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Curse of the Guardians #2
Touch of Blood
He's never wanted anyone... until her.
After being condemned to the fighting Pits as a child, Kace was forced to do horrifying things to survive. Now, as an adult with a curse that intensifies his rage, he keeps himself away from anything that can break his carefully constructed control. So when he meets Eva, the only woman who has ever ignited such raw, violent passion, he has no choice but to stay away.
Eva didn't think much when her vampire ex-boyfriend showed up asking for her back. Except she wasn't interested, and the man she had once loved wasn't taking no for an answer. Defended by a tall, moody and definitely dangerous man her ex left, and she thought that was the end of it…
Until she wakes up dead.
Thrown into an unfamiliar world, Eva only has one hope to free herself from her new master, and it just happens to be the same man she’s been warned to stay away from.
Warning: Touch of Blood is a dark paranormal romance that contains explicit content, graphic violence, profanity, and topics that may be sensitive to some readers. Full details can be found listed inside the book. Recommended for 18+.
This novel is written in British English including spelling and grammar.
After being condemned to the fighting Pits as a child, Kace was forced to do horrifying things to survive. Now, as an adult with a curse that intensifies his rage, he keeps himself away from anything that can break his carefully constructed control. So when he meets Eva, the only woman who has ever ignited such raw, violent passion, he has no choice but to stay away.
Eva didn't think much when her vampire ex-boyfriend showed up asking for her back. Except she wasn't interested, and the man she had once loved wasn't taking no for an answer. Defended by a tall, moody and definitely dangerous man her ex left, and she thought that was the end of it…
Until she wakes up dead.
Thrown into an unfamiliar world, Eva only has one hope to free herself from her new master, and it just happens to be the same man she’s been warned to stay away from.
Warning: Touch of Blood is a dark paranormal romance that contains explicit content, graphic violence, profanity, and topics that may be sensitive to some readers. Full details can be found listed inside the book. Recommended for 18+.
This novel is written in British English including spelling and grammar.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 31, 2022
456 people are currently reading
2140 people want to read
About the author
Taylor Aston White
33 books384 followersTaylor Aston White writes deliciously dark fantasy & romance, where tension burns, secrets break, and love always wins. Based in the UK with her childhood sweetheart and their two children, she's the author of several bestselling series and loves to explore mythology and European faerie tales to create her own, modern twists.
Follow her on Instagram - @taylorastonwhite, and join her newsletter on www.taylorastonwhite.com
Be sure to follow Taylor on BookBub for the latest on sales https://bit.ly/3rNVVlm
Follow her on Instagram - @taylorastonwhite, and join her newsletter on www.taylorastonwhite.com
Be sure to follow Taylor on BookBub for the latest on sales https://bit.ly/3rNVVlm
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
December 24, 2022
She was his catharsis, and he would lay down cities for him to be hers.
4 stars!
I'm sad to say that after loving the first book, I found myself disappointed in Kace and Eva's story--more specifically the beginning half of the book. The story seemed to take too long for the MCs to get together as Kace and Eva don't even reunite until around the 50% mark, after which their relationship goes from 0 to 7500 in 0.23 seconds! I prefer when the MCs work together to accomplish a goal, so I was frustrated when these two characters--who were so explosive together--spent so much time apart, leaving their courtship feeling rushed. However once their journey together began, I found myself fully immersed and invested in their story and loving their hate-to-love-you vibes. Overall, I still love this series and am stoked for Axel and Sam's book next♡
Tropes: fated mates, hate-to-love-you, shifter/vampire pairing, heroine-in-danger, broody alpha hero, touch her and die vibes, grumpy/sunshine, insta-lust, band of brothers, found family, SLOW BURN, steamy🔥
September 26, 2022
”Eva, you’re the light to my darkness. You were always mine, and I will dance with you now, forever and always.”
Eva’s ex won’t leave her alone and it ends up with him kidnapping her and turning her into a vampire. It’s been months and the only person who can actually help her out of her situation is Kace, a guardian.
___________________________________________
I really enjoyed Kiss of Darkness. I didn’t know how much I loved it until after I finished it. I kept going back and reading my favorite parts. And when she released the bonus chapter? It answered all my final questions and gave them the perfect ending.
So I feel like I waited forever for this one. I was sooooo excited for Kace and Eva and it definitely delivered. This was so different from the first one but it still felt like it fit with it.
Kace lacks control and is kept at a distance due to it. He doesn’t like being touched generally and gives you that intense and a little unhinged feeling. But he cares about the people around him. He keeps that distance for that purpose and shows a lot of tough love for the youths around him.
Eva is a lot more put together. She isn’t weak for a human turned vampire. She knows what she wants and sticks her ground. She doesn’t take any of Kace’s bullshit. But their heat is tangible. You can feel their desire and when they give into it, it’s animalistic.
.
.
.
”We both know you love me bleeding, don’t we, Sunshine?”
.
.
.
I didn’t really see the plot going where it went. Which I usually love but I really thought this was going to be more about her ex but the actual antagonists, they are different and it’s more political and power hungry obviously. I kinda preferred the ex as the bad guy. But it wasn’t bad. I still loved it.
The author released a bonus chapter for them as well but I won’t lie, it didn’t compare to Kiss of Darkness. Even though I loved this couple, I still can’t get over Xander and Kyra. They just were everything I didn’t know I needed. But it’s official. I’m obsessed with this series.
And I’m even more pumped about her next one. Axel and Sam are going to be something completely different and new, I already know it.
If you like PNR with some definite good heat, check this series out. It’s wonderful.
Eva’s ex won’t leave her alone and it ends up with him kidnapping her and turning her into a vampire. It’s been months and the only person who can actually help her out of her situation is Kace, a guardian.
___________________________________________
I really enjoyed Kiss of Darkness. I didn’t know how much I loved it until after I finished it. I kept going back and reading my favorite parts. And when she released the bonus chapter? It answered all my final questions and gave them the perfect ending.
So I feel like I waited forever for this one. I was sooooo excited for Kace and Eva and it definitely delivered. This was so different from the first one but it still felt like it fit with it.
Kace lacks control and is kept at a distance due to it. He doesn’t like being touched generally and gives you that intense and a little unhinged feeling. But he cares about the people around him. He keeps that distance for that purpose and shows a lot of tough love for the youths around him.
Eva is a lot more put together. She isn’t weak for a human turned vampire. She knows what she wants and sticks her ground. She doesn’t take any of Kace’s bullshit. But their heat is tangible. You can feel their desire and when they give into it, it’s animalistic.
.
.
.
”We both know you love me bleeding, don’t we, Sunshine?”
.
.
.
I didn’t really see the plot going where it went. Which I usually love but I really thought this was going to be more about her ex but the actual antagonists, they are different and it’s more political and power hungry obviously. I kinda preferred the ex as the bad guy. But it wasn’t bad. I still loved it.
The author released a bonus chapter for them as well but I won’t lie, it didn’t compare to Kiss of Darkness. Even though I loved this couple, I still can’t get over Xander and Kyra. They just were everything I didn’t know I needed. But it’s official. I’m obsessed with this series.
And I’m even more pumped about her next one. Axel and Sam are going to be something completely different and new, I already know it.
If you like PNR with some definite good heat, check this series out. It’s wonderful.
August 30, 2022
This is the second book in the series. I absolutely loved book one, it was a different concept of supernatural and I’m pretty sure I’ve never read anything like it before. I loved that book and didn’t think I would find anything that beat it. Well how wrong was I?!! It was just as good, had a different storyline though some of the main characters remained the same. I really like the guardians and what makes them unique. It’s not often I find a pnr that surprises me or makes me want to read more, especially when it’s a relatively new author for me. I really like the way these books are written and how the world is made. I like that there is a guide telling you all about the different species of supe and what makes them special. This book kept my interest right up until the last word. Absolutely brilliant and addictive. Can’t wait for more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 21, 2024
dark & action filled
This is book 2 in the Curse of the Guardian series and is much darker and bloodier than Book 1! It had lots of exciting parts & I liked Eva & Kace, but I was disappointed at how they were separate for most of the book! Their steamy scenes were Hot!!!
The narrators had wonderful clear voices & great equipment, but I listened at 2x, which is super fast for me!
PFP!! FlockVIP!!! AUDIOBOOKOBSESSION!!!
This is book 2 in the Curse of the Guardian series and is much darker and bloodier than Book 1! It had lots of exciting parts & I liked Eva & Kace, but I was disappointed at how they were separate for most of the book! Their steamy scenes were Hot!!!
The narrators had wonderful clear voices & great equipment, but I listened at 2x, which is super fast for me!
PFP!! FlockVIP!!! AUDIOBOOKOBSESSION!!!
April 8, 2023
Ok I can get on board with a good “if anyone touches you they die” trope but I’m not ok with treating someone like property so go Eva for her revenge. I liked this one of the series a little more but I don’t think I will continue the series (only because I don’t care if the others find a mate lol).
April 21, 2023
3.5
would’ve enjoyed more, “hurting those who hurt her,” and, “oh no, my bby, she suffered so much,” scenes, but, hey, the angst was still nice and sad.
would’ve enjoyed more, “hurting those who hurt her,” and, “oh no, my bby, she suffered so much,” scenes, but, hey, the angst was still nice and sad.
August 19, 2022
What a great read. Was tough to put down, and a joy to pick up. Rubbish for reading in bed because my blood was pumping in every scene. Well done. Looking forward to reading the next one!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2024
like the series, less the book
TW I know this is a dark romance but the suggestion of sexual assault and rape is a lot in this book for me, and if I had known how much I probably would’ve skipped it. While the main character isn’t raped on screen (though she is touched assaultively) the suggestion that she was (repeatedly, horrifically and in a variety of ways) is enough for me to prefer to skip. The main love interests didn’t even really meet until 55% of the book and based on the first book I really thought Eva was gonna be rescued but instead it was three months of trauma. A fine story, not for me due to that.
TW I know this is a dark romance but the suggestion of sexual assault and rape is a lot in this book for me, and if I had known how much I probably would’ve skipped it. While the main character isn’t raped on screen (though she is touched assaultively) the suggestion that she was (repeatedly, horrifically and in a variety of ways) is enough for me to prefer to skip. The main love interests didn’t even really meet until 55% of the book and based on the first book I really thought Eva was gonna be rescued but instead it was three months of trauma. A fine story, not for me due to that.
October 13, 2022
I only read it for the smut and even that was very disappointing. The two MC’s don’t even meet each other until around 75% of the way through the book.
I liked the species of the characters though. Yes I know that sounds weird.
3/5 stars.
I liked the species of the characters though. Yes I know that sounds weird.
3/5 stars.
September 9, 2022
This book? SO GOOD! Loved. I had no doubts that I would since it was about Kace and Eva. Eva was one of my favorites from the first book in the series and I was not disappointed in their book. The angst, terror, back stories, and fighting from the first book are brought into play for this book and I loved it all.
Eva was such a fierce character in the first book, and I still cackle when I picture her going after Kace with a wok. Unfortunately since that time, her ex-vampire-boyfriend turned her and keeps her weak and in need of him. Who knew being a vampire could be such a downer? The icing on this crappy cake? He trades her because of a debt he has and the new guy? So. Much. Worse. Plus he invoked some kind of vampire law that essentially make her his slave. When she crosses paths with Kace again, their passion reignites and that only spells more potential disaster for her. Along the way, she learns more about what being a vampire means and how it has ruined any chance of her future dreams coming true.
Kace is someone that is feared by even his friends. The beast inside him can be uncontrollable at times and he has nearly killed them in the process, so he tries to keep the beast at bay. This means avoiding as much interaction as possible. When he thinks he sees Eva across an event, he starts to ask around about her. Not for him, he is cold and aloof and sure she was the only person he ever felt desire for, but he is definitely not asking around for him. When he finds out that no one has heard from her in months he goes on the hunt. His beast agrees that he wants to keep her safe. When he realizes she has been turned and is being kept weak, something snaps inside of him. He vows to get her out. His problem now is that not only is he trying to save Eva, but a kid that was training with him. He got mixed in with some of the worst creatures with promises that were lies. Now he needs tp find a way to save them both without losing himself.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Eva was such a fierce character in the first book, and I still cackle when I picture her going after Kace with a wok. Unfortunately since that time, her ex-vampire-boyfriend turned her and keeps her weak and in need of him. Who knew being a vampire could be such a downer? The icing on this crappy cake? He trades her because of a debt he has and the new guy? So. Much. Worse. Plus he invoked some kind of vampire law that essentially make her his slave. When she crosses paths with Kace again, their passion reignites and that only spells more potential disaster for her. Along the way, she learns more about what being a vampire means and how it has ruined any chance of her future dreams coming true.
Kace is someone that is feared by even his friends. The beast inside him can be uncontrollable at times and he has nearly killed them in the process, so he tries to keep the beast at bay. This means avoiding as much interaction as possible. When he thinks he sees Eva across an event, he starts to ask around about her. Not for him, he is cold and aloof and sure she was the only person he ever felt desire for, but he is definitely not asking around for him. When he finds out that no one has heard from her in months he goes on the hunt. His beast agrees that he wants to keep her safe. When he realizes she has been turned and is being kept weak, something snaps inside of him. He vows to get her out. His problem now is that not only is he trying to save Eva, but a kid that was training with him. He got mixed in with some of the worst creatures with promises that were lies. Now he needs tp find a way to save them both without losing himself.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 19, 2023
Kace and Eva
I really like this world in which curse of the guardians is set, I enjoyed this story but I would have liked a bit more of Kace and Eva together if I'm honest, they really only came together at the end of the book and no one even knew Eva was missing or had been changed until nearly halfway through which is pretty sad I really felt for Eva that was heartbreaking 💔 I can't wait to read the other Guardians books 😍
Eva had terrible taste in men if her ex was anything to go by, he couldn't seem to let her go and in the end was the cause of her end. He forced her change and then when his debts caught up to him he was forced to hand her over to a far greater evil. Eva was used and abused as it was discovered she wasn't just any fledgling but her blood a euphoric drug to other vampirs. As Kace's days continued to be numbered with his beast getting closer and closer to taking over completely, whispers began of the pits being reestablished. The pits he spent most of his childhood in fighting for survival until he was somewhat saved, though never the same. When one of the boys he helps keep off the streets goes missing the trail leads to the same place he swore he'd never step foot in again, what he didn't expect was to come face to face with Eva, she had been suspected missing for a couple months but she was very different and clearly had been changed, a few exchanged words and he quickly discovered she was there against her will and under the thumb of the same man he escaped. Now he needed to rescue not one but two from the sands of the pits, especially because his beast wouldn't settle until Eva was safe. Question was would he walk away from the pits a second time with his life or be just another soul lost to the sand.
I really like this world in which curse of the guardians is set, I enjoyed this story but I would have liked a bit more of Kace and Eva together if I'm honest, they really only came together at the end of the book and no one even knew Eva was missing or had been changed until nearly halfway through which is pretty sad I really felt for Eva that was heartbreaking 💔 I can't wait to read the other Guardians books 😍
Eva had terrible taste in men if her ex was anything to go by, he couldn't seem to let her go and in the end was the cause of her end. He forced her change and then when his debts caught up to him he was forced to hand her over to a far greater evil. Eva was used and abused as it was discovered she wasn't just any fledgling but her blood a euphoric drug to other vampirs. As Kace's days continued to be numbered with his beast getting closer and closer to taking over completely, whispers began of the pits being reestablished. The pits he spent most of his childhood in fighting for survival until he was somewhat saved, though never the same. When one of the boys he helps keep off the streets goes missing the trail leads to the same place he swore he'd never step foot in again, what he didn't expect was to come face to face with Eva, she had been suspected missing for a couple months but she was very different and clearly had been changed, a few exchanged words and he quickly discovered she was there against her will and under the thumb of the same man he escaped. Now he needed to rescue not one but two from the sands of the pits, especially because his beast wouldn't settle until Eva was safe. Question was would he walk away from the pits a second time with his life or be just another soul lost to the sand.
September 7, 2022
“She could never be his. He had to let her go.”
Ok. I’ll admit, I had to re-read some sections. There was just so much happening my brain couldn’t seem to keep up. I can’t believe how much there was packed into this one book. It’s amazing! It’s fantastic! My only real complaint is there was so much going on I sometimes felt like the romance of it was neglected a little. Not that there wasn’t everything needed. The love story is all here. I just wish we’d had more scenes between Kace and Eva because the ones we had were incredible and I want more! (Thank goodness for the bonus epilogue!)
I’m not saying anything about the plot. No way am I spoiling it in any way. It’s just too good. I adored Kace. He destroyed my heart. And I cried more than once for Eva. So unfair what fate dealt that loving, vibrant woman. I know they will heal each other’s souls over time, but that doesn’t make it hurt any less.
Book two in the series. Yes, you can easily read as a stand alone but don’t. Go back and at least read Kiss of Darkness. It will make Touch of Blood even better. (It was fun seeing Xander and Kyra again and see they are doing so well. I’ll admit I haven’t read the Alice Skye books and I really want to. I just haven’t had time yet. I’m sure Alice and Riley’s story is amazing, especially as it takes six books to tell it all. Hopefully I will finally read them before Whisper of Fate comes out. I also can’t wait for the other Guardians, Titus most of all! This series is incredible. Taylor is an amazing story teller.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ok. I’ll admit, I had to re-read some sections. There was just so much happening my brain couldn’t seem to keep up. I can’t believe how much there was packed into this one book. It’s amazing! It’s fantastic! My only real complaint is there was so much going on I sometimes felt like the romance of it was neglected a little. Not that there wasn’t everything needed. The love story is all here. I just wish we’d had more scenes between Kace and Eva because the ones we had were incredible and I want more! (Thank goodness for the bonus epilogue!)
I’m not saying anything about the plot. No way am I spoiling it in any way. It’s just too good. I adored Kace. He destroyed my heart. And I cried more than once for Eva. So unfair what fate dealt that loving, vibrant woman. I know they will heal each other’s souls over time, but that doesn’t make it hurt any less.
Book two in the series. Yes, you can easily read as a stand alone but don’t. Go back and at least read Kiss of Darkness. It will make Touch of Blood even better. (It was fun seeing Xander and Kyra again and see they are doing so well. I’ll admit I haven’t read the Alice Skye books and I really want to. I just haven’t had time yet. I’m sure Alice and Riley’s story is amazing, especially as it takes six books to tell it all. Hopefully I will finally read them before Whisper of Fate comes out. I also can’t wait for the other Guardians, Titus most of all! This series is incredible. Taylor is an amazing story teller.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 11, 2023
DNF- 43%
I had issues with book 1 (see review) but was able to finish it without much problem. I wouldn't have continued but I instantly wanted Kace and Eva together when they met in book 1 so that alone made me read book 2. I honestly didn't think it would be so much worse than book 1! all of the points from my book 1 review are still relevant but with extras...
* The 2 month time jump 1 chapter in was ridiculous!
* The author uses the same words far too much.
* The writing style feels very amateur, as if a teenager wrote it.
* The author is trying far too hard to describe things with extreme detail in places and skipping important details in others eg (direct quote from me) "what F**king dead body?!" flicks page back and forth searching for the line I must have missed (there was no missed line)
* Main and secondary characters alike are very very flimsy.
* While the author is skipping between the two characters she is leaving out far too many scenes that could pad out the story. This makes it feel like an early draft, a thin one at that.
* at 27% - "This book is so tedious!" this book feels like trying to run through shoulder deep wet mud.
* at 43% - I quit!
I do NOT quit books! I have a strong issue with leaving books unfinished even if it takes me 6 months but I seriously can not bring myself to continue this book! I will definitely not be reading anymore books by this author, which is a first for me to be honest, I don't actively search out books by author I know very much but I have absolutely never taken such a dislike to an author before and I have read some serious crap!
I had issues with book 1 (see review) but was able to finish it without much problem. I wouldn't have continued but I instantly wanted Kace and Eva together when they met in book 1 so that alone made me read book 2. I honestly didn't think it would be so much worse than book 1! all of the points from my book 1 review are still relevant but with extras...
* The 2 month time jump 1 chapter in was ridiculous!
* The author uses the same words far too much.
* The writing style feels very amateur, as if a teenager wrote it.
* The author is trying far too hard to describe things with extreme detail in places and skipping important details in others eg (direct quote from me) "what F**king dead body?!" flicks page back and forth searching for the line I must have missed (there was no missed line)
* Main and secondary characters alike are very very flimsy.
* While the author is skipping between the two characters she is leaving out far too many scenes that could pad out the story. This makes it feel like an early draft, a thin one at that.
* at 27% - "This book is so tedious!" this book feels like trying to run through shoulder deep wet mud.
* at 43% - I quit!
I do NOT quit books! I have a strong issue with leaving books unfinished even if it takes me 6 months but I seriously can not bring myself to continue this book! I will definitely not be reading anymore books by this author, which is a first for me to be honest, I don't actively search out books by author I know very much but I have absolutely never taken such a dislike to an author before and I have read some serious crap!
December 14, 2023
This is book 2 in White's Curse of the Guardians series and was beautifully narrated by the talents of Drake and West - loved the accents as well as the pitch and tone - these two were amazing! Our main characters are Kace and Eva who we met in book 1. While I very much enjoyed this dark, paranormal romance listen, I found that some of the storyline didn't seem to flow as smoothly or was as easy to follow as some, but I still loved our characters and the darkness that consumed them and threatened their HEA. Lots of violence within but plenty of steamy chemistry and some twists and turns as well. I think my favorite character is Lucy who brings out the best comic relief and had me bursting out in laughter as his banter and personality. I also loved that while Kace is part of the Guardians and a team, he still isolates himself so much and somehow Eva is able to break through that barrier with no effort. Overall, a very well-done paranormal romance with lots of dark elements (please be aware of trigger warnings - if applicable) and enjoy this listen of revenge and redemption!
This book was given to me for free at my request and I voluntarily provided this review.
*this review is based on the audio version
This book was given to me for free at my request and I voluntarily provided this review.
*this review is based on the audio version
July 6, 2025
Currently on my re-listen since the latest book just released. Kace and Eva are hands down my favorite couple in this series! I adored Eva from the very first book, especially the moment she threatened Kace with a frying pan. Her fiery spirit and fearless attitude are everything. Kace, the misunderstood and "broken" Guardian, is feared by many, but not Eva. She sees through his pain and never backs down. What really stood out in this story was the unique structure. Unlike most romances where the main characters are forced together, Eva and Kace spend a significant portion of the book apart, each going through their own personal hell. Eva is grappling with being turned into a vampire against her will by her abusive ex, while Kace is on a desperate mission to save a child in danger. Their journeys are brutal and emotional, and when they finally come back together, it's incredibly rewarding. I definitely recommend reading the series in order to get the full impact, especially since the side characters (like the ever-entertaining Lucy aka Lucifer) really shine when you know their backstories. The narrators also did a fantastic job bringing everything to life. I can’t wait to continue the series and get to the latest book 5!
June 1, 2023
Bette than the first book. But still felt like something was missing sometimes.
Didn’t get a clear idea what Eva is, and makes her so special and what the doctor and the end wanted to speak to her about..
I did feel like the ending or epilogue was rushed, like he said some cruel things to her and was very hit an cold multiple times though out each moment between them. I actually got kinda annoying and that he didn’t own up to how bad he was to her, and that she didn’t make him work for it more.
Cause in the end she was still chasing him around, even after all he had said to her and how he has treat her.
No apologies or growling at all..
I guess I just ended up disliking him a lot.. no accountability.
And then there is Eva.. like was is wrong with her author? Suddenly se can her everything around her, then she can’t, then she can hear, then she can’t.
Like seriously.. it shifted so much with her ability.
And that last fight with Lucy and Eva and that Dutch guy.. I wanted to kill her.
The book is better than the first one in writing, but felt like some moment need more.
Didn’t get a clear idea what Eva is, and makes her so special and what the doctor and the end wanted to speak to her about..
I did feel like the ending or epilogue was rushed, like he said some cruel things to her and was very hit an cold multiple times though out each moment between them. I actually got kinda annoying and that he didn’t own up to how bad he was to her, and that she didn’t make him work for it more.
Cause in the end she was still chasing him around, even after all he had said to her and how he has treat her.
No apologies or growling at all..
I guess I just ended up disliking him a lot.. no accountability.
And then there is Eva.. like was is wrong with her author? Suddenly se can her everything around her, then she can’t, then she can hear, then she can’t.
Like seriously.. it shifted so much with her ability.
And that last fight with Lucy and Eva and that Dutch guy.. I wanted to kill her.
The book is better than the first one in writing, but felt like some moment need more.
August 18, 2022
Eva first met Kace in book 1 by hitting him over the head with a wok. From there you know there is a spark!
At the start of this book, the two of them appear to get on each other’s nerves and this push and pull between them intensifies. However, Eva is is a dangerous predicament where her choices have been taken away from her and her only solace is to hold her own. I like that even if she has been worn down, she is still a spitfire. Kace himself is facing an inner darkness where he is afraid he will lose control of himself and hurt others. He has distanced himself. Yet the two of them find themselves to be more similar than they think.
Along with our main couple, we see a threat from Kace’s past come full circle as that threat now involves itself with Eva. Kace also seeks to protect shifter kids who have been is bad situations and he takes it personally when one of them goes missing. As tensions run high, we see the guardians band together once again to take out the baddies.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
At the start of this book, the two of them appear to get on each other’s nerves and this push and pull between them intensifies. However, Eva is is a dangerous predicament where her choices have been taken away from her and her only solace is to hold her own. I like that even if she has been worn down, she is still a spitfire. Kace himself is facing an inner darkness where he is afraid he will lose control of himself and hurt others. He has distanced himself. Yet the two of them find themselves to be more similar than they think.
Along with our main couple, we see a threat from Kace’s past come full circle as that threat now involves itself with Eva. Kace also seeks to protect shifter kids who have been is bad situations and he takes it personally when one of them goes missing. As tensions run high, we see the guardians band together once again to take out the baddies.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 31, 2022
I would have rated a 3.5 if we had the option.
I was excited to read this book. I enjoyed reading Kiss of Darkness which told the story of Kyra and Guardian Xander. The story and world building was great. Kyra, a strong dark witch, was being used for her powers and Xander helped save her even though he hated dark witches. A lot more to it so go read it first.
Touch of Blood is about Kyra's best "human" friend Eva. During book 1, Eva meets Guardian Kace and almost hits him with a wok. So you know their relationship is going to be explosive! I enjoyed the story. Both Eva and Kace have their own personal reasons to want Augustine dead. And lets not forget daemon Lucy is still my favorite!!
However, I had a hard time reading the story because Eva goes missing and her dark witch best friend Kyra is worried but doesn't do anything to find her?? I totally can't accept that. I do not believe that Kyra wouldn't have gone to Eva's home looking for her. It just didn't sit right with me...Rant over...
I was excited to read this book. I enjoyed reading Kiss of Darkness which told the story of Kyra and Guardian Xander. The story and world building was great. Kyra, a strong dark witch, was being used for her powers and Xander helped save her even though he hated dark witches. A lot more to it so go read it first.
Touch of Blood is about Kyra's best "human" friend Eva. During book 1, Eva meets Guardian Kace and almost hits him with a wok. So you know their relationship is going to be explosive! I enjoyed the story. Both Eva and Kace have their own personal reasons to want Augustine dead. And lets not forget daemon Lucy is still my favorite!!
However, I had a hard time reading the story because Eva goes missing and her dark witch best friend Kyra is worried but doesn't do anything to find her?? I totally can't accept that. I do not believe that Kyra wouldn't have gone to Eva's home looking for her. It just didn't sit right with me...Rant over...
December 11, 2023
Even better than I thought it would be when I first got my glimpse of this future couple in Book 1. Kace is known as the unpredictable one in the Guardians, to the extreme, but I could see the writing on the wall that Eva would bring him to his knees...and make him whole. Who knew Kace had a sweet side...oh yea no one because it only exists for Eva. Eva considered him infuriating, but deep down she knew she could trust him to protect her. When Kace discovers she's in danger under the same man he desperately wants to destroy, he realizes his priorities have shifted. I did get annoyed by his fellow Guardians a little...they could at least try to have a little faith. I loved that fate refused to let these two go their separate ways, and that Eva refused to let him let her go. These two deserved happiness. And the story kept me engaged with lots of action, danger, and pulse-pounding suspense. The narration was terrific as well.
August 21, 2025
Second book of the series and the first half gave me anxiety😭
First, I love how this world is unique and dark, how it mixed mythical creatures and created new ones, hence the HOT Guardians.
Eva, a human, the sunshine, Kyra's best friend (Book 1) was turned against her will into a vampire by her vampire ex. Was missing for 2 months and was made property by an evil vampire. I got so scared for her because she was held captive, starved, manipulated for 2 months and more, thinking that no one would be able to save her.
Kace, the dangerous and out-of-control Guardian with a dark past as a gladiator. He was barely able to control his beast and his sanity, resorted to physical fight matches to control himself. Until her. Thank goodness for this broken man, because of him Eva had a chance of escape.
She was his sunshine, his peace. And he was her protective, moody and broody monster, her safe haven.
First, I love how this world is unique and dark, how it mixed mythical creatures and created new ones, hence the HOT Guardians.
Eva, a human, the sunshine, Kyra's best friend (Book 1) was turned against her will into a vampire by her vampire ex. Was missing for 2 months and was made property by an evil vampire. I got so scared for her because she was held captive, starved, manipulated for 2 months and more, thinking that no one would be able to save her.
Kace, the dangerous and out-of-control Guardian with a dark past as a gladiator. He was barely able to control his beast and his sanity, resorted to physical fight matches to control himself. Until her. Thank goodness for this broken man, because of him Eva had a chance of escape.
She was his sunshine, his peace. And he was her protective, moody and broody monster, her safe haven.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2022
4.5 🌟
Kate and Ava - I knew I needed to read this after they had so much chemistry in the last one. I just love a broody grumpy mmc with a feisty fmc and this didn't disappoint.
This is a slow burn but the plot is really good and so intriguing and when we get to the spice a growly Kace does not let you down.
This book is full of angst and trauma so do read the trigger warnings. I actually personally would have liked Eva's trauma looked at a little more closely rather than certain bits alluded to to get a deeper insight but that would have made the book even darker so its actually probably perfect where it is for most people.
Very much looking forward to book 3 and I'm desperate for a book about Lucy because I truly think he steals the show.
I received an arc of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily
Kate and Ava - I knew I needed to read this after they had so much chemistry in the last one. I just love a broody grumpy mmc with a feisty fmc and this didn't disappoint.
This is a slow burn but the plot is really good and so intriguing and when we get to the spice a growly Kace does not let you down.
This book is full of angst and trauma so do read the trigger warnings. I actually personally would have liked Eva's trauma looked at a little more closely rather than certain bits alluded to to get a deeper insight but that would have made the book even darker so its actually probably perfect where it is for most people.
Very much looking forward to book 3 and I'm desperate for a book about Lucy because I truly think he steals the show.
I received an arc of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily
November 27, 2023
Touch of Blood is the second book in the Curse of the Guardians series. This book is a dark paranormal romance and is told from the dual points of view of Eva and Kace.
Kace has been a fighter his whole life (even though it wasn't his choice.) He has a curst that makes his rage come out and it makes him a good fighter.
Eva was a human, however, her vampire ex did something to her and when something happened she woke up dead. She is sold off to someone who will do anything to keep her.
Kace will do whatever he can to get to Eva. Will this curse help him or hinder him? Will Eva be able to escape the clutches of her new master? Will Kace be able to control his rage? Will Kace and Eva get their happy ending?
I liked this book, and am excited to see what happens next in the series!
September 2, 2022
This was a good read although I didn’t like it as much as Kiss of Darkness. I think the scenes of the main characters did not match up to what was supposedly happening to them in their lives. Eva’s difficulties should have been darker; she would be able to overcome them. I think her strength is supposed to act as an example to other women and more pain in her situation would have served her well in the end. Kace has had enough pain and torture in his life and it would have been good to explore that a little more. If it’s going to be dark, make it dark.
I did like seeing more of the peripheral characters who hopefully will have their own stories told. Looking forward to the next installment!
I did like seeing more of the peripheral characters who hopefully will have their own stories told. Looking forward to the next installment!
October 23, 2022
The angst, the broody and overprotective love interest, and the sassy banter - let me tell you. This book sold out in the series.
After the first book, I wasn’t sure I would be able to make it through the next. But knowing my favorite female strong sassy lead - the kind of girls that takes no shit, and will always go down swinging - I had to read this book.
Pair her not-so-damsel in distress with an alpha male that is intent on keeping her safe? And a whole plot on saving more than just herself? Loved it.
Wish there was a bit more of an emphasis on the angst as they problem solved, and around their ending. But their chemistry kept me reading, and cheering on throughout the book.
After the first book, I wasn’t sure I would be able to make it through the next. But knowing my favorite female strong sassy lead - the kind of girls that takes no shit, and will always go down swinging - I had to read this book.
Pair her not-so-damsel in distress with an alpha male that is intent on keeping her safe? And a whole plot on saving more than just herself? Loved it.
Wish there was a bit more of an emphasis on the angst as they problem solved, and around their ending. But their chemistry kept me reading, and cheering on throughout the book.
September 12, 2023
This is the second book in the series and I am here for it. This book was so good. The danger the unknown had you on the edge of your seat. All of the guardians fight their beast when it comes to claiming a mate. Kace is the most volatile of the guardians, the most unpredictable and unstable in controlling his beast. Eva is a human with a vampire boyfriend who wants revenge after she rejects him—-so he turns her. She is struggling with her new life and then she is use as payment to a dark and even more twisted vampire. Kace and his beast is drawn to Eva—-he has never been drawn to anyone before. When he refuses his mate his beast takes over. Expect lots of paranormal/fantasy characters. Alpha protectors, danger, sassy heroine. Great read
August 26, 2022
A Dance of captivity to freedom
I was swept up in this story and couldn't put it down. The chemistry between Kace and Eva was like an inferno. Even in Kiss of Darkness, Kace and Eva grabbed my attention. The slow burn between them was torture, but so so worth it. Their steamy scenes were some of the best I've read. Augustine was a great villain, but I expected him to push his agenda more with Eva. His character put off some dark and psycho vibes, but I expected more harm from him. Dutch was just crazy and it was great to see Lucy take a front seat. The ending made me tear up for Kace and Eva because they definitely deserve all good vibes from now on.
I was swept up in this story and couldn't put it down. The chemistry between Kace and Eva was like an inferno. Even in Kiss of Darkness, Kace and Eva grabbed my attention. The slow burn between them was torture, but so so worth it. Their steamy scenes were some of the best I've read. Augustine was a great villain, but I expected him to push his agenda more with Eva. His character put off some dark and psycho vibes, but I expected more harm from him. Dutch was just crazy and it was great to see Lucy take a front seat. The ending made me tear up for Kace and Eva because they definitely deserve all good vibes from now on.
August 29, 2022
This was a great story with truly amazing characters. Her storytelling & descriptors are utter perfection. Great plot, plenty of gore & violence, but a little light on the smutty stuff compared to the first book, in my opinion. I loved the main characters strained relationship but they didn't have a whole lot of page time together with the FMC in captivity through the majority of the book. I really wanted to see them interact more & feel their love bloom on page. Overall a great read and super excited for the rest of the brothers' stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 24, 2022
Wow the intensity of book 2 is just mind blowing. Loved every page. Certainly a darker turn which just suited Kace’s whole persona perfectly. The road to a hea is a long and tough journey but they made it work. I loved how while in mentions characters from previous books in the series you don’t feel like you’re missing out if you’ve not read them. There isn’t heavy world building content in this book so you can just enjoy the unconventional live story. Be careful when reading though, you might just end up addicted like I was and join #teamnosleep
August 31, 2022
So I loved book one but I think I loved book two even more! It’s a well written dark paranormal romance that draws you into the characters story. This story belongs to Kace and Eva and it’s a doozy. It’s intense, it’s gripping and it’s captivating, so much so that I didn’t move until I had finished and even then I didn’t want it to end. They are both such great characters, tormented, traumatised and have their own personal demons but they are explosive together and definitely belong together. The slow burn romance was a great build up and it was worth it for the hot and steamy scenes.
July 17, 2023
I wasn’t a big fan of the first book in this series and I have no idea why I read this one. I thought, maybe it will be good. It wasn’t. The romance and smut was incredibly lacking, I didn’t really get the dark romance vibe at all from this book. Also the main characters don’t really meet each other again until halfway, well over halfway, through the book. The storyline was okay and was continuous at least form the first, but I just couldn’t get into it. For a short book it took a lot to read this.
I won’t read anymore of this series. I will not.
I won’t read anymore of this series. I will not.
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