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The Guardian #1

Between Earth and Eden

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“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers…

Long ago, when First Eden fell, when the Deceiver came, bringing untruth and corruption, a new realm was formed to blanket the earth. New Eden it was called. Like fabric lovingly stitched together, it was put in place, unseen, to keep the denizens of Earth safe. But war has broken out and fierce battles are being waged between good and evil for the souls of humanity. Guardians, appointed by the King Himself, are all that stand between Earth and Eden, between their salvation and their destruction.

Though human and thoroughly unaware of the supernatural world around her, Jane Tanner finds herself hunted and caught up in a web of dark forces. Her twin brother Cash has already fallen prey to one of Hell’s own. Now, to keep her safe, Jane’s Guardian will move heaven and earth to ensure her protection. But those dark powers are moving and dominions are rising and Jane’s Guardian will need to decide quickly just how far he’ll need to go to fulfill his duty and covenant oath.

…against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12, NKJV

394 pages, ebook

Published October 20, 2020

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About the author

E.L. Irwin

5 books124 followers
E.L. Irwin is not represented at this time, and is querying.

Classy, sassy, steamy, and clean...

A child of divorce and abuse, E. L. Irwin found escape in reading and writing romance. She’s a self-described romantic-rebel who wears her heart on her sleeve and tends to shoot from the hip on subjects that matter. E.L. lives in the Pacific Northwest on a small farm with her husband, children, and multiple animals. When not reading or writing, E.L. enjoys, riding horses, going for drives, tattoos, antique shopping, starry nights, the smell and sound of rain, a deep red wine, a smooth whisk(e)y, camping, bonfires, and hanging out with her horses, cows, chickens, ducks, and goats.

**Be sure to follow her on:
https://linktr.ee/Elirwin

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
October 18, 2020
5 My Guardian Stars⭐
A Heart-gripping Story With a Fresh Start, Whirlwind of Emotions, Lurking Shadows, Secrets-Lies-Betrayals, True Love and a Sacrifice (Hellish+Teary Cliffhanger!).

Fantasy is my beloved genre, & this book blew me away. This story was so different from the books I've read, in a Good way!
All Characters were Relatable+Lovable. Except the bad guys, I hated them with a passion!


#My 1st book by E.L. ,I'm So going for more!

Janet's Twin-Cash has been in a Coma-Like state for years since an accident, which she was in too but Remain unharmed. Her own guilt & Her parents' Fear had lead her to live a sheltered life since. But Now she's Ready to Live again.

So She moves to a house, Far but not too far away from her Parents'. It's quite a whirlwind here as months pass: Calm, Getting a Job, Socializing, Meeting The Cute-Dark-Mysterious Theron (Who's her neighbor's Nephew!), Kisses, Self-Defence, Falling in Love..
But As Fabulous as Theron is, Something holds her back from giving him her Virginity.

Nothing is NORMAL. She Can see Things..Shadows.
She's always been able to see, sense them..But after the accident, they've stopped..But Now.. They're back, fiercer.

We get 3 POVs: Janet, The Guardian-Aurek (Hero!😍), The Hunter (Bad Guy!).
I was Suspicious of Theron from the start, He'd seemed OFF. And from The later two's POVs, My Fears were proven right, & Strange things Keep happening.
Break in, Attacks, Weird Raven, Light outs, Shadows..

Aurek had to do Something.. She's not heeding to her Inner voice-His warnings..He won't allow her hurt. She's his, His to Protect. So he comes to Earth to Care for her, from afar (He Meets her in Human form! *HOT*).

BUT, When the Demons ‘drew Blood’..Shit got Deadly.
The Dark wolf, An Accident, Aurek bringing her to Eden (Wow!), Fight, the meet..

Aurek held back her memories though as It's not the Right Time yet. So when he sends her back to earth, she doesn't *Clearly* remember their interaction in Eden.
It's Tough days for her: The hospital, Reality/Nightmares, Healing (Her dad is sweet!), Home, Theron meets her Dad *Tension!*, The New Roomie-Allie (She's great!), Getting better..

Due to Allie, and Jane's Interactions with Aurek increasing (Hot Sparks!), Theron grew distant *Good!*..Until He snaps, finally Showing his (Partial)True colours.
AND When Jane's attacked By a Demon Later (Whom She Kills *Hell ya!*), It's Time Aurek, Allie and His team tells Jane the truth..*Whoa*.
So much info+*Some* Answers!! She takes it well, despite fainting a few times *Chuckle*.
They'll protect her. Always.
The desire b/w Aurek & Her is FORBIDDEN..But So right. The few times they kiss is..Soulful, Life giving. Control-Shattering.

But Before They can even contemplate taking it further, Danger strikes *Heart-racing Truths*. And Aurek Makes the ultimate sacrifice for her (The extent of his love, it's Purity..makes me tear up😭)
An Infinite Life (He's Immortal) of Pain..For her Safety.

I was full on crying at the cliffhanger, I really hope they get Revenge!!
Jane's Memories of Aurek seems to be wiped out AND Cash is Awake..
Omg, Wtf will happen next?

So Excited for the Final part!
**ARC Received for a Honest Review.**
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Profile Image for E.L. Irwin.
Author 5 books124 followers
Want to read
October 27, 2021
**UPDATE/10-27-21**
Just wanted to give readers a heads up about this series. Currently, BEAE is not available for purchase with retailers, however, a signed paperback copy is available for purchase from myself directly. I have signed recently with a literary agent and hope to have re-release news for you soon. I have begun working on another book in this series, called, Between Blood and Stone that I hope you will enjoy just as well.


Release is just TWO days away!!
Not gonna lie, I was a little nervous about this book. So far, I've written contemporary novels. This was my first attempt at anything outside that genre. I hope you enjoy the world I've created in Between Earth and Eden, and its characters as well.

**Here's a fun little tidbit: there's a scene in this book where Jane has her first midnight visitor... that scene was written from an experience I had as a child. Pretty freaky, right??

Deep breath... I can't wait for you to read this!
Profile Image for Aishwarya Singh.
Author 1 book1 follower
September 14, 2021
An epitome of pure love. 

“From the lands of Heaven to the lands of Earth, till your last breath, I will protect you from every dark force.”

Janet Tanner, a 22-year-old girl, lost her twin brother to a coma in her high school. A beautiful girl with a Heterochromia stands out in the crowd, and her ever-flowing emotions were like a magnet to all the forces swirling around her. Dealing with the trauma, she started seeing unusual things which she would never share with anyone.

Janet finally decided to move out of her parent’s house to live in Astoria. A small decision turned her life into a hit supernatural movie drama. As said, we all have demons and guardians with us. It is who we choose. Once settled in her new home, she started experiencing some unusual things. Her fallen had started to haunt her. Her guardian was doing everything in his capacity to protect her. Sometimes he protects her by being an inner voice, sometimes as rain and thunder and sometimes by his physical presence. 

This story makes you believe in having your own guardian by your side every time. 

E L Irwin did a great job writing this beautiful story of Janet Tanner and her guardian and demon. I love the beauty of this story, filled with emotions and a craving to know more about Janet and her guardian. Thunder in guardian’s eyes, emotions they both have shared, is what I felt while reading this story.

Profile Image for Angie Schexnaildre NOLA504nerds.
293 reviews8 followers
October 19, 2020
This is an honest review for an arc received.

“Love – it’s so much more than a human emotion.”

E. L. Irwin created a fantastical world that I totally got lost in. This story will grip your heart, while you anxiously await to see where this story goes. You literally feel all of the emotions that Janet feels and experiences.

“I felt sort of like the metal to his magnet, as if forces beyond my control were pulling us together.”

Janet survived a horrific accident that’s left her twin, Cash, in a catatonic state. Once she reaches her twenties, she decides she’d like a fresh start. When she moves to her new house, strange things begin to happen. Birds stalking her, break ins, and more. While dating Theron, these events begin to increase in frequency, and he starts acting strange.

“Humans, they almost always buy the lies, even when the truth stares them in their worthless faces.”

This is a story about good versus evil and the ultimate battle over the human soul. The ultimate sacrifice of love is love in its purist form.

“My love is endless…”

An amazing 5 star read. This book was just, WOW! E. L. Irwin is a new author to me, but this book completely blew me away. It does end on somewhat of a cliff hanger. I’ll anxiously await the conclusion of this story. E. L. Irwin, I applaud you. Just simply amazing.
Profile Image for Lin.
204 reviews12 followers
November 24, 2020
Between Earth and Eden tells the story of Jane, a young woman that seeks independence, and so she moves away from her parents, but she gets involved with some dark forces that she doesn't even realise. And from this moment on, she'll have to face new things ... unusual things that will change her life completely.
This book was amazing! Fantasy is not my usual reading, but this one definitely caught my eye, and I have no regrets. This was such an interesting heart-clenching story. It takes you to great places through romance, fantasy and suspense.
It has a great start, quite interesting the way the author presents the characters and their roles. At times it feels a bit slow, especially at the beginning, but then it becomes intriguing, and you can't stop reading.
It has some great characters, you love them or you hate them, no in-betweens. And it ends in such a way! that it only leaves you wanting more and I can't wait to read the next book.
If you like fantasy or paranormal mixed with romance, this is definitely your book!
I want to thank E.L. Irwin for kindly give me a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.
196 reviews1 follower
October 7, 2020
Whoa! This book was amazing! EL Irwin is a new author to me and the genre isn’t my usual, but I will definitely be reading more! Between Earth and Eden was such a good read!
Jane has been experiencing odd sightings most of her life. Shadows that move and things seen but aren’t there, and she has learned not to speak of them. After a terrible event with her twin, Cash, Jane moves away from her family for a fresh start and maybe love. Odd things start happening again and birds appear to follow her that leave her and the reader wondering what in the world is happening?! It’s not at all what I expected and I loved it. The story will keep you on the edge of your seat! You won’t be able to put this down. I can hardly wait for the next book! This book does end on a bit of a cliffhanger, which is usually a turn off to me, but the story is well worth the ride!
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
168 reviews3 followers
October 20, 2020
This book, wow. E.L. Irwin is a new to me author, and I'm not disappointed about picking up this book at all. The cover was what first drew me in, it's absolutely stunning, and then the blurb on the back sealed it. I love paranormal, and this seemed to be a different twist on the good and evil, angels and demons, heaven and hell concept. I was intrigued. The very first chapter sucked me right in and kept me there, I couldn't put the book down. The characters were relatable, and the big bad is really a big bad. I can't wait for the next book to conclude Jane's story, see where it goes.

**Received an ARC for an honest review**
October 26, 2020
" Hell is coming and its coming fast."

So anyone who knows me know my first love is pnr/fantasy so I couldn't wait to dive into this book.

E L irwin sets the scene perfectly and gives us a gripping ,intense, and heart stopping read of the fight between good and evil, a story that will keep you turning those pages needing more right till the very end and oh what an end it is!!!!
This book definitely took hold of my heart and as yet to give it back ❤

"My love is endless"

This was my first read from this author and I'm so glad I took a chance to read it , now I have to sit and wait for more and I cannot wait!!
24 reviews
October 24, 2020
I went into this blind & although this is not my usual book, It was Awesome! Definitely Expect the Unexpected in the best most exciting way. The author is very descriptive with all the characters. Just when you think you know what's going to happen, things take a turn & back. I cannot wait for the second book.
486 reviews3 followers
October 26, 2020
This was a pretty interesting read. I loved the storyline. There was a lot going on and some interesting plot twists but I did feel it was a bit slow at times. Janet was an enjoyable heroine and she definitely had growth throughout the book. It ended with a bang and definitely want to read the next book to see what happens next.
30 reviews
October 20, 2020
I have a read several paranormal novels and this is by far more detailed than any I’ve come across. Due to the nature of the book the introduction to the story is filled with details of the upcoming adventure. Janeis living on Earth, but seems to be between Earth and Eden because of the company she keeps. The Hunter and The Guardian battle to gain her attention throughout. What decision will Jane make and how does that affect the person she is becoming? I can tell you I’m waiting to see what happens in the conclusion of this!
Received ARC for honest review.
Profile Image for Jamie.
85 reviews1 follower
September 3, 2021
Themes: guardians, demons, car accidents, twins, independence, police, romance, eden

I will say the beginning of this book had me in my doubts, but 1/3 of the way in I couldn’t put it down.

The plot is predictable but done extremely well. I think everything the author set out to do was accomplished; We adored the guardian and hated/feared the hunter. Looking back I wish there was more of a- oh my gosh twist- but all in all I honestly didn’t even mind there was no elaborate gotcha as I truly enjoyed the book while reading it.

I really enjoy how the women based friendships are positive and supportive. I also like how she has a supportive family- you don’t see that much in YA (doesn’t mean her family is perfect by any means- but whose is?) The characters overall were enjoyable to read and I can’t wait to read book 2!

Spoilers below:

I’m still not understanding why the black bird demon would attack Theron? Unless that’s something that will come up in the next book? Or was just an elaborate plan to freak Janet out? I was hoping more would come out of that- like maybe it was the ‘other one’ the hunter keeps mentioning.


I throughly enjoyed the writing style and I’ll be definitely going to be reading more of her work!

Personal rating: 8.5 out of 10

*I received this ebook free in exchange for an honest review*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Becca.
2,005 reviews25 followers
October 19, 2020
I'm not a huge fan of fantasy/supernatural reads but from the very start, this book had me captivated and I had a hard time putting it down. The fight between good and evil is fascinating especially as it pertains to our heroine Jane.

Between Earth and Eden was the first book I've read by EL Irwin and it definitely won't be my last.
Profile Image for Jeff Bailey.
Author 2 books117 followers
August 30, 2021
Absolutely top shelf entertainment. I enjoyed every page of Between earth and Eden. I’ve always been a fan of E.L. Irwin’s books in the reality realm. This being her first foray into fantasy, I’m glad that it’s going to be a series.
Jane, the main character, is the classic girl-next-door. But Jane has experienced some … well, odd… things in her life and they seem to be happening more and more often. She heads out for a new start with some unexpected results. A touch of romance and a touch of reality are blended into the story perfectly. Then it all comes together.
I felt as though I knew the characters, especially Jane. The setting seems based on a real town. Couldn’t be better. Between Earth and Eden left me wanting more. I look forward to the series. Well done EL. Between Earth and Eden is definitely a five-tar read. Jeff Bailey, author of Not On My Watch.
3 reviews
August 26, 2021
This is a brilliant book. It's a slow start but after that you get right into the book's world and you'd be unable to get out. One of the best thing about the book is that the reference to the other series that i love and when I read those parts I was so happy that the author had acknowledge those books and also she likes them as well as me I had to text the author to thank her. It made me feel like I have a special book bond you know the one you get with people who reads the same things as you do. And boy the characters are so great I can't wait to read the second book I have a feeling that's it's a blast as this one. Thank you for this amazing experience. ✨
Profile Image for Daniel Rose.
526 reviews10 followers
October 18, 2020
I had the pleasure of reading an advanced copy of this book. It was absolutely great! It has everything. Suspense, Romance, Supernatural elements. This is the perfect read for everyone. I cannot wait to get my copy in October!
Profile Image for Cali.
74 reviews14 followers
June 11, 2021
★★★★★


❝For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in heavenly places..❞
➛ Ephesians 6:12 NKJV


A story of divine mission and destruction. Janet wanted to become independent after what happened to her twin, Cash. She believed that everything was her fault and thought that maybe... staying away from her family would make it all a little bit better. She then learned how to become independent on her own and her story starts there, with a mix of love, friendship, family, and divine intervention.


I love this book. I've always loved reading fiction/fantasy novels/series about the divinity. Be it about angels, demons, guardians, and all. Everything on that scope really interests me. I enjoy reading such genre/trope. And this book, Between Earth and Eden, didn't fail me. From the moment I read the first chapter up to the last, this book didn't, even once, make me feel even a little of bit of boredom. This book got me hooked up up to the very end, and oh my gosh... why did this even end like that? Don't get me wrong... I love the ending. It was a total cliffhanger and I'm not even complaining. I had a really high expectations from this book, but this... went way beyond my expectations. I fell in love with how the author introduced the plot and its characters.


Janet
— A very precious and strong (in her own way) protagonist. I love how she discovers herself through living independently. Though I also feel sad that she somehow blames herself for what happened to her twin. Nevertheless, she's strong and I can't wait for her deep character development.

❝Just when I’d found joy and peace and love, it was all being ripped away, as if the universe had decided I was unworthy, that I’d been found wanting.❞


The Guardian
— I love him so much. He's so precious. I love how he tries his very best just to protect Janet. And he loves her, so much, that it's making my heart ache. He deserves the whole universe. He's so pure.

❝I am her Guardian. If my life is required to ensure her safety, I will gladly give it.❞


The Hunter
— Can he just disappear, like for good? I hate him so much. But honestly, he's a good antagonist. I just don't find him reasonable that much. Is he pure evil? I think so. But I'd like to know more of his side. That way, maybe I'll be even more open to finally understand him. But as of now, I hate him so, so much.

❝From the moment her soul existed, it has been my mission to end it.❞



I really enjoyed reading this book. I just finished it and my emotions all over the place. I can't explain in detail how much I adore this book, but I can say one thing for sure... I am living for this book. I love everything about it, every bit of it. From the amazing and creative book cover up to its ending. I love everything. I just love everything. I'm so glad I read this. And I'm excited to know what happens next.


Book recommended by BookTasters and ARC provided by Author Irwin in exchange for my honest review.
July 4, 2021
For me, E.L. Irwin is a new author, but after reading Between Earth and Eden, I want to read more of her books.

The book Between Earth and Eden is about a young girl, who wants to move away from her overprotective parents, and she does so. She finds her new home in Oregon, Astoria, where she quickly finds a job and even finds herself a boyfriend. But the thing she doesn’t know is, that she has a Guardian, who has been keeping her safe since she was a baby. She needs the Guardian, because beside Guardians, there are also Hunters, who want to destroy the humankind.

This book is very captivating. It makes you wonder what’s going to happen next, which in my opinion is something a good book should have. Some of my questions stayed unanswered, and by the end I’ve had even more questions, but it only made me want to buy the sequel, so that’s definitely a plus.

The most interesting for me was the relationship between the Hunter and the Guardian. Since the Hunter said: “I’ll rip her apart, every last part of her. For what she did to him.” it honestly makes me wonder – did the two of them use to be friends? Is there really only hatred between them? But as I’ve said before, all these unanswered questions make me want to buy the sequel.

The genre of this book for sure is fantasy, but it doesn’t lack elements of other genres like mystery, romance and, at times, comedy. The most romance happens by the end of the book. It is not overdone, so even people like me, who aren’t into romantic books, will still enjoy this story. It’s written in “everyday” English, so even though English is not my first language, I could still understand without any problem. Which is a huge plus for international readers.

I recommend this book to everyone who enjoys fantasy genre with little bit of a mystery and romance into it. It’s worth it. I would also like to thank the author for writing this story.

P. S. I’m happy that even guardians know and are fans of Harry Potter.
Profile Image for Sarah Elyse | Retro Girl Reads.
1,275 reviews77 followers
December 10, 2020
“Eternity was in that kiss. Time no longer mattered.”

In this universe, every human has a Guardian, a supernatural being assigned to protect them. But there are also Hunters, “Fallen” who hate the human race and seek to destroy them. Janet Tanner has always seen things she can’t quite explain, terrifying things. Nobody understands or believes her, except her beloved twin brother Cash... who she loses at 13 to a deadly accident that leaves him in an accident that leaves him in a coma. Relatively unscathed from the accident herself, Janet carries the guilt with her for the rest of her adolescent years. Now twenty two, she moves away from her parents to try to get some independence. Almost immediately, she meets a guy named Theron, who is darkly handsome and very interested in her. Unbeknownst to Janet, Theron is actually the Hunter bent on destroying her. The book is told from Janet’s point of view, with small excerpts from Theron and Janet’s Guardian Aurek.

I completely adored this book. The romance, the passion, the mystery, the suspense, everything was beautifully written and wonderfully done. Kudos to the author for a beautiful story!

*i received this book as an arc in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Mahek.
3 reviews
November 11, 2021
Firstly, Thank you E.L Irwin was sending me this book.

This was my first time to read different genre(combination of fantasy,paranormal and also romance)

The Book “between Earth and Eden” by E.L Irwin is thrilling, spiritual and heart clenching story.

The story revolves around Jane, the main character after a losing her twin, Cash in an accident has-been experiencing odd sightings most of her life.
Jane has a Guardian called Aurek ( I can almost imagine him as Chris hemsworth) supernatural being assigned to protect her and hunter (Fallen) - Theron who is darkly handsome and sinister,who hate the human race and is hell bent on destroying her.

Jane moves away from her family for a fresh start and maybe love(wink wink). Odd things start happening again. And all thanks to the author I came to know about spiritual realm.

The story revolves around hunter and guardian battle to gain her attention.

The story kept me hooked all the way
(And that… cliffhanger )
Looking forward to the second book!

In short,
This is a story about good versus evil and the ultimate battle over the human soul.
It all about The ultimate sacrifice of love is love in its purist form.
Profile Image for Novel Grounds.
1,519 reviews77 followers
November 5, 2020

Got this as a surprise ARC and I was  HERE FOR IT! EL Erwin dazzles with this brand new read that leaves you intrigued and full of anticipation for book two.
This was a beautifully crafts fantastical read that you can't put down. Janet has always seen shadows, and since moving on with her life since her twits Accident. She has started seeing them more. Throw Theron into the mix as her Boyfriend, and they get even more frequent coupled with a series of events that leave her challenging everything she knows to be true.

This is a story about sacrifice and love. Challenging what you know and believes for what you are seeing in front of you. Demons. Angels. Comatose twists. Battles for good and evil. Literally it has it all. Plus. The romance in this is everything guys. It brings the swoon with the crazy twists so don't fret. I know I was hooked from the start and I cannot wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Vanessa  Ramirez .
748 reviews4 followers
November 3, 2020
⭐Review⭐
“Always. Always . There isn’t anything I wouldn’t do to keep you safe, Janet,” he whispered with such conviction that my heart tripped over itself.
***
My thoughts are all over the place, but like in a good way. I just finished Between Earth and Eden and I can say without a doubt that this book captured my attention. I finished it in 24 hrs. At first it was kind of slow and I did have a hard time getting into it, but at the same time I had to know what was going to happen next. Aurek really captured my attention from the start. I also really enjoyed the opening, it makes you want to keep reading. I loved Aurek and his Guardians, especially Allie. The characters are really well written and you can feel every emotion they do. I hated Theron from the start. The book does end in a cliffhanger, but it feels like it is going to be totally worth it. I cannot wait for book 2.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Romance💙💙💙
****
I received this free ARC for a free review. Thank you E. L. Irwin and Jill Sava!
July 25, 2021
Between Earth and Eden is a modern fantasy tapping into the tale of Eden and the fallen angels. The heroine, Janet Tanning, has an interesting character arc where she grows from the secluded woman who could be easily maneuvered by others, to a strong woman who could see the truth. In the beginning, the story seems a bit slow, but in the last few chapters, it exploded. For example, in the beginning, the Guardian appeared to tell himself over and over again that he should do something to protect Janet, rather than actually taking action. However, the finale of the first book leaves behind a string of loose ends, making the readers crave to know more about the story. For example, what exactly happened to Janet's twin, Cash? Was the recurring dream Janet was having at the start of the story related to the fate of her Guardian? If so, can Janet see the future? How is it possible that every human has a Guardian? Will definitely read the sequel to find answers!
28 reviews2 followers
September 20, 2021
I've read very few supernatural books but even then, this tops them all. The story is about Janie, a human who is unaware of the spiritual world around her. He brother is in coma because of something that happened in the other realm. The author tells the story from the points of view of the guardian, hunter and Janie. Her guardian, Aurek is watching over her and tries to warn her endlessly of the danger she is in. Sometimes she heeds, most times she does not. The hunter, Theron, on the other hand is too close and even dates her. After a road accident, Aurek decides enough is enough and invites other guardians to help protect Janie.

The story is a riveting thriller and will definitely keep you at the edge of your seat. A sweet story with a little bit of love and hope and a glimpse of the spiritual realm. It is a brilliant book and i did not expect to enjoy it as much.

I'd recommend it 💯
Profile Image for Moll.
7 reviews
October 24, 2021
Irwin has built an interesting world, built with real feelings and a keen eye for nature.

The fantasy world is built around, and in, our world - an excellent opportunity for anyone to dipping into this genre for the first time.
The fantasy is balanced well with real world feelings and day-to-day life.

I don't usually go for romance stories but in this case, I can't wait to read the next installment ☺️.
3 reviews
September 28, 2021
I loved the book!
It was very well written, and there were multiple plot twists that I didn’t expect at all!
I absolutely loved the characters and their personalities.
Highly recommend reading it, and can’t wait to read the sequel!
Profile Image for Mimi.
613 reviews86 followers
December 30, 2020
If you are a fan of Frank Peretti or Ted Dekker, then you are going to really enjoy E.L. Irwin!

I had ZERO clue what to expect with this story. E.L. is a new-to-me author and I had no idea what genre her book was in. So to find out it's a spiritual thriller, I was pretty intrigued... and a bit nervous. Ha!

The first few chapters were interesting and I wasn't sure if I would like her style for an entire book, but I was all in for trying. There was no dialogue. We only read the thoughts of the Guardian or the Hunter. It's rather spooky to be honest.

Then the human character of the story starts to interact with others and dialogue begins. I have to say, I was relieved. lol I mean, like I said, I was intrigued by the first four chapters of none of that. Once there was talking I felt ready to settle in.

But honestly, you can't really settle in with this story. It keeps you on edge pretty much the entire time. I do NOT like scary stories - horror stories if you will. This was NOT a horror story, but it does have that scary slant to it. I mean, we're talking about demons. Those who serve Satan. So, it's not full of frills. Not even close.

Jane has been in a type of bondage ever since her twin brother was in an accident. When she tries to move forward with her life, the Hunter is ready to pounce. Her Guardian will have none of it when it comes to the Hunter. The Guardian has to be very careful because he's walking a very fine line with his protection of Jane.

I'm not sure there's a more sinister character out there than Theron. I mean, as readers our warning bells are going off and all I wanted to do was pull Jane away from him kicking and screaming. He's lascivious from the start and he makes me wonder how many creeps like that did I manage to avoid, and then I remember how many I didn't. :(

Then there's Aurek. There are details that make me giggle like a school girl when he lands on the scene. Maybe it's his eyes... or his car. Maybe both? For some reason he made me think of Chris Hemsworth. He's who I'm hoping my Guardian is. Mine is probably some portly, little fella who just stuffed a Little Debbie into his mouth. tee hee hee Let's hope not!

I have to say, I haven't read a book like this in probably a decade, if not more. I LOVE books that remind us that there's a spiritual battle going on around us. That's the one thing about books like this. I become hyper aware of the spiritual realm. Not to the point of Jane who sees "things" and hears things. Whew, thank goodness. But this is why I compare her to Peretti because he altered my understanding of the spiritual world and Irwin has reignited it.

Now here are a couple of asides from reading the story. And keep in mind, I still gave this a 4 star review. One is just a wondering and the other is a heads up. Keep in mind that this book isn't marketed as Christian fiction, but there is clearly the faith element.

So, first, Jane isn't a believer so I'm wondering what's so "special" about her. Why is she so important? We don't find that out in this book so I'm hoping we will in book 2. Maybe it's simply because she's a human and the Hunter hates them all. If that's the case, then I'm good with that. She's full of goodness and light, but she's just a "good person". I'm hoping there's a salvation element in book 2 as well! Of course, since this isn't an explicitly Christian novel, that might not happen.

Then, there's the sensualism in the story. There's definitely a dark side that is trying to pull Jane in. To weaken her, to dull her light. It fits the story (although it made me squirm), so I didn't find it gratuitous. I mean, this is life. Again, stronger than what I typically read. I tend to not read books with anything much more than some smooching. lol There are only a couple scenes that far into this category. This is just a heads up for friends who shy away from intimacy scenes. Whew!

I'm really looking forward to the second book! See, even with those two pieces above, the parts above that are why I want to read book 2. Remember 4 star rating! Anyhow, I have a feeling there will be some epic spiritual battling going on!

*The author send me the ebook for review. This is my personal opinion.
Profile Image for francessy.
18 reviews1 follower
July 16, 2021
*received a copy of the book through the author via Booktasters in exchange of an honest review*

I was intrigued by the the title of the book and to be honest it did not disappoint. I did have an inkling that this was going to be somewhat about angels/guardians vs demons though. The story got me hooked and the ending was surprising. I can't wait to read the next book!
Profile Image for Millie.
31 reviews2 followers
June 21, 2021
I debated a bit over what to rate this book. In fact, I may change the rating before I finish typing this review. The writing style of this novel was definitely something I really enjoyed when I was reading. The language wasn't dificut to get around but still had magnificent descriptions, particularly of setting, which I loved. Every place is described in just the right amount of detail to transport you to that place without being tedious, and every place is unique. The dialogue flowed well, and the way in which each character spoke was reflective of them, which was a small detail which I really liked.

The main charcter, Janet, was alright. She had clear goals, which gave her reason to do things in the book that subsequently led to events out of her control, and she was motivated to keep moving in life, even when things were not going well for her. She just didn't seem to develop much as a character, which is something I always look for in books. I do appreciate how she chose to not always be the damsel in distress, taking it upon herself to learn jow to defend herself so she didn't always have to rely on others, but that felt like it was already instilled in her character, not something that she grew into. She was by no means a bad character, she's one of the better lead women that I've read about, personally I just would have preffered some kind of character arc.

There are two other character povs that are present, the hunter, and the guardian. The hunter is written to be despicable, and he is! I hated him, which was exactly as intended, so his writing was great. The guardian was supposed to counter that, but I did find the levels of possessiveness offputting for a character that was titled guardian. The other side characters were great, I loved seeing the relationship between Janet and her dad, Ivy and Stella were fun when they had pagetime.

Plot wise, it took me a few chapters to settle into, but once I did, I couldn't stop reading. It was a fun plot, I kept wanting more and more anwers, which were delivered at just the right pace. I liked seeing things mostly as Janet saw them, with just a little extra input from the hunter and the guardian that kept me guessing at what was going on that Janet couldn't see. It was a fairly simple plot to follow, and I would have liked to learn more about Eden throughout the book, but it was enjoyable.

I'm not sure I have much more to say about this book, other than that it was like a way better version of The Mortal Instruments. Honestly, it hasn't been my favourite read this year, but it is also far from the worst.
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