Immortal Guardians have hunted and slain psychotic vampires for thousands of years. Now someone is hunting them. Humanity remains oblivious to the existence of immortals, vampires, and gifted ones, so how does this rising nemesis even know who they are and where to find them? Could it be the machinations of an old nemesis—one they thought they defeated? Or is this something new? Because unlike the foes they’ve faced in the past, this one doesn’t just target immortals. He targets those who are near and dear to them. A gifted one under the Immortal Guardians’ protection, Nicole has worked hard to land her dream job—that of an Immortal Guardian’s Second or mortal guard—and loves working with Sean. He’s smart. He’s funny. And despite the sometimes dark existence he leads, the two of them laugh a lot. Years spent as a special ops soldier prepared Nicole well, enabling her to keep Sean safe despite his tendency to dive headlong into danger. But can it keep her safe? The enemy they face is determined and shrewd. Uncovering his identity may require new methods of engagement and force her to take a few risks. Sean hasn’t been immortal long, but he knows the rules. And according to the rules, Nicole is off-limits. She’s his Second. His guard. His best friend. The one person who knows him better than anyone else. Though he loves every minute he spends with her, friendship is all they can ever have... isn’t it? Sean soon begins to question that as the two of them engage in a deadly cat-and-mouse game with the enemy, one that will reveal the true depth of their feelings for each other and drive him to abandon the rules altogether.

MY THOUGHTS

We met Sean a long time ago and have seen him here and there plenty, but it’s great to see more of him and his second. Their journey is sweet and so fun. We also get to see more of previous couples, like Cliff and Emma! I was afraid his new status would take him out of the picture for the most part, so I was really excited to see so included. In addition to Cliff’s involvement, we take a fun walk down memory lane – without flashbacks! I love all the characters and this world so much.

Audiobook note:

All I can say is I adore Kirsten Potter, she’s so great!

About the Characters

Nicole is a fearless and extremely capable woman. She backs Sean up without hesitation and is clear headed in critical situations. Sean is just fun. He’s definitely just like the others when it comes to being over protective of those he loves. They tease and bond over food and it’s all around a happy experience.

Things I Liked

I was wondering why there was a dragon on the front cover, and it was awesome to see it come into play. I like meeting new people; the Immortal Guardians world is definitely growing. I look forward to what new excitement they’ll bring.

Things I Didn’t Like

There is so much that has happened in so many previous books, and so much potential for new characters and a new conflict, that it’s a little overwhelming at times. It’s a lot to catch up on or keep up with, but that’s unavoidable with a series this big – which isn’t a complaint, just an observation.

More Thoughts

A few books ago, we met Nick and Kayla. We’d never met Nick before and we’d barely met his hunting partner, so it almost felt out of place. They show up in this book and I really appreciated the tie-in. Many of these books hint at or even include a little of another couple’s relationship, but this one almost felt like it was a story of two couples entirely. It wasn’t and there is so much more than what we’ve seen here, so I definitely hope that story is next (and David’s soon maybe?). I saw the ending coming, but it was even better than I hoped and over the top in the best way.

Does it stand alone?

Dianne Duvall does a fantastic job of providing enough information for anyone who hasn’t read the previous books, and it doesn’t feel super repetitive. That being said, especially this far into a series, it would definitely be better read in order.

Bottom Line

Want familiar (to current fans) faces, fun banter, and exciting action (in more ways than one)? This is definitely one you’ll enjoy. I can’t wait for more.