Wings of Dusk

Arcane Angels

by R.K. Lilley

A guardian's duty is to protect their charge.
It is a holy bond, unbreakable outside of death.
You must never leave their side. You must never show emotion.
You must never cross a line. You must never fall in love.

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy, Romance, Magic, Dystopia, Steamy

243 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 18, 2024

About the author

R.K. Lilley has been a writer since she can remember, but has held down some interesting jobs to pay the bills. For several years she was a first class flight attendant, and she always swore that she just had to write a book about it. Mixing her love of romance and all things BDSM, the Up In the Air Trilogy is her debut into the world of contempary romance and erotica. She is currently working on the final installment in the series.
You can contact R.K. at Authorrklilley@gmail.com
Visit her Facebook page to keep up-to-date on what she's working on

https://www.facebook.com/authorrklilley

And check out her website http://www.rklilley.com/

R.K. also writes urban fantasy under the pseudonym: Rebecca K. Lilley

Reviews

[Hannah · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was going so so well, until all the fucking ow drama RUINED IT ALL!!!!! 😡😡😡

[TheSassyNerdBlog · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not a huge fantasy reader, but when I see R.K. Lilley has a new book releasing, I am all over it! If she writes it, I will read it!

You'll enjoy this book if you like these tropes…♡

❥ Fantasy Romance
❥ Angsty
❥ Touch Her & Die Vibes
❥ Heroine in Danger
❥ Forbidden Love
❥ Supernatural Powers
❥ Protector Hero
❥ Soulmates
❥ Bodyguard Romance
❥ GuardianWard
❥ Undeniable Attraction
❥ Intense Chemistry

This is the first book in the Arcane Angels series and what an amazing start to what promises to be an incredible series!

It’s the story of Venefica and Battle. It’s set in a world of magic where supernatural creatures such as angels exist. It is nothing like the world we live in. Venefica is one of a selected few who are honoured to have a guardian angel. What this means is that she has a divine purpose. However, she’s unsure of what that is in the beginning. Battle is in this supernatural world to protect her. He’s devoted to her and her alone.

It’s setting a path and creating a world for a deeper story to come. It was a fast-paced read with amazing world-building and excellent character development. The fantasy aspect intrigued me even though I’m not much of a fantasy fan. It did keep my attention. Add in some family drama and a whole lot of angst. It’s perfection!

I’m not going to dive in too much deeper however, I was obsessed from page one. I love R.K Lilley’s writing and her ability to draw you into the story and hold you there til the very end and she did just that with this amazing new book. I’m excited to see where she goes with this series!

5 STARS!

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just Wow! What an incredible start to this new series! Venefica and Battle make for a fascinating couple, as does the world they inhabit. Battle, guardian to Venefica, appears stoic and unmoved initially, but we quickly realise that intense passions exist behind that beautiful exterior, ones which, increasingly, Venefica wants to incite and explore. Beyond this increasingly intense relationship, there is a world of intrigue, magic, threat and the ongoing frustration of an ambitious, selfish and determined mother.
I loved this world that RK Lilley has created, but, oh my goodness! That ending! My heart is still hammering! Fabulous! 💖💖💖💖💖

[Mindy Lou's Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

interesting start!

A unique take on Angels and I can see so much potential in this series. This first book set everything up and now I can’t wait to see where it’ll all go. I hope book two releases soon.

[AJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

As a long-time R.K. Lilley fan, I was beyond excited when I learnt that she was publishing a romantic fantasy story. This is the first book in the Arcane Angels series, and it’s a great read! Intriguing and imaginative, with action, drama and a sexy, intense romance, I really enjoyed this one.

Set in a world where magic and angels exist, Venefica is one of the special few who have been honored with a guardian angel. It means she has a divine purpose, though she has no clue what it might be. Battle was born to protect her, and he serves her with unwavering devotion and pride.

“You’re not capable of taking advantage of me. The nature of our bond prevents it. I exist to serve.”

This book is written entirely from Venefica’s POV, introducing us to the characters and their world, while setting the scene for the deeper story to come. It’s a quick read that moves at a great pace, and I enjoyed the world building, the fantasy elements, the family drama and social dynamics in play.

The true focus of the book is the relationship between Venefica and her angel. There is attraction there, but there are rules, and neither of them have ever thought to cross the line. Until they do. It’s a bit of a twisty road to get there, but their coming together is hot and super steamy, and emotionally intense for both of them.

“You are the one. It’s a feeling deep in my gut. An undeniable compulsion. I saw you and I knew it was you.”

The story builds really well, finishing on a seriously nasty cliffhanger that has me so curious where the series will go from here.

This is a great series starter, I’m completely hooked, and can’t wait to continue on with the story.

“The world can only hurt us. But when we’re together, all alone like this, life is perfect.”

4 stars.

An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.

[Dani.Reads.Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m a long time RK Lilley fan and I’ve read most of her books multiple times, so when I saw this release, it was an instant buy. I didn’t even look at what it was about.

A Romantasy novella, this story follows a young woman and her guardian, who exists to protect her at all moments in time. Always with her, Battle is known globally as “Wings of Dusk,” but despite their constant proximity, the two are not (yet) romantically linked. Even though Venefica would very much like for them to be so.

I ate this up. I think there were definitely some weaknesses in the writing that I’m not used to Lilley having, so it was a bit surprising, but overall this was such an enjoyable read. Normally, we get more exposition and a bit more depth with our characters, which was definitely lacking here. I’m hoping the second book in the series is a bit stronger in terms of the writing. There was minimal description, things moved very quickly without a lot of internal dialogue or explanation from our heroine, and I wanted to know more about the magic system and the world, but just didn’t get enough.

I think this is really well done in the way it quickly introduced us to the world but yet didn’t overwhelm the reader with info dumps or too much at one time. I read this in a single sitting and couldn’t put it down.

I can’t wait for the next.

[Lacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

R.K. Lilley’s Wings of Dusk, Book One in her dystopian Fantasy Romance Trilogy Arcane Angels, explores the forbidden relationship between stoic and reserved guardian Battle and his strong-willed and curious chosen Venefica as she prepares to discover and embrace her divine purpose. My first read by Lilley is a captivating, steamy, passionate, and exciting fantasy that captured my imagination from its intriguing beginning.

Lilley’s storytelling and writing style are quite different from what I’m used to, but they work for this character-driven fantasy novel. She draws you into the story with fascinating, likable, relatable, conflicted, and complex characters you can’t help but care about and become invested in their lives. Her detailed and vivid description results in lovely worldbuilding that makes you feel like you are with the characters in each moment.

Although the story and its pacing start low-key and almost mundane, they gradually build intensity in step with the story’s conflict and the transformation of Venefica and Battle’s relationship. Lilley deftly develops and evolves Battle and Venefica’s characters and relationships through humorous, introspective conversations and interactions and steamy, intensely sexual and emotional love scenes and intimate moments. These scenes also further Lilley’s multilayered, complex story and lay the foundation for the intricate mythology of the Arcane world that she takes her time revealing.

I love Battle and Venefica’s relationship and the strength of their connection. Their conversations and banter are funny, emotional, and sometimes intense. Battle is so patient with Venefica, the first-person POV character in the story. She is far too curious for her own good. She kept me laughing with the depth of her curiosity about Battle and some of the questions she asked him. Battle and Venefica are quite the couple. I really like both characters and how they always try to protect, support, and give each other what they need, even when the other is stubbornly resistant to accepting their help. By writing solely from Venefica’s POV, Lilley creates an excellent working partnership unbalanced by an intensely charged interpersonal relationship with so much pining, longing, and repressed desire. And I’m here for it. I couldn’t get enough of the pining and longing! The intensity of repressed emotion and sexually charged energy/interest between them is something to behold. Though they both do a pretty good job of hiding their interest and just how much their feelings for each other have crossed the line between chosen and guardian into something more. And when those barriers come down, the heat and fire are out of control! Unsurprisingly, things get seriously steamy, passionate, and hot between them. I love how Lilley balances the emotional and sexual aspects of these scenes.

I got so caught up in the story’s third act that I was unprepared for that ending—leaving me feeling some type of way. All I can say is that I need Book Two ASAP! Emotionally intense, steamy, funny, sexy, suspenseful, and fast-paced, Wings of Dusk is a fantasy romance that’s perfect for fans of forbidden love, touch-her-and-die, supernatural powers, guardian warrior MMCs, forced proximity/close quarters, soulmates, magic, and bodyguard romances.

Thanks to author R.K. Lilley and Grey's Promotions for the Advanced Review Copy.

4.5 stars

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first paranormal read by RK Lilley, but I’m already eager for the next one. Venefica is busy studying and trying to earn her way into her life’s purpose, potentially in the medical field, and Battle is her assigned guardian. He is with her 24/7, always watching over her and protecting her. There are no obvious dangers initially, but Battle takes his job seriously. In the meantime, there is a quiet attraction between them that Venefica tries to ignore, thinking Battle would never reciprocate based on the signs she’s seen from him. Little does she know what he’s actually thinking and the angst is on point. I adored Battle in his quiet, but stoic, manner and never ending loyalty.

Amidst the tension between Venefica and Battle, there are actual threats to Venefica, which she is a little oblivious to at first. The mystery behind all of these villains who are basically wolves dressed in sheep’s clothing create a whirlwind of multiple questions. I kept wondering when are we going to find out what Venefica’s true talent or power is and it looks like I will have to stay tuned for the sequel. That ending was quite the zinger and I’m excited to see Venefica grow and become a total boss real soon. There’s nothing quite like the cards she was dealt with to turn it around and to seek retribution because I have no doubt that she will be a force to be reckoned with.

[Katerina · Rating 5 out of 5]

❤️

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I saw R.K. Lilley was writing a fantasy novel, I knew I had to check it out! As a long-time reader of the author, I have come to appreciate her layered characters with engaging plots. Wings at Dusk is the first book in a new fantasy series that R.K. Lilley has released into the ‘wild’.

The first quarter of the book is devoted to laying the groundwork for the series. Venefica is like most students of the world, with one exception. Everywhere that Venefica goes, her guardian is not far behind. Battle is the guardian whose sole duty is to protect Venefica from harm. This guardian resembles an angel, but is as farm from ‘light’ as he can be. Together – they lead readers on a tale of discovery, a forbidden romance and finding one’s purpose in life.

Remember I said the first third of the book is a BUILDING block of what is to come. If you can’t connect, place the book on the backburner and come back when you can take in all the nuances of the plot. The foundation is being set for readers to explore the mythical world of Arcane. The intricacies matter as you will discover while rooting for a romance between Battle and Venefica. This duo will keep you wondering where life in Arcane will unfold, and where the connection between the characters will lead.

The ending……oh my! All I can say is I am completely vested in Venefica and Battle’s future. I will be twiddling my thumbs waiting to dive into the next book in the saga. Kudos to R.K. Lilley for dipping her toes into the fantasy genre!

[Sara Books & Tips · Rating 4 out of 5]

Venefica and Battle. He is a guardian, she is his charge.
In a world where magic is real and present, where religion plays an important role, Venefica is human. But sometimes humans can be special, chosen by a God for a particular role or ability. And so Battle enters her life, because he is a guardian (also defined by others as an angel) and he has the task of protecting her at all costs.
With every minute spent together, what could possibly happen?

Can duty really come before feelings? You can try hard, you can self-deceive, but when the feelings are there and don't seem to want to go away, there's not much you can do. The boundary between duty and pleasure becomes blurred, but one thing does not necessarily exclude the other.

Venefica and Battle are concrete examples of this, they make us identify with them to experience their story step by step. They make us understand that it is possible and that, when the feelings are real and deep, it is worth it.

When their happy bubble is undermined by intrigues and threats bigger than them, the situation becomes more serious. They need to open their eyes, watch their backs and learn who real friends are and who pretends to be. Placing trust in people who truly deserve it is the key to everything, but it is also the most difficult step.

But let's not forget another fundamental thing: when those we love are in danger it is the moment when we bring out our true strength and courage. Only then do we understand which boundaries we are willing to cross and what we are willing to do to help them... or to get them back.

[Chelsea Maguire · Rating 5 out of 5]

R.K Lilley does it again with her latest Romantsy release Wings of Dusk. As a fan of R.K. Lilley, I was not disappointed. She has a way of captivating the reader immediately. I became transfixed by the description of Battle’s beautiful and unusual wings.

R.K. Lilley writes characters you can’t help falling in love with and root for. Their chemistry is palpable and you can feel their yearning for one another. As much as you want Venefica and Kuisto together, their journey is worth every second.
“You’re not capable of taking advantage of me. The nature of our bond prevents it. I exist to serve.” SWOONS.
It’s the longing you see from both of them that brings you back for more.
“If you died, I wouldn’t care where I lived or who I saw again. I would want to die with you. Our fates are tied, in life and death.”
And the spice…hot hot hot!
“He was a hungry, wild animal and I had just given him rein to run free, to slake every desperate desire on my person.”

Not only are the characters irresistible and beautiful, the story itself captures your attention. You can’t help but wonder which characters are trustworthy and where the story will lead. By the end, I was on the edge of my seat with knots in my stomach, devouring every page. I am already anticipating next book, eager to find out what happens next for Venefica and Kuisto.

[Karline05 Un brin de lecture · Rating 4 out of 5]

http://www.unbrindelecture.com/2024/0...
Un premier tome introductif qui nous présente un duo gardien-protégé assez charmant même si très naïf . On plante le décor et franchement j'ai aimé la mythologie de cette histoire mais cela reste un peu court à mon gout , j'espère que la suite nous donnera plus de profondeur notamment dans les personnages qui ont l'air de prendre cette voie en fin de récit.
An introductory first volume that introduces us to a guardian-protected duo who are quite charming even if very naive. We set the scene and frankly I liked the mythology of this story, but it's still a bit short for my taste. I hope the sequel will give us more depth, especially in the characters who seem to take this path at the end of the story.

[Tmara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I need the second book like yesterday!!! Wow! If I could give this another star, I would. It is action packed and angsty as h***! The world building is built into the story so, there are no gaps explaining where they are. Love it! 😍

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good!

[Emmi (bookish_redpanda) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Format: 📱 eBook 📱

I've previously read Lilley's contemporary romance, so when I saw she was dipping her toes into romantasy, I got so excited.

Wings of Dusk is a fantastic blend of romance, suspense, intrigue and politics that will have you turning the pages to find out what happens next. Told entirely from the FMC, Venefica's, POV, we're immersed in a world where certain individuals - those with a "divine purpose" - are granted guardians (what we call angels) who protect their wards from any and all dangers.

It unfolds that Battle (Kuisto), her guardian, was born to protect her from day one, and there begins unfolding their forbidden romance story. There are rules when it comes to guardians and their wards, and guardians have their own ways of feeding (think angels with vampiric tendencies - certainly an original take on the idea), as well as satiating other needs. It's a romance full of twists and turns - as is the entire book, really - and I loved reading how the two gave in and fell for each other, even if it took some time to get there. Whilst there was spice in the pages, I wouldn't say it was at the same level as Lilley's contemporary romance spice - but still beautifully written, full of emotion and understanding.

Then the twist of the book hits, followed by one heck of a cliffhanger, and honestly, I was left reeling - and so very intrigued to see where the story would go from here.

My only true gripe with this story is the constant changing of Battle/Kuisto's name through the book, once Venny decides she's calling him Kuisto. We jump between her calling him Battle and Kuisto in her mind, which removed me from the story a couple of times.

A great romantasy introduction from Lilley, and I honestly cannot wait to read the next book in the series.

Thank you to the author and @greyspromo for the eARC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

A guardian's duty is to protect their charge.
It is a holy bond, unbreakable outside of death.
You must never leave their side. You must never show emotion.
You must never cross a line. You must never fall in love.

Well three out of four wasn’t bad for Battle, guardian to trainee healer Venefica in Wings of Dusk, the first book in the Arcane Angels series as RK Lilley makes a welcome return to the world of fantasy romance. Told from the heroine’s point of view, it introduces the characters, Venefica, a reluctant trainee healer and Battle her guardian, a being born to protect those with a divine purpose but so far Venefica’s purpose has yet to manifest and hasn’t shown any particular skills that could warrant the attention of one. I loved the banter between Venefica and at Battle whose responses were so deadpan but there was a definite hint of humour there and more importantly it was more than obvious he was developing a major case of lust for her as proven by his reaction to her ambitious mother’s attempt to marry off her daughter. This book does a fantastic job of introducing the characters and creating a vaguely dystopian world. It’s a quick read and just as I was getting into it, it culminated in a shocker of a WTF cliffhanger. One thing you can say about this author is she definitely knows how to leave readers desperate for more!

[Carissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fast paced fantasy romance read. I really enjoyed it. Venefica has a guardian/angel named Battle. There are a few chosen who have a guardian to serve them for a higher purpose or who are special. And they recently newly paired with one another so in the beginning we can tell they aren’t 100% acquainted yet. Venefica has a mother who’s trying to arrange a marriage for her but is also of high importance as Venefica’s 2nd stepfather is in the political world. Venefica is also almost done with training to become a healer so I wonder if that comes more into play in the next book. I loved seeing how Venefica and Battle start to connect/strengthen their bond. There were a few surprises in this one for me as well as has some mystery in the plot. But a couple things sure go down here and with the cliffy ending I need to find out what happens next.

Tropes: #FantasyRomance #Angsty #TouchHerandDie #HeroineinDanger #ForbiddenLove #SupernaturalPowers #Protector #SoulMate #BodyguardRomance #GuardianWard

I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

[Michelle D · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first time reading a fantasy book and I really enjoyed it. I love this author and her writing and this did not disappoint. This book has a cliffhanger and I am so ready for the next book!

I loved Venefica and Battle. Their connection comes across strongly in each chapter and he is willing to do anything to protect her and loves her from afar. Love his touch her and die devotion.

It took me a few chapters to get used to the dialogue but I loved Battle and his passionate desire and love for her.

The book ends in a betrayal of what they thought was a dear friend and left me wanting more of their beautiful story.

RK Lilley you can write a love story!

Tropes:
Fantasy
Angst
Touch Her & Die
Forbidden Love
Soulmates
GuardianWarn

[Lake B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kuisto is charged with guarding Venefica, but she is not sure the ultimate reason why. He is repeatedly put down by her mother, especially as her mother tries to marry her off since their city is entering a period of unrest. She struggles with how close her daughter is becoming to her guardian, and Venefica and Kuisto’s relationship has quickly evolved. In this book, time moves rather quickly and jumps large periods. There are dark aspects to this story, and it does end on a cliffhanger. It will be interesting to see what happens next, and I hope Venefica has people on her side.

[Sarah Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is R. K. Lilley at her best!
I can always count on her books to be well written and full of spice. I can’t wait for the next book to come out!

[Jdursi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was super excited to find out Ms. Lilley was dipping her tow into the Fantasy/Romance genres. I loved the flow of the story. It was filled with great world building and one heck of a cliffhanger! It was very hard to out down. I was always waiting on bated breath to see what would happen next. I love this world where Angels and Magic exists.

[Lita Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wings of Dusk (Arcane Angels Book 1) by RK Lilley. It has been several years since I read anything by this author, so I was extremely excited for the opportunity to this story. This story is a far departure from anything I have read by this author. Venefica lives in the mythical city where there are special citizens who have the gift of a guardian. Battle is Venefica's guardian. The guardians are also known as angels. Their only function in life is to protect their wards at all time. Venefica is the daughter of a very influential mother who has large ambitions where Venefica is going to school to be a healer. However, she is a mediocre student and really isn't sure the direction of her life. This story revolves around the relationship between Venefica and Battle. There is a physical attraction to each other, and this story is their journey to being together. Having an overbearing and highly driven mother put an added strain on Venefica. This first book laid the initial groundwork of introducing the characters, the world they live in, and the world of guardians. I was instantly sucked into the story. Reading this story was like following a trail of good tasting food. The more I ate, I still wanted more. Of course, this story was left on a cliffhanger. I am truly looking forward to this going back to this strange and magical world. I need to know that everything will work out. Oh, so good. 4 stars for me.

[Ebony · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hooked😍

I love R.K. Lilley's writing style. That's what truly draws me in. I know I'll fall in love with her characters, but I love the fact that her dialogue is flawless. She also doesn't describe every little thing. You can build a world without describing the chair the main character is sitting on. She's a writer, and I'm hooked on her words ❣️ I can't wait for Wings of Death!!

[Taz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Battle/ Kuisto is the closed-off silent type at first in his guardianship of Venefica. Guardians and their wards are bonded for life in a relationship that many can not understand. Lilley unravels the world of guardians and the myths of who they are as Vennie and Battle's lives are undergoing constant change. It is an engaging read that will draw you in as Lilley story writing style is a trail of breadcrumbs you want to follow. The ending was a huge WTH just happened. 

[Kymberlee Bolden · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book kept me up until 2am on a work night. And then surviving the workday the following day was brutal. Love the world building, the characters, the slow burn. I do hate a cliffhanger though. So minus one star.

[the_bibliophagist · Rating 4 out of 5]

It has been a few years since I've read R.K. Lilley, I loved her then and I still enjoy her now. I love the world she has created, something different from other fantasy genres. I like the characters especially Battle, although he has such a unique name. The plot kept me entertained and captivated. This does end on a cliffhanger that makes you wish book 2 was out already.

[Robin ferguson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Favorite quotes:

"Do you remember the day we met?" he asked me. "Vividly," I replied, smiling at the memory. "It was at the summer wine festival out in the country I remember. I was stomping on grapes with Tormandy
and Gram was throwing grapes at us that we were trying to catch in our mouths. I was giggling uncontrollably. I looked up and saw you in the sky, the sun directly behind you, surrounding you with light. You didn't look real. I'd never have anything seen so beautiful."

You can tell me anything and share anything at all with me. You own my heart, and I want everything you have to give."

First time reading something from this author, and it didn't disappoint. I couldn’t put it down. I'm definitely ready for the second book to come out.

Wings of Dusk
Arcane Angels: Book One
A guardian's duty is to protect their charge.  
It is a holy bond, unbreakable outside of death.
You must never leave their side. You must never show emotion.  
You must never cross a line. You must never fall in love.  

[Naomi Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

R.K. Lilley did it again, another hit right out of the park! This is the fastest I've read a book in one go. This book had me on the edge of my seat, and I'm dying to know what comes next for these characters! Excellent story and 5 stars from me!

[Tammi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love when this author dips into fantasy. I get lost in the imagery and love story. Such an interesting story. A girl and her guardian angel.
Imagine have a supernatural being love you so much that he starved himself from his basic needs. He held his feelings in fearing you wouldn't feel the same and the knowledge might make you feel the least bit uncomfortable. All his energy and strength went into protecting you in every way physically and mentally.
Oh my though!! She turned the tables and tricked him showing her true feelings. Then everything changed and the their story got HOT.
I was on edge as their world became perfect the world around them fell apart.
Outside forces worked against them and my heart was broken.
But our girl is not taking this laying down. She is out for revenge!!
I can't wait for the next one!