You know when you're looking for a new series and see a blurb that sticks out? Yeah, this is even better than that. Of course I was drawn in to this book by reading the blurb, but I knew I'd be hooked after reading less than 20% of this book. It's THAT good.

Tendra, aka Ten, is human. She's lived a some what normal life. That is until she's kidnapped and told about her heritage. One that she had no idea about. One that after listening and remembering her past, actually sounds real despite the fact that she's dealing with vampires. Now that she's been told her TRUE purpose, what's next? Abandon her race, or actually

Tendra, aka Ten, is human. She's lived a some what normal life until she was forced to learn about her heritage. Does she ignore the signs or follow her fate? What if her fate was based on a prophecy she didn't want to come true? Yep, this just got very difficult.

Athan is a royal vampire. A vampire who's been sworn to fulfil his duty. Delivery the one human who will help save/change everything. But what happens when things don't go the way they're supposed to? When feelings get in the way? When death is eminent?

This is the perfect start to this series. It was extremely well written. I was drawn in to the story, characters and potential future from the very beginning. I thought that the chemistry between Athan and Tendra was perfect. The give and pull. The anticipation. It was all perfectly exposed and drawn out for us to enjoy. And now? Now I'm super excited to read the next one. Because I just KNOW that Idris' story won't disappoint.

reviewed by Christina

3.5 Stars

Just a precaution: Don't read blurb of the second book if you don't wish for any spoiler prior to finish reading this book. Although, you might guess what it is anyway as you read Blood Guard.

I have only read Megan Erickson's YA MM books before and I quite like her writing style. This book is way different from what I've read from her before, but in no way it is less captivating!

Blood Guard is the first book her new "Mission" series, an AU paranormal tale about vampire covens war set in the city of Mission, America. Athan, one of the Gregorie clan's prince, is charged with guarding Tendra, a Sanguivita whose blood is vital to the future Gregorie King, in their war against the Valarians. On their way to Gregorie compound, they find that Valarians enroll ruthless assassins - the Quellen - hunting for them. Running for their life from Mission's underground and through nearby woodland to the compound, Athan and Tendra beset by ambushes left and right, even from the most unlikely source. And they only have each other to trust.

I'm quite taken with Athan and Tendra, both are strong and resilient type. One of the appeal for me is Athan's gradual change in his outlook of human, while at the same time Tendra learn about vampire-related stuff. Then there's the pull between them that's there from their first encounter, but they don't immediately act on it. Worry not, they have their time to heat up the pages, yet - fortunately for me - not overly much, and not for lack of momentum!

As the first entry to the series, this novel throws in necessary tidbits as the story goes. It is told alternately from both MCs' POVs and complimenting each other's accounts; shaping clearer past and world building. That saying, I do feel - with the story focusing on Athan and Tendra - it doesn't offer much account on the side characters. Which is rather unfortunate, as I think they can add interesting grip to the story, given the chance. Not that it'll stop me from looking forward to the next installment of the series! This series certainly gives interesting take on the vampire world and their long-lived feud and war.


Advanced copy of this book is kindly provided by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

A good guy vamp who can get a little bad for his lady!

I absolutely loved this firecracker of a paranormal! Megan Erickson starts her new vampire Mission series with Blood Guard. It delivers a thrilling plot, a smart, “take-no-prisoners” cat, and all the delicious banter and hot vampire lovin’ I could have hoped for.

Tendra lost her mother not long ago, and she plans on moving out of Mission City. There’s nothing holding her back. That is, until she’s kidnapped by a giant, muscled man claiming to be a vampire. Oh, and letting Tendra know she’s part of this prophesy to save humankind. She only needs to become personal blood bank to his brother.

No pressure, right?

Talk about genius pacing! The story trundles along at hyper speed, and it took everything I had to keep up as I anxiously flipped through the pages. Tendra is the perfect mix of sweet but saucy. Her whole life flips 180 degrees in minutes and she’s got to put her trust and faith in a man she doesn’t know but who she is insanely attracted to.

I mean, ya’ll. The chemistry between them could light up the whole of NYC alone.

And then there’s Athan. Wonderfully kind but undeniably alpha. He’s Tendra’s protector and it takes all of his considerable will power not to touch her. There is just no time to catch your breath as enemies chase after Tendra and Athan; as Tendra’s figuring out her new reality; as the scent of blood and attraction blooms hot and heavy between these two.

This book was everything I hoped for and more. I can’t wait to see what happens next, and I’m praying and hoping that Zeb gets a book soon (ZOMG!). Any paranormal lover—especially of the vampire variety—will find something to enjoy in this delightfully engaging tale.

5 Blood-Pumping Stars!

4.5 stars- Really good start to a new series

Blood Guard is the first in Miss Erickson’s new vampiric Mission series. As I’ve seen in her other paranormal titles, this author does an outstanding job building intricate worlds I find mesmerizing. There are a few species/types of vampires and paranormal creatures within this world, but I found the explanations thorough enough to keep track of them as they reappeared throughout the book.

I thought the overall premise of the plot was really interesting and it definitely kept me hooked, wondering what would happen next. The action scenes were fast-paced and exciting, and the general pace of the book was pretty brisk. While the faster paced plot echoed the intensity of the fight and chase scenes, that also meant the romance was a bit of a whirlwind. Though it wasn’t quite insta-love between Tendra and Athan, feelings evolved rather quickly in Blood Guard. This is really the only element of the book that didn’t quite work for me. Although there clearly was a connection immediately between the hero and heroine, which isn't all that uncommon in paranormal romances, I would have liked to see it develop slower so I had the opportunity to become a bit more invested in the characters and their romance. Regardless, I did like Tendra and Athan. I always enjoy strong, independent heroines like Ten and I appreciated how well they balanced each other.

Overall, I enjoyed the romance, main characters, and was intrigued by the secondary characters of Blood Guard. The continuing plotline of two vampire clans facing off against each other and the potential impact on the unsuspecting human world grabbed my attention and assured I’ll be tuning in for the second book in Miss Erickson’s Mission series. If you’re a fan of paranormal or vampire books, Blood Guard is certainly worth checking out.

A new author for me, but I love my PNR and the blurb had me rubbing my hands together with glee, it sounded just up my street and I couldn't wait to give it a go!!

Tendra works nights bartending, has not got much going for her except for her cat Brex, having just lost her mum, who was her only family. But her whole world changes as she is kidnapped and told that vampires exist and she is part of their legend, their 'Sanguivita', which basically means she is supposed to provide her blood (which is supposed to be special) to feed their King. Her kidnapper, Athan, goes on to prove vampires exist as he is one himself! He is in fact the brother to the King, and it was been his foretold destiny to take Tendra back to his brother.

Things don't quite go to plan, in this world there are good and bad vampires - good being Athan and his clan who get permission to drink the blood of humans, and then there are the bad ones who just kill for the blood. Things get very dicey as the bad ones start to show up to stop Athan and Tendra from getting back to the King.

This was a great story!! I loved the author's take on this vampire world and the characters and world she created. I was taken in after reading the first few pages, I just loved it!!

Tendra is fab, very bad ass and sassy!! She has a lot to cope with and a lot to take in, but doesn't mess about and just gets on with it, and takes no prisoners either!! Athan is hawt!!! Very alpha and protective of Tendra with a very caring side. Their attraction to each other was undeniable, but Tendra is meant for Athan's brother not him!!

A fab read, well written and very entertaining set in a new type of world, I loved every minute and can't wait to read more from this series!!

Tendra Parrish has recently lost her mother. They had always moved about a lot, and now she feels it's time to move on again. She only has her cat to worry about now.
Vampire Athen Gregorie has been trained for just one job his whole life. That is to protect the future queen, and take her to his brother who will be king.
There is a vampire war brewing and Tendra is right at the heart of it. Can our brave kick ass heroine survive long enough to help her king save humanity?
Will our honorable, duty bound hero survive long enough to deliver her to her destiny.
The cat is also very handy to have around.
This is a very good start to what I'm sure will be a great series. It's sexy has lots of really scary fights and a marvellous story line. I hope the secondary characters are all going to get their own books. Zeb especially looks like fun.
I look forward to reading lots more of them.

So i really liked this one. Great start to a new Megan Erickson series. A pretty great read and a fast one too! I read Megan's free prequel short, Bite The Hand That Bleeds, before this and was pumped to start on Blood Guard and it didnt disappoint.

I was riveted from the start and intrigued by this world. Also Tendra and Athan were scorching together phew! that scene in the tunnels helloooo, *fans self*

I have to say i want to know what kind of cat Brex is exactly. He's clearly supernatural in nature. Tellll me the thiiiing Megan lol. No but seriously, i really had fun reading this one. And the build up for book two, towards the end there, yehhh im gonna need Idris' book right now please and thanks! As i anticipate alll sorts of tension there with his love interest for reasoooons.

A quick, fun, steamy read.

4 stars

An ARC has been kindly provided by Random House Publishing Group – Loveswept via NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.

I don’t know what was in the book but I read it in nearly one sitting. Maybe Megan Erickson sprinkled some somnus to captivate the reader?

This is one of these stories where everything works really well together to give you a great time. The characters, the pace, the plot with some unexpected twists, the side characters (I particularly love the feline one)…

Tendra is a feisty and strong heroine. She’s been on the run since she was a child and her mother just died some weeks ago. She has to work hard as a waitress to pay the bills and feed her cat Brex. Tendra is not one missy you want to mess up with. She’s been trained to protect herself by her mother and is the “MacGyver” of fights as even a stiletto can become a deadly tool.
That’s a good trick to know ladies: high heels can save your life! One more reason to go on a shoe shopping spree.

She feels like moving again and has just decided to leave the town of Maddison when she is “kidnapped” by a huge and intimidating stranger.
Imagine the guy: six foot seven, black eyes, pale skin, abs rippling and shoulders too wide not to cross doors sideway. Yes you’ve just met Athan.
Athan is a vampire warrior and the king’s youngest son of Gregories clan.

You see in this world there are good vampires: The Gregories, bad vampires the Valarians and very, very bad vampire the Quellens who are just plain killers to hire and weird looking.

The Valarian’s grand plan is to enslave the human race while the Gregories want to maintain a truce, stay hidden and feed only from willing humans. To defeat the Valerians they need to up their game thanks to a specially bred human: the Sanguivita. The Sanguivita is meant to feed Idris Athan’s brother and future king granting him extraordinary powers and strength.

And who is the Sanguivita? Of course none other than Tendra.

Now how would you react if a very intimidating man kidnapped you and explained you’ve been created to feed a vampire and your duty was to save the human race?

Well I would freak out and call the police. Or ask for him to be put in the psych ward. Or if I realized it was all true I would maybe do my duty but very, very reluctantly. And I would need compensation. Lots and lots of compensation!

But not Tendra. After the initial shock she accepts her fate and wants to do what is right for the humans.
OK she will need Athan’s support. He is her blood guard after all. And her badass of a cat with a “bad guy” detector to survive the journey

Megan Erickson portrayed a fantastic heroine. She was real, strong, smart, opinionated, caring and had no shame in her sexuality. When the time come expect very hawt sex scenes! Vampires are sex driven and humans they feed from need their release so…. Just buy some spare set of panties maybe.
I really loved her sass!
When someone tells her cat weighs enough for three cats she tells to quit fat-shaming him because he is just “big-boned”.
And when she learned of the Valarians were a rival vampire clan her thoughts was “Oh great, so this was like Goodfellas but with fangs”. Ha! She made me smile so often 

I’m gushing about Tendra but Athan was a great hero. Alpha (I love that kind of heroes), excellent fighter, easy on the eye, determined to do his duty but not afraid to listen to Tendra’s opinion. For one big badass vampire raised not to feel anything and respect humans but not especially care for them he did a 180° turn!

Cherry on top: if the plot is not overtly complicated you still have some run and hide to keep it interesting and several twists that will change the whole plan. What happened to Athan was so unexpected I was “Holy sh@t”!

If you are looking for a story easy to read filled with handsome vampires, sustained by strong characters with a prophecy to fulfill as background this book would be a great choice!

I was impressed with this story. It was suspenseful with just the right amount of romance and steaminess.

Another new paranormal series from Erickson, this time with vampires? HELL YES! I was excited when I heard about Blood Guard (and that cover! Simple but perfect.). I was not at all disappointed and my only complaint is that I want the rest of this series NOW.


The only thing that made sense in my life anymore was her. I'd expected her life to change. I hadn't known mine would.


Tendra (Ten) has never stayed in one place for very long. Growing up, she and her mother were constantly moving, sometimes mere months after the last move, and never after longer than a year or two At the time, she never thought much of it --- just figured her mother was a free-spirit type. And as a kid, you rarely question what your parents do since you grow up with that as the “normal” anyway. It’s not until now, when Tendra’s in her twenties and her mother has recently passed, that suddenly Tendra is pushed into a world that she never imagined was real – and it so easily explains why her mother constantly had them on the move all those years: they were running. From vampire assassins.



Yes, you heard that right. Vampire. Assassins.



Tendra finds out, after being capture by Athan, a vampire himself (though one from the good clan of vampires) that she’s the prophesized Sanguivita, a human whose blood is meant to be the most powerful – powerful enough to strengthen and somehow change the king of his vampire clan. Athan is the younger son of the king, and was raised with one mission in life: to find and protect Tendra and bring her back to his brother, Idris, the heir to the throne.


"I will die protecting you, and I'm fucking hard to kill. Understand?"
A faint smile appeared on her lips. "Yes, I understand."


Athan’s clan may be the good vampires, but they’re not the only vampires running around. And the other vampires will do anything to get rid of Tendra and ensure that the prophecy does not come to pass. If those vampire clans get their way, they’d enslave all humans and take over the world. The only way, the only chance, Athan and the rest have of stopping this is through Ten’s blood. Literally.



So we’ve got some interesting worldbuilding here. There’s some things about the vampire world here that are common enough (they can’t be in sunlight; they’re faster, stronger, and able to heal themselves, etc.) but there are some other things that Erickson does that are new. For example, these vampires put out a . . . well, drug, for lack of a better word, that allows them to calm humans before biting them; without using this, a bite will change the human (or dhampir, for that matter). Too much of the drug will, obviously, cause harm to the human. And before you ask – yes, this can be misused by some vampires – the evil clans in particular – but for Athan and his clan, they do not use this to force a human; feeding is done through consent only. By the way, this mist/drug thing is also used to open ports, though I’m a bit more unclear on how that works, it was just one of those things that you have to accept that it’s A Thing in this paranormal world.



Beyond the worldbuilding, there’s also the lovely, delicious conflict between these two. Athan’s job, his entire purpose from the time he was a mere child, is to protect and deliver Ten to his brother, where she will then become the queen of his clan. Basically, she’s off limits, not meant for him. But there’s no denying their budding attraction, and even though he’s determined not to touch the woman intended for his brother, intended to save his clan and basically the entire world by extension, when shit goes down later on, there’s only one choice. And it’s not following the path that they’ve each been assigned from birth. Secrets and betrayal will come out, and Athan and Ten will have to fight to stay together – and to stay alive.



Oh, but I loved this story. Like I said, great conflict, an interesting new world, plus Erickson’s writing. Add to that some good secondary characters, a special cat, and some sexy times, and I’m hooked! It’s a fairly straightforward paranormal, in that this takes place over only a few weeks’ time, total, and doesn’t do a bunch of worldbuilding info dump on us, instead focusing more on the characters and plot moving forward. It’s not a terribly long book, but it’s just the right length for this particular story and didn’t leave me wanting, really. Well, except for wanting to know everyone else’s stories, of course, but that’s a good thing, not a bad. This is a category length, and I think you have to keep that in mind; yes, there could have been more things explained, even more worldbuilding to set things up, etc., but I was pretty happy with what we got here despite that.



The short time frame means that, yes, these two fall for one another really quickly, and it’s technically insta-love, but at the same time it’s a slow burn between them. They didn’t just jump into bed, or even into declarations of love, and I rather enjoyed watching the progression – all while in the middle of running for their lives (and Erickson building this world, of course).



The sexytimes though? Oh, yes. Those were . . . those were hot. Not terrible long scenes, and not many of them, but I didn’t care because what we got was still A+ dirty:


“That’s it. Ride my hand, Tendra.” He plunged his fingers in and out of me, the obscene wet sounds only turning me on more. His voice was harsh, guttural, telling me he was as affected as me. “If I had more time, if you were mine, I’d be on my knees between your legs right now, my face buried in you. Fuck!” he rasped out, his hips rotating as his giant erection pressed between us. “I’d eat you so good, Tendra. You’d come so hard, you’d black out. Then when you came to, I’d fuck you for hours, till you were addicted to me and my tongue and my cock.”


By the way, that promise? Yeah, he brings it up again towards the end of the book. And while she doesn't actually black out, it's damn close. 😏



I loved that Ten didn’t take any shit, was a bit snarky and pushy. I loved that Athan, though he had a job to do (take her back, protect her at all costs) didn’t come in swinging his dick like a caveman; he explained things to her, he asked her questions, he didn’t just force her around – even though yeah, doing it that way might have made their journey quicker and easier all around. I appreciate a non-asshole protective alpha hero; gimme more of those, please!



Also, I loved that Erickson showed us diversity, even in such a short look at this world. Ten’s friend is black and queer (her partner is a woman). And then while Ten and Athan were walking through one of the vampire club rooms – basically a giant, tempting orgy going on – there’s various couples and groups in the room, and they’re not all het couples. Was I surprised by any of this? No, because I know Erickson and she’s always been great about not white-and-het washing her romances. But it made me happy, anyway, because in the scheme of the overall publishing problem, it’s another (very) small step in the right direction and I always appreciate that.



Also, just FYI – that orgy scene I mentioned? Yeah, I was disappointed when Ten and Athan walked out of that room. I wanted to see more, damn it! #myinnervoyerisshowingandidontcare


“So, that was a little intense back there.”
Athan frowned at me, then his face relaxed. “Ah, the Greeting Room.”
“The Greeting Room?” I asked. “Goddamn, if that’s what you vampires call ‘greetings’ then I’d like to see an actual, ‘hey let’s fuck.’”
He swiped a card in front of a door at the end of the hallway and waited until the green light illuminated on the pad. “Well, then, we’ll have to keep you out of the Feeding Room.”


Based on the tease in the epilogue, it sounds like the set up for the next book will be Idris and the daughter (dhampir) of the enemy. If so, I’m 100000% here for that conflict and cannot wait! And also, I just need more books in this world, period. Gimme all the stories, Erickson, please and thank you! #greedyreaderforever



4 1/2 STARS!

ARC given by Netgalley/publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Megan Erickson is one author that is easily becoming one of my must read authors. I have yet to be disappointed by anything of hers that I read so far! When I was approved for this ARC, you can bet I about jumped up and down. I tried to put off reading it, because if I read it ASAP, it would be that much longer of a wait for the next book and I wouldn't want it over, but well...I am obviously not the most patient person ever.

When I found out it would be Vampires, which is another fave of mine to read, I knew she'd have me hook, line and sinker. And she did. The premise though...it is what gives this genre a HUGE breath of fresh air that it really needed, and it is one that kept me turning pages as fast as I could. And once I reached the last page, I wanted....no, I really, really needed more. I didn't want it to be over with. I think it is safe to say that she left me with a humongous reading hangover, and one I am still trying to get out of.

The world building alone was worth it, the characters even more. They were really likeable, and even with it centering around vampires, she made them believable. Their personalities, the funny, smartass comments, just everything. She made you feel as if you knew these characters as if they were face to face with you.

I need the next book in my hands, like yesterday.

I definitely think that if you love the paranormal genre, you should most certainly give this one a read. I don't think you'll be disappointed.

I love it when I discover an author who can satisfy my different cravings. Megan Erickson writes, contemporary romance, M/M, as well as PNR and after sampling a little of each I can safely say I’m impressed with her ability to switch genres whilst delivering solid world building and dependable characters.

Something to know about me, Fantasy is my first love. I came to romance books super late but I remember loving the light romantic aspects in my fantasy reads back then.

Now with PNR, both my favorites genre are colliding to deliver two of my favorite things. A way to escape reality through imaginary worlds combined to the seductive and titillating side of romance.

The blurb of Blood Guard is pretty self explanatory, I didn’t hesitate one second after reading it, it screamed three things at me : alpha male, fiery heroine and adventure. I had to read it. Now.

With Blood Guard, Megan Erickson certainly delivered beyond my expectations.

First with her compelling and clever world building, she managed to efficiently set out a complete universe without drowning the rest of the story. I liked learning about the different vampire species and customs through Tendra and Athan discussion. It wasn’t as deep and extended as say—a Tolkien novel— but just enough to establish the basics without smothering the reader with pages of descriptions. The advantage was to learn about the world and follow the events unfold at the same time.

Second I knew she could write sexy. And boy did she prove me again that she was devilishly skilled to set the pages ablaze! I mean a book with vampires, I was expecting some level of hedonism and iniquity, right? Well, safe is to say, Megan Erickson knows quite a few things in the debauchery department. And she gave just enough to make this book sexy, dirty without feeling depraved. Or maybe just a tiny bit 😉

Third, I love a great alpha male, especially in paranormal romance I like a man that takes charge, but what I loved even more here—against all odds— was how strong, capable and fierce the heroine, Tendra, was!!! Such a smart ass young woman! I loved how rather than feeling sorry for herself she faced her troubles and big bad vampires with a heavy dose of sarcasm and derision. It gave the whole story a refreshing and fun side.

I need to point out how easy it was to connect with the heroine. I’m not a huge fan of the 1st person POV but here it worked like a charm. The characterization was on point, and I was especially pleased to meet a vampire in touch with his feelings, showing more humanity than I thought was possible. It gave another layer to their forbidden affair and I loved the heartache behind it! Just the right dose of angst!

And last, by successfully mixing romance, heartache, humor and action, Megan Erickson hooked me from page one, with Blood Guard she put her own spin on Vampires and gave life to interesting and complex characters, opposing snark and bite. Jut amazing all around!

My thirst for hot vampires was not only quenched but it turned me into an addict! I need more. It was extremely entertaining and a perfect start to a new series. I can’t wait for the next book, Blood Veil, which should release early 2018.

In a word already far too dark and dangerous, Tendra has kept to the shadows. Raised by a single mother and never in one place for two long, she's always been vaguely aware that she's different. Following the death of her mother she carries on with her job as a waitress and life of solitude.

"I spent the rest of my time watching cult classic movies and lurking in their online fandoms."

Enter Athan, a vampire and her sworn Blood Guard. You see, Tendra really isn't your average human. As she sets off with him into the world of vampires and a coming war, drama unfolds. Heading for the compound outside her home of Mission City and towards her future husband, the king, can't just be simple.

"One vampire, no matter how powerful, and a lone human weren't a match for an army of assassins and enemy vampires."

Simple, short and lacking a great deal of world building is how I'd describe this. It wasn't awful but I won't be eagerly counting the days until the next one. This is the sort of book you snag for a long plane ride and don't get particularly upset when it disappears.

Two stars.

I love all of the things Megan writes and I love vampires, so this seemed like a sure thing.

I liked Tendra and Athan. She's stubborn and stands up for herself. He's guarded and maybe a bit cocky. Together they bicker and have some decent chemistry. Their relationship is strained for obvious reasons, but it was intriguing to see them work it out. I loved Zeb and Idris and I hope to see more of them in the next book.

Plot wise, it was okay. There were several repetitive words/phrases and several things told over and over again. The first 40% of the book was sort of a info dump sash world building, but none of it felt explained well enough. I finally gave up trying to keep track of the various vampire clans and their members and found it much more enjoyable.

Overall, it was a bit of a rough start for me. I cringed at some of the language used {and the f-bomb is my favorite word} and it took me some time to settle into the story. However, it did pick up and I found I really wanted to know how it ended. I'll definitely be reading the next one.

*Huge thanks to Loveswept for providing the arc free of charge**

Enjoyed this PNR book. Tendra was a strong heroine willing to give up everything to save the human race. It was a little slow but there was world building that needed to be done. It kept my interest. Would read the next one

Review by Elizabeth for Love Romance Books

The author is looking for an honest review.

4 stars

I am always looking for a good and I mean really good paranormal, suspense thriller, with the dark romance to boot. I found one that not only I loved the story line I loved the characters as well. It was intense at times. It had it soft moments, but in all it was a total book. What more can you ask for. You will like all the characters in here, even the ones that you need to hate because they tell the story. They tell a story not only of lies and deceit, but also it is possible to love but not without consequences. I keep replaying this book in my head and I just know there is going to be more from these characters you can feel it. It isn't going to be pretty but not to see them again would be a shame.

Tendra has no clue who she really is and what she needs to do. She lives a regular life and just knows it is hard. She has lost her mom and she only really has her best friend and her cat. She goes to work, comes home and does it again. Her friend says she should get out, but she never feels like it. So when she goes to work one day and see this man in the corner watching her, she doesn't know what to do. Athan is the blood guard of his vampire colony. He needs to look over Tendra because she is in danger. Tendra is the only one that can fill a prophecy for these vampires. The only thing is she doesn't know that yet. She doesn't know it, but Athan is there to protect her and make sure she gets to his kingdom unharmed. Only there are others after her that want her dead now. So maybe he doesn't go about it the right way, but he captures her and that is when the fun starts. Tendra has no idea who this guy is or why he has taken her, but she does know he is different. Tendra will learn that there is a lot in this world that she didn't know existed and will have to believe in things only in books. When he shows his fangs well lets just say there is many things she doesn't know. She will have to learn to trust him. He is going to have to let her in. They both have to rely on each other to get where they need to be. The problem is there are so many secrets and lies going around they both won't know who to trust, if anyone. It is a race against time because the other clan wants Tendra dead and Athan's clan needs her alive.

I really enjoyed everyone in this book. I couldn't put the book down. I actually wanted more, but needless to say I finished and I couldn't be happier. The author gave you everything that you needed for a book and more. The story was told extremely well and I can't wait to get more from this author.

I picked up this book as I thought it sounded like it would be interesting not realizing it was told from the 1st person POV (something I tend to veer away from). the majority of the book is from the heroine's POV though the hero's POV does have some significant time as well. after an initially slow start, I was pleased that I had the opportunity to read Blood Guard and its interesting and touching love story. While the Tendra seems to accept the circumstances and what she's told is her new situation a little quickly, we still get to see her going through process of working through some of her fears and anger at what she's suddenly thrown into as she attempts to readjust to all this new info, I appreciated how she would work through her fears/sadness to find her strength & spunk and fight to make the best of it (optimistic but not overly so). meanwhile we get to Anthan discover a new side to himself as he comes to care & respect Tendra and we feel his inner turmoil between those feelings, his love for his brother & clan, his sense of duty & loyalty as well as fears for the future.

for the most part, "Blood Guard" was good. A few things needed tweaking but didn't take away from the story.

This is a good read and a promising start to a new series.
I’m just not sure that this series is for me.
I always hope that I will find a vampire series that I will love. I’m still working on that one.
The story flows well and there are exciting elements to the stories. The world building takes a while as there are three different vampire clans and at times especially when they were fighting I got confused. But with vampires there always seems to be a prophecy involved so that kind gets old.
As to the characters. Tendra is a strong heroine and she goes with the flow of the situation she is in and that she is vital to the Clan yet she fell in my estimation. She did something really quite idiotic. A TSTL moment.
Athan is a fantastic Hero, overprotective and gets attached to Tendra. They develop something that wasn’t meant to be. And go against tradition. I didn’t see that twist coming but it did add to the plot of the story.

This is my first vampire book in a while and my first M/F pairing in about as long. Some of the last M/F books I read were Megan Erickson books, so I am familiar with her style. She has been stepping out of her zone recently with her other paranormal offering (werewolf and werewolf zombies anyone?), so I was excited to read this book.
This story has an interesting take on the vampire king/queen fated pairing story line. I was not expecting the twist, which made me like the book even more. I will say, the action was slow to come. The first half of the book was world building, so there were a lot of introductions and dialogue (don't get me wrong, I adore dialogue). After the halfway point the book really picked up and we got more action.
The strong female lead is where Megan Erickson excels. Ten is intelligent and honest, and she tries her very best to keep a level head as much as possible. Maybe too level? But it helps keep the storyline moving instead of stalling for hysterics. She takes the time she needs when she needs it and isn't shy about standing up for herself.
Athan is cold at first, but he warms up real quick to Tendra. It may be their forced proximity, but their relationship progresses at lightning speed considering they are not fated in the "traditional" sense. They do have chemistry and Athan shows so much care for Tendra right from the very first. I mean, when he found out Brex had hitched a ride he could have kicked him out, but he kept the cat around.
There is no miscommunication, no purposely hurting someone else for page after page or chapter after chapter just to add words or perceived tension. Everything in this book seemed to serve a purpose, either to further the story or to explain this new world to Tendra and the reader.

I think book 2 will be more fast paced (I hope) as there won't be as much in the Q & A department if the book is about who I think it is supposed to be about.
A solid start to the series. I will definitely read the next installment. Recommended!