Darkness Betrayed

Guardians of Eternity #17

by Alexandra Ivy

When a conspiracy threatens what’s most precious to The Guardians of Eternity, they must depend upon their one-time enemy to protect them in the latest from New York Times bestselling author Alexandra Ivy . . .

Once, Brigette was the conduit through which the ultimate evil reached Earth. Now she’s just a lonely Were isolated in an Irish cottage, cut off from her animal and humanity alike. When a band of rebels approach her to take down the king of the vampires, she knows denying them means certain death—but even if she warns the king, he may not listen to the likes of her.

From the moment Xi slips into Brigette’s bedroom to escort her to his king, he sees the heartbreak that hides behind her guilt. The elusive vampire has fought for centuries to master his own regrets, and his word will convince the king to value hers. Neither can escape the attraction between them, even as partners on an undercover mission. But there’s no room for pleasure when their work might redeem her to the Guardians completely—or send them to the death they’ve evaded for so long . . .

Genres: Romance, Paranormal Romance, Vampires, Paranormal, Shapeshifters, Fantasy, Magic

206 pages, Paperback

First published May 25, 2021

About the author

I'm not exactly sure when I fell in love with books. Probably on my mother's knee listening to her read Dr. Seuss to me. I do remember that I was barely old enough to cross the street by myself when I discovered the delights of the local library. Could anything be more wonderful than spending summer days surrounded by stacks of Nancy Drew mysteries? Over the years I fell in love with Victoria Holt, Jane Austen, Agatha Christie, and J.R.R. Tolkien just to name a few. I read poetry, essays, biographies, and plays. In fact, I read anything I could get my hands on.

Years later (no, I'm not admitting how many) I'm still an avid reader, and my tastes are still as varied as they were in my youth, which I suppose helps to explain why I enjoy writing regency historicals under the name of Deborah Raleigh, as well as my contemporary paranormals as Alexandra Ivy. For now that is enough to keep me busy, but who knows what the future might hold!

I do have a few other loves in my life besides reading and writing, the most important being my unbelievably patient husband, David, and my two sons, Chance and Alexander. Without their constant support and belief in me, I never could have been able to follow my dreams. They are truly my heroes.

--From authors website--

Reviews

[Leigh · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Darkness Betrayed is book 17 in the Guardians of Eternity series and finally Brigette's redemption. I have been not so patiently waiting for this book since we were told of her ultimate betrayal. Now while I loved Brigette and Xi together I'm disappointed that their romance was basically nonexistent. I feel the author has been putting the couples and their romances on the backburner giving us barely any time for any passion but boom their in love and the end. So many characters are having on page time that I feel I'm taken out of the story of the main characters. The ending was so rushed that while I got my HEA I was left disappointed. I'm am so invested in this series that there is no question I will read the next book.

***I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.***

[Marta Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this series and actually think that it's got better and better as the author keeps adding to it. This time it's Brigette who many will remember as the ultimate betrayer and pretty much a thoroughly nasty piece of work who steps up. She no longer is imbued by the evil powers of the Beast but that's not something she's broadcasting about because she just wants to be alone. Yet when she's approached by rebels wanting to overthrow the Vampire King she goes along with it because she's curious and actually really doesn't have anything else to do !
Styxx is beyond irritated by the recent trivial attacks on his people and is determined to get to the bottom of it or heads will quite literally roll . When he receives a visit from the untrustworthy Brigette he would be a fool to believe she's turned a new page but sometimes even gruff dare I say surly Vampires have to make hard choices. Styxx decides that his trusted Raven, Xi with his trick of being undetectable is the Vampire for the job but descending into the sewers of Chicago brings as many questions as it does answers !
I found this a quick, entertaining read that actually had quite a twisting plot. I think trying to redeem Brigette was a great idea but sadly I also think the romance between Brigette and Xi got overshadowed by everything that was going on. I admit to proudly being a hopeless romantic but even I was surprised by the ending. What I really enjoyed was seeing old friends appear and in case you are wondering yes the divine, calamitous and hysterical Levet is around to cause mayhem and even actually help !
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair

[Jacque · Rating 4 out of 5]

So here I am jumping into book #17 of Guardians of Eternity series after not having read any of the previous books. Why would I do that you might ask. Because while I haven’t read much by Alexandra Ivy, what I have read, I enjoyed. I thought here’s a new release, just go for it. With that thought in mind, I cracked open Darkness Betrayed and settle in for hopefully a good read.

Not sure if this book was meant to be funny but I found it to be. Funny, fast paced and highly entertaining. The characters were great even though I did struggle a bit to keep up with who was who. There were so many of them and at times I had to keep reminding myself this was Bridgette and Xi’s story. Bridgette being a were and a former villain there was plenty of background given on her that I knew what her past crimes were. Xi is a vampire and I am guessing in this world the mixing of the two is not something that should happen. Really, I am just guessing on that because it seemed more of a personal thing. One that added a lot to their forbidden romance. Well, it didn’t really feel like a romance. More like an action/adventure paranormal story with the building romance relationship between them as a side story instead of the main focus.

There’s a lot of characters in this story and each seemed to have their own thing going on. At times I felt a bit overwhelmed with it all. I struggled a few times where I had to backtrack to remember all the characters and their storylines. All the twists and turns had me guessing what was going to happen next and made it very hard to put the book down. Have to admit, even though Bridgette and Xi were the main characters, my favorite was Levit. Not sure if he has his own story so I’ll be checking previous titles in the series for it. Overall, it was an enjoyable read perfect for readers who wants a entertaining escape.

Stars: 4

I received this book from Netgalley. I was not compensated for the book other than the entertainment it provided. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Trish R. Ali · Rating 4 out of 5]

Darkness Betrayed is Book 17 in Guardians of Eternity series by Alexandra Ivy. This is story about redemption, it was quick paced, great world building with hot sexy scenes. Told from 3rd person from various characters, the chemistry between Brigette & Xi are hot and believable.

Alexandra Ivy did a wonderful job in this installment. I'm positive the next book will be another hit too.

Thanks NetGalley for the copy, this is my unbiased review.

[Tracie R · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a great addition to this series. I loved the character dynamics and the inclusion of past characters. The story is well written the interaction absorbing and engaging. This one is definitely a keeper and one I highly recommend

[Lisa - (Aussie Girl) · Rating 4 out of 5]

X - Major character - Xi

[Speed · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another favorite author of mine who has kept my favorite series going... This is now book #17 of the Guardians of Eternity and it is still amazing to read. In this story, we have Bridgette and Xi's (a Raven, part of the Anasso's personal security guard) story. If you remember from the last few books, Bridgette is not truly a good person ( a villain, actually) but she does redeem herself and does it quite nicely. I loved that Ms. Ivy paired her with a mate who was not faultless in his sins as a youth and had also chosen the path to good. Filled with my wonderful and adorable Levet( who by the way needs to get with Inga, queen of the Merfolk), plus Troy our delectable Imp, not to mention past characters make for an enjoyable read. I truly loved this one and laughed way too much. Ms. Ivy is a gem in her own right, writing these wonderful tales. I cannot say how much I really love this series and never want it to end. 4.5 stars*****

*****I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book provided by NetGalley*****

[Sheila Kaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't think it was possible but Alexandra Ivy did it again, she made an evil character into a sympathetic one. She's done it before but I didn't think Brigette could be reformed. The chemistry between the female and Xi is off the charts and worth the buildup. I hope the next book she writes is Levet and Inga's HEA!!!

[Nancy Ku · Rating 5 out of 5]

Darkness Betrayed (Guardians of Eternity, #17) by Alexandra Ivy
I love this series and each book is better than the last one. This is Xi and Brigette's story which is full of never stop action, angst, betrayal, evil, magic, redemption, loads of old friends and some enemies (and everyone's favorite Levet), intrigue, violence, lots of laughs, strong feelings, and steam all to get us to their HEA. I can't wait for what is next.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Page-turner Happily Ever After Wonderful characters Romantic Great world building Steamy Funny Tear-jerker Action-packed Easy-to-read Haunting Entertaining Unpredictable Scary

[Whispers From · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brigette was a werewolf that destroyed her family and village many years ago. She had a ‘beast’ inside of her and she almost took over everything and now she carries the guilt of what she did. Now she has cut herself off from everyone until two people show up. They are wanting to take down the King of Vampires and they have recruited Brigette to help. But Brigette goes to Styx, vampire king, and tells him. Styx gets Xi to go with her because they don’t trust her. Xi is a vampire and has his own burdens to carry but he has a feeling Brigette is more than everyone sees. As they race to stop the plan from forming, they can’t fight the attraction to each other but is it too late for them?

I loved this story. It was a little hard to get into ( for me ) but once I started I didn’t want to stop. Brigette and Xi are perfect for each other. I love Levet, the “world saving gargoyle” and the imp Troy.

* Voluntarily read and reviewed this for NetGalley *

[Les Romantiques · Rating 5 out of 5]

Posted on Les Romantiques - Le forum du site
Reviewed by Fabiola
Review Copy from the Publisher
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Darkness betrayed is the 23rd volume in the Guardians of eternity series (if you count the long novels and the novellas). It follows the previous volume, Shades of darkness (https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... ), some time later.

I’ll talk about the heroine, Brigette. She’s a pure Were we met in Conquer the darkness (https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... ). She was there the bad girl but at the end of the book, she was just imprisoned in the castle of the Queen of the Merfolk. In the following long volume, Shades of darkness, she was back, still in a less than glorious role but better than previously. Yes I voluntarily stay vague in order not to spoil for those who haven’t read the books yet (I don’t know if that’s possible with the series’ fans but you never know).
In any case, in this volume, I had already felt some kind of transformation in this character in spite of her disastrous choices. So when I read the synopsis for Darkness betrayed, I wasn’t surprised to see her as a heroine. As said by Alexandra Ivy during the virtual Festival du Roman Féminin 2021 (a French online event in April), she had decided to use the redemption plot for this bad character. She already did that especially for Styx (Darkness everlasting, 3rd volume in the series) but it’s the first time she does it for a female character.

I must say I was a bit skeptical about Brigette and I had trouble seeing how Alexandra would make me appreciate her. Challenge met!
When I finished this book, I only had one thought: Brigette will stay on our heart just like Alexandra’s other heroines. She’s powerful, determined and loyal to Levet. In Brigette’s case, some vulnerability can be added, consequence of her past decisions. I’d have like less self-pity moments. But all in all I loved Brigette.

After that, you’ll ask me: and what about the hero?
Don’t fret, Xi, the vampire, a Raven (member of Styx’s personal guards) is not outdone. As powerful as Alexandra’s any other hero, I must say his special power makes him one of the best heroes of the series. And no, I won’t say more. By the by, to visualize Xi, I always have in mind the first appearance of the Ravens with Styx leading them (since then he has become the King of the Vampires) in Embrace the darkness (2d volume in the series): quite a group of powerful warriors you’d better have on your side.
Anyway, to go on with this review, Xi also had a complicated past as a vampire and sometimes he’s engulfed by a feeling of guilt, but he has succeeded in overcome that through Styx. I remind here that with Alexandra Ivy, vampires don’t remember their past as humans once they’re transformed, which is handy as some must have done things… LOL
In this book, he tries to make Brigette understand it’s possible at times to overcome the feelings of guilt by thinking of the future.

I liked the relationship between Xi and Brigette. The attraction is immediate and powerful. Xi accepts it more easily than Brigette, but we understand why. I liked that the first love scene arrives after the half of the book because before that it would have been ill-timed seeing the dangerous situation the heroes were confronted to.
Indeed, they are for a good part of the book in the same area as the bad guys.
At the beginning of the book, Brigette is approached by a female vampire and a werewolf. Their goal is to use Brigette’s power to dethrone Styx. Problem: Brigette doesn’t have this power anymore (read Conquer the darkness to know why). However she accepts their proposal to spy on them. After having warned Styx through Levet, she teams with Xi to go on watching the bad guys and learn their plans.

On the suspense and action side, there’s plenty of it! To the point I had trouble putting down the book to do my daily tasks (like go to work LOL). As usual, Alexandra puts us quickly in the heart of the subject and we wonder how they’ll manage till the end.
What’s more, in Darkness betrayed Styx and Viper (hero in Embrace the darkness) have a more active role than in the previous volumes, with an ending in a blaze of glory on many levels. We also see Darcy (message for Alexandra; I’d really like to see again more often previous heroines 😉) and Dante as well as his soulmate Abby (heroes of the first volume), and Shay, Viper’s soulmate, are mentioned, which made me want to read again the first volume of this series I’m fan of since 2009, that is When darkness comes.

In any case, with Darkness betrayed, Alexandra Ivy did a wonderful job. I loved this book from start to finish and I can’t wait to know if she’s planed a story for Troy, the Prince of the Imps, who’s taking more and more place in the series; to know what will happen to Levet and Inga, the Queen of the Merfolk… So many potential stories I can’t wait to discover.

[Ashley (Red-Haired Ash Reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Series: Guardians of Eternity #17
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good

Brigette was once the conduit for ultimate evil to reach Earth. Now, she is a lonely were living in an isolated Irish cottage, cut off from her animal and humanity. When a band of rebels approces her to betray the king of the vampires, she tags along to try to gather information she can use to warn the king with.

I am glad we are finally getting Bridgette’s story. While she was an evil character, you quickly realize there's more to her than her past. While everyone may view her as an enemy, she is still determined to protect her remaining family and the world. She was a very strong woman who has been through so much. Yes, she did terrible things but she has realized that and is trying to be a better person. I really liked that she was able to redeem herself a little in this book.

Xi was an interesting vampire. He is one of Styxx’s Ravens and has the unique ability to disappear into his surroundings. This makes him the perfect partner for Bridgette while she is undercover. Xi and Bridgette have an instant attraction but they both try to push it aside while stopping the enemy. I really enjoyed their slow relationship because you could feel their intense attraction and growing feelings in every scene and look.

These two were great characters with some intense and prolonged chemistry. The overall story was pretty great as well with a growing rebellion, attacks on lairs, and unexpected enemies. We see the return of quite a few main characters from previous books, like Viper, Troy, and of course Levet. I can’t wait for the next book.

*ARC provided by Netgalley for an honest review.*

You can also find my reviews at Red-Haired Ash Reads.

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars-DARKNESS BETRAYED is the seventeenth full-length instalment in Alexandra Ivy’s contemporary, adult GUARDIANS OF ETERNITY paranormal/fantasy romance series. This is vampire/Raven Xi, and werewolf Brigette’s story line. DARKNESS BETRAYED can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from several third person perspectives including Xi and Brigette DARKNESS BETRAYED follows Brigette as she is approached to join a revolution, a revolution against the King of the Vampires but Brigette knows betrayal first hand, and isn’t about to find herself on the wrong side of the fight. Reaching out to the Anasso (King), Brigette is tasked with infiltrating the supernatural group preparing to take down the vampire Styx but she finds herself now partnered with the vampire in charge of Styx’s protection. Enter Xi, and the man with whom Brigitte will fall in love. As Styx and Brigette begin to investigate the who, how and why of the upcoming revolution, the pull between our couple cannot be denied.

Meanwhile, our intrepid gargoyle Levet is sent on a mission of his own. Brigette recovered a series of ancient scrolls once connected to the previous Anasso, and Levet is tasked with uncovering the whereabouts of the source of its’ magic.

DARKNESS BETRAYED is a story of power and control; betrayal and vengeance; retribution, loss, family and love. Alexandra Ivy pulls the reader into a tale of ruthlessness and reprisal for sins of the past, sins misdirected at the Anasso vampire. The fast paced and character driven premise is intriguing and captivating; the slow building romance is fated; the characters are energetic and colorful-it is always fun to watch Levet in action.

www.thereadingcafe.com

[Mary Kirkland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brigette has done some awful things but she knows it and feels awful about it. She's also suffered for the things she's done and even her wolf has turned her back on her now. She used to have the power of the darkness but she doesn't have that anymore and not everyone knows that yet. So when some rebels come and ask for her help, she says yes knowing full well she'll never help them. She's acting as a spy for Styxx and trying to help him since he helped her.

Xi is called when Brigette gets word to Styxx that rebel forces are going to try and overthrow him and his people. Styxx asks Xi to go with Brigette to make sure that what she's saying is true but while he's there he becomes more and more attracted to her.

Brigette had been used by the beast for many years and now that she's free of him, she's an outcast and no one trusts her. But she truly does feel awful for the things she's done and has no idea how to go about her life now. So when she can stop some rebels from doing damage to Styxx, she helps as much as she can. Xi is along for the ride to see what Styxx is up against so he and Brigette spend a lot of time together and find that they are attracted to one another.

There's a lot of danger and Brigette and Xi find themselves in the thick of it. Once they figure out what and who is really behind the attack on Styxx it wasn't at all what I thought it was going to be. There were a couple of great twists at the end of this book. I love how it ended.

I loved seeing Levet in this book. He's so funny and I find it hilarious that he gets under the skin of so many of the characters in this series.

I received an e-ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review but all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Sandy Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 17 in the Guardians of Eternity, and while it could be read as a stand alone-I would read the previous few books because this character and her actions in those books are spoken about in this book. In this one we finally get a book for Brigette! Once Brigette was the conduit for the ultimate evil to come to earth. Now she is a were that keeps herself isolated. When rebels come to her for help in taking down the vampire king, she knows she has to warn him. Even if he doesn't listen to her. Xi knows from the moment he meets Brigette that there is more going on in her mind than just guilt. He also knows that the attraction he feels towards her is mutual. But will their mission be a way for her to achieve absolution or will it lead to the death that should have found her long ago?

I loved most of this book! I loved how Brigette and Xi's relationship progresses, how they handle the rebels, and just their connection in general. I didn't like how some of the other characters were almost thrown in just because we all love those characters so much. It threw it off the main characters story for me. I loved that Brigette gets to be redeemed. She didn't seem to deserve in the previous books, but to actually get her feelings and thoughts behind her actions was perfect. And the fact that she knew what happened should have never happened. There is scene towards the end that made me ugly cry. For a minute there I thought I was going to have to do something drastic with my book. But I am oh so glad that it worked out the way it did! I can't wait to read more in this series because it never gets old for me!

[D A · Rating 4 out of 5]

after 16 novels and several novellas you might think that the characters and storylines would get repetitive but Ivy continues to avoid that penitential downside of a long running series. While the hero, Xi, is sexy (one common trait amount the author's heroes), he is also his own unique strengths, character and issues. Bridgette was on the wrong side in the past, made mistakes in her youth that carried over across the years, but she's paid a price and suffered as a result of those past decisions and had come to new realizations and a desire to make amends. someone is planning to take down Styx, the vampire king, and thereby turn the demon world upside down and inside out. While Bridgette and Xi work to discover the rebellion secrets, they discover much more and we are given a story, not only about romance but redemption and forgiveness. There is also plenty of action as the rebellion's threads are followed and we get to enjoy some old favorites in Styx, Viper and, of course, Levet who has his own piece of puzzle to follow (a slight change up from his being tagging along with the main h/h). the intrigue, action and humor are all well paced and result in another enjoyable installment in the series and a couple you are happy to see together HEA.

arc courtesy of net galley in exchange for a fair and honest review

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review featured at www.books-n-kisses.com

It’s about time! We are finally getting Brigette’s story. I was so glad and here is why. I knew there was more to Brigette than the evil we have seen in some of the previous books. Brigette is, well, hard to like. At least until this book.

Brigette really does things for what she thinks is the greater good. She is trying to protect the people she loves and, for that matter, the world as a whole. She might not do it in the right ways but it really is with good intentions. I knew she had it in her!!!

Xi is a cool character who I really enjoyed. How many times have you thought “If I could be a fly on the wall” and know what happened in another room. Well Xi can sorta do that. He can fade into other objects which is pretty cool. But it is also helpful to Brigette while she is undercover. They are perfect for each other.

Ivy is one of my favorite authors. I have liked every book she has written and this book is no exception. I can say that this book “can” be a stand alone but it is a better read when you have the history that Ivy has imagined as you read the entire series.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

[Anne Szlachcic · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the latest book in the Author's long running Guardians of Eternity series and whilst it can be read as a standalone some knowledge of the world building and characters would be of benefit to the reader

She-wolf Brigette had previously been a conduit for evil to enter the world but once the plot was quelled she escaped custody and has found a small , quiet slice of life to try to rebuild what she can of her life .
When the opportunity for redemption and to become a hero instead of a villain appears on her doorstep she takes the risk and agrees assist against this new threat to the world .
Vampire Xi has lived a long time and is reluctant to believe that his new partner is reformed But the more time he spends with her as they investigate the new threat the more he falls under her spell . The attraction is mutual but when a sacrifice must be made to stop their enemy will they make it , can they survive or will all be lost ?

This is another entertaining story in this series which has introduced new characters that looks to lead to another book in the future
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

The latest Guardian of Eternity book Darkness Betrayed is number seventeen in this long running series by Alexandra Ivy. Conspiracy is at the focus of the conflict against the Guardians this time with a former villain along for the ride. Brigette was once used to channel evil against earth. At that time she did not have any choice in being used. This time the choice is hers. Unclear as to where she stands in this conspiracy sends Xi as a watcher going undercover with her.

It is difficult to make a bad character show that they have changed for the better, overcoming what has always been thought by others. This story does just that, showing the different Brigette that is undeniable for Xi. Their story is one of wariness to trust, despair to hopefulness and lonely to love. It was great to see characters from previous books as supporting characters in Xi and Brigette’s story.

An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I gotta admit that I have been hopping in and out of this series for a while. While I know the general world, I tend to miss some big events along the way. All of that to say that I don't have trouble rejoining this crew and enjoying each installment.

This book follows Brigette, the previous baddie who was under evil influences. She's punishing herself and trying to perform her own form of redemption when she is suddenly faced with an opportunity. She's a bit damaged and determined which somehow ends up putting her in league with a demon/vampire uprising.

Xi has been tasked with finding out who the new big bad is, as evidenced by a series of strange and concerning occurrences in town. He ends up having to team up with the ex-big bad, Brigette. Obviously these two end up reluctantly attracted to each other in the fated way that happens in this series. They both have their own tragic story, and that lends itself to making it feel less rushed and more romantic than others. I liked their sweet moments, but, as usual, Levet was a highlight.

[Nikki Brooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was going to be an uphill battle - how do you root for someone who has done such horrendous things like Brigette has?

Brigette can't go back and change the damage she has wrought but she now owns it and takes responsibility. Her wolf has abandoned her in disgust. Her powers are...wonky to say the least.

Approached by rebel forces who want to overthrow Styxx, she goes along for the ride, whilst having no thought of actually overthrowing him, after all, he helped release her from the beast. But as we know curiosity killed the cat- it might kill this Shifter too!

Xi gets deployed to see if the tales Brigette is telling are actually true - he's pretty much the invisible man! But whilst he's tailing Brigette, he gets to see the torture she puts herself through daily and that she truly does repent.

Twisty plot as usual and there is always some levity when Levet makes an appearance. He takes the KISA thing really seriously LOL. Another great addition to the series!

[Asmaa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the seventeenth book in the Guardians of Eternity series by Alexander Ivy. This time the adventure include a former villain Brigette, who was once unwillingly channeling evil against the earth. She is on her own and a conspiracy against the king of vampires tries to recruit her. She doesn’t want to go along with th rebels but also realizes king might not listen to her.
I comes to escort her and sees the heartbreak behind her guilt. Styx, the king, has assigned Xi to Brigette because he doesn’t fully trust her.
Xi and Brigette really start to bond on their adventure. It’s a lovely story of redemption along with the action we come to expect in a Guardians book. It was fun seeing old favorites and the story was well written. I really enjoyed learning more about Brigette and enjoyed her relationship with Xi immensely. I’m eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
I received this book from netgalley via the publisher and this is my honest review.

[Nadine H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Old ghosts die hard!
This time the threat comes from the past, the clock is ticking and its hard to keep the peace.
I liked having the series favorite characters on board, the book had a diversity of appearances and an insight to many lives, both past stories and coming ones :)
There is a spot on levet and his complicated relationship with Inga ~the queen of mere folk
Also more insight as for the character of Troy, prince of the imps, and seems like we are getting a very interesting book, at least for me coz i like him, and a new very strong female character.
As for this book's main characters, i really liked Xi, the way he "owns it", the past may hurt but its no use dwelling in it, instead correct yourself and be the best you can be.
Xi taught bridgette how to forgive herself, and by doing so in my opinion gave her the ultimate gift.
In the end i was so sad, but it turned out all good with a hint of a new mystery? May be.

[MELANIE · Rating 2 out of 5]

Les vampires sont confrontés à plusieurs incidents suspects. Une rébellion se prépare. Styx, le roi des vampires, charge un de ses gardes, Xi, de mener l'enquête.

Je me suis assez facilement remis dans le bain de cette série, qui s'étire en longueur. Je me suis assez rapidement remémoré les différents personnages, mais je suis déçue de ce tome.
Cela devient de plus en plus répétitif, et pour moi, les pseudos intrigues commencent à manquer de profondeur.
En outre, le côté romance est trop simpliste et en arrière-plan, il n'y a aucune séduction, pas de sentiments.
La fin sort un peu du commun, mais en même temps, c'est trop facile et sans aucune explication qui tienne la route.

En bref, ce tome n'apporte rien à la série, je me suis ennuyée. Ce n'est pas désagréable à lire, mais il sera vite oublié. C'est dommage, je garde un très bon souvenir des premiers tomes, mais le précédent m'avait déjà un peu déçue, comme si c'était les tomes de trop.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kudos to Alexandra Ivy for making me believe there is redemption. I have read every book in this series and didn't think I could become invested, or care for Bridgette, At the end, with her resignation, I was choked up, with Xi I was sniffling. This can be read as a stand alone, but it is oh so much more if you have read the series. It's like putting on an old coat but you keep finding new things in your pockets. This paranormal has vampires, Imps, weres demons, gargoyle and orgs. It has a twisted plot, laughter and romance. It is entertainment with sorrow and sunshine. Does anyone else wondering what Troy is going to have to do??? You know he is going to have to get his own story, surely! Thank you for the Arc Lyrical Press, NetGalley and Alexandra Ivy, I freely volunteer m thoughts and opinions.

[Book Him Danno · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alexandra Ivy is a can't miss author!! 4 1\2

Its no secret I am a fan of Alexandra Ivy. It has mainly been her Romantic Suspense series and this is the 3rd book in her Guardians of Eternity series I have read. This book fits into the the paranormal romance series which can be read as a stand alone or part of the 17 book series. (Side note it is fun to see the author change in writing only become better and better with each book!)

Who would guess the one person you would like you should hate you can't. The author shows the evolution of change in the different characters and looking for redemption but scared. The author creates this amazing world that readers will be pulled into with characters and romance that is hot, action that is perfect blend.

Thank you to Netgalley and the Lyrical Press publisher for the advance copy of Alexandra Ivy Darkness Betrayed

[Johanna Sawyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just love this series…. The ending even produced a few tears. The covers are great and blurbs really suck you in.

What did I like? This book has a huge plot surrounding Styx who is the current king. Steps to harm him and his people as the situation is revealed by Brigette. Xi, one of Styx’s Ravens is assigned to help Brigette foil the plot. There attraction to one another is evident and gives the book a steamy vibe. This book really sucks you in from page one and does not let go.

Would I recommend or buy? I really enjoyed this series and really recommend it to anyone loving a paranormal series. Levet is here and it’s such a huge cast. There’s always someone coming and going, and sneak peeks on previous characters! Five stars for me! Loved it.

I received a complimentary copy to read and voluntarily left a review!

[Judi · Rating 3 out of 5]

As much as I love this series, this particular book left me wanting. The characters were flat, the storyline rushed, and not a real lick of romance to be had. Worse than that, though, since I love the series and will continue reading it, was the editing. It seems to be getting worse instead of improving with each book. As an editor, I tend to catch a lot. And it's very frustrating to be constantly mentally correcting things as I read. I give it 3 stars because there was a smidgen of storyline continuation, which was a good thing, but the editing was atrocious, which, well, was a bad thing. Please get yourself a new editor. The one you have is doing you no favors.

I'm sorry, Alexandra Ivy. I wish I could have given a better review. Until you replace your editor, though, I'm afraid I may continue to feel this way. I'll still read each book in the series, so I guess there's that.

[Kaarla Amaya · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐
Tengo que decir que este me ha gustado muchísimo más que algunos anteriores. Retomamos la historia de Brigette que empezó su historia siendo la villana y aquí la vemos haciendo su arco de redención. Me gusta cuando los personajes son complicados y tienen más que aportar que ser el bueno.

Xi y Brigette tienen que trabajar juntos para derrocar una rebelión que está intentando destruir a todos. Aquí vemos una pareja que me gusta particularmente porque se entienden y eso ya es decir bastante. Xi quiere que Brigette se perdone a sí misma por sus pecados y Brigette sabe que son irreparables.

Vemos su dinámica de tira y afloja pero cómo trabajan juntos para salvar el día.
Fue una lectura entretenida.

[Barrie Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

As with all of Alexandra Ivy’s Guardian books, the characters are strong, loyal and passionate. In this story Bridgette gets a shot at redemption. While helping her on her mission, Xi falls for her and is willing to do anything to help her.

Ivy is great at bringing back some series favorites to fall in love with not just the main couple but with the supporting characters and the community that they make. Of course the little gargoyle Levet, a favorite, brings his comedic shenanigans into the mix.

I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.