Dead of Knight

Guardians of Camelot #2

by Victoria Sue, Greg Boudreaux (Narrator)

A battle is coming…

…and the immortal knights aren’t ready.

Will an orphan be the key?

For fifteen hundred years Lucan has waged war with the greatest enemy the world has ever known

…and fought the ancient curse that means loving someone with all his heart and soul might be the reason they die.

Tom wasn’t supposed to be born… twice.

How, as a young child, had he even heard the monsters at all?

How, as an adult, is he caught up in a deadly battle to fight evil, but cannot get one stubborn man to even acknowledge he exists?

Time is running out, not just to unravel the secrets of Tom’s destiny, but for Tom to show Lucan that loving someone with all that they have doesn’t mean breaking their heart.

Or does it?

Genres: Fantasy, M M Romance, Romance, Paranormal, Historical, Magic, Audiobook

6 pages, Audible Audio

First published January 21, 2020

About the author

Bullets and Babies!

Victoria writes about guys loving other guys in between dodging bullets, kidnappers, and serial killers. She enjoys putting them through hell to get their happy ever after—it’s a character flaw she embraces.

She also believes that family is who you choose, that dogs are often much wiser than human beings, and that we’re steadily destroying the world we live in.

And if people read more books, they'd be much happier.

Reviews

[Lisazj1 · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars! I really, really love the world and the characters Victoria Sue has created here. Everything about it appeals to my nerdy, romantic little heart. The knights and the honor that's at the heart of everything they do, the magic, the monsters *both human and otherwise*, the battles, the romance, and the relationships of all kinds along with the melding of both past and present.

The plot was exciting and action packed. That and the terrific pacing kept me hooked. I couldn't read fast enough. And how I love the knights, all of them! I was happy to see Lucan finally stop trying to do what he thought was right for Tom and let Tom decide for himself. Once Lucan stopped denying them both and gave into the idea of them together, he was all in. I loved it. And wow, what a revelation Tom turned out to be! Not at all who I thought, and he was a pretty determined guy. I wonder if Morgan le Fay knows whose son he is? There are a couple of new characters, one who's there now and one who will be, and I'm looking forward to more from them too.

This is a kickass, wholly entertaining series so far and I can't wait for more!

[Barbara➰ · Rating 3 out of 5]

**3.5 Stars**

I have mixed feelings about this one. I was really looking forward to Lucan and Tom's story but was secretly keeping my fingers crossed Lucan wouldn't spend the whole book with is head up his ass like Lance did. Well, I sorta, kinda got my wish. Lucan didn't take as long to decide to make Tom his but there's some miscommunication that gets in the way. And honestly, I didn't feel like they got to spend much time together. Tom is kidnapped a couple of times and there's a good amount of pages spent on trying to find him or figuring out his background.

I was just hoping for a little more relationship development because even though they've known each other for two years, they haven't been a real couple during that time and I wanted Lucan to finally take what was his. I did get a few swoony moments. Maybe it was just I had high expectations and it didn't quit live up to them but that's totally a me thing and not necessarily the book. I will definitely continue to read this series because UGH! The ending!

[Simone - on indefinite hiatus - · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audiobook: ***5 Stars***
Story: ***3.5 Stars***

[Cadiva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn't be more perfect if it tried

I can't believe I didn't publish my review for this book when I read it. No idea what happened there.

Tom and Lucan were absolutely brilliant as a pair, once Lucan got over himself and stopped putting obstacles in their path!

While the pining and self-immolation doesn't last as long as Lance's in book one, I still wanted to brain him at times!

He's worried about the age gap between him and Tom, he's worried that Tom won't have a life if he signs up to be his Tresor but most if all, he's worried his heart will break if anything happens to Tom.

As with book one, this urban fantasy/paranormal twist on the legends of King Arthur goes at a fast pace, giving the reader an adrenaline rush through the narrative.

The main enemy here is a man dabbling in necromancy who has his designs on Tom and as this is a spoiler free review, I won't go into more detail than that.

This book made me very happy, it also had me gasping out loud, marveling at the new interpretation of some of my favourite nerdy interests and almost crying at the dedication.

Thanks for that Victoria Sue!

[Jazer (catching up on TBRs) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay. Definitely better than the first and the transitions from present and past scenes were smoother here. The first books are always sacrifial lambs in a way that they always have to suffer from heavy world-building to set the ball rolling on the next installments. This is also why I always try to read second books if the first is just so-so.

That said, I'm glad I gave this one a try still and it definitely had a better balance on storytelling and romance. Lucan is so uptight but I like Tom and really loved how mysterious his origin was and why he was different from other Tresors. This book also gave light to a lot of unanswered questions from book 1 which definitely satisfied my curiosity.

The only sad thing was I wished Merlin had more epic scenes deserving of his name and the potential was there, it was just a little lacking. However, I guess the author wants everyone to have their own background that make them really special, not just Merlin alone, and Tom is indeed a very special one.

Now, I'm looking forward to Galahad's story. 3.5 stars rounded up!

[Rachel Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!! What an amazing follow up! The first book in this series was a favorite read of mine from 2019 and I’m so happy that this second book was just as great.

I had been hoping for a great story for Tom and Lucan - and they got it. Some angst and pain in the beginning (mostly on Lucan’s part worrying that he trapping 18-year-old Tom into a forever-relationship at such a young age) and some seriously swoon worthy moments between the two made this book a winner for me. I just loved these two once they got on the same page!

Throughout their romance we also have the continuing story of the beasts they are all fighting, new friends, new enemies, and some surprises. I can’t say too much without giving away spoilers, but I think if you enjoyed the first story you’ll love this one.

I for one can’t wait for Kay’s story. I strongly recommend reading this series in order as events and backstories continue building throughout both stories.

I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Layla · Rating 3 out of 5]

I almost DNFed this.

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

4.75 stars

Dead of Knight is book two in the Guardians of Camelot series, and you really should read book one first. This story has some honestly, wonderfully flawed characters. They’re stubborn, foolish, blind, thick-skulled, and some of them — like Lance (who met his soul mate, Mel, in the previous book) and Lucan and, well, okay all of them — are so sure they know what’s right. They make mistakes. They say stupid things that cause other people pain and then they don’t know how to make up for it. And yet, somehow, they do. Lucan is one of those better with actions than words. He wears his heart on his sleeve, but then he shoves that hand behind his back so no one can see it … he’s self-deprecating, unsure why someone as beautiful as Tom, both in body and soul, could want him. He knows they’re bound together, he and Tom, but he doesn’t know how to accept the possibility that he might be the one to cause Tom pain.

Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.

[Caz · Rating 4 out of 5]

The plot in this got a bit convoluted in places, but at least Lucan got his head out of his arse about Tom reasonably early (unlike Lance in the previous book) I like the way the author incorporates various bits of Arthurian legend without trying to turn these stories into retellings (which probably wouldn't work) and the ensemble cast is great. The narration is terrific all round, and Greg's portrayal of Mel cracks me up. On to the next one

[Santy · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

I do not know why this book/series does not have more reviews/ratings than it currently has because it is some solid piece of writing especially if you're even a little bit interested in Arthurian tales. Its pretty great if you ask me.

I read the first book some time back and was so happy when I realised this book was out so I could go back to the Knights and their "Tresors". This did not disappoint. Tom and Lucan were great for each other and I loved the twists on the way to their HEA. They intrigued me from start to finish.

Bonus points to the book for Lucan pulling his head out of his butt much earlier than Lance did in Book #1 and also for the great handling of their age difference.

The only issue I had was how the explanation for the different occurrences in the book got convoluted. I think the story would have benefitted more if it had been kept simpler.

Nonetheless, I enjoyed this story and cannot wait for further instalments in this series.

[Mhollie · Rating 1 out of 5]

Dead of Knight is a Dead Read

I got this ebook through Kindle Unlimited.

The final paragraph of ‘The Twelfth Knight’ pushed my curiosity with its last paragraph “ “Soon, Father,” the young boy with the gray eyes and pale blond hair whispered as he turned and vanished into the night. “Soon.” “ and was what made me check out this second book in the series.

I feared it would be so poorly written as was the first book in the series and it was. I went into it knowing it would be extremely juvenile but written for adult audiences who were open to M/M erotica. It still disturbed me regarding the age difference between the lovers, not just in actual years (centuries), but in mental age, sophistication and emotional age/capacity. The whole “daddy” thing was really starting to get old, very old. A wash, rinse, repeat of The Twelfth Knight in many regards.

The story was lacklustre. The characters much the same. I couldn’t connect with the characters on any level. Lucan was an idiot at the best of times and Tom an idiot for putting up with Lucan and still wanting more. A dysfunctional relationship with emotional abuse and abandonment as major aspects driving the relationship.

Galahad was the only thing that kept me reading because I adore the Arthurian genre.

[Lily Loves 📚 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good installment! I didn’t like this one as much as the first one but I think the reason is because there were so many times I didn’t know who was speaking. There are quite a few characters and they are in group conversations and I just couldn’t figure out who was speaking at times. That drives me nuts because I give each character a specific voice in my head. That may sound weird but it’s what I do.

The characters are still very well written and I liked the development between Lucan & Tom. I am excited to continue this storyline!!!

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book of this series was one of my favorite reads last year, so I was highly anticipating this one; and it definitely did not disappoint. I love this world that Victoria Sue is building, with plenty of nods to Arthurian legends, but also plenty of completely unique and wonderful twists. There was a point when I wanted to throw my kindle, but even then I could not put it down. Tom and Lucan were amazing, and while most of their falling for each other was done off page, if you’ve read the first book (which is necessary), you don’t feel like you’re missing out. This series is quickly becoming one of my favorites and I can’t wait to see what happens next.

[Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 2 in the series. Please read book 1 first!! I loved book 1 and book 2 certainly did not disappoint. Loved the story and the further delving into the characters back-stories. The action was fast-paced and heart-pounding. The world Victoria Sue is creating around the Arthurian legends is fascinating and I can't wait to see what comes next, that ending has me perched on the edge of my seat!

[Ashley Yungbluth · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Dead of Knight" by Victoria Sue is book two in the "Guardians of Camelot" series. I'm not sure why I started with book two, but it was a good read. I enjoyed Lucan and Tom's character. The world building in this book was absolutely amazing. I will go back and read book one and then continue on in the series. I can't wait to see where it goes and to see where it began. This book will definitely keep your attention and have you reading for more.

[Macky · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️3.5⭐️

[Crystal P · Rating 4 out of 5]

I find this world Victoria Sue has built quite fascinating and entertaining. The knights are enjoyable characters and there are many twists and turns as they navigate the situations they find themselves in. Tom and Lucan were introduced, and played a main role, in book one, but in this books we get their story. Both Tom and Lucan have continual flashbacks and it turns out that those flashbacks are vital to what is occurring in the here and now - not a huge fan of flashbacks but given the nature of this world, it makes sense. I enjoy the narrator but there are many characters and sometimes it is difficult to follow who is speaking. I was happy with how things were wrapped up and look forward to more in this world.

[Morgana · Rating 2 out of 5]

Nooooooo... Delusissima, che colpo al cuore😭
Ero stra in hype per questa serie, scoperta a casissimo vagando sui titoli a pochi spicci sul mio Kobo e invece!!
Disperazione
"The twelfth knight" era stato una rivoluzione e una rivelazione: bellissimo, con una trama articolata e non semplicemente un romance dove di base i due protagonisti lιmοnαno tutto il tempo, un fantasy che riprende la leggenda di re Artù ma in chiave lgbt... PERFETTO❤️
Quando ho iniziato il secondo volume dalla serie, "The dead knight" avevo già l'impressione che sarebbe stato un classico secondo AKA una delusione, però ci sono rimasta male comunque ad avere i miei sospetti confermati😭
La coppia è troppo melensa e troppo stereotipata e la storia è spiegata malissimo! Giuro, non ho capito una fava di tutte le teorie e le resuscitazioni e le battaglie...
Che peccato...
Ho già comprato il terzo volume, speriamo si riprenda!

[ButtonsMom2003 · Rating 5 out of 5]

September 16, edited to add my comments on the audiobook.

Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 2

This audiobook needs way more than 5 stars!

I loved Dead of Knight when I read it back in January 2020 and I really didn't see how it could get much better; but Greg Boudreaux's performance of this story totally blew me away. Just like I said for book one, The Twelfth Knight, the voices he does for this book are nothing short of amazing. I know that Victoria Sue had to wait a few months in order for Greg to do this book. Let me tell you, I think it was absolutely worth the wait. I just can't imagine anyone else performing the book the way that he has. I hope with all my heart that he will be able to do the next book when it comes out.

Below is a copy of the review I wrote when I first read the book:

This book and series just blows me away!

I really can't believe how much I love this series. As I said in my review of The Twelfth Knight. I almost never read fantasy-based romance but that is no longer true; I am well and truly hooked on this series. I guess I didn't know what I was missing and may now give other fantasy authors a try.

Here's the thing about the Guardians of Camelot series: it's complex, it's engaging, it's effing amazing! Dead of Knight picks up where The Twelfth Knight left off. (This is a series you really need to read in order.) While all of the characters we met in book one play an important role in Dead of Knight, the romantic focus is on Lucan and Tom.

Dead of Knight also introduces us to some new characters (both bad guys and good guys) and had more than a few surprise elements for me. I won't do any spoilers, just let me say that we learn things about Tom that I didn't see coming.

I really want to say so much more here but everything I come up with would be a spoiler. The world that Victoria Sue has created it just amazing. Tom and Lucan get a good conclusion to their romance in this book but this is a continuing series and everything will not be resolved in this book. Victoria Sue gives us a great teaser at the end for the next book and I cannot wait!

A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.

***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***

[Calila · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Received A Copy To Review From The Author*

I ultimately enjoyed this, but I only know that looking back after finishing. I wasn't sure where it was going or if I cared that much, but once the plot started coming together it really picked up and I'm happy with it. I think this couple relies more on the longing and certainty of destiny to do some heavy lifting, but it works. I really believed in them and their emotional journey. There's an added twist that I predicted but then doubted so there was still some surprise factors. I'm curious how the over all arc is going to continue to go, and I really an interested in the new hints for the pairings to come. I'm very curious how they'll come together.

[Tam · Rating 3 out of 5]

I listened to the audio book.

I was quite frustrated with Lucan. He didn't seem to clue in that if Tom was his Tresor, that he would suffer his whole life if they didn't bond. He seemed to think that he'd suffer but Tom wouldn't. Duh. Get with the program. You'd think after 1500 years or whatever he'd have figured this out. Also not a couple of weeks ago the bad guy somehow managed to resurrect Lancelot's wife and it was all fake, but when Lucan's brother suddenly shows up it doesn't occur to anyone that maybe this is also a trick? Nope, this one is for real. Sheesh. Again, not so bright.

But I kept listening while on the treadmill so it kept me going and I'll likely keep picking them up.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy cow this is a great addition to this series. If you thought book one was good book 2 with Tom and Lucan is even better. Every time I thought I knew what was happening I had to stop because nothing was what I expected and the whole story just kept expanding and improvong and going different than what I expected which was so much better than I hoped for. I love the premise of this series and having met Tom and Lucan in book one Dead of Knight allowed for greater development of their story. Dead of Knight also introduced more of the history of the Knights and Tressors which just makes me want more of this series.

[Jodi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow. This was an interesting story and one I didn't not expect. This was not a fast paced story and I really had to pay attention as Lucan and Tom would go from present to past. Tom's past was quite the surprise and all the twists and turns had me worried that there would not be a hea, even though I knew there had to be! I adored Tom, his brightness, sweetness and his strong love for Lucan. While Lucan fought his attraction to Tom through the entire book and I just wanted to yell at him to get his act together. My only complaint with the story is that Lance and Lucan sound so much alike that sometimes I was confused as to who was speaking. That said, I can't wait for book 3.

[Kyra · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5* not as good as the first book.

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series keep getting better - Tom and Lucan got an amazing story! Victoria Sue almost gave me a heart attack reading this book!!!
Can't wait for everyone to read their amazing story!!!

[Diane Dannenfeldt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally Lucan gets his head out of his ass! And I was right on the identity of a character! I can’t wait to see who his knight is!

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

If there are hangups that are valid, then Lucan does have them. This book was also totally awesome. No words!

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't wait for Tom and Lucan's story... this book is even better and the first one - Victoria Sue did an awesome job with it - amazing read

[Monique · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️ 3.5 stars ⭐️

[Charlotte Sabourin · Rating 2 out of 5]

What in the “barely legal” kind of shit did I just read