Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Dark Protectors #12

Guardian's Grace

Rate this book
Duty—or desire?

Vampire soldier Adare O’Cearbhaill’s default setting is cranky. Or irritated. Or down-right hostile. Still, as a Highlander of honor and duty he stepped up to save an enhanced and special human female by mating her—with merely a bite and a brand. The last person he wants in his life is a fragile human, yet he can’t get her out of his mind as she regains her strength before taking off for parts unknown. And when he discovers she is in danger, nothing can stop him from hunting her down—whether she likes it or not.

There’s only one way to find out . . .

Photographer Grace Cooper has had it with vampires, demons, and the rest of an immortal world she was happier not knowing about. She also doesn’t believe she’s destined for some great battle because of an old birthmark. Forget the fact that her mate is the sexiest thing on two stubborn feet, or that her brand is fading along with her health. She’ll handle things on her own—until an old enemy reappears and she learns the only way to stay alive is to actually mate, wild sex and all, with that ripped and dangerous Adare—a powerful, captivating Highlander who demands nothing less than everything . . .

ebook

First published October 1, 2020

637 people are currently reading
2116 people want to read

About the author

Rebecca Zanetti

118 books10.1k followers
New York Times, USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has published more than seventy novels and novellas, which have been translated into several languages, with millions of copies sold world-wide. Her books have received Publisher’s Weekly and Kirkus starred reviews, favorable Washington Post and New York Times Book Reviews, and been included in Amazon best books of the year.

Rebecca has ridden in a locked Chevy trunk, has asked the unfortunate delivery guy to release her from a set of handcuffs, and has discovered the best silver mine shafts in which to bury a body…all in the name of research. Honest.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
1,644 (48%)
4 stars
1,185 (35%)
3 stars
455 (13%)
2 stars
78 (2%)
1 star
12 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 365 reviews
Profile Image for Jessica's Totally Over The Top Book Obsession.
1,224 reviews3,696 followers
May 21, 2021
5 A Picture is worth a thousand words Stars



May have mild spoilers

Rebecca Zanetti never lets me down. Guardian's Grace the 12th book in the dark protectors series was so damn good. I have been looking forward to Adare and Grace's book for a while now. They semi-mated five years ago, but never consummated the mating. It was clear from the book Vampire's Faith that Adare and Grace had feelings for each other but like any good tortured hero Adare had issues. I had very high expectations going into this read and it met and exceeded them all.



Adare was so sexy. A Highlander of ole he had a dark past filled with pain, loss and duty. The pain of loss so great, the guilt crushing that he turned his emotions off. He didn't want to let anyone in to hurt him again. A loyal and honorable warrior he protected his people and tries to save as many enhanced females as he can. I loved watching his hard shell crack. Grace was a great heroine. She was smart, honest, caring, and a little bit sassy. A gifted photographer Grace had a way of looking deep into a person's soul through her camera. I loved that she was so down to earth and relatable. They made a really hot couple. I loved everything about them.



I really enjoyed the ongoing plot of the series. This book started a few years after the last book ended. Hope, Pax , Drake, and Libby are teens now. I keep trying to decide which boy I want for Hope but right now I can go either way. I really enjoyed seeing past favorite characters. Although I was a bit upset with the way the Shifter nation and Jordan Pride acted during the drama with the Realm. I was sad that I didn't get to see some Kayrs children. I want to see Jase and Brenna's kid, Conn and Moira, I want to see if Amber and Kane had kids I want to see if the King and Queen have more kids, And of course I need to know if Talen and Cara have more kids. I need more time with the past couples and the Kayrs family. Maybe a Christmas book or something, but I feel like we really need a family reunion like book. Anyways..... Benny OMG Benny. This book gave us readers a peek of Benny's mate and I just can't wait to get my hands on Benny's book. Really though I can't wait to get my hands on anything Rebecca Zanetti writes, because she is the best. I recommend this series to anyone that likes paranormal romance.



https://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessi...
Profile Image for Natalie  ~ The Biblioholic.
2,713 reviews1,419 followers
October 13, 2020
I've realized that it is quite impossible for me to resist any book that features the Dark Protectors. With this series, Rebecca Zanetti has created a world that I am completely and absolutely obsessed with. Demon hybrids, vampires, shifters, humans, other dimensions, keys, prophets... There are so many characters and elements still to discover and Guardian's Grace only made me hungry for more.

I went into this knowing that I probably wouldn't like Grace. The thing is, I haven't liked her in any of her appearances so far. However, I had a very strong feeling that things would change with this book. I trusted Zanetti to make me respect the heck out of her heroine and guess what? By the end... I did!

As I said, I'm obsessed with the Dark Protectors, and obviously the Seven have captured a piece of my heart, so Adare had already earned his place in my harem. He was a hot, brooding, Scotsman who continued to make me melt! He saved Grace's life by mating her (non-sexually) and had a hard time keeping up with her ever since. Grace valued her independence and wasn't eager to let someone start making decisions for her. All of this amped up the tension between them big time, revving up their sexual attraction even more.

"There's a simple truth you need to get into your stubborn head right now. I know you were raised human, but my world is simple. No soldier, no immortal male, would ever let his mate risk her life for his. Period." He lifted a hand. "I don't care if that's politically incorrect or not how the humans live these days. That's fine for them. But it's in our very nature, my very nature, to put your life before mine. Before almost anybody's, in fact." - Adare


Well said, my friend.

While Grace kept putting herself in danger and Adare kept having to save her, the rest of the world was kind of falling apart. Something else is brewing in this supernatural world and I'm definitely here for it. I love how Hope and Pax have aged and matured and I'm excited to see their involvement when everything unfolds. The bad guys have new tricks up their sleeves and I'm wondering how it will play in the books to come. This was a spectacular read and I'm eager for more!

Profile Image for Madison Warner Fairbanks.
3,431 reviews496 followers
October 13, 2020
Guardian’s Grace by Rebecca Zanetti

Book 12 of the Dark Protectors series. Best read as part of the series. Paranormal vampire romance. Grace and Adair’s story.

Grace and Adair became mates five years ago when Grace was in a comma. They have spent the years apart and with the mating mark fading, Grace thinks that taking the virus will give them both a fresh start. Adair doesn’t agree. His solution is for a proper mating to occur to reinforce their bond. Let the courting, biting, spanking and sex begin. Meanwhile, the enemy of the vampire race ramps up their kidnapping of enhanced women making Grace a target. Adair is at his best in Protector mode, but the Seven are under attach as well so his attention is split. Better watch out, the enemy is getting smarter.

Protector instinct and alpha male tendencies make Adair quite domineering. At least he tries with Grace. She is stubborn and doesn’t succumb willingly to his demands. The two have a love hate relationship that grows to love as they fight the Kurjans and stop fighting the sexual pull between them.

Non stop action and suspense, romance and sexy bedroom (and shower) scenes ensue.
4.5 stars
I received a copy of this from NetGalley. I also purchased a copy to share.
Profile Image for Mindy Lou's Book Review.
3,011 reviews799 followers
August 23, 2020
Adare and Grace's story is finally here! I admit I worried how these two were going to go since we knew from the beginning their story would be different.

I was hoping that the reason they didn't truly become a couple until years later would have a good transition. As strongly possessive as these men are in this series, I needed Adare to have a good reason for the wait. I think the author handled this perfectly.

We also find out what Grace's ability is and it's pretty cool. If I could have a super power, this one would come in handy when dealing with others. I won't say more than that so I don't spoil things.

There is so much I would love to talk about, but again..spoilers. Let me just say we learn more in this ongoing battle with the enemy, more about Hope, and I'm a little sad about a twist that happened. It just makes me very impatient to get the next book. I need to see this all work out!
Profile Image for Dali.
2,088 reviews592 followers
October 13, 2020
Rebecca Zanetti adds another action packed entry to her Dark Protectors series.
"We will mate again tonight. Completely.

Plot: Five years ago, Adare O’Cearbhaill mated Grace Cooper out of a sense of duty with only a bite and a mark to save her life when she was in a comma. They went their separate ways afterward, but when he realizes she’s ill once again he’ll do anything to keep her safe and this time he’ll make her completely his. But while the two fight each other, the rest of the Realm seems like it’s starting to crumble.

Hero: Adare has dedicated his life to the Seven. He’s a deliciously stubborn alpha whose protective instincts kick in when it comes to his loved ones, especially Grace regardless of the fact that he fought their mating just as much as she did.

Heroine: Grace Cooper is fiercely independent with an iron will, who’d like nothing to do with the supernatural world. But as her health is failing, her gorgeous mate might just be the solution.

Sexiness: Even though Adare and Grace’s relationship was born of necessity, the two have crackling chemistry with indications of a deeper connection that points to all sorts of swoony hotness. I just loved seeing Adare fall hard for his feisty mate.

Feels: Guardian’s Grace is full of excitement and endearing characters from previous books. I absolutely LOVE this series! And OMG I can't wait to read the next... at least 3 books? Benny, Garrett and Hope!

Facts: Guardian's Grace is book #12 of the Dark Protectors series by author Rebecca Zanetti. It is an exciting standalone paranormal romance, told from various points of view with a happy ending.

Overall rating: 5

Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2YdfqWB

* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *

Stalk me on FaceBookInstagramMore reviews
Profile Image for Mikky.
979 reviews276 followers
January 16, 2023
Originally posted at:


My Rating: 3 and a half stars

This started off SO good! Even though this is the 12th book in the series and the only one I've read it didn't leave me in the dark. The world the author built was explained enough to the point where I didn't get lost or confusing during the story. Everything after the 6-hour mark though felt rushed and dragged the whole book down with it.

Grace was a very interesting character. She's a fighter and in a very strange circumstance with her mate. I liked that she fought against it from the beginning and didn't just accept it lying down. Though after we meet Adare we realize she actually likes him to a degree. I liked how she stood up to him. Though the reckless decisions she made just to prove a point were annoying but understandable.

Adare was an "alpha male" through and through. I liked that he gave Grace space but after he found out how wrong things were going for her he intervened in his brutish way. I just wish he was a tad bit more understanding and open to changing his ways because there were times he came off way too strong for no reason.

The ending felt rushed and didn't have the same emotional impact as the first half of the novel. Overall, I did enjoy this book but I don't think I'll be going out of my way to read the other books in this series.

The Audio Book:

The narration was great! She had a surprisingly good range of male and female voices. I really enjoyed it! There were no strange noises in the background of the recording.
Profile Image for Bev .
2,235 reviews482 followers
April 25, 2022
Love this author's heroes. The TSTL heroines .... not so much.
Profile Image for Claire.
2,324 reviews738 followers
October 12, 2020
3.5 - "It’s like you want to get punched..." Stars!

We return to the Dark Protectors universe for Grace and Adare’s story. This is a story that I have been eagerly waiting for, since Adare mated Grace to save her life early on in the reboot of the series. Love wasn’t part of the equation then, and this pair have essentially tried to avoid the other since Grace woke from her coma. Things have changed, and it would appear that the mating may not have been the cure-all everyone was hoping it to be.

It had been nearly three years since they had crossed paths…

Five years on and Grace has been pretty much doing her own thing, while Adare gets on with his mission as one of the seven, but fate conspires to throw them together and it isn’t long before Adare realises that Grace has been keeping secrets from him in relation to her general health, and the fact that their mating mark is fading from her body. Being one of the Key’s it is imperative she survives and if that means putting his own life on the line for that to happen he will do it, no questions asked, something else Grace is really not happy about.

"My options are death, death or… death."

Sometimes you read a book, and although you enjoy it, you get to the end feeling a little unfulfilled. That’s how I felt with Guardian’s Grace that's possibly because I have really high expectations of Zanetti, but for me the romance was a little off with it being really slow burn, which is not an issue in itself but I didn’t feel the usual spark or zip of chemistry between them as things progressed, which is usually what makes me devour Rebecca’s books. I just expected things to fire up more quickly considering they had spent the previous five years circling around and avoiding each other.

"I like you… Your insights and depths intrigue me, your beauty draws me, and your spirit challenges me…"

Benny and the kids (Hope, Pax & Drake) secondary stories kept things moving along nicely more than the main focus for me particularly in the second half, especially with the shift in the Realm as a result of the developments in this book in relation to the seven. Although on that front not much did really move story-wise in the scope of their mission to keep Ulrich imprisoned.

"It’s time you stopped running and faced what you need to face."

Easy to read, without much real progression in the main story arc, I liked Grace and Adare’s story but I didn’t love it as much as I would expect to. That said the Dark Protectors series is, and will likely always be my number one PNR go-to, and I cannot wait for Benny to get his own book!

ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.

Profile Image for Precious ✨.
671 reviews109 followers
August 3, 2020
EDIT: After reading
Rebecca delivers another solid installment.
description
This book starts off noting that it's jumped a few years since Hero's Haven. This does wonders for the overarching story in the backdrop, as well as our MC's.
Adare and Grace have been living separate lives for the past five years or so after their semi-mating that woke her up from her coma. (Which happens Vampire's Faith) Adare is all about putting his duty before himself and feels like love is something that he can't give so he watches over her from afar. Grace after her initial meeting with Adare and him pretty much letting her know that he only did that out of responsibility, she feels she needs to figure out her second chance at life on her own, including her failing health. Insert a blood deal gone wrong and these two are back in each others lives with the enemy right on their tail.

This book still doesn't come out until October so I don't want to say as much since there is still some time to go. (I'll come back and give some more context.) Let me jot down quick points
-The chemistry between these two is hot. These two have some major "hate to love" vibes here. Even though they're mated, and have been for five years, they've both spent their time apart and have only come together because of Grace being in danger. There's this current under the surface of their interactions that shows the concern they have for each other that makes the pining hit a bit different.
description

-There's a lot of action in this one. From explosions to gunfire, it's pretty much everywhere. Personally, I could've done with more screen time of Adare and Grace bonding or flashbacks over the years but that's just me.

-As with all of Dark Protector's novels there are multiple subplots in this one story so get ready for some backstabbing with a side of memory loss sleuthing.

FYI: this is very much an alpha love story, with a big dose of brotherhood added in. If that isn't your thing you might not be able to get on board. If it is welcome!
description

Overall, this was a fun exciting read. Watching these two give into themselves and try to stay alive while doing it was great. Already ready to read the next DP novel!

Thank you Kensington via Netgalley for a copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
EDIT: before reading thoughts
Did I just get approved for one of my fav paranormal romance series?
description
Profile Image for Nicole.
1,251 reviews100 followers
October 16, 2020
Adare O’Cearbhaill is an elite vampire soldier but he’ll always be a gruff, honorable Highlander at heart. As such, he knows his duty and though he does not believe in love, he stepped in five years ago to save his friend’s human sister-in-law by mating her with a bite only. He’s given her freedom despite keeping tabs on her all this time, but when she puts herself in danger, he can no longer keep his distance, even though she’s not interested in his protection.

Grace Cooper has finally made a name for herself as a photographer and would rather go back to the simplicity of her life before she knew anything about immortals. She’s skeptical about her supposed role in the epic battle that’s said to be forthcoming. She has a birthmark, but she doesn’t believe it means anything special. Unfortunately, her mating brand is quickly fading, along with her health. She’s determined to find a solution on her own, but when she draws enemies to her, Adare is there to keep her safe. With her health in danger from multiple threats, her best chance at survival is to make her mating a real one and Adare will accept nothing less.

I enjoyed the action and fast pacing of this book, but Grace ruined a lot of it for me. She seemed to want to do nothing but fight and consistently made rash decisions with no thought and stupid mistakes, putting herself and everyone else in danger, just for the sake of defying Adare and doing things for herself. I would’ve liked and respected her more if she’d actually tried to be a team with Adare or even any other character or if she’d respected that others knew more than she did. Instead she kept trying to be a martyr in the name of independence. Grace didn’t come off as strong, independent or perceptive to me; just seemed neurotic and her conversations with Adare were nearly always arguments and often about the same issues, which just became repetitive and tedious. I wound up liking strong, silent Adare more than I expected to. He was very much a protective alpha, but he had an underlying loneliness and vulnerability that was endearing. Adare definitely had emotional closedness and guilt to deal with that I don’t think was adequately addressed between him and Grace. I think a bit more discussion between them about his past and losing his family would’ve helped, but of course they could barely speak at all without fighting so I’m not sure when that would’ve happened. They definitely had passion, but I struggled to believe them as a couple, especially after she pushed him away for so long. Grace’s issues over her medical condition and lost memories also got old and her secrecy over it just lead to her making even more stupid decisions.

I’ve only read one previous book in this series, Hero’s Haven, and I enjoyed that one enough to want to continue with this one. I followed the story fine, but with so many appearances from interconnected characters from previous books, I’d say this series is best read in order. There was quite a bit of world-building done here in several chapters that didn’t include the hero and heroine at all. I’m sure these scenes will be necessary to the story arc of the rest of the series, but I found them to be distracting and a bit too frequent, often pulling me out of the story at times when I was annoyed by Grace’s attitude and already struggling to stay invested.

Overall, I didn’t feel like there was much romance between these two. Up until the last chapter I was thinking I’d probably just give up on this series, but Benny was so adorable and sweet, I’ll likely follow up and read his story just because I liked him so much.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Treena.
1,343 reviews82 followers
July 12, 2020
2 to 2.5 Stars

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for granting me an ARC of this book.

I’ve been wanting to read Grace and Adare’s story since Faith’s book. But sadly, I wasn’t really crazy over their book.

I found myself really frustrated at how Grace hemmed and hawed about truly mating with Adare. Adare had his own emotional hang ups that drove me batty too. Going on and on about how he has no emotions and his guilt over the slaughter of his clan centuries ago. Oy.

Honestly, I lost interest reading about their baggage and about her weird medical condition and all the drama surrounding it. These issues take up so much of the plot and I grew tired of all the back and forth over them.

I really liked all the action/fight scenes though! Those were exciting.

The other bright spot for me in this whole book were the chapters about Hope or when she was in the scenes. It’s her story arc that I’m really interested in. Can’t wait till she grows up and we finally find out what happens.

Note: This book is going to be confusing if you haven't read any of the previous books in the series. There are so many references to plot points that took place in the older books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Leanne | Read Sweetly to Me.
59 reviews19 followers
October 4, 2020
Adare's and Grace's rocky history started five years ago, when Adare half-mated to the human in a coma to save her from dying. Since then Grace has stayed away, determined to handle things on her, even with her health failing. When Adare crashes back into her life, and old enemies make new, very dangerous threats, she learns that the only way to regain her health is to fully mate with the dangerous Highlander who is determined to own her body and soul.

Honestly? I shouldn't have read this book. As the 12th in the series you really can't go into this one with no previous knowledge like I did. Adare and Grace share a backstory which is explored in previous books and I really felt I was missing out because I didn't read them. There are a lot of previous couples that make up most of the book's cast that I'm sure will delight previous readers but I just spent most of my time feeling lost because I didn't know any of them. Generally I think if you're a fan of the series you'll probably love this one too! Grace and Adare were a hot couple and the action is insane, Zanetti definitely knows how to write a fight scene.

As a non-previous reader though this was still an enjoyable book. There was a lot of high-paced action, and the heat between our two mains was boiling. Grace was a bit silly in some situations, but it's understandable when she's suddenly been thrust back into a world she was trying to stay away from.

Adare was very sexy and mysterious, and I loved how his accent came out when he was angry or upset (or during sexy times). He was the perfect Alpha hero, protective and stubborn, withholding his feelings--but he was also very selfless, ready to sacrifice himself to save not just his love, but the entire human race.


So, in short: Do not go into this one without reading the others. I'll probably come back to this review in the future when I get the chance to read the previous books because most of my complaints were down to that which is entirely on me, and has nothing to do with the writing.

{Many thanks to Netgalley and the Publishers for an Arc in exchange for an honest review.}
Profile Image for Abstract ♥ Books.
1,281 reviews1,770 followers
July 31, 2020




ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS

'Guardian's Grace' is the 12th book of the 'Dark Protectors' series by the best selling author Rebecca Zanetti. Told in dual perspectives, this book was one amazing ride of love and sacrifice!

I have followed this series pretty much from the first book and it seems like Rebecca Zanetti keeps on shocking us at every new book! This series is one of the best fantasy reads I have ever had and the men in this series… Let's just say each one of them is just yummm.

This is the book of Grace and Adare. We saw in the previous books that Adare mated Grace to save her life. She came out of Coma and Adare made it pretty clear to her that he does not want a weak human mate. Yeah , I know he was an ass. What Grace didn't know was how much he actually wanted her. Both of them kept Their distance , living their lives separately. Now after five years , Grace is in danger and Adare has again come back to save his mate.

Their mate bond , which was a temporary bond seems to be vanishing. Their health is deteriorating and the one way to save each other is to mate properly. Yup! The proper mating !! This book was hot with a Capital H and Adare was one of the best heroes ever , casting his assholish side aside! We even get to know which character will have a book next and I am beyond excited. There were also chapters from Hope and Paxton's pov! Those kids are such a suspense for me . I can't wait for their books! I already know that the ending of this series is going to a freaking blast!

This book is recommended to all the fantasy romance lovers , with a complete alpha male , or rather alpha vampire and a mate who is perfect for his brooding self!

My-Post-3

Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Bookbub | My Blog
Profile Image for Marta Cox.
2,860 reviews210 followers
August 5, 2020
Four and a half
As much as I've enjoyed the recent romantic suspense books by this author I'm so glad to be back in her Dark Protectors world. It's time for Grace and Adare to sort out their tricky sort of no Mating deal. Mated by blood five years ago although not actually in body but it pulled Grace out of an unnatural coma so no complaints there. To Adare there is no question about their bond but as Grace starts to deteriorate again she's determined not to drag him down with her.
Two very stubborn people who are so attracted to each other and yet just constantly push each other's buttons. I'm reminded of the old Dr Doolittle movie with the Push me Pull You because that's exactly how they behave. Fireworks just doesn't cover how this couple react to each other and they certainly clash heads frequently which made for lots of hot, passionate scenes. The Realm, Demon, Shifter and Kurzon nations are about to clash as secrets about the Seven come to light and Grace is slap bang in the middle. Lots of action but best of all the twists keep coming as this series builds up for what I'm sure will be a humdinger of an ending.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
Profile Image for Sandy.
1,214 reviews4 followers
July 16, 2020
Grace and Adare. Very complicated. This was a great addition to the series. It’s not as romantic as some of the others in the series. I really enjoyed the beginning. There is some filler in the middle with side stories of secondary characters, hopefully setting up their future stories. Adare is very OTT and Grace is a strong, independent woman. HEA.
Profile Image for Kristi.
70 reviews12 followers
October 13, 2020
I can’t wait for Benny & Karma 💕
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for AJ.
3,253 reviews1,071 followers
July 23, 2020
4.5 stars!

Another fantastically exciting ride from Rebecca Zanetti and the Dark Protectors!

I have been so excited waiting for this book! Adare and Grace were mated earlier in the series in a last-ditch effort to save Grace’s life. After being in a coma for two years, Grace was dying, and Adare stepped in to do the only thing possible to save her – mating her by biting and branding her, but without the sex and all of the emotional entanglements. It’s now five years later, and they have both carried on with their own lives, having gone their own ways with no interaction at all.

But fate has brought them back together, and just in time, because Grace has a mysterious prophesy hanging over her head and is in danger, and with her mating to Adare only half-completed, she is becoming unwell again.

Adare is a hardened warrior whose whole life is his brothers, and his role as one of the Seven. He would do anything for their cause, including a suicidal mission to attack their enemy, the Kurjans, even if it means possible death. He is a big, broody alpha who has no interest in love or forming a connection with anybody, but then he learns that Grace is in danger, and he goes into full-on protector mode to keep her safe.

He exhaled slowly. “Thus far, I’ve kept my distance from you, and it has probably appeared that I’m easy going. I’m not.”

Thrown back together, there are all kinds of fireworks. Adare doesn’t want to feel anything for Grace, but he can’t deny that she drives him crazy. He’s wildly attracted to her, and he does care for her, and his mated male instincts demand that he protect and defend her. But Grace is a strong woman who wants nothing to do with the supernatural world, and though she can’t deny the pull to Adare, she doesn’t take well to him coming in and stomping all over her life. It’s a perfect set-up for sparks to fly, and I loved watching it all unfold!

“Come on, Adare. Neither one of us knows exactly what we’re getting into, and that’s a fact. You think you can handle me, and I think I can handle you, and neither one of us likes to be handled.”
“Grace, I admire your sense of adventure, but make no mistake, you will be handled.”

There’s clearly an attraction between them, and hints of something deeper, and it’s all kinds of hot as they explore it all.

He brushed his knuckles down the side of her face. “I made a decision and a vow when I mated you with a bite and a mark, and I meant it. That hasn’t changed, and we will mate again tonight. Completely.”

I loved this romance. Adare and Grace are both strong, opinionated characters, so there’s lots of arguing, but they’re both sensible, and so open about everything that’s going on between them and it makes for a blessedly functional relationship. And seeing the big badass fall so hard for his spirited and sassy girl is just gorgeous. Grace is truly a bright light in his dark world, and I loved watching them come together.

“Rumor has it you’ll heal faster if your blood gets pumping.”
He grinned, gathering her hair in his hand and leaning down to kiss her luscious lips. “Are you going to heal me?”…
“Yes.” Her eyes were a luminous green in the steamy shower. “I’m going to heal you in all sorts of ways.”

But Adare is still holding back. And Grace is still in danger and searching for answers to her past and her future. Plus, there are mysterious health issues, bad guys to take out and a bunch of enhanced women to save. It’s all about to collide into an exciting, action-packed, heart-pounding ride, and I was madly flipping pages, desperate to see how it would all work out (spoiler alert – I was not disappointed, and actually squeed out loud on more than one occasion).

There’s a really strong tie-in with the earlier part of the series, with some of the action taking place at Realm Headquarters with Dage and the other supernatural leaders, and there are some big shifts for the Realm as a whole, the ongoing battle with the Kurjans, and the future of now-13-year-old Hope. The story continues to twist and turn and I loved watching all of the different parts come together, building towards what is promising to be a thrilling ending to the series (continuing with what I’m hoping is Benny’s book, because after that glimpse, I need it!).

Freaking loved it – 4.5 stars!

An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.


Profile Image for Suzi (Obsessive Reading Disorder).
2,233 reviews
July 21, 2020
At this point we are pretty far in this beloved series. You need to read them in order so get going--we are on book #12 already! We have met this couple before. Grace was on death's door and Adare volunteered to mate her--kind of. No romance, no s3x, but all the other steps. She recovers and now 5 yrs later, Adare is catching up with her. She has gotten herself on the radar of the Cyst and things are not looking so good.

This author always gives us lots of action. The big bad guy has yet to show his face so we know there are more books coming. Grace is one of the Keys and vital to bringing down Ulric. Not a ton of romance in this one but story progression. We are getting closer to the big conclusion.

Great to see all the previous couples. Loved Hope and her gang. Lots of unanswered questions I am just dying to know. Looking forward to the stories to come.

*Complimentary copy provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
Profile Image for Linda (un)Conventional Bookworms.
2,803 reviews345 followers
August 30, 2020
*I received a free copy of Guardian's Grace. This has in no way influenced my voluntary review which is honest and unbiased.*

It has been a while since I've hung out with the Dark Protectors, and as always, it was an action-filled pleasure. There was a lot going on, with some betrayals that hurt really bad, but also some love and romance that felt really good.

Guardian's Grace is well written, and rather fast-paced in most places. There are some instances where the pace slows down, and those made me want to get to what might happen because of those moments.

It's always great when a series is still going strong in the 12th book! Definite rec from me.
Profile Image for Mary Kirkland.
772 reviews33 followers
October 14, 2020
Grace was in a coma after an attack but since she is a key, Adare mated her by placing his mark on her and biting her. There are three keys and they want to keep them safe even though they don't know exactly how they fit into saving the world and taking down the evil big bad. Adare feels like he pushed the mating on her so he leaves for years but keeps an eye on Grace. But when her health begins to deteriorate and her brand starts to disappear, she comes face to face with Adare once again.

Adare is hard to describe. He's a super soldier that along with his brothers took an oath to keep Earth safe and keep their real powers a secret. He's a lot more than a vampire or a soldier but he goes on secret missions that are dangerous. He might be cranky but he's also reliable and loyal.

Grace doesn't remember her life before the coma and puts herself in danger trying to remember her past. She also puts herself in danger when she seeks out vampire blood to try and save a child. While Adare and Grace fight their feelings for each other for a while, I knew it was only a matter of time before they gave into their desire. These two are great together and ignite the pages of this book.

Along with the action, the missions and betrayal, there's also a medical mystery and a new path for Pax. I love the kids in this series so it was really nice to see them, especially Hope and Pax.

This story starts out with Grace and Adare not really liking each other all that much because they never took the time to get to know one another. It was so much fun watching them get to know each other, see how the other has been living and what they've been doing while apart and really seeing each other through new eyes.

I love the world that this author has created even though at times it can be confusing when you first read about it. The characters have been great and I love getting glimpses into their lives while reading the series. I'm really looking forward to reading more of this series.

Disclosure: I was given an ARC of this book via NetGalley but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Julia's Book Haven.
823 reviews215 followers
December 10, 2020
*3.5 Stars*

I enjoyed this one and it was a good addition to the series but I wanted a little bit more from the long awaited Grace and Adare. Their storyline was solid and action packed like you can always expect from this author's books but the relationship wasn't developed as much as I'd have liked. Even though they have been mated for 5 years, they truly didn't know each other that well, or at least Grace didn't know very much about Adare and his past. And it wasn't talked about at all really, and with how closed off Adare was, I didn't feel like we got to know him very well. I definitely really enjoy the ongoing storyline in this series, I recommend starting from the beginning if you are starting this series because it reads so much better that way. Really loved spending some time with past characters, and beyond excited for Benny's book next, I love him so I really hope its good. Overall I'd say it was a good book but not one of my favourites in the series.

ARC Provided By NetGalley For An Honest Review
Profile Image for ✨Briana B..
95 reviews42 followers
October 5, 2020
I just love Rebecca Zanetti. Whenever she releases a new book for pre-order, I automatically click that button without reading the description. And Guardian's Grace did not disappoint.

After being introduced to Adare and Grace a couple of books ago, I have been anticipating their story ever since. When we first met Grace, she was in a coma and on the brink of death. As a last resort to save her, Adare mated her. It worked, for the most part. Grace wakes up and to make up for being forced to mate a person she has never met, Adare gives her the freedom she seeks. This is where their book Guardian's Grace first starts off. They are reunited after not seeing each other for a couple of years in a chance encounter when Grace tries to get vampire blood online. Adare tracks her down, unknown to the fact that it is her, right before he goes on a mission that has a high possibility of ending his life. With Adare being able to find her online, also means that the Kurjans can.

While Grace is trying to get to Realm headquarters and Adare is trying to accomplish his mission, they encounter an ex-fiancé, an ex-boyfriend, many evil people that want to kill them, and a lot of explosives.

In this book I greatly enjoyed the fact that we get to see some of our favorite couples make an appearance such as Dage and Emma, and Simone and Nick. And I CANNOT forget the couple of chapters that are hinting at other books for characters such as Hope, Pax, and Drake and of course Benny and Karma. SO excited for those books!!!

I voluntarily read this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Kahea.
2,265 reviews123 followers
October 2, 2020
***4 Stars***

From the first time I met Adare and Grace and found out that their “mating” was more about convenience ~ well, life saving convenience ~ I wondered just what it would take to get these two to realize that they were meant to be together, and let me tell you it was a rocky yet enjoyable ride.

Adare and Grace. These two take determination to a whole new level. Adare is all kinds of protective alpha af male and loyal to fault. He is so focused on “The Job” that it blinds him to what is right in front of him. Grace is all about seeing what isn’t visible to the naked eye and living life on her own terms. So, when these two opposites collide sparks fly in every way possible. And those collisions tended to end in frustration. I swear these two and their lack of true communication was as enjoyable as it was frustrating. The chemistry was there and I liked how neither denied that part of their attraction and in the end, I was very happy that they finally realized that their mating was not a mistake nor one of convenience.

This book definitely pushes quite a few of the plot arc’s forward...and there are many, but I liked how the situation with the Lock & Key’s progressed. There was a smaller arc that I was very happy to see come to a head in this book, because it was seriously a long time coming, but even with that small one resolved, another one popped up that promises to cause a good amount of drama. As for the two unmated members of the Seven. They, of course have to be my ultimate fav’s, Garrett and Benny. There is a bit of a tease about who’s up next and who his mate will more than likely be (I gotta admit, I kind like how that happened), so now to practice patience until that book is released.


~ Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley & voluntarily reviewed ~
Profile Image for Carvanz.
2,384 reviews897 followers
July 20, 2020
I absolutely love this world! That’s saying a lot when I despise ongoing series. There are only a few that I’ve dedicated my time to and this is one that I will always want to read.

I’ve been waiting to get Adare’s and Grace’s complete story since they were first introduced as a “couple”. Their relationship is not one of choice as much as necessity. That intrigued me with where their storyline would go and how they’d eventually come together. It was all that I had hoped.


Image may contain: one or more people


Grace, as a human, is weaker but holy heck did she have a will of iron and she was quick to show it in full force to Adare. The thing I really liked about it was that she didn’t have to yell and shout or carry on, she simply said what she wanted or she did as she wanted. It pretty much drove Adare crazy.

As all of Ms. Zanetti’s heroes, Adare is the perfect example of an alpha male with strong protective tendencies and even a bit of jealousy when called for, although with these mated males jealousy is harder to come by as anyone who makes a move, even jokingly, pays the price for doing so. Watching him slowly come to some new realizations was endearing as he thought he had his life all planned out, even with his mate that he had separated himself from.


Sexy GIF


This is chock full of action and excitement with a lot of new information regarding the ongoing struggle between the Seven and...well, pretty much everyone else. We see lots of old familiar characters from the past, as well as a few new ones. I’m so excited to see where this series is going to take us as there is just so much possibility here.

Dual POV
Safe
Triggers


Profile Image for Alison.
3,693 reviews145 followers
October 13, 2020
How can a 346 page novel feel too short?

Fancy the sound of a PNR featuring a Demon-Vampire hybrid Highlander warrior, a member of a secret society called the Seven and the amnesiac photographer he mated five years ago, as a favour to her sister's mate, to bring her out of a coma? Me too!

The Seven are a band of warriors who defied the laws of physics to defeat and imprison their sworn enemy Ulric in a different physical plane, but the barriers keeping Ulric imprisoned are weakening and a day of reckoning is fast approaching. Ulric's people are the Kurjans, a violent race who kidnap, rape and kill enhanced human women.

Adare O’Cearbhaill has kept a careful watch over his mate Grace Cooper since his bite and mating mark brought her out of a coma, all without her knowing (the watching, not the mating), but it's gone too far when she starts meeting other men in bars to buy vampire blood. It seems that their mating of convenience five years ago hasn't taken, Grace can no longer heal herself and she is suffering from crippling headaches. She has consulted numerous Realm physicians and they believe she may be allergic to Adare's blood cells. Could her only hope be to take the vaccine and hope it breaks the mating bond?

Adare and Benny have devised a risky plan to infiltrate one of their enemy's strongholds and rescue the enhanced women that the Kurjans have kidnapped. It will probably end in death for one or both of them but if it means his mate can be free to find love with another male Adare will make that sacrifice.

This series reminds me of the best of J.R. Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood series, but with humour and more fallible heroes; completely OTT, these are fast-paced, humorous and well-plotted. I dread to think how many of the Seven's secret lairs have been blown up over the course of this series.

If you like your PNR with a dash of humour, big explosions and overarching plot arcs then this series is the one for you. It just gets more fun as the books go on.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

Bumped for release and to fix typos.
Profile Image for Sandy S.
8,274 reviews207 followers
October 14, 2020
4.25 stars--GUARDIAN’S GRACE is the twelfth instalment in Rebecca Zanetti’s contemporary, adult DARK PROTECTORS paranormal, romance series. This is vampire-demon hybrid, and one of the Seven Adare O’Cearbhaill, and photographer/enhanced female Grace Cooper. GUARDIAN’S GRACE can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading the series in order, or at the very least, this particular arc of the series as there is a on-going premise throughout.

SOME BACKGROUND: A thousand years earlier, a number of immortal warriors went through a ritual that, if they survived, hardened their bodies against attack, a ritual meant to create a group of Seven known as The Shield. The Shield was created to protect the world from an evil race of vampires known as the Kurjans, their sect group known as the Cysts, and ultimately a rogue warrior once considered a friend- Ulric-a male of immense power. To protect the human race, Ulric was captured, and along with two of the Seven, was encapsulated in one of three spheres for all eternity but the spheres are no longer capable of holding the ‘Seven, and the warriors have returned to Earth. As the warriors search for the ‘Keys’ to perform the ritual, the ‘Lock’ must be protected in order to take down the evil that is hoping to take over the world.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Adare and Grace) GUARDIAN’S GRACE following the acrimonious relationship between vampire-demon hybrid, and one of the Seven Adare O’Cearbhaill, and photographer/enhanced female Grace Cooper. Having spent two years in a coma after an unexplained attack that left Grace without any memories of what happened or why, Grace’s health started to fail. In in an effort to save his best friend’s sister, Adare O’Cearbhaill offered to ‘mate’ with our heroine, a mating that was not mutual, and one only for convenience. Five years would pass before Adare would face his wayward mate, a woman whose importance to the supernatural world has made her a target of the Kurjans and Cysts. To protect the woman with whom he is falling in love, Adare struggles with Grace’s independent nature, a nature that continues to place her in the direct line of fire. What ensues is the building but tempestuous romance and relationship between Grace and Adare, and the potential fall –out as Grace’s inability to let go of the past threatens not only her life but the life of everyone she loves.

Grace Cooper doesn’t believe the mating is real yet as the mating mark continues to fade, Grace struggles with the potential loss of a man she does not know. Adare O’Cearbhaill battles between head and heart as it pertains to the woman whose life he saved but mating if forever, and although there is the possibility to negate their mating, no one knows if Grace will fall back into her coma.

The relationship between Grace and Adare is one of convenience in that Adare mated Grace to save her life. Grace doesn’t want Adare to feel obligated to remain mated to a woman he doesn’t love but the reality goes much closer to the heart. The $ex scenes are passionate and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.


One again, there is a large ensemble cast of colorful secondary and supporting characters including Realm King Dage Kayrs and his mate Queen Emma; Zane Kyllwood, Nicolaj Veis and Simone Brightston, Logan and Mercy, Ronan and Grace’s sister Faith, Benjamin Reese, Talen and Cara, Hope Kayrs-Kyllwood and her besties Libby and Paxton Phoenix; Ivar Kjeidsen and Promise Williams; Dayne, leader of the Kurjan nation, and his brother Terre; as well as Haven’s mother Allison; Grace’s ex boyfriend Brian, and his new wife Bobbi, and cougar shifter Jacki.

GUARDIAN’S GRACE is a story of betrayal and vengeance; secrets and lies; revelations and struggle; love and acceptance. The Kurjans and the Cysts have a new ally, and thusly the enemy is quickly evolving. The premise is detailed and engaging; the romance is captivating; the characters are strong, energetic, stubborn yet lost.

copy supplied by Netgalley
Profile Image for Buffyanna.
989 reviews43 followers
July 11, 2020
I'm breathless, absolutely breathless! Guardian's Grace was fast-paced and alternately had me holding my breath in anticipation and panting from excitement.

This is a middle book in the saga of The Seven, and we catch up with this deadly, but secretive, team of vampire-demon hybrids five years after the previous book, Hero's Haven. The physics of our world has been accidentally altered by The Seven and immortals who once had the ability to teleport no longer can. That hasn't stopped their enemy, the Kurjans, from continuing to plot, scheme, and kidnap. We find that Grace Cooper, who was partially mated to Adare O'Cearbhaill when he saved her from her coma, has been avoiding her grumpy mate in the interim and hiding a deteriorating medical condition. When he finally finds out about it, things heat up. The two lovers disagree about how to handle their tangled mating dilemma. Re-mate *yes, please!* or take the bond-cancelling virus?

Once again, Rebecca Zanetti knits a slew of fascinating and intricate storylines into one cohesive volume. At the centre is Grace and Adare's love story: their sizzling attraction, their debates of fate and future, their emotional mutual revelations on each other's psyches. Woven around them is danger, suicide missions, plotting and counterplotting, struggling alliances and dirty double-crosses. And finally, but definitely not the least of which, is the mysterious destiny of Hope Kayrs-Kyllwood. Hope has turned thirteen years old and a power shift is in the air ...

You know the feeling of running so fast that you stumble over your feet? That's how I felt in reading Guardian's Grace; my eagerness to devour Rebecca's words felt like I was crashing through the book with unstoppable urgency. The great characters in this storyline make each book re-readable, again and again. I'm planning to do so with this one as well.

This is a review of an ARC provided by Kensington Publishing via NetGalley.
144 reviews1 follower
July 17, 2020
I have been dying to hear Adare’s story for ages and I was not disappointed! As is typical with Rebecca Zanetti’s books they start with a bang which immediately hooks you in to the story. Adore had me melting completely from the get go....he’s such a gruff, dominant character but you know underneath the man has layers....Grace is the perfect match - she’s one tough chick with a heart of gold, I loved the push and pull of their relationship as it evolves. There is passion, action and humour....LOVE the humour throughout all of these books. Secondary characters are well developed and engaging (can’t wait to hear more from Benny) plus we get to see old favourites. In addition to the love story, more is revealed in the overall story arc - there will be no spoilers here, you have to read it, but suffice to say there are exciting developments. Another great addition to the Dark Protectors series - best to start from the beginning to fully appreciate the storyline - you will not be disappointed!

I was given an ARC from Netgalley and this is my true and honest opinion.
Profile Image for Dawn.
1,079 reviews50 followers
March 12, 2021
Love this book! Five years ago Adare mated Grace to save her life, without her consent. This book picks up where they are currently and there has been something Grace has been hiding from Adare. Something huge.

When they find her buying vampire blood in a bar it becomes very obvious that Adare hasn't done a very good job teaching and taking care of her. But Grace refuses to be a responsibility!

Follow this sometimes sweet sometimes funny story as they find out more about each other.

I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews162 followers
July 12, 2020
Sometimes Adare has to put his woman's safety first, He’d love to concentrate on them. Every nerve in his body, every predator’s instinct, demanded he take what she was so generously offering. They could talk later. Yet he had to be straight with her. “No.” I liked this book, I liked Adare.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 365 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.