one part detective, one part battle-hardened crime fighter, and all parts tough as nails.

When Ari’s reporter friend, Eddie, confesses to a murder he clearly didn’t commit, it’s up to Ari to investigate the case and uncover the truth.

Ari’s search leads her through the darkened, supernaturally-packed streets of Riverdale’s Olde Town. She encounters vampires, lycanthropes, and no small number of suspicious individuals. As the bodies begin to pile up, Ari realizes that not only is Eddie innocent, but that Riverdale might just have a serial killer on its hands — a serial killer targeting the city’s vampire population.

But what’s the motive?

Why the irregularities in the killer’s M.O.?

Why can’t the police pinpoint the murder weapon?

Ari will have to answer all these questions and more, while dealing with her own personal mystery. Ari’s family is under a powerful enchantment — one that will reveal in dreams her one true love so she can continue the Calin bloodline. Her nights are haunted by the man whose magic once intertwined with hers.

There’s only one problem: her dreams are showing her former flame Andreas DeLuca. A vampire.

What’s worse, Andreas may just be the killer’s next target.

Fire Within is a fun, solid, satisfying entry in the crime fiction subgenre of urban fantasy. It manages to capture the detective noir feel with style and panache. With an engaging cast of characters and a compelling mystery, it is in many ways reminiscent of the earlier case-based entries in Jim Butcher’s bestselling series The Dresden Files. Anyone who is a fan should do themselves a great favor and pick up Fire Within today.
Profile Image for Nicole.
Author 53 books37 followers
March 13, 2013
Another great adventure of Ari and the crew!

Ari has another murder investigation on her hands but this time it's not something that usually resides in Riverdale. She has vampire bodies slowly piling up and the suspect still unknown.

To top it all off Andreas is back and Ari's feelings for him are still hot as ever.

As the suspect continues to elude them Ari is forced to look within herself and put faith in herself and her magic. Even without the family Book of Shadows she still has enough power to be a powerful witch, all she lacks is faith.

Several suspects later the true suspect comes out as well as his species. A heart stopping battle later and all is well in Riverdale.

This book was a page turner from the beginning. I loved how it wasn't only a discovery of who the suspect was but also of finding the true witch within Ari. The ending was great and I can't wait till the next book! It's definitely a series worth following.
Profile Image for Kath.
Author 12 books7 followers
March 9, 2013
So glad Ms. Shields has written engaging Ari and mysterious Andreas into a series. I love a strong, smart, main character, and especially when she's a witch dealing with a complicated vampire and a real variety of other paranormal characters.

Ari's world is as engaging as the Guardian Witch herself. Her adventures move at lightning speed. Which means you'll only lose a couple of nights' sleep at most, because you just won't be able to sleep until you find out who really killed the vampire (not Andreas) and why. And oh yes, WHY!!!!
Profile Image for Runningrabbit.
1,387 reviews99 followers
April 25, 2013
I'm really enjoying this series. I do resent when it's pretty clear from the early stages of the book who-dun-it. Why do novels do this 'forewarned' thing? What is the point of a mystery novel when you can more or less predict where the story's going to go? So many novels and movies do this - I find it really frustrating.

Anyway - still a good series and well written. I am certainly looking forward to the next novel.
Profile Image for Danielle.
78 reviews1 follower
January 23, 2015
I'm trying hard to like this series but it's very difficult. Could be because I just finished an awesome series, but I think it's more because the main character is annoying. She reminds me of one of this harlequin women who can't make up their mind unless it's shoved in their face. It's also pretty annoying when you know who did it early on but due to overall denseness on the part of the main character, no one figures that out until the very last.
Profile Image for Charmaine Walker.
44 reviews2 followers
March 29, 2013
I enjoyed this one a little more than the first book. Again, its a good read, and I definately recommend it for people who enjoy the paranormal.
Profile Image for Shannon Heck.
697 reviews
June 8, 2018
Not progressing

The second book is just as good as the first book except, it's a second book and there should be some development. However, there is very, very little character development going on here. I like the story but it feels like something is missing. I'm willing to give this series one more book, but reluctantly.
Profile Image for Tatiana.
Author 26 books37 followers
September 16, 2024
A good case which was enjoyable to watch unfold. I enjoy the human, witch and vampire working together while representing their different factions. The magic was cool and all the characters are fun. Ally treats her love interest so poorly, I almost rooted for him to ditch her.
Profile Image for Jennifer Hines.
Author 5 books80 followers
March 9, 2016
*I received this book free from Red Moon Book Tours in exchange for an honest review*

Ari almost crossed a line in Awakening the Fire, but thanks to Andreas she didn't. Of course that doesn't mean she's thankful, she's more lost and unsure of herself than anything. The last person she wants to need to Andreas, but when vampires start coming up dead and he's also targeted she'll realize that staying away is no longer an option if she wants to do her job and keep him protected.

Vampires are being murdered and neither Andreas nor Prince Daron know who's behind the apparent serial killings so he'll have to rely on getting his little witch to let him help and once again work as a team. Of course he doesn't exactly play fair when it comes to enticing Arianna.

Fire Within is captivating and suspenseful with a little romance mixed in. As in the first book I do mean a little...this is a more "fade to black" than "hot with details" kind of romantic relationship.

With a serial killer on the loose, people on the edge of rebellion, and a twisting plot that'll keep you entertained Fire Within definitely keeps up the Guardian Witch Series' momentum. I can't wait to see what book three, Burning Both Ends, has in store.

My Favorite Moment: I really enjoy Russell and Lilith, the husband and wife werelions. Not only are they completely awesome at their jobs, but Lilith and Ari start becoming more friendly and two girls with sass just add so much fun to the story.

"I wonder how many women in this crowd are wishing they could climb into his bed tonight."

Ari shrugged, refusing to rise to the bait. Andreas's eyes had strayed in her direction often enough that she wasn't worried.

Russell, on the other hand, growled and said, "I trust you're not one of them, my dear wife."
Profile Image for Maghon Thomas.
1,541 reviews1 follower
May 24, 2015
In continuation to book 1, Ari has a crisis. Something is murdering vampires and trying to cause a war! The humans are freaking out, Ari is up a creek without a paddle and things are getting crazier! This is an excellent sequel :) I only have one complaint but I'll get to it later.

Ari is taking her Guardian job serious. She's very committed to her job but when it becomes that she'll be saddled with the sexy vampire Andreas as she's trying very hard to avoid him, things are getting serious. And her magic just won't let Andreas go. But Ari just wants to solve these murders. Romance is not in the cards. Or so she thinks. And Ryan, he's gunna lose his mind when he finds out who the murderer is! Lol he made me laugh so much! I love their conversations! And Andreas, well, he's struggling with Ari's magic, the pull he feels to her and how to fix this cray cray!

And here's my complaint, Ari is still mad at Andreas. I'm not sure why. Dude he's a vampire, an old one, he kills bad things, get over it because she was almost just as bad. Yeah yeah and think she's just blaming him for her own reactions. Lol but anyways! I loved the action and the fun mystical lab work for magic with the lab worker who was awesome :)

I'm definitely looking forward to seeing where book three is gunna go with everything that happened! With that, I can't wait :) 5 PAWS!!
Profile Image for A. Gorman.
Author 39 books108 followers
June 23, 2013
I received this book I exchange for an honest review. I didn’t know much about it, but when is started reading it, I realized I needed to go back and read the first one. (Go grab it!)

This novel picks up eight months after where the first one ends. Arianna Calin is a witch. Not any old witch, but a fire witch who is the Guardian of Riverdale. She is one awesomely lady er witch! She is a detective and a crime fighter. She is just a bad ass.

Eddie, a reporter friend to Ari, confesses to a murder he did not commit, Ari and Ryan Foster (just a human) investigates the case to uncover the truth… Bodies are turning up everywhere…. Is this the work of a serial killer that is targeting vampires which is leading into an all-out war between the vampires and humans… Will Ari find out what is really going on??

In the last book, Ari and Andreas de Luca , who is a vampire, has a hot and cold relationship and Ari has been keeping herself from seeing him. Now they working together since Andreas offered his help… Will their hot chemistry fire back up??? Hmmmm…

I LOVED this book. Ari is just an awesome chick. The story is very good! I could not put the book the down. It kept me interested and I didn’t want it to end.
4.5 out of 5 stars!
1,404 reviews7 followers
August 9, 2015

A hidden evil stalks the city…

Ari Calin refuses to believe her human friend Eddie murdered a vampire—in spite of his confession. Her human partner Ryan thinks the case is a slam dunk, even though there’s no weapon and no witnesses, but Ari’s not about to let her friend take the rap without finding out more.

When Ari attends a charity event on the arm of a handsome werewolf, she finds someone she never expected to see again—Andreas De Luca, the charismatic vampire she used to date. When their eyes meet across the room, memories come rushing back. His kiss, his touch, a savage death…and a terrifying magical bond. A reconnection is the last thing she wants. Only by staying away and forgetting Andreas can she hope to avoid the Legend of Ramora.

But when vampires keep dying, one thing becomes clear: Riverdale has a serial killer on its hands, and Andreas could be next. Ari begins to fear there’s more to it, though. Something truly evil is stalking the city, waiting to take control…

Profile Image for Deena.
1,469 reviews10 followers
December 31, 2015
This wasn't quite as good as the first one. It lagged in the middle and I was leaning towards a rating of two stars, but it got better at the end - although the two main points (one plot, one over-all story arc) were telegraphed from early in the story. I liked Ari rather less this time - she's painfully lacking in self-awareness, but I'm not sure if it's intentional or just sloppy writing. Additionally, Andreas isn't improving. He seems to want to be Gio from Elizabeth Hunter's Elemental Mysteries series, but since we never get A's POV, he's just empty. I'll try another, but I'm by no means convinced that I'll make it to the end of the series.
Profile Image for Raquel (Rocki).
680 reviews39 followers
March 24, 2016
You can find a longer review on my blog: Raquel Gabrielle's Blog

Just as good as the first one was. There is definitely a fire brewing in more ways than one. This series makes me want to keep reading and reading, I don't binge read many series and this one makes me want to do that. The team really needs to figure out how to get rid of Sebastian I don't think he will play nice for too much longer. Right now he is just sending people to mess with the city I don't see it staying that way for long. Even though they do ultimately stop the problems they still do damage regardless. Next one here I come.
Profile Image for Denali.
386 reviews52 followers
April 6, 2017
As stated in my review for the previous book, Ally Shields is a wonder and can weave a wonderful tale. Keeping the momentum I had in the previous book, I couldn't stop reading and devoured this one quickly.

If you are looking at this review, chances are you read the first book and you don't need me to tell you to continue. But on the off chance you do, Fire Within is just as good if not better. Ari is facing a tough case with the species she has the least relationship with as a whole. She is also facing her internal turmoil of her attraction to one sexy vampire in particular.

Must read.
Profile Image for Jean ~ Kindle Queen.
586 reviews38 followers
January 14, 2015
I still enjoy Ms. Shields' writing style, but the characters really bugged me in this one. Ari acted so immature and childish, and even Ryan got on my nerves. In addition, I figured out the main villain almost immediately. It seemed so painfully obvious who it was that it made the detectives and Ari seem totally inept when they couldn't figure it out.

I think I need a break from this series for a bit. Perhaps I'll check out Cross Keys (An Elvenrude Novel) by Ally Shields instead for a change of pace.
Profile Image for Lyndi W..
2,042 reviews210 followers
March 31, 2016
Sooo... I kinda enjoyed the first book after skipping like 50% of it and decided to keep going. I liked this one much more, but I absolutely haaated Ari's constant negative thinking, suspicions, and paranoia when it came to Andreas. For somebody that is supposed to be THE Guardian for vampires, she doesn't know jack shit about them and doesn't think very highly of them, either. It was brutally annoying to read about her doubts and second guessing every time Andreas said or did something.

I'd have given this 4 stars without all that bullshit.
1,187 reviews5 followers
August 17, 2015
Not really a paranormal book - more a police book with supernatural names substituted.
Slow read, and unsatisfying conclusion. Took away a star for yet another ridiculous vampire romance. Only good thing about a sparkly vampire is they make a good target.
Will read the next only because I already got it. Recommended for staking practise after you have read how hot Andreas is for the twentieth time
Profile Image for Kelly.
156 reviews2 followers
May 25, 2013
This book definitely delivers. I found that I enjoyed this book more than the first, which will keep me coming back for more. The chemistry between all the characters is believable and endearing. I suggest this book even if you have not read the first. They both can basically stand by themselves. I am looking forward to reading more about these characters.
Profile Image for Megan.
49 reviews5 followers
March 17, 2013
Again, I knew how the book was going to end before I finished it.
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