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The Shields #1
A Dark Guardian
Dear Reader,
Have you ever wanted to travel through time with weapons crafted by the Fae themselves? To experience adventure so thrilling and dangerous you don't know if you will live to see tomorrow? To know that the lives of your men and villages depends on the accuracy of your instincts? To lead a group of highly skilled warriors from other times and realms? Now my men and I are faced with fighting creatures only thought to live in legend but which have been brought to Earth by evil bent on annihilating all the realms. That is my life--and I love it.
At least I did until I found myself staring into the angelic, innocent face of Lady Mina of Stone Crest. In all the time I have led The Shields I have trusted my instinct to keep us alive, yet now I don't know what to believe. Everything points to Mina as the evil summoning the creatures, but she proclaims her innocence.
I should be able to see through her lies, if she is indeed lying, but my attraction to her blinds me to even that. The last time I found myself so attracted to a woman, it nearly cost me the lives of my men. I cannot allow that to happen again. I won't allow that to happen again.
Yet every time she looks at me, begging me with those blue-green eyes to believe her, I find myself sinking farther under her spell. Her mouth is a temptation mortal men will never know and her love will either bring me the peace I thought I'd never find--or the death I've managed, thus far, to avoid.
Hugh the Righteous
Have you ever wanted to travel through time with weapons crafted by the Fae themselves? To experience adventure so thrilling and dangerous you don't know if you will live to see tomorrow? To know that the lives of your men and villages depends on the accuracy of your instincts? To lead a group of highly skilled warriors from other times and realms? Now my men and I are faced with fighting creatures only thought to live in legend but which have been brought to Earth by evil bent on annihilating all the realms. That is my life--and I love it.
At least I did until I found myself staring into the angelic, innocent face of Lady Mina of Stone Crest. In all the time I have led The Shields I have trusted my instinct to keep us alive, yet now I don't know what to believe. Everything points to Mina as the evil summoning the creatures, but she proclaims her innocence.
I should be able to see through her lies, if she is indeed lying, but my attraction to her blinds me to even that. The last time I found myself so attracted to a woman, it nearly cost me the lives of my men. I cannot allow that to happen again. I won't allow that to happen again.
Yet every time she looks at me, begging me with those blue-green eyes to believe her, I find myself sinking farther under her spell. Her mouth is a temptation mortal men will never know and her love will either bring me the peace I thought I'd never find--or the death I've managed, thus far, to avoid.
Hugh the Righteous
316 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2006
About the author
Donna Grant
269 books4,594 followersDonna is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over a hundred novels. Her most popular series is the breathtaking Dark King (aka Dragon King) series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.
In addition to her novels, Donna has written short stories, novellas, and novelettes for digital-first and print release. She has been dubbed as giving the “paranormal genre a burst of fresh air” by the San Francisco Book Review. Her work has been hailed as having “deft plotting and expert characterization” by Publisher’s Weekly and “sizzling” by RT Book Reviews.
She has been recognized with awards from both bookseller and reader contests including the National Reader’s Choice Award, Booksellers Best Award, as well as the coveted K.I.S.S. Award from RT Book Reviews.
Donna travels often for various speaking engagements, conferences, and book signings. She is also a frequent workshop presenter at national conferences such as RT Book Lovers Convention and Thrillerfest, as well as local chapters.
Born and raised in Texas, she also has ties across the border in Louisiana. Growing up with two such vibrant cultures, her Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding. She is never far from her faithful 80 pound dog, Sisko, or her three cats. She can often be found at the movies or bookstore with her children. Or buying makeup. And shoes.
You an find her at www.DonnaGrant.com
as well as her website devoted entirely to the Dragon Kings and all series that encompass the Dark World at www.MotherOfDragonsBooks.com.
In addition to her novels, Donna has written short stories, novellas, and novelettes for digital-first and print release. She has been dubbed as giving the “paranormal genre a burst of fresh air” by the San Francisco Book Review. Her work has been hailed as having “deft plotting and expert characterization” by Publisher’s Weekly and “sizzling” by RT Book Reviews.
She has been recognized with awards from both bookseller and reader contests including the National Reader’s Choice Award, Booksellers Best Award, as well as the coveted K.I.S.S. Award from RT Book Reviews.
Donna travels often for various speaking engagements, conferences, and book signings. She is also a frequent workshop presenter at national conferences such as RT Book Lovers Convention and Thrillerfest, as well as local chapters.
Born and raised in Texas, she also has ties across the border in Louisiana. Growing up with two such vibrant cultures, her Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding. She is never far from her faithful 80 pound dog, Sisko, or her three cats. She can often be found at the movies or bookstore with her children. Or buying makeup. And shoes.
You an find her at www.DonnaGrant.com
as well as her website devoted entirely to the Dragon Kings and all series that encompass the Dark World at www.MotherOfDragonsBooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 237 reviews
September 18, 2018
It wasn't what I was expecting...
I liked A Dark Guardian but I'm not sure what I just listened to. Describing this one as time travel is a big stretch. I think, or maybe it's I'm guessing, there will be more time travel in future instalments. The hero mentions that he's been around for a few hundred years. His missions can be in different times, but it wasn't like he was just dumped there and had to get his bearings in a new time. No adjustments, acclimating or fumbling at all which is one of the things I love about time travel romances.
I picked this story because Donna Grant wrote it. She manages to write bossy blokes with feeling's and her heroines are original and a little sassy. There's plenty of heat and the connection that forms between the characters is obvious and believable. I liked these two together even if he's a dunderhead for doubting her innocence.
Don't laugh, but listening to Antony Ferguson perform sex scenes made me blush. Antony has a very clear and proper English accent. Try and picture Mr Darcy (Colin Firth's my favourite) talking dirty to you. It was just a little weird. Not bad, just very different.
***On a side note...did you see the new trailer for Mary Poppins? It looks AWESOME!! Colin Firth's in it...and Meryl Streep...and DICK VAN DYKE!!! Sorry, my mind wandered.***
Back to the story...I enjoyed A Dark Guardian it's just that it wasn't what I expected. It felt like a historical, read a bit paranormally but felt a little modern. We met a few of The Shields in this one and I think they will have very interesting stories. I'm tempted to go back for more...soon...ish.
I liked A Dark Guardian but I'm not sure what I just listened to. Describing this one as time travel is a big stretch. I think, or maybe it's I'm guessing, there will be more time travel in future instalments. The hero mentions that he's been around for a few hundred years. His missions can be in different times, but it wasn't like he was just dumped there and had to get his bearings in a new time. No adjustments, acclimating or fumbling at all which is one of the things I love about time travel romances.
I picked this story because Donna Grant wrote it. She manages to write bossy blokes with feeling's and her heroines are original and a little sassy. There's plenty of heat and the connection that forms between the characters is obvious and believable. I liked these two together even if he's a dunderhead for doubting her innocence.
Don't laugh, but listening to Antony Ferguson perform sex scenes made me blush. Antony has a very clear and proper English accent. Try and picture Mr Darcy (Colin Firth's my favourite) talking dirty to you. It was just a little weird. Not bad, just very different.
***On a side note...did you see the new trailer for Mary Poppins? It looks AWESOME!! Colin Firth's in it...and Meryl Streep...and DICK VAN DYKE!!! Sorry, my mind wandered.***
Back to the story...I enjoyed A Dark Guardian it's just that it wasn't what I expected. It felt like a historical, read a bit paranormally but felt a little modern. We met a few of The Shields in this one and I think they will have very interesting stories. I'm tempted to go back for more...soon...ish.
March 8, 2022
Oh my word I freaking LOVE these new characters!! Seriously, I’ve never started a Donna Grant series that I didn’t immediately love. I buy her books workout even knowing what they’re about lol great book!
March 23, 2013
I enjoyed the Druids Glen series and was eager to read The Shields. The storyline, with time travelers and Fae involvement was intriguing. Sadly, I have to say that I was really disappointed.
I felt like I was reading a first draft, not a completed novel. The characters lacked development, the story was choppy, and there were so many grammatical and spelling errors that it was distracting.
A lot of potential here but it fell short of my high expectations. Thank goodness I only paid $.97 for the kindle version.
I felt like I was reading a first draft, not a completed novel. The characters lacked development, the story was choppy, and there were so many grammatical and spelling errors that it was distracting.
A lot of potential here but it fell short of my high expectations. Thank goodness I only paid $.97 for the kindle version.
August 4, 2021
Mina has had a hard life because her brother and sister have never liked her. They treat her bad and blame her for things that were not her fault. They blame her for the monsters that have been killing the people of their village even though she isn't at fault.
Hugh is the leader of the Shields, who are men from different times, and places brought together by the Fae to fight the monsters.
Mina is out by herself trying to lure the monster into a trap when Hugh comes upon her. She thought that there were a few of her men there with her but they had fled on her brother's order, leaving her for dead if the monster had been able to get to her.
Hugh and his men follow her back to her castle where they meet her brother and sister and Hugh doesn't like either of them. But Mina is taken with him right away. Hugh and his men stay there and try to rid the monster and find out where it came from. Mina shows them where the monster came from which only brings about more questions than answers. There's also a Fae man that is helping them find out what's going on and put the pieces together.
I was really liking this book and how Hugh and Mina were together and then Hugh's personality seemed to change a bit and I wasn't so sure that I liked him anymore. I didn't like the way he treated Mina even though he proclaimed that he loved her, it was weird. I know this is the first book in this series and some of the questions about the monsters, where they came from, and questions about some of the other characters that were brought up will probably be answered as the series goes on but I found this to have too many holes and not enough answers.
Hugh is the leader of the Shields, who are men from different times, and places brought together by the Fae to fight the monsters.
Mina is out by herself trying to lure the monster into a trap when Hugh comes upon her. She thought that there were a few of her men there with her but they had fled on her brother's order, leaving her for dead if the monster had been able to get to her.
Hugh and his men follow her back to her castle where they meet her brother and sister and Hugh doesn't like either of them. But Mina is taken with him right away. Hugh and his men stay there and try to rid the monster and find out where it came from. Mina shows them where the monster came from which only brings about more questions than answers. There's also a Fae man that is helping them find out what's going on and put the pieces together.
I was really liking this book and how Hugh and Mina were together and then Hugh's personality seemed to change a bit and I wasn't so sure that I liked him anymore. I didn't like the way he treated Mina even though he proclaimed that he loved her, it was weird. I know this is the first book in this series and some of the questions about the monsters, where they came from, and questions about some of the other characters that were brought up will probably be answered as the series goes on but I found this to have too many holes and not enough answers.
June 21, 2021
ARC received from author
3.5 stars
This was original published in 2006 but is being re-issued with new covers. I never read the original, so I don't know if there have been any changes made.
It was a little confusing to start with cause there was no explanation of what the Shields were. Mina and Hugh were great together, but I really didn't get Hugh's issue with not believing her. Then Ms. Grant became a part of my poop list...why did she have to do that? Overall, I enjoyed the story and can't wait to read about the other members of the Shield team.
3.5 stars
This was original published in 2006 but is being re-issued with new covers. I never read the original, so I don't know if there have been any changes made.
It was a little confusing to start with cause there was no explanation of what the Shields were. Mina and Hugh were great together, but I really didn't get Hugh's issue with not believing her. Then Ms. Grant became a part of my poop list...why did she have to do that? Overall, I enjoyed the story and can't wait to read about the other members of the Shield team.
May 4, 2018
I wanted to like this story more, well enough to give it a four star, but I couldn't stretch it out that far. Here are my pros and cons for this one:
- I liked that the female was strong
- I didn't like how predictable who the villains were.
- I liked the idea of warriors going through time to help out the Fae.
- I didn't like that there was absolutely nothing outstanding about them. No super powers, strength, or anything except for their weapons they never really used.
- I liked the different personality types of the warriors.
- I liked that the female was strong
- I didn't like how predictable who the villains were.
- I liked the idea of warriors going through time to help out the Fae.
- I didn't like that there was absolutely nothing outstanding about them. No super powers, strength, or anything except for their weapons they never really used.
- I liked the different personality types of the warriors.
March 19, 2014
Too much flowery prose: DNF at 25%. Flowery Prose, meet Plothole...
"Never was there a man that walked in this realm or another that could compare to the magnificence before her."
Oh, and you two, do you want to meet Bad Editing as well?
Then stay onboard!
"Never was there a man that walked in this realm or another that could compare to the magnificence before her."
Oh, and you two, do you want to meet Bad Editing as well?
Then stay onboard!
Want to read
June 15, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/15/2021)! 🎁
June 11, 2021
It’s been an age since I’ve reread A Dark Guardian and shortly in to the story I realized why. Hugh’s dogged determination in believing Mina was guilty was extremely aggravating! Living with her toxic family was a sorry state of affairs, but for him to constantly make her question herself and demand proof of innocence had me raising brows and questioning how deep his eventual true feelings of love really were. Essentially, I didn’t believe him. The brief mentions of time travel along with the mash up of historical and paranormal elements provided some good reading, but the overall romantic elements were frustrating at best.
I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 26, 2013
I really don't like giving bad reviews, but I'm afraid this book fairly begs for one. So much about the plot of this book doesn't add up. Hugh is leader of the Shields, a group of warriors employed by the fae to eradicate evil monsters. As the book begins, he and his men ride up on Mina trying to lure a magical monster into a trap to kill it, but her attempt is sabotaged by her brother. Mina, through the entire book, steadfastly shows loyalty, compassion, and bravery. Hugh's "instincts" tell him she's controlling the monster. Her brother (a drunk who leaves Mina at the monsters mercy in the beginning of the book) and her sister (a jealous, self centered shrew who viciously undermines Mina's self esteem at every turn, stole her betrothed and in unashamedly open about passionately hating Mina) say she's behind it, so of course, Hugh believes them. Because really, what's not to like about these two? Oh, there's a couple of bits of obviously planted circumstantial evidence, but it's weak at best, and even Hugh and his men have some doubts as to it's origins.
However, see, Hugh has his instincts, which are never wrong. He says so. His men say so. Nope, never wrong. As in never. Heck, apparently Hugh's superpower is his instincts. Except the other reason he can't believe in Mina is that once, his instincts were wrong. Wait? What's that? Yes, you heard me. They were wrong. In the past, he was attracted to and sleeping with a woman who was behind summoning a monster. So he can't trust Mina now. Because his instincts are never wrong. Except when they are.
Mina, for her part is ugly. Ok, not really, but since her sister says so, she tends to think she is. Apparently, she's afraid to look in a mirror and hasn't in years. Yes, it actually says that. Really, she's breathtakingly beautiful, but no one bothers to tell her that until Hugh comes along. Then she starts hearing it from others. Sigh.
Some things aren't explained at all, like how the villain hooked up with the monster in the first place. Some things are over explained (ie. why Hugh doesn't trust Mina and why Mina's self esteem is non existent) until my eye rolls made me dizzy. Truly, I felt like this book was rather hastily thrown together without much thought. Donna Grant is normally a pretty good author. This book, not so much.
However, see, Hugh has his instincts, which are never wrong. He says so. His men say so. Nope, never wrong. As in never. Heck, apparently Hugh's superpower is his instincts. Except the other reason he can't believe in Mina is that once, his instincts were wrong. Wait? What's that? Yes, you heard me. They were wrong. In the past, he was attracted to and sleeping with a woman who was behind summoning a monster. So he can't trust Mina now. Because his instincts are never wrong. Except when they are.
Mina, for her part is ugly. Ok, not really, but since her sister says so, she tends to think she is. Apparently, she's afraid to look in a mirror and hasn't in years. Yes, it actually says that. Really, she's breathtakingly beautiful, but no one bothers to tell her that until Hugh comes along. Then she starts hearing it from others. Sigh.
Some things aren't explained at all, like how the villain hooked up with the monster in the first place. Some things are over explained (ie. why Hugh doesn't trust Mina and why Mina's self esteem is non existent) until my eye rolls made me dizzy. Truly, I felt like this book was rather hastily thrown together without much thought. Donna Grant is normally a pretty good author. This book, not so much.
July 14, 2015
So I'm going to be generous with my rating because though I did have issues with it, I am not sure if that was due to the narration, or the story. And I'm too kindhearted to knock it down when it feels like an or situation not a both.
Issues with it:
Mina was kind of dumb. Which is funny because she's actually quite smart. She was dumb because she always believed everything her brother and sister said to her, no matter what. And there was far too much of 'But I'm not pretty at all!!!' going on for my taste.
Hugh- Was likable, but oh my god, his instincts were never wrong! That was said with sarcasm don'tcha know. Because yeah, we got told that... often.
The other Shield boys, I rather liked and look forward to their stories.
The villain- Oh my god, I saw it from the start. There was absolutely no surprises there.
The narration - I don't think the narrator did a good job, as most of the men blended into one, and he had weird pacing. Example "Blah blah blah" pause pause pause "he said." So it felt kind of jerky.
But other than that, it wasn't bad at all, and was in fact enjoyable.
Issues with it:
Mina was kind of dumb. Which is funny because she's actually quite smart. She was dumb because she always believed everything her brother and sister said to her, no matter what. And there was far too much of 'But I'm not pretty at all!!!' going on for my taste.
Hugh- Was likable, but oh my god, his instincts were never wrong! That was said with sarcasm don'tcha know. Because yeah, we got told that... often.
The other Shield boys, I rather liked and look forward to their stories.
The villain- Oh my god, I saw it from the start. There was absolutely no surprises there.
The narration - I don't think the narrator did a good job, as most of the men blended into one, and he had weird pacing. Example "Blah blah blah" pause pause pause "he said." So it felt kind of jerky.
But other than that, it wasn't bad at all, and was in fact enjoyable.
May 9, 2015
Arghh, it could have been so much better! It was all there! Romance, danger, medieval times, drama and a monster. But, omg they screwed it up.
Ok so your sister keeps telling you are ugly, and you are too blind to see that everyone else loves you? I know that shit can mess with your mind but I got so sick of it.
But seriously, the worst part was how Hugh kept believing that Mina was the bad guy up till the end. Even when he had heard she was not. Even after he knew he loved her, even after they have sex. No, she is the bad guy, he feels it. Omg, really? It's so obvi not her! Maybe look at that bitch of a sister, that drunk of a bother, hey look at a villager. But no, it's her.
And there comes to a point where I just go all wtf, not again! EVERYTHING in this book could have been explained if people would have chilled for 1 second and asked a question, explained or just stop being effing children!!!
It's still gets a 2 though even if I hated everyone. Cos it had potential, it just got messed up by everything else.
Ok so your sister keeps telling you are ugly, and you are too blind to see that everyone else loves you? I know that shit can mess with your mind but I got so sick of it.
But seriously, the worst part was how Hugh kept believing that Mina was the bad guy up till the end. Even when he had heard she was not. Even after he knew he loved her, even after they have sex. No, she is the bad guy, he feels it. Omg, really? It's so obvi not her! Maybe look at that bitch of a sister, that drunk of a bother, hey look at a villager. But no, it's her.
And there comes to a point where I just go all wtf, not again! EVERYTHING in this book could have been explained if people would have chilled for 1 second and asked a question, explained or just stop being effing children!!!
It's still gets a 2 though even if I hated everyone. Cos it had potential, it just got messed up by everything else.
June 17, 2018
2.5 A Dark Guardian Stars
I wanted to like this book, but I kind of felt like the whole book was chasing tail.
There is an evil/monster that is killing the villager’s and the warriors are there to vanquish the evil magic.
Mina, I liked her but then I didn’t and here is why she plays kind of dumb and she wasn’t she was very smart. She just believes everything her sister and brother would tell her and never question it.
Hugh was a likable warrior only his instincts about Mina were all so very wrong.
The whole story felt forced.
The narration was kind of choppy and didn’t really have any distinction between characters and they all kind of blend together.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
I wanted to like this book, but I kind of felt like the whole book was chasing tail.
There is an evil/monster that is killing the villager’s and the warriors are there to vanquish the evil magic.
Mina, I liked her but then I didn’t and here is why she plays kind of dumb and she wasn’t she was very smart. She just believes everything her sister and brother would tell her and never question it.
Hugh was a likable warrior only his instincts about Mina were all so very wrong.
The whole story felt forced.
The narration was kind of choppy and didn’t really have any distinction between characters and they all kind of blend together.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
March 9, 2014
odd, but interesting. a different take on her normal writing. My biggest issue and the reason I could not fall in love with it was all the grammar and spelling errors. they just made me crazy. but the plot was interesting, the love story was twisty and full of angst and sweetness and I am looking forward to the rest of the series.
June 16, 2021
3.75 stars--A DARK GUARDIAN is the first instalment in Donna Grant’s adult THE SHIELD paranormal/fantasy romance series focusing on a group of men known as the Shields. This is Hugh the Righteous, and Lady Mina of Stone Crest’s story line.
NOTE: A DARK GUARDIAN was originally released in 2006 but has been updated with a new cover
Told from several third person perspectives including Mina and Hugh, A DARK GUARDIAN follows the group of men known as the Shields, tasked by the Fae, to hunt and take down the creatures destroying the realms. At each Realm, the Shields find themselves in a battle to save the inhabitants from total annihilation, and at Stone Crest castle Hugh believes the woman that calls to his heart, is the woman controlling the virulent evil but Mina is as much a victim as the people whose lives were destroyed, a victim who finds herself pushed and pulled between family, all of her life. As the creature continues to wreak havoc over the village and its’ people, Mina continues to be the number one suspect when all clues point to her possible involvement. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Hugh and Mina, and the potential fall-out as Hugh is unable to look beyond the clues, to see the truth.
A DARK GUARDIAN is a story of family, betrayal, vengeance, power and control. Magic is a large part of the story line premise, magic used to command and destroy in an effort to take charge of everyone and everything. The premise is fast paced and intriguing; the characters are energetic and colorful; the romance is seductive but I did not feel the palpable sexual attraction between our leading couple as our hero struggled to believe Mina was an innocent victim.
NOTE: A DARK GUARDIAN was originally released in 2006 but has been updated with a new cover
Told from several third person perspectives including Mina and Hugh, A DARK GUARDIAN follows the group of men known as the Shields, tasked by the Fae, to hunt and take down the creatures destroying the realms. At each Realm, the Shields find themselves in a battle to save the inhabitants from total annihilation, and at Stone Crest castle Hugh believes the woman that calls to his heart, is the woman controlling the virulent evil but Mina is as much a victim as the people whose lives were destroyed, a victim who finds herself pushed and pulled between family, all of her life. As the creature continues to wreak havoc over the village and its’ people, Mina continues to be the number one suspect when all clues point to her possible involvement. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Hugh and Mina, and the potential fall-out as Hugh is unable to look beyond the clues, to see the truth.
A DARK GUARDIAN is a story of family, betrayal, vengeance, power and control. Magic is a large part of the story line premise, magic used to command and destroy in an effort to take charge of everyone and everything. The premise is fast paced and intriguing; the characters are energetic and colorful; the romance is seductive but I did not feel the palpable sexual attraction between our leading couple as our hero struggled to believe Mina was an innocent victim.
January 25, 2018
This was another Romance Unlimited listen. It was almost a DNF. The Shields are a group of warriors trained by the fae who send them through time to battle monsters. Apparently these monsters are destroying other realms and have their sights set on earth. It's supposed to be very mysterious. I saw it more as the author didn't have the plot details worked out.
The romance (using that term loosely) is between Hugh, the leader of the Shields and Mina, the ignored / criticized sister of the Baron of the land. I was so angry with Hugh. He was no hero. The first person he suspects of controlling the monster killing the farmers is Mina. Sure, he's attracted to her but he still thinks she's guilty. He even tells her that several times. Mina the doormat keeps fantasizing and yearning for more from Hugh, the jerk. Right up until the end of the book he thinks Mina is lying and she keeps pleading her innocence. I don't see how these two could have any type of relationship. Although he suspects her and she's devastated that he can't trust her they proclaim their love for each other. So ridiculous.
The romance (using that term loosely) is between Hugh, the leader of the Shields and Mina, the ignored / criticized sister of the Baron of the land. I was so angry with Hugh. He was no hero. The first person he suspects of controlling the monster killing the farmers is Mina. Sure, he's attracted to her but he still thinks she's guilty. He even tells her that several times. Mina the doormat keeps fantasizing and yearning for more from Hugh, the jerk. Right up until the end of the book he thinks Mina is lying and she keeps pleading her innocence. I don't see how these two could have any type of relationship. Although he suspects her and she's devastated that he can't trust her they proclaim their love for each other. So ridiculous.
June 14, 2021
Hugh and Mina’s story is a whirlwind adventure that knocked me around with its amazing twists and turns! I absolutely loved how fierce Mina was! She fought for her people and for herself when most would cower!
Hugh was a bit of a conundrum but in a good way! He was conflicted on how to feel and what to do! With the help of some amazing friends he finds his way but now they have a creature to kill and a world to save!
Hugh was a bit of a conundrum but in a good way! He was conflicted on how to feel and what to do! With the help of some amazing friends he finds his way but now they have a creature to kill and a world to save!
January 19, 2023
Hmm what to say. I was frustrated with the H throughout the book. He didn’t believe the heroine and he was hot and cold. This is one of the earlier works and it shows. I enjoyed it, just not as much as her other series. I’m hoping it will improve. I’m still happy to have read it. On to the next guardian.
August 14, 2022
Free Kindle Read.
This was not my favorite. I don’t understand Mira’s I stand forgiveness of Hugh. He thought her guilty the whole book. He never believed her, thought she was lying and calling forth an evil world-ending creature, but because he says he loves her all is forgotten??? Nope.
This was not my favorite. I don’t understand Mira’s I stand forgiveness of Hugh. He thought her guilty the whole book. He never believed her, thought she was lying and calling forth an evil world-ending creature, but because he says he loves her all is forgotten??? Nope.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2021
What a great trip down memory lane. A Dark Guardian is a re-release from DG, the first time I read this book was my freshmen year of high school. It brought back great memories of hiding in the library, sneaking peaks at my crush, reading away on my very first Ereader.
Book one in the Shields series, A Dark Guardian is a branch off from the Druid series but has a much different reading vibe. Time travel. That’s right friends; time travel.
The book centers around Mina and her struggle, and Hugh with his. I really enjoyed Mina character, but the story with her siblings had me shaking my head so much. Hugh is a sweet talker and comes in right when she’s at the end of her rope. Their relationship is fun to read about, even more so when you consider how they meet. I feel for Mina so much in this book, it feels like all she is trying to do is earn back her family’s love, but her family; that being her brother and sister, are horrible to her. Her brother is a glorified alcoholic who leaves Mina at the mercy of a monster, then her sister who is a serious piece of work in the jealously department, does nothing but tear Mina down every chance she gets, stole her man and does everything she can to make Mina miserable. These two people she is loyal to, these two people until she meets Hugh. Hugh is his own kinda weird in my opinion, while I liked his character, he also made me really freaking mad sometimes. His “Instincts” are suppose to never be wrong….Hogwash!
Over all the re-read was good, the editing from the original was much better, and the story as always with DG is fun and enjoyable.
Book one in the Shields series, A Dark Guardian is a branch off from the Druid series but has a much different reading vibe. Time travel. That’s right friends; time travel.
The book centers around Mina and her struggle, and Hugh with his. I really enjoyed Mina character, but the story with her siblings had me shaking my head so much. Hugh is a sweet talker and comes in right when she’s at the end of her rope. Their relationship is fun to read about, even more so when you consider how they meet. I feel for Mina so much in this book, it feels like all she is trying to do is earn back her family’s love, but her family; that being her brother and sister, are horrible to her. Her brother is a glorified alcoholic who leaves Mina at the mercy of a monster, then her sister who is a serious piece of work in the jealously department, does nothing but tear Mina down every chance she gets, stole her man and does everything she can to make Mina miserable. These two people she is loyal to, these two people until she meets Hugh. Hugh is his own kinda weird in my opinion, while I liked his character, he also made me really freaking mad sometimes. His “Instincts” are suppose to never be wrong….Hogwash!
Over all the re-read was good, the editing from the original was much better, and the story as always with DG is fun and enjoyable.
April 25, 2014
(HEAT Advisory) Conceptually this interlinking of medieval times with paranormal interactions with the world of the Fae whose existence is interlaced with humanities' was quite interesting. I kinda liked that the Shields were humans recruited (across time) by the Fae rather totally other-worldly sorts. The castle, monastery, druid circle, and cottage in the forest made for great settings and plot movement.
Others have criticized the grammar errors which were noticeable (to an English major) but not sooo overwhelming as to ruin the story. The biggest draw back was the HEAT (i.e. graphic sexual descriptions). One of the Fae actually uses the words "lust" and "love" interchangeably and there is mention of "trusting love" rather than "instinct" which sends conflicting messages. The LU word vs. LO seems to be par for the course with many romances these days. Basically, if the characters got alone for too long after a certain point in the book I would skip the next 2-4 pages. I wish books came with ratings analogous to movies. Unfortunately, if movies actually showed what books often describe, there would be a lot more X-Rated flicks.
Others have criticized the grammar errors which were noticeable (to an English major) but not sooo overwhelming as to ruin the story. The biggest draw back was the HEAT (i.e. graphic sexual descriptions). One of the Fae actually uses the words "lust" and "love" interchangeably and there is mention of "trusting love" rather than "instinct" which sends conflicting messages. The LU word vs. LO seems to be par for the course with many romances these days. Basically, if the characters got alone for too long after a certain point in the book I would skip the next 2-4 pages. I wish books came with ratings analogous to movies. Unfortunately, if movies actually showed what books often describe, there would be a lot more X-Rated flicks.
June 26, 2013
I agree with Josie, this book is interesting, but a lot of little things were distracting, though I guess in Josie's and my defense, if you write yourself things stand out for you. One of the things which bothered me ,honest something I struggle myself with but always find something to replays it with, it's repeatedly use of words. There are a lot of words to replace say SAID. further more compared to her Dark sword series, which I would have rated 10 stars if possible, Dark Captive is written naively, the story itself is spellbinding, just the way it got put to paper. After being so drawn to Miss Grants books, I was an itsy, bitsy disappointed. I wonder if Miss Grant is hurrying to write her books nowadays. Obviously with the Dark Swords she took her time and love to writing in consideration. I do still recommend to read this book, maybe I'm just to critical. Make up your own mind, besides it is still a good read.
April 1, 2010
Grant weaves her usual blend of historical romance and Fae fantasy, nicely illustrated in her Druid's Glen books, in this start of a new series about a group of warriors known as The Shields who protect the human realm from evil. I consider myself a big fan of Grant's books, largely in whole to the Druid series, and I was very much eager to begin this series. Unfortunately I was a little disappointed in the main character, Hugh, the leader of the Shields. His obstinacy in refusing to see the innocence of his lady love, Mina, was exasperating as all hell. And cost me a point in enjoyment. However - carry on, as the British say, onward to the next book in the series!
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November 13, 2015Amazing
I loved this book so much that I read it cover to cover before finishing it. The story is so well written and the perfect length. The characters are so well thought out and so believable and I can't wait to read more of the shield
I loved this book so much that I read it cover to cover before finishing it. The story is so well written and the perfect length. The characters are so well thought out and so believable and I can't wait to read more of the shield
June 14, 2021
A Dark Guardian was originally released in 2006, this re-release has a beautiful new cover for you to enjoy,
Hugh the Righteous and his fellow Shields have come to Stone Crest to rid them of a demon. They travel through time on orders of the Fae to kill the beasts set loose on Earth.
Lady Mina of Stone Crest does her best for her people, even though she's never really fit in. Her parents neglected her, her brother blames her and her sister vilifies her. All of that doesn't stop Mina from trying to save her people from the beast that is systemically killing her people every night.
This story takes place in Central England, 1123. Hugh and the Shields stumble upon Mina as she tries to lead the creature into a trap. When that fails she brings them back to the castle for them to regroup and make new plans to kill the creature. While Hugh finds himself drawn to Mina he quickly realizes someone in the castle is controlling the demon and his number one suspect is Mina.
Mina is strong in so many ways but it seems to only take a word from her sister or brother to make her stupid and believing her lies. She does seem to bloom under the Shields more honest reflections of who she is, while she tries to help them find who is controlling the creature. but then takes two steps back after a word from her sister.
While I enjoy paranormal historical warrior love stories, there were a couple elements I struggled with in this story:
-Hugh's instincts focusing on Mina's guilt and ignoring clues to her innocence drove me a bit batty. Claiming his love for her but believing she was aligned with evil and clinging to that belief for so long rubbed me wrong and took a bit of the joy of this story from me. It just went on too long for me.
-Odd moments in the fight scenes that I was like, what seasoned warrior would do that?
-Fae popping in and out 3 out of 5 times were more annoying than helpful.
-Lots of background left unexplained
Even with all of the above, I liked their story but the above things had me downgrade from loving it to just liking it.
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Hugh the Righteous and his fellow Shields have come to Stone Crest to rid them of a demon. They travel through time on orders of the Fae to kill the beasts set loose on Earth.
Lady Mina of Stone Crest does her best for her people, even though she's never really fit in. Her parents neglected her, her brother blames her and her sister vilifies her. All of that doesn't stop Mina from trying to save her people from the beast that is systemically killing her people every night.
This story takes place in Central England, 1123. Hugh and the Shields stumble upon Mina as she tries to lead the creature into a trap. When that fails she brings them back to the castle for them to regroup and make new plans to kill the creature. While Hugh finds himself drawn to Mina he quickly realizes someone in the castle is controlling the demon and his number one suspect is Mina.
Mina is strong in so many ways but it seems to only take a word from her sister or brother to make her stupid and believing her lies. She does seem to bloom under the Shields more honest reflections of who she is, while she tries to help them find who is controlling the creature. but then takes two steps back after a word from her sister.
While I enjoy paranormal historical warrior love stories, there were a couple elements I struggled with in this story:
-Hugh's instincts focusing on Mina's guilt and ignoring clues to her innocence drove me a bit batty. Claiming his love for her but believing she was aligned with evil and clinging to that belief for so long rubbed me wrong and took a bit of the joy of this story from me. It just went on too long for me.
-Odd moments in the fight scenes that I was like, what seasoned warrior would do that?
-Fae popping in and out 3 out of 5 times were more annoying than helpful.
-Lots of background left unexplained
Even with all of the above, I liked their story but the above things had me downgrade from loving it to just liking it.
If you like my reviews I hope you will follow my blog. https://wyldheartreads.wordpress.com/
If you prefer to listen to my reviews you can find my reviews on Spotify here: https://anchor.fm/wyldheart-reads
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2021
Good vs Evil ... mysterious & intriguing
A DARK GUARDIAN is a historical paranormal romance that has mystery, suspense, and betrayal. A paranormal fantasy based on the premise of good vs evil. Castles, warriors, Lords, Ladies, knights and an evil creature entice the reader into a world that is both mystical and magical.
Hugh is a member of The Shields, a group of warriors who traverse the realms throughout time working for the Fae, destroying evil while trying to save the realms. Their latest mission has taken them to Stone Crest, a castle and village under attack from a creature whose goal is to destroy and murder all inhabitants. Hugh meets Mina, a young woman who captivates and intrigues him, but who appears to hold secrets. Mina has grown up constantly ridiculed, so her confidence is low, however she has an inner strength that compels her to find the truth behind the creature and save her village from its murderous intent.
Mina and Hugh are instantly drawn to each other. Their chemistry and attraction grows throughout the story ... will it be acted upon? Hugh has reservations about Mina, trust is not easy for him due to past experience. What secret is she hiding? Does she know more about the creature than she is letting on? Will Hugh and The Shields be able to discover the mystery behind the creature and save Stone Crest and the realm?
Although I struggled at times during this story, Ms. Grant was able to keep my interest. There was enough happening that I wanted, no needed, to know .. the mystery behind the creature, why Mina was constantly ridiculed by her siblings, and whether or not Hugh could ignore his instincts and let his heart guide him.
Another captivating story from Donna Grant.
Read and Reviewed from Reading Is Our Satisfaction
FOUR STARS
A DARK GUARDIAN is a historical paranormal romance that has mystery, suspense, and betrayal. A paranormal fantasy based on the premise of good vs evil. Castles, warriors, Lords, Ladies, knights and an evil creature entice the reader into a world that is both mystical and magical.
Hugh is a member of The Shields, a group of warriors who traverse the realms throughout time working for the Fae, destroying evil while trying to save the realms. Their latest mission has taken them to Stone Crest, a castle and village under attack from a creature whose goal is to destroy and murder all inhabitants. Hugh meets Mina, a young woman who captivates and intrigues him, but who appears to hold secrets. Mina has grown up constantly ridiculed, so her confidence is low, however she has an inner strength that compels her to find the truth behind the creature and save her village from its murderous intent.
Mina and Hugh are instantly drawn to each other. Their chemistry and attraction grows throughout the story ... will it be acted upon? Hugh has reservations about Mina, trust is not easy for him due to past experience. What secret is she hiding? Does she know more about the creature than she is letting on? Will Hugh and The Shields be able to discover the mystery behind the creature and save Stone Crest and the realm?
Although I struggled at times during this story, Ms. Grant was able to keep my interest. There was enough happening that I wanted, no needed, to know .. the mystery behind the creature, why Mina was constantly ridiculed by her siblings, and whether or not Hugh could ignore his instincts and let his heart guide him.
Another captivating story from Donna Grant.
Read and Reviewed from Reading Is Our Satisfaction
FOUR STARS
June 10, 2021
Great mash-up of PNR, Time-Travel, and protector romance.
The Shields are proper Knights in shining armour (or leather as the case may be). They have been plucked from throughout time and cross realms/dimensions to battle monsters. They are now essentially immortal thanks to some Fae tinkering. Now they've landed in medieval England and are about to battle a very tough foe. But first, they have to get the brave, but out of her depth, MIna to stand down!
Mina is the youngest of the local Baron's children and the whipping girl of her alcoholic brother and her megalomaniac sister. The castle and village are under siege and Mina is apparently getting the blame due to her fascination with a local abandoned site. But with Hugh and the others arriving, Mina is about to get more help than she wants but really does need it.
Hugh is great as the leader of the Shields. He has issues with trusting women that he gets involved with, for good reason. But Mina gets under his skin and he finds himself, once again, in the thrall of a lade. Mina I felt could have been a bit less naive. She is intelligent and has a great heaping of commonsense, knows her family hates her - so why does she believe everything they tell her! Other than that I really liked her passion and her need to protect her village.
I'm really looking forward to meeting all the other Shields, especially those thrown into the far future!
The Shields are proper Knights in shining armour (or leather as the case may be). They have been plucked from throughout time and cross realms/dimensions to battle monsters. They are now essentially immortal thanks to some Fae tinkering. Now they've landed in medieval England and are about to battle a very tough foe. But first, they have to get the brave, but out of her depth, MIna to stand down!
Mina is the youngest of the local Baron's children and the whipping girl of her alcoholic brother and her megalomaniac sister. The castle and village are under siege and Mina is apparently getting the blame due to her fascination with a local abandoned site. But with Hugh and the others arriving, Mina is about to get more help than she wants but really does need it.
Hugh is great as the leader of the Shields. He has issues with trusting women that he gets involved with, for good reason. But Mina gets under his skin and he finds himself, once again, in the thrall of a lade. Mina I felt could have been a bit less naive. She is intelligent and has a great heaping of commonsense, knows her family hates her - so why does she believe everything they tell her! Other than that I really liked her passion and her need to protect her village.
I'm really looking forward to meeting all the other Shields, especially those thrown into the far future!
June 14, 2021
This is the first Book of the Shields Series by Donna Grant. The story centers around time travel warriors who are allied with the Fae. Hugh is the Leader of the Shields. He and his men have been sent back in time to kill evil monsters. Mina is the heroine who believes herself to be ugly since that is what her sister Theresa has always told her. Theresa has a real nasty streak in her and has always belittled Mina. Bernard, her brother, appears to be a drunken sot. Neither one of them give any respect to Mina and she has always tried to prove herself to them and to their father.
Mina, a warrior in her own right, plots to kill the monster herself. She is willing to put herself in danger to protect her brother, sister, and the rest of the villagers but gets sabotaged by her siblings. Fortunately, Hugh and his men arrive to save her from the monster. There is an instant attraction on both sides but Mina is very wary. Hugh is of the opinion that Mina is the one controlling the monster and doesn't trust or believe her to be innocent.
Their attraction grows and things aren't the way the seem. Finally, Hugh comes to realize that Mina is innocent after discovering who the perpetrator really is. I enjoyed reading this book but my opinion of Hugh is that he is a total jerk and not worthy of Mina.
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my honest review.
Mina, a warrior in her own right, plots to kill the monster herself. She is willing to put herself in danger to protect her brother, sister, and the rest of the villagers but gets sabotaged by her siblings. Fortunately, Hugh and his men arrive to save her from the monster. There is an instant attraction on both sides but Mina is very wary. Hugh is of the opinion that Mina is the one controlling the monster and doesn't trust or believe her to be innocent.
Their attraction grows and things aren't the way the seem. Finally, Hugh comes to realize that Mina is innocent after discovering who the perpetrator really is. I enjoyed reading this book but my opinion of Hugh is that he is a total jerk and not worthy of Mina.
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my honest review.
June 18, 2021
It's not what I expected. It's a good concept, but there are a lot of questions throughout.
Hugh is a Shield. With his team he works to eradicate evil from various realms. Their missions come from the faes who direct them to where they are needed. This takes place in Stone Crest Castle, where he meets Mina. She is the sister to Bernard, the castle baron and Theresa. They treat her abismally and she takes it all like a trooper. She is ridiculed and made to feel insignificant, and she believes them.
Anyway, when she is attacked by the evil being, Hugh comes to her rescue and she becomes enamoured with him. He is kind to her to begin with, but when they find what controls the evil, all fingers point to her. Hugh believes that his instincts are always right, and this time he sticks to them no matter what. He is convinced Mina is behind the evil, even when there are glaring indications that she might be innocent. The sad thing is that Mina overlooks his doubts and accusations. Can she convince him that she really isn't involved?
I would liked to have known why the Druids left. It is mentioned that the root of the evil originates from there without any other background information. There are a few editing issues, especially towards the end. All in all, it's a good storyline which lacks in development.
Hugh is a Shield. With his team he works to eradicate evil from various realms. Their missions come from the faes who direct them to where they are needed. This takes place in Stone Crest Castle, where he meets Mina. She is the sister to Bernard, the castle baron and Theresa. They treat her abismally and she takes it all like a trooper. She is ridiculed and made to feel insignificant, and she believes them.
Anyway, when she is attacked by the evil being, Hugh comes to her rescue and she becomes enamoured with him. He is kind to her to begin with, but when they find what controls the evil, all fingers point to her. Hugh believes that his instincts are always right, and this time he sticks to them no matter what. He is convinced Mina is behind the evil, even when there are glaring indications that she might be innocent. The sad thing is that Mina overlooks his doubts and accusations. Can she convince him that she really isn't involved?
I would liked to have known why the Druids left. It is mentioned that the root of the evil originates from there without any other background information. There are a few editing issues, especially towards the end. All in all, it's a good storyline which lacks in development.
June 12, 2021
Enjoyable premise! Medieval setting with a dangerous creature on the loose; some magical aspects, Fae involvement, fun action, and some steamy romance! Mina is part of the village being terrorized by the creature; lots of danger and deaths happening, she’s the only one putting any effort into getting rid of the creature. Her brother is the Baron of their village, but he isn’t a very good one, and her sister is the worst; selfish and mean. Luckily, Hugh and the other Shields show up to help and figure out who is controlling the creature. The Shields are a group of knight like men working for the Fae; they go around to help with dangerous, magical things. Entertaining story! I liked Mina; her low self esteem did get annoying at times, but she’s likable. Hugh is likable too; I do think his lack of trust went on too long though. He let his past mess with his common sense; he reads everything wrong, so I was really disappointed that he was so stuck on one thought about who is to blame for the creature. The chemistry is there between Mina and Hugh, but I wanted Mina to make him work for it harder; came across as a bit too desperate on her part. Still super sweet together though! I’m looking forward to continuing the series!
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