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Royal Guardians #1
The Queen's Mark
Hidden witch royalty. A prophecy that must be fulfilled. Four sexy warlocks with an agenda.
When I drop to my knees on my twenty-fourth birthday, I figure it'll be at least from some hard alcohol. I mean, let's be real. There is plenty of that in my system that night, but what brings me to my knees is certainly unexpected.
The mark hurts like a b*tch and appears out of nowhere, stamping my arm like a brand, but what happens next trips me out more than the appearance.
This guy seems to materialize with the brand. He's large, intense and after he takes me to his house, I realize he's not alone. He has a friend, an arrogant one, and he's just as beautiful as the first. Two more men happen to follow these two, one the others seem to look to and the final, probably the prettiest guy I've ever seen. They also all look at me in ways that make me want to do things, dirty things to each of them.
Had they not told me I'm their queen.
They mean it in the literal sense, not some kinky kind of awesome thing, and I'm left thinking the next Uber home is sounding good.
Especially when they go on about things like powers and a destiny I have to save them all. I've got powers because I'm a witch and they, my warlock guardians. We all were sent from the future to make sure Earth actually has one, and if I don't get a lock on that, bad things will happen.
That's all fine and good until I learn about the bond, something linking us in intense and sometimes visceral ways beyond all of our control. I can try to save the world. That might be doable.
But how can I deal with my feelings for the four of them?
The Queen's Mark is book one in the Royal Guardian's series by Tori Smith. If you like hook ups, mayhem, and four smoking-hot warlocks and the witch queen who refuses to choose between them, then this book is for you! You won't be able to click through the pages fast enough, so one-click this slow burn debut novel today!
When I drop to my knees on my twenty-fourth birthday, I figure it'll be at least from some hard alcohol. I mean, let's be real. There is plenty of that in my system that night, but what brings me to my knees is certainly unexpected.
The mark hurts like a b*tch and appears out of nowhere, stamping my arm like a brand, but what happens next trips me out more than the appearance.
This guy seems to materialize with the brand. He's large, intense and after he takes me to his house, I realize he's not alone. He has a friend, an arrogant one, and he's just as beautiful as the first. Two more men happen to follow these two, one the others seem to look to and the final, probably the prettiest guy I've ever seen. They also all look at me in ways that make me want to do things, dirty things to each of them.
Had they not told me I'm their queen.
They mean it in the literal sense, not some kinky kind of awesome thing, and I'm left thinking the next Uber home is sounding good.
Especially when they go on about things like powers and a destiny I have to save them all. I've got powers because I'm a witch and they, my warlock guardians. We all were sent from the future to make sure Earth actually has one, and if I don't get a lock on that, bad things will happen.
That's all fine and good until I learn about the bond, something linking us in intense and sometimes visceral ways beyond all of our control. I can try to save the world. That might be doable.
But how can I deal with my feelings for the four of them?
The Queen's Mark is book one in the Royal Guardian's series by Tori Smith. If you like hook ups, mayhem, and four smoking-hot warlocks and the witch queen who refuses to choose between them, then this book is for you! You won't be able to click through the pages fast enough, so one-click this slow burn debut novel today!
145 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 5, 2018
390 people are currently reading
234 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
May 23, 2018
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. From what I read, it was meant to be a clean reverse harem paranormal romance? Honestly, I don’t know what I read. I can tell you that the writing style is easy to read and flowed really well. In fact it flowed so well that I finished it all within a 24 hour period. And I genuinely liked the characters.
But it’s the plot that gave me issues. I don’t really think the book had one. Granted, the story is about Arden, the heroine, who doesn’t really know who she is and what is happening to her. But as a reader, I should probably know what is happening in the book. The big conflict felt oddly unconflicted and easily resolved with the underlying conflicts never explained. There was a lot that just felt like build up for the series and this book really just felt like one long synopsis.
But it’s the plot that gave me issues. I don’t really think the book had one. Granted, the story is about Arden, the heroine, who doesn’t really know who she is and what is happening to her. But as a reader, I should probably know what is happening in the book. The big conflict felt oddly unconflicted and easily resolved with the underlying conflicts never explained. There was a lot that just felt like build up for the series and this book really just felt like one long synopsis.
June 6, 2018
Review copy kindly provided by the author in exchange for a honest review
Smith’s debut The Queen’s Mark hits the mark well with her reverse harem paranormal offering. Her debut is the sort of story that readers are clamouring for and will find its audience easily. It easy to see well thought out writing and creativity in this novel which readers are looking for. The key aspect being it’s the story of a Queen . A Queen who doesn’t know who her own true background and is thrown into the deep end. Thrown in some guys who have more than a protective interest in her. Things are heating up fast Easily relatable storyline, that readers relate to on some level.
The way Smith relates, makes this story enjoyable and the guys are definitely easy on the eyes . Readers will have no problems with them. There is a guy for everyone and these guys know how to wield a weapon or spell you under their charms.
The only thing distinguishing it from being an amazing story . is the way the plot is revealed. It takes a while to wrap readers heads around the story. Smith throws readers straight into the turning point. With no build up . At least offering a chance to grasp the background would have been handy . As there is no doubt the style and way she writes is the sort readers look for. The concept is intriguing that appeals as well. It just need an extra chapter at the beginning to explain the background instead of coming to it later in the game. As otherwise it was a great debut and easily entertaining read when you take in all the positive factors to this story.
For more of my reviews, visit Thoughts by Tash.And drop by the blog's Facebook page
Smith’s debut The Queen’s Mark hits the mark well with her reverse harem paranormal offering. Her debut is the sort of story that readers are clamouring for and will find its audience easily. It easy to see well thought out writing and creativity in this novel which readers are looking for. The key aspect being it’s the story of a Queen . A Queen who doesn’t know who her own true background and is thrown into the deep end. Thrown in some guys who have more than a protective interest in her. Things are heating up fast Easily relatable storyline, that readers relate to on some level.
The way Smith relates, makes this story enjoyable and the guys are definitely easy on the eyes . Readers will have no problems with them. There is a guy for everyone and these guys know how to wield a weapon or spell you under their charms.
The only thing distinguishing it from being an amazing story . is the way the plot is revealed. It takes a while to wrap readers heads around the story. Smith throws readers straight into the turning point. With no build up . At least offering a chance to grasp the background would have been handy . As there is no doubt the style and way she writes is the sort readers look for. The concept is intriguing that appeals as well. It just need an extra chapter at the beginning to explain the background instead of coming to it later in the game. As otherwise it was a great debut and easily entertaining read when you take in all the positive factors to this story.
For more of my reviews, visit Thoughts by Tash.And drop by the blog's Facebook page
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December 7, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (12/7/2018)!💝
May 21, 2018
This is going to be a good series. I throughly enjoyed this book. I will say that if you haven’t read Young Queen, the prequel, I suggest you should before attempting this one. It will all make a lot more sense. The storyline isn’t necessarily unique (young girl raised in a human world that’s not human and is a queen) but the way it plays out is and it will keep you under its spell. I’m anxious to see where the story goes from here!!
January 6, 2019
I got this book for free from Amazon. It sat in my library for not a long period of time actually. The reason I decided to read this book now, is because it's part of a book challenge i'm doing.
So reading the synopsis, it sounds like it's going to be a steamy reverse harem- urban fantasy. Ehhh it has the potential for sure. It definitely has potential, that's why I am going to read the second book in the future to see if things calm down, and go more at an even pace.
But for me it was a huge let down. It felt very rushed, there was no build. One minute she's striving for her independence in life, the next weary of these four men, to going as far as saying you love them. There was nothing sexual, which was a plus because then it would've really felt rushed.
There was inconsistencies in the book, how on moment she was talking about her olive skin, then the next one of the guys was saying it was bronze. Mild grammatical errors. I'm hoping it was just a first book blooper thing and the rest of the books get better.... here's hoping
So reading the synopsis, it sounds like it's going to be a steamy reverse harem- urban fantasy. Ehhh it has the potential for sure. It definitely has potential, that's why I am going to read the second book in the future to see if things calm down, and go more at an even pace.
But for me it was a huge let down. It felt very rushed, there was no build. One minute she's striving for her independence in life, the next weary of these four men, to going as far as saying you love them. There was nothing sexual, which was a plus because then it would've really felt rushed.
There was inconsistencies in the book, how on moment she was talking about her olive skin, then the next one of the guys was saying it was bronze. Mild grammatical errors. I'm hoping it was just a first book blooper thing and the rest of the books get better.... here's hoping
May 21, 2018
This is my first read from this author. I was really excited to read this. It's different from other books that I've been reading.
It's paranormal-great!
The main characters are witches- fantastic!
Really hot guys- yeesss!
They're from the future-- oohhh, I'm definitely reading this.
Our Herione, Arden, doesn't know she's different. She's a regular girl but then something happens and bam! her life is no longer the same. She meets 4 really hot men that she feels this draw towards but doesn't know why-Derek, Wesley, Lucas, and Elia. All are different but equally alluring.
What I did like: The story. Such a simple thing but potent.
What I didn't like: It might've been just me, but some of the lines were becoming repetitive. The biggest one for me was - she (Arden) is in danger because
It's paranormal-great!
The main characters are witches- fantastic!
Really hot guys- yeesss!
They're from the future-- oohhh, I'm definitely reading this.
Our Herione, Arden, doesn't know she's different. She's a regular girl but then something happens and bam! her life is no longer the same. She meets 4 really hot men that she feels this draw towards but doesn't know why-Derek, Wesley, Lucas, and Elia. All are different but equally alluring.
What I did like: The story. Such a simple thing but potent.
What I didn't like: It might've been just me, but some of the lines were becoming repetitive. The biggest one for me was - she (Arden) is in danger because
June 14, 2018
Intriguing story
I liked it. I would like more backstory since it seems like there is a wealth of history with this group.
I liked it. I would like more backstory since it seems like there is a wealth of history with this group.
July 24, 2018
Writing was only 80% engaging and the way things were not revealed to the heroine was annoying and pedantic.
May 25, 2018
LOVING this new series!!! Arden and her friends (and fellow interns) are out on the town celebrating her birthday. For ONCE she lets her hair down and has drinks with her pals. On the rare evening off from their slavedriver boss who has them on call 24/7. Tonight however, is all about Arden.... having had a few drinks the group points out a cutie at the bar...Then nudges her toward him. Why not?! After all it is her birthday....how the heck was she to know her entire world would turn on its axis that night? On her way over to said cutie pie she gets a text from the boss demanding she return to work....she never makes it there as a thief tries to steal her purse. Out of nowhere a searing pain goes down her arm while the cutie from the bar comes to her aid. That's all she recalls as she passes out from the immense pain her arm is causing. She awakens the next day in a strange place with her arm bandaged. WTH is going on, and where is she? In all this weirdness she's somehow NOT freaked out. Upon waking to hearing a few male voices, she learns the cutie from the bar and another hot and broody guy are there. She quickly learns the searing pain she felt is actually a magical mark forming. Tada!!!! Lo and behold Arden is a magical Queen from a future Earth. Sent back in time to help save their race...a magical race of witches and warlocks from witchhunters...her memory had been wiped for her safety. To say this is A LOT to process is UNDERSTATEMENT OF THE CENTURY....She's apparently their only hope of living in peaceful existence with humans in the future. She's definitely NOT sure she buys all this....except she has this odd connection to these guys that seems to be growing. Much more is revealed as these protectors of hers share more and more....DANGER is headed their way, they just don't know what it is yet. Arden wasn't supposed to get her mark so soon, and it has the guys more than a little spooked and uncertain of what's to come. All they do know is Arden is to be protected at all costs!!! Take the ride with this amazing woman. Strong and resilient she has a lot on her young shoulders. See her fight for herself and those she loves....I cannot wait to see what happens next. For this is the start of a kick butt and exciting new series!!! Get ready for the ride of your life!!
January 3, 2019
I’m just going to be honest.
I’m giving this two stars due to the fact that it didn’t give real details on the back story like what’s the prophecy the are supposed to follow. What is the reason she who is supposed to be the queen can’t know about her previous life but her guardians and the human man she’s supposed to marry are allowed to. Why Gabriel has such hate for her knowing that they must’ve agreed to the plan of going back in time. The build up with the other guys besides Lucas is almost nonexistent I understand that it needs to feel fluid and natural but it’s feeling more like a one male one female relationship than a harem. I’m not like most people who write off attempting to see how the next book goes due to the fact I feel invested in finishing any series I start. I’m hoping to dig into the next one and become consumed all things Arden. Also there was a lot of errors in the grammar and the words some of the sentence had were formed oddly. I’m giving this review as honestly as I can and I will always be with any book I dive into. FYI I do truly love the cover of this book!
I’m giving this two stars due to the fact that it didn’t give real details on the back story like what’s the prophecy the are supposed to follow. What is the reason she who is supposed to be the queen can’t know about her previous life but her guardians and the human man she’s supposed to marry are allowed to. Why Gabriel has such hate for her knowing that they must’ve agreed to the plan of going back in time. The build up with the other guys besides Lucas is almost nonexistent I understand that it needs to feel fluid and natural but it’s feeling more like a one male one female relationship than a harem. I’m not like most people who write off attempting to see how the next book goes due to the fact I feel invested in finishing any series I start. I’m hoping to dig into the next one and become consumed all things Arden. Also there was a lot of errors in the grammar and the words some of the sentence had were formed oddly. I’m giving this review as honestly as I can and I will always be with any book I dive into. FYI I do truly love the cover of this book!
May 22, 2018
A new twist on a "raised human who's royalty without knowing" plot. There's magic, mayhem, betrayal, time travel and memory wipes. Arden is a strong, yet sometimes confused, powerful woman who has her world turned upside down. She has to come to terms with many things including her mysterious mark and four men wholly dedicated to her. She has to deal with lost memories and trying to understand why they're lost. She has to deal with a few betrayals she didn't see coming(who really does though?) With her men to guide her she must navigate what is going on in her life. You're left with questions but not in a bad way, more in a "where is book 2" kind of way. I can't wait to see how this storyline plays out!
June 7, 2018
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.
Book one in the brand new Royal Guardians series and what a great start it is too. We meet Arden as she is out with coworkers to celebrate her 24th birthday and for her to get called into work by the evil boss. She is mugged on her way and events collide to change her life as she knows it. She is slowly introduced to a group of hot men that are her guardians and she is supposed to be a Queen only she does not remember anything. This is great start to this series as the world building is good and the characters are easy to get attached to. The writing is smooth and I found myself hooked wondering what was she was going to discover next. There were plenty of surprises I must say. If you enjoy a great paranormal romance novel that is slowly building to RH then you should really try this one. I really enjoyed it so I give it 4/5 stars.
Book one in the brand new Royal Guardians series and what a great start it is too. We meet Arden as she is out with coworkers to celebrate her 24th birthday and for her to get called into work by the evil boss. She is mugged on her way and events collide to change her life as she knows it. She is slowly introduced to a group of hot men that are her guardians and she is supposed to be a Queen only she does not remember anything. This is great start to this series as the world building is good and the characters are easy to get attached to. The writing is smooth and I found myself hooked wondering what was she was going to discover next. There were plenty of surprises I must say. If you enjoy a great paranormal romance novel that is slowly building to RH then you should really try this one. I really enjoyed it so I give it 4/5 stars.
June 8, 2018
Arden is celebrating her birthday when she receives her mark (or rather when it shows up) and she meets her first Guardian. That's when her life starts to really unravel and she starts to learn the truth of who she really is. I loved how this book was written. There are a lot of main characters and they never overpowered each other, nor were any forgotten and it didn't overlap in the plot. Each character was able to maintain their own personality without slipping and that made the book extra amazing.
September 1, 2018
Great but a cliff hanger
I don't like cliff hangers, but this one was worth it. It was a great read and a unique concept . I usually don't read books where the whole series isn't out, because I get frustrated that I can't read the next book right away. I'll wait though. This first book ended in a tidy package... Except... Spoiler *** what happens to the bad guy!? One minute he's incapacitated the next minute were leaving him alive!? Ack!!!... Now I've got to wait to find out. Excellent writing.
I don't like cliff hangers, but this one was worth it. It was a great read and a unique concept . I usually don't read books where the whole series isn't out, because I get frustrated that I can't read the next book right away. I'll wait though. This first book ended in a tidy package... Except... Spoiler *** what happens to the bad guy!? One minute he's incapacitated the next minute were leaving him alive!? Ack!!!... Now I've got to wait to find out. Excellent writing.
May 17, 2018
(I received a digital copy of the book . Thanks to Tori Smith !!! )
This was a great book. I liked all the characters. The bond thing and how they all live together so well is amazing. There is this great plot being planned against them and they are working there way through to uncover the truth. It is very interesting. Hope the next book comes out soon because I can't wait to know what's going to happen.
This was a great book. I liked all the characters. The bond thing and how they all live together so well is amazing. There is this great plot being planned against them and they are working there way through to uncover the truth. It is very interesting. Hope the next book comes out soon because I can't wait to know what's going to happen.
May 21, 2018
This is my first time ever reading anything from this author and it definitely not going to be my last. I found this to be a very interesting and enjoyable read. There still plenty of unanswered questions so I'm looking forward to seeing what else is in store for this series. Overall a entertaining read and a great start for a new series. I voluntarily read and review this ARC no monetary compensation was received the opinions I have expressed are my own.
June 1, 2018
I thought this was a good idea for a story and enjoyed the book. The main character learns she is a witch, not just a witch, but a queen who has 4 handsome guardians to look after her and help her with her mission. She doesn't remember any of her decisions that brought her to earth from the future. Will the decisions made in the future be for the best interest of her and her kind? Lots of ups and downs to keep you reading.
June 20, 2018
This was a great read and I can't wait to see where the story goes. I loved the connections between the characters and the intensity of the story. I did have a little bit of trouble understanding everything in the beginning, but as the story progressed, I loved that I learned a little more with each page. There are still so many unanswered questions, so I can't wait to read book 2 to find some answers!
October 24, 2018
Fell in love with this book just a few pages in. What a fantastic start to a series. Tori Smith pulls the reader in easily, keeping their attention and never letting it go. I loved reading about Arden's journey, meeting her guys and taking the steps in the beginning formation of her harem. It is a slow burn, but it's a good slow burn. I couldn't put this one down. I can't wait to see where Tori Smith takes us next.
May 19, 2018
Received an ARC for an honest review by Tori Smith. Hidden witch royalty. A prophecy that must be fulfilled. Four sexy warlocks with an agenda. I absolutely loved this book and all its characters. You won't be able to read through the pages fast enough, so one-click this slow burn debut novel. Can’t wait for the others in the series to see where it takes us.
June 6, 2018
Epic
Completely amazing and well written. Queen gives up her men for peace and fulfillment of the prophecy. I truly love how the men act around her and with her regarding the rules. Even funnier when the rules are broken. I loved the plots and glad the cliffhanger is small but still leaves you wanting more.
Completely amazing and well written. Queen gives up her men for peace and fulfillment of the prophecy. I truly love how the men act around her and with her regarding the rules. Even funnier when the rules are broken. I loved the plots and glad the cliffhanger is small but still leaves you wanting more.
June 20, 2018
Unusual
I enjoyed this book, bit of a slow ending but it was definitely starting to get there just as it cake to its end, hopefully there is going to be another book in the series as I hate to be left hanging I really need to know What happens with Arden and her 4 guardians... were will all this lead between them and who is sabotaging the future there trying to save.
I enjoyed this book, bit of a slow ending but it was definitely starting to get there just as it cake to its end, hopefully there is going to be another book in the series as I hate to be left hanging I really need to know What happens with Arden and her 4 guardians... were will all this lead between them and who is sabotaging the future there trying to save.
November 12, 2018
I received this as an ARC in exchange for a review. I honestly like the way the author write the story did Flow but it took me a while to get engaged in the story. Probably around chapter 6 is when I full felt grasped. It did feel like a really long lead up to the actually plot which hopefully will be more explained in the next book.
November 29, 2018
Sloooow burn
This is a good start to the series. It’s steady, if not a bit slow, but steady. Outside of Lucas, all the other guys are up for debate. They have some qualities that makes them questionable. Arden was just given enough time for deniability and acceptance to make it believable. I can’t wait to read the next book and their next adventures.
This is a good start to the series. It’s steady, if not a bit slow, but steady. Outside of Lucas, all the other guys are up for debate. They have some qualities that makes them questionable. Arden was just given enough time for deniability and acceptance to make it believable. I can’t wait to read the next book and their next adventures.
December 8, 2018
Amazing
So, I picked up this book some time ago and then dropped it for some reason. Anyways, decided to pick it up again recently and I am so glad I did, because this book is amazing. The main character didn’t irritate me with her disbelief and I can’t wait to find out more about her men.
So, I picked up this book some time ago and then dropped it for some reason. Anyways, decided to pick it up again recently and I am so glad I did, because this book is amazing. The main character didn’t irritate me with her disbelief and I can’t wait to find out more about her men.
January 15, 2019
Dope
I really liked this. It was unexpectedly modern day. Kind of time travelly. I love how slowly the bond is growing along with the relationship. I definitely have a lot a questions. Some of which I know will be answered in the next book. But I love slow burn books. Building up to the climax. Making it so anticipated and that much better.
I really liked this. It was unexpectedly modern day. Kind of time travelly. I love how slowly the bond is growing along with the relationship. I definitely have a lot a questions. Some of which I know will be answered in the next book. But I love slow burn books. Building up to the climax. Making it so anticipated and that much better.
January 28, 2019
I really liked this book, and the plot line seems interesting so far. My only problem was that the writing didn't seem to flow smoothly at times. Sometimes it was like I was missing information, like there was stuff in a prequel or something I should have already known and missed. I would like more backstory since it seems like there is a a lot of history with this group.
May 19, 2018
I really enjoyed the premise of this story, and the characters were very promising. I wasn’t a big fan if the writing style (but that’s simply a personal preference)
It was a good book. I would definitely be interested in finding out what happens next!!
It was a good book. I would definitely be interested in finding out what happens next!!
May 27, 2018
Oh my goodness. I don’t even know where to start with reviewing this book! It had me on the edge of my seat! I loved how everything even seemed real. Relatable and something that ‘could’ happen. I can’t wait for the next one!!!!!
I received an ARC copy of this book.
I received an ARC copy of this book.
June 5, 2018
This is the start of a great series. Storyline is phenomenal. Story kept me interested right in beginning all the way till the end of the book. Being sent from future to past. Wow. And she is queen. I so can not wait for book 2. Counting down. Author did amazing job!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews