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The Underground Guardians #1

When Darkness Breaks

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I'm a demon wanting to break free and fight for good. So why did I fall in love with an angel and put all of that at risk?

Ebony has spent the last two hundred years trying to escape the Underworld because who she is doesn’t match what’s in her heart. Being a demon with a pure heart is unnatural, and those around her, mostly her family, want to keep her locked away for the rest of her life.

While escaping, she saves an angel imprisoned in the Underworld, and the course of her entire life is changed from the moment she meets the mysterious angel, Simon.

With the help of the Promiscus Guardians, and their lesser known subgroup, the Underground Guardians, Ebony is set on a path that will lead to discovering the true depth of her power, the value of her pure heart, and a life worth living. But will her undeniable connection with Simon lead to her undoing?

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About the author

Brianna West

40 books309 followers
Brianna West is an Amazon Bestselling author. She eats words for breakfast. When not nose-deep in a hot paranormal read, she's writing about slick, muscly goodness and the bad-ass, sassy heroine goddesses who find them. Her stories drip with sarcasm, supernatural impossibility, and contain enough adventure and suspense to leave you at the edge of your seat all the way through.

Take a step--or leap--into her well-established world of the Guardians to meet the characters who gave life to a paranormal empire.

Subscribe to her newsletter: https://www.subscribepage.com/brianna...

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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
Profile Image for Jennifer Ellis.
374 reviews
March 27, 2017
When Darkness Breaks is the first book in the Underground Guardians Series. If you like a paranormal romance with fun and interesting sidekicks, warrior angels with a romantic side, demons, danger, romance, and intrigue, then this story might just be for you.

Ebony was born a demon but she is like no other demon. She was born with a pure heart and because of that she doesn't belong in the underworld. She's been planning her escape for a long time and now's the time.

It's during her escape that she finds Simon, an angel who has been captured and locked up in the underworld. She takes him with her through the portal to the mortal realm. Now he owes her a life debt that he is more then happy to repay.

Where do I even start with this book. I guess I'll start by telling you I loved this story. Simon is such a sweetheart. And he has patience in spades as he waits for Ebony to figure things out.

Ebony has been extremely sheltered so as her relationship with Simon grows, she isn't sure what her feelings are or how to interpret his.

It did get a bit frustrating at times as the reader, I found myself wishing he would just explain things to her. Like how he felt, and what their marks meant. At the same time I was on pins and needles waiting to see how the story as a whole resolved itself. There was so much more to it then just their relationship.

Well I'm still waiting for some of my questions to be answered as the story continues in the next book. I can't wait to read it
Profile Image for Jeanéva Christie.
Author 2 books111 followers
December 8, 2016
As usual, Ms. West leaves you wanting… more!

More Ebony, more Simon, more Promiscus Guardians… simply more, please! I’ve liked the hard-ass lead angel of the Promiscus Guardians since he was first introduced in the previous series. I have to admit though that I was pleasantly surprised with discovering Simon’s search for his soul mate or Cor Vocanti as they are called and just where it would lead him… straight into the bowels of hell itself. Typical of all of Ms. West’s books, When Darkness Breaks is full of action, adventure, danger, and suspense. All of that is the icing on top of a very hot paranormal romance.

Unlike the heroines of her previous books, Ms. West’s Ebony is total innocence personified in a demon package. She is so far from kick-butt it isn’t funny. Ebony has spent the past two hundred years as a prisoner of her family in hell. With her pure light core, she is the anathema of a demon. She has a fascination with humans and the world above, a fascination that led her to escape a hundred years ago. Her escape was short lived but she has no intention of getting caught this time around. With her mother dead, she has only her words of wisdom to guide her. So if Ebony is lucky she’ll find the Promiscus Guardians and find a spot among them. Lucky for her the angel she rescues from hell just happens to be the leader of the guardians.

When Ebony rescues Simon from hell he knows he’s met his destiny. Now he just has to convince the council of angels that Ebony is as innocent and worthy as she appears. He’ll also have to help Ebony grow into her abilities as a guardian in a special group that consists of those normally of a dark nature. Prepare to see a side of Simon never seen before. Ebony is everything this angel has been searching for and everything he’ll fight to keep at his side.

When Darkness Breaks is a wonderful start to a new series. I can’t wait to read more of The Underground Guardians series with Ebony and Simon. If Ms. West stays on course, I think we can at least expect a trilogy out of this series story line. Hopefully, she’ll also continue with her spin-off series featuring the other members of the Promiscus Guardians. This is a world I am totally enjoying and I’m sure you will too.
*****Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions*****
3 reviews11 followers
October 26, 2016
Ebony is a Demon unlike any other, and she doesn’t belong in the Under World. Her mother, the only one that loved her, was taken from her, and her father and brother both want Ebony dead. In captivity for over 200 years, she is finally ready to escape. All is well until she overhears talk about an Angel being held underground. Knowing that she is putting her escape in jeopardy, she goes down to get him….

Simon is the Angel who has been captured by Demons. He’s hung in a dungeon, beaten, bloodied, and bound by spells. He’s taken aback when a beautiful, blue eyed, black haired Demon uses her power to take him from his hell.

They escape to the mortal realm together. She doesn’t trust him, but feels a pull to him. Before her mother died, she told her to find The Promiscus Guardians. So in this world, she sets off to find them, with Simon by her side.

When you read this book, you will feel someone lovingly experience the sunrise for the first time. You’ll experience the feeling of hearing classical music for the first time, being able to dance to it for the first time. The first feelings of affection, both given and received. There is so much more, but if you want to know, then you’ll need to read the book!

Excellent storyline. Likeable, well defined characters. And most important…..EXCELLENT GRAMMAR!

There wasn’t anything I didn’t like about this book. Kudos, Brianna West, you’ve gotten yourself a new fan!!
Profile Image for Aly.
12 reviews
November 27, 2016
Ebony is a Demon unlike any other, and she doesn’t belong in the Under World. Her mother, the only one that loved her, was taken from her, and her father and brother both want Ebony dead. In captivity for over 200 years, she is finally ready to escape. All is well until she overhears talk about an Angel being held underground. Knowing that she is putting her escape in jeopardy, she goes down to get him….

Simon is the Angel who has been captured by Demons. He’s hung in a dungeon, beaten, bloodied, and bound by spells. He’s taken aback when a beautiful, blue eyed, black haired Demon uses her power to take him from his hell.

They escape to the mortal realm together. She doesn’t trust him, but feels a pull to him. Before her mother died, she told her to find The Promiscus Guardians. So in this world, she sets off to find them, with Simon by her side.

When you read this book, you will feel someone lovingly experience the sunrise for the first time. You’ll experience the feeling of hearing classical music for the first time, being able to dance to it for the first time. The first feelings of affection, both given and received. There is so much more, but if you want to know, then you’ll need to read the book!

Excellent storyline. Likeable, well defined characters. And most important…..EXCELLENT GRAMMAR!

There wasn’t anything I didn’t like about this book. Kudos, Brianna West, you’ve gotten yourself a new fan!!
Profile Image for Karen Voitik.
3,219 reviews
September 20, 2017
>Book review – When Darkness Breaks –

>This is the first book in the Promiscus Guardians series and ends in an HEA for the main couple. Ebony is a demon with no evil in her. She is kept under lock and key her whole life. As she plans her escape from the Underworld, she hears about a captured angel and saves him. Simon is a powerful angel with a lot of secrets. He is instantly attracted to Ebony. Ebony is extremely naïve, but very kindhearted. She is always thinking of others first, sacrificing herself. She believes her worth is not more than anyone else’s.

>The group of guardians are a hodge podge of beings, all different, yet brought together with one common goal. These guardians want to do good and save humankind from demonic forces. The guardians bicker like siblings, especially the troll and the vampire. The troll is so funny, spouting lame poetry at Ebony because he has a crush on her.

>There are a few battles with evil as the underworld’s demons want Ebony back. The chemistry between Simon and Ebony is palpable, but I wish Simon would have explained what was going on to Ebony more clearly. His actions speak louder than words as he continuously protects and saves Ebony.

>I am a reviewer for Romance Authors that Rock. This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving this story 5 stars. The story has romance, action and even a few secrets are revealed.

Profile Image for K.J. Chapman.
Author 9 books100 followers
November 2, 2016
This review is featured on my blog: Writerly Bookish Stuff

Ebony is a high-demon with a pure heart, much to her family's disgust. She can't help but save the angel imprisoned by her father and brother, and in the process she meets the one person who can change her life and offer her something she has never before encountered...true love.

West has upped her writing game with this book. The story neatly runs alongside the original series, but covers a whole different aspect- demon/ dark guardians. The main protagonist, Ebony, is a high-demon and this takes the narrative on a gritty, darker path. I was expecting a stubborn, hard-headed demon protagonist, but was pleasantly surprised with naive, gentle Ebony. West writes her character so convincingly without making her seem weak or gullible.

Of course, there is the much anticipated love story, steamy scenes, action, and dreamy hunks. I mean, I would be pretty gutted if I didn't get a West classic, but it was made all the better with the love interest being the legendary Simon. I know readers have been desperate to find out Simon's story.

In summary, another hit from West, and another brilliant start to a series in a world I love.
Profile Image for Romarin Demetri.
Author 9 books83 followers
December 23, 2016
Simon is perfect as ever, and the flawless lead angel of the Promiscus Guardians now owes his life to Ebony, a character, a rare demon made from pure light, when her energy should be dark.

West's romances have characters and readers drooling from the first time they set eyes upon the perfect angels that are the Promiscus Guardians, but there is also something else going on here: every character has a light and dark side pulling at them. Because the guardians are familiar to me as perfect, non-human angels, I was surprised when West changed up her familiar character types with Ebony, the light demon, and it was a refreshing start to the series of "Underground Guardians"! West can work the fantasy side of her writing too, and it will be interesting to see what else she does to her world.
Profile Image for Juli.
1,581 reviews24 followers
December 5, 2016
I voluntarily reviewed a gifted copy of this book (given by the author)...

CLIFFHANGER

This is my first book by Brianna West and I was able to follow the story without needing to read the other books, but I will because I loved this story. This is the story of forbidden love between a demon and angel which leads to a major battle between Heaven and Hell. Simon, the angel, and Ebony, the high demon with a pure heart, meet in the beginning of this book and their adventure never stops. I don't want to give away any details which might ruin the mystery, but there is action in every page; however, there were some repetitive moments that slowed down the story for me a bit.

Can't wait to see what happens next.

Profile Image for Kris Johnston.
Author 19 books179 followers
May 27, 2017
This is probably my favorite book yet from Brianna West. While I have always adored her strong, sassy female leads from her previous tales (i.e., Izzy, Eve, etc.), Ebony is unlike any other. As a demon suddenly finding herself in the real world, she flounders at first, trying to find her footing and her place in life. She has endearing qualities one would compare to that of a newborn, as she experiences a host of feelings and emotions she's never felt before and tries to understand them. Her honesty is refreshing and the chemistry between her and Simon is smoking hot! There's so much to love about this story, highly recommend!
Profile Image for Nicole.
537 reviews
December 6, 2016
When Darkness Breaks by Brianna West is book 1 in the Underground Guardians Series, a new Paranormal action/Romance series.

This book was amazing. I really enjoyed the many different species of paranormals that we get introduced to in this book. The characters all have their unique personalities, are well written and really fun to get to know. The connection and relationships between all the characters were really good also.

I was interested all the way til the end of the book and really enjoyed the cliffhanger at the end for a change. I'm very much looking forward to book 2.

I voluntarily reviewed this advanced reader copy and I have not been compensated in any way.
Profile Image for MaDora Shipman.
50 reviews4 followers
December 6, 2016
I was given an ARC for an honest review from the author.

If Angel's and Demons are your cup of tea i urge you to add this to your TBR list. Pre-order. Because this is a story you will not want to miss.

Just when you think you have things figured out a new twist is thrown into the mix. Who's good? Who's bad? And most importantly who can be trusted? Will good triumph or will evil prevail? A Love story unlike any you've read before. This book blew my mind and I can assure you that even if it does end in a cliff hanger I will be buying this series.
Profile Image for Ani's  Reviews.
285 reviews10 followers
October 30, 2016
ARC for an honest review!

I was hooked on this author's work since the very first book I've read and I have to say they've only gotten better.

AS for this particular book...whoa...an overload of emotions. This book was plotten perfectly from the start and you have to read every single part....well, because you have to. Simon appears in other books and I have to say I've wanted to see him get his one and only too. It was totally worth the wait.

2,617 reviews25 followers
November 10, 2016
omg i loved this story of angels and demons! talk about a true love story of two people that belong to each other! i cant beleive her dad and brother were going to give her to the devil himself! thanks for giving me a chance to read this book!
Profile Image for Connie Greenwood.
57 reviews2 followers
December 7, 2016
I don't want to give away details and spoil the book for anyone.
This is my first book by Brianna West, I loved the book so much I stayed up all night reading it.
I can't wait for the sequel. The characters were entertaining lots of action and romance.
Profile Image for Brianna West.
Author 40 books309 followers
December 5, 2016
I'm biased since this is my book, but I really loved writing this romance story between Simon and Ebony. Ebony isn't my usual heroine, so it was fun to step slightly out of the box.
Profile Image for Janneke Wolbers.
475 reviews1 follower
December 25, 2016
I really liked this! I love anything that has to do with the supernatural and i love reading stuff thats different then everything else out there!
Cant wait till the next book!
Profile Image for Victoria B.
578 reviews5 followers
December 6, 2016
This is the first book I have read by author Brianna West but won't be my last. While I am not a fan of weak, insecure female lead roles, the background of the main female character makes these traits believable plus she has an inner strength that is unmatched. Add the strong, confident and hypnotic main lead male character and you have a undeniable chemistry between the to main characters. With the added secondary characters, action, romance, a couple hot scenes, and some comic relief make this book a great read. Would recommend this book to everyone.
Profile Image for Roxanne Davies.
183 reviews13 followers
November 18, 2016
ARC for an honest review.

If you love stories about angels and demons or even paranormal then you will like this book.

Overall I enjoyed reading this book and thought the storyline and plot etc was really good. So basically we have a 200 year old high demon Ebony who manages to escape the underworld only to run into the gorgeous, witty angel Simon who can be arrogant and a little selfish in my opinion at times but I still loved him. From there it's a story of love, secrets and a troll and vampire who constantly wind each other up lol

For those of you that haven't read this book please do. Can't wait for the next book in series.
Profile Image for Maria Weeks.
55 reviews2 followers
December 6, 2016
Sooooo enjoyed this book!
Ebony and Simons story start when Demon Ebony decides to escape from the Underworld saving Angel Simon on the way.

Their journey together gifts Ebony a list of "firsts" that will make your heart sing and the way Simon acts and reacts around her will leave you swooning!

I picked this book up and struggled to put it down....I would highly recommend this to all my book friends.
Profile Image for Sammy Bell.
245 reviews1 follower
October 28, 2016
This book is quite possibly my favourite out of her books, you've got love, sassy characters, fighting, near death experiences what more could you ask for!? Anyone who knows me knows I'm a massive fan and this book right here is exactly why!! She's amazing!!
Profile Image for Lorraine Fleming.
74 reviews
April 17, 2017
Brianna West is one of my few guarenteed 1-click authors and for good reason. Her paranormal characters work in real world settings and it is easy to imagine that they are really amoung us.
In this story, head honcho Simon is saved from the underworld by a high demon, yes saved. Ebony is no normal high demon, she has a heart so pure it exceeds the purity of some angels. When she discovered that her brother had captured an angel she could not stop herself from helping the angel and escaped with him to the mortal realm. She had always planned to escape and search for the Promiscus Guardians in the hopes that she might find a place with them but neeting Simon was an unexpected twist in her plan.
Another high demon from the underworld has other plans for Ebony and will stop at nothing to get her back.
Beautiful characters and great story of love found in the most unusual places
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews

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