Favorite Lines: “Their long ebony hair was pulled into a braid that hung down their backs, brushing the tiny white loincloth that was all that covered the most bodacious bodies ever seen. King Tut, take me now, a renegade voice whispered in the back of her mind.” (209)
This is book one in the Guardians of Eternity series written by Deborah Raleigh under the pen name of Alexandra Ivy. Debbie Raleigh has published many Regency novels and this is the first in a line that leans toward the spicier side of life. It is a must read.
Abby Barlow is having a bad life. She grew up with alcoholic parents, an abusive father who deserted the family early in life, and five brothers who bailed as soon as they were able. Despite the hard knocks life has given her she has managed to remain a pure soul, unwilling to give up on life. She is working as hired help when she is transformed into the vessel that contains the Phoenix.
The bane of her existence as of late happens to be Dante, the Guardian of the vessel. He’s wanted in her pants since he laid eyes upon her and fate has decreed that he now be tied to her further. He has an annoying habit of calling her lover and looking good enough to eat no matter the circumstances. He is the only barrier between Abby and the demons searching to destroy her.
The pacing is quick, the setting varied and very well detailed, and I loved the characters. I enjoyed the witty Abby and Dante’s ability to see into her fractured soul. I can’t wait to read about the head of Dante’s family, Viper. There are witches, demons, hell hounds, vampires, and warlocks in this book. The author takes the journey from an opulent mansion to the sewers to a house of pleasure. The scenery is vivid and all encompassing. It is a book that I didn’t put down until I finished it. I would recommend it.
Scooper Speaks 
Good reviews. This looks interesting. I’ve made note to look for it.
I wish I knew when the next book will come out. It sounded better than this one.