Blinded by anger, the man who had sworn to protect me, shot me in a fit of rage when I was only sixteen years old. He thought he killed me. But my job wasn’t finished yet. My days are spent as President of the Heaven’s Guardians MC. Nights are spent searching for the scum of the earth. Rapists, Murderers, Pedophiles. They all answer to me. I thought I’d seen it all. Thought my heart couldn’t be … thought I’d seen it all.
Thought my heart couldn’t be any darker.
Thought I knew exactly how far I was willing to go.
Then a battered and broken woman was found behind our clubhouse,
and I realized, I’ve never had a clue about the monster that lurks within.
They may call me Priest,
but I’d sell my soul to the devil before I let anything take her away from me.
more
Willow is brought into the world under tragic circumstances and she thought she found her happiness but it turned out to be the devil. She is on the run through the woods and injured. Kingston was a sixteen year old boy trying to protect an innocent when his stepfather shot and thought he killed him. Now twenty years later Kingston is known as Priest and the President of the Heaven’s Guardians MC. He stumbles upon Willow passed out and hurt in the woods behind the MC’s clubhouse. The instant he sees her he knows she’s the woman for him and he will do anything to protect her. Willow is hiding a secret that could destroy her happiness. Will the two end up together or apart? This is a great book and I am looking forward to more from this author.
I received a copy of this book and am leaving a review.
Without giving away the amazing story within, Lane had created an MC world unlike any I’ve ever read! Priest and the rest of Heaven’s Guardians are different from other MCs in many ways. The pain that brought them to their current life bleeds off the pages and you don’t have to reconcile who they are to love them. Willow is most definitely beaten and broken when he finds her, but don’t ever count her out. I can’t wait for more time in their world!
This is the first of a MC series with an interesting spin. The book opens with tragedy, and mystery, and what feels like a prophecy during an out of body experience. It just gets better from there.
I am a fan of most MC romances, especially when they function a bit like Robin Hood. I am deeply intrigued by every member of the Guardians because of the foreshadowing set up in the beginning.
Willow is a character you can’t help but empathize with. She’s had it rough, as have all of the Guardians. This story is hers and Priests, with a twist I identified quite early and that I’m still not sure I really like – but it works. This is an engaging, high action read with some really steamy scenes and a lot of intrigue for upcoming stories.
Recommend!
Where do I even begin with this? First of all, I cannot believe this is Ashley Lane’s first book because it is that good! I read a lot of MC romances, and I mean A LOT of them, and this book rose higher and higher on my favorites list with each chapter I read. Okay, about the story…this is the story of Priest and Willow. Priest is the leader of a band of bikers who are out to set things right in the world. Willow, 16 years younger, is the broken girl running from the worst set of circumstances ever handed to one single person. There’s an instant connection between the two that neither one of them can explain but one that will hit readers’ hearts hard. As the story progresses, we learn more and more about the tragic pasts of both Priest and Willow and there is just enough insinuation to make you wonder if and/or how their pasts might be intertwined. Honestly, the “what if” kept my emotions in a constant turmoil while reading this book…and then we come to the last few chapters. Warning – keep tissues nearby! You will fall in absolute love with ALL of the characters in this book. The author has given these guys such personality and their backstories are so tragic that she really set up the possibility for a FANTASTIC ongoing series. And the story flowed so well that she was able to offer up so much detail and story without weighing down the plot or making it drag at all. Like I said, I can’t believe this is Ashley Lane’s first book, but it better not be her last because she has left me wanting so much more of Priest and Willow and the rest of Heaven’s Guardians! Five stars all across the board!!
5 stars
5 stars for this totally unexpected debut novel from new author Ashley Lane. I’m astonished this incredibly unique story is her freshmen effort. As a MC novel junkie, I expected an exciting, suspense filled, sexy as hell story, which I definitely got, but this book had so much more.
Willow and Kingston/Priest are no strangers to the pain and isolation life can dish out. Both had a rough start to life and sadly, it took many years to find any light. Kingston found some purpose in his cause, and his brothers, but never found peace until the half dead, Willow appears in his life. While hiding from an abusive husband, Willow stumbles into an even more dangerous situation and is once again running for her life, and the life of her baby. From the moment Priest saw her, he knew Willow was meant to be his but Willow needs time to heal and trust him with a growing secret. Despite overwhelming odds, they embark on an entirely rare love story.
Honestly, I groaned when I began the book thinking the otherworldly aspect was setting me up for a paranormal book (which I’m not a fan of) but then the book took such an intriguing turn! I fell in love with this group of vigilante bikers. Each one has a heartbreaking background which ultimately leads to heart stopping love stories! I cannot wait for the other stories of the Heaven’s Guardians! I can’t tell you more without giving away too much of the story and this is a story that needs to be experienced.
Come on through Heaven’s Gates, you won’t be disappointed.
AnnMarie – Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
This is hands down the most unique MC romance I have ever read. There is absolutely nothing to compare Washed in Blood to because there is nothing else like it. I had chills right from the very beginning and then I was whisked into a gripping story that would not let me go. I ended up biting my nails to death from the suspense, sobbing my heart out with the emotions and utterly in love with these characters while reading.
Willow and Priest both have some of the most devastating histories I’ve ever read. Tragedy and pain seem to just haunt them both until the day Priest finds her. From there one of the sweetest romances is born. That sweet love however doesn’t mean the grittiness of the MC and the past aren’t still there though. I really cannot wait to see what Ashley Lane has in store for the future. All I know is I’m dying for more from this world.
20 years ago Kingston Blake’s life was saved when he was almost murdered by his foster father but he was spared by Azrael who tells him 4 important things to remember: not all demons are bad, a bullet doesn’t always hit the mark, to stay vigilant for Angels and to always keep a Patch close.
Now Kingston has become Priest, the President of Heaven’s Guardian MC Club. He vows to protect the innocent of the world be eliminating all of the scum. He has always kept himself guarded but when he stumbles upon a broken and battered woman there is something about her that brings out a protectiveness in him that he has never experienced before.
Willow James is homeless and pregnant trying to escape her abusive ex husband Vince when she
witnesses a crime committed and escapes into the woods. She has done what she needed to in order to survive and she is shocked by the kindness and compassion that Priest shows her.
Will Priest be able to protect Willow and will he discover how their own lives intersect before it’s too late?
This was a great book and I am really looking forward to this series!
Priest had a difficult time growing up after a certain point and he was trying to do what he could to
protect Doe which resulted in him beginning Heaven’s Guardian. I am really liking these groups that are out to rid the world of the truly evil people. I really liked the men who were in the MC with him and it was interesting how different members reacted when Priest found Willow.
Willow truly had bad luck for a bit there and I was worried about how she was going to survive. I liked that she knew deep down that she could trust Priest but it was evident how much damage her ex had done to her. I was a little worried about her keeping the pregnancy a secret as you know it’s never good when that comes out!
There was so much chemistry between Priest and Willow and you knew things were heating up fast but you also knew that there were a few secrets that hadn’t come out yet or pieces of the puzzle that others hadn’t noticed and I was freaking out a bit although I really prayed the author wasn’t going down that path!
The scene with Myles definitely threw things for a loop and I was worried about who the other players were and I was super sad to discover who else was involved. I was definitely worried about Willow and what was going to happen!
The end was intense and I was so worried about what was going to happen to everyone and what would be revealed!
The very end was touching and I was so grateful that everything ended how it did and I look forward to the next book in the series! By Rebecca
Fantastically heartbreaking! Outstanding debut book! This book is full of suspense, drama and intrigue that kept me captivated from the beginning. The book is brimming with action so hold on for a wild ride! At times this story really broke my heart, I just felt for the characters so much. What can you say about Priest and his vigilante “brothers” aside from good for them by eliminating the scum of the world. And then there is Willow, beat down by the world but still fighting. She breaths life back into Priest’s black heart. Can Willow outrun her past? Will Priest be there to protect Willow from the ones that are hunting her? I highly recommend this debut book! I can’t wait for the next installment of this series!!
Kudos! Bravo! Well done!
Washed in Blood is a very well written MC book.
This is Willow and Priest’s story but it really gives you an overview of all the men as well as the MC club.
And these men…Demon, Angel, Bullet and Patch and hot AF.
I’m hooked and excited for more!
~BREAKDOWN OF RATINGS~
Plot~ 5/5
Main Characters (hero/heroine)~ 5/5
Secondary Characters~ 5/5
The Feels~ 5/5
Pacing~ 5/5
Addictiveness~5/5
Angst~ 5/5
Steam/Hotness/Chemisty ~ 5/5
Theme or Tone~ 5/5
Flow (Writing Style)~ 5/5
Backdrop (World Building)~ 5/5
Originality~ 5/5
Ending~ 5/5
Book Cover~ Dark and SEXY
Series~ Heaven’s Guardians Book one
Source~ Kindle eBook – ARC for honest review
Would I read more from the author? Yes
Would I recommend this book? Yes
RELEASING TOMORROW…
PRE-ORDER…NOW!
Ashley killed it. I was a shattered mess throughout this entire book. I adored Priest, so I was heartbroken by his words to Willow. I loved the respect she gave them after the confessions they laid upon her. I was pissed at what transpired at the hospital-with the cop. Then, I was pieced back together…my heart is patiently waiting for Patch…lord be with my soul when he is complete! These men are amazing and completely lovable.
First by this author. Priest and Willow are sad, broken people who meet and connect. And reader beware this isn’t the typical MC read its so much more and I hope we see more from this author and this series. This was definitely a very unique story line with what happens to Priest. but you will get sucked in the minute you start. My heart broke for Willow but I’m glad they found each other. Absolutely great read!!! Definitely recommend!!!
Washed in Blood by Ashley Lane is the first book in the Heaven’s Guardians Series. This is the story of
Willow James and Kingston ‘Priest’.
Priest was shot when he was around 16 years old when he protected someone that was not meant to be hurt. Although he ‘died’ he was informed by angel named Azreal that he needed to go back as it wan’t his time. Now about 20 years later, Priest has met other men who want to save innocent people. Now Priest is the President of the Heaven’s Guardian which is a vigilante MC club.
Willow is being abused by her husband and in addition happens to seen something she shouldn’t have putting her life in jeopardy…if that wasn’t enough she is pregnant.
When Priest finds and holds Willow he knows a peace that he never had before. Priest goes forward to protect her and keep her, but Willow doesn’t trust easy.
This was such a great story…a page turner for me. Loved the secondary characters and hope to read more from them in the next books.
***5 Stars***
Well, HELLO Heaven’s Guardians MC!
Looks like yours truly has a new author, and series, to stal–*cough* follow.
This baby hit all my happy MC Romance buttons. It sucked me in right from the start, gave me all the feels and had me making grabby hands at the next books in the series long before I got to end.
Priest. This man is all kinds of alpha male goodness! Protective, determined, intense and compassionate. His life hasn’t been easy and thanks to the demons of his past, he has a bit of darkness that lives inside him, but a twist of fate has helped to keep it from boiling over. Willow is a fighter. From the moment she was born, she’s had to fight and even when the rug has been pulled from underneath her and she’s hit rock bottom, she keeps going.
The journey to their HEA is an interesting one where it’s that strange mix of insta/slow burn, but it totally worked for the situation they find themselves in. The chemistry was there from the start and I really enjoyed watching as they got to know each other and became closer and truly started to trust each other. Their road is definitely a bumpy one, but I loved where they were at in the end.
I’m always a bit wary about diving into a new MC romance series because of all of the subgenres this one doesn’t always seem to work out for me, but this time the gamble paid off. I was hooked from the start, and what a start it was, and though there were a few spots that dragged for me, I pushed through because I just couldn’t help myself. I like the premise of why and how the MC was started and the men who make up the club intrigue the hell out of me. Demon, being the ultra broody one is the one I need more of, but Angel, Patch and Bullet aren’t far behind. So if you’re looking for an MC read that is a tad bit different than the rest, but still has the gritty, edgy vibe without being too dark, then I say give this baby a go!
~ Copy provided via Give Me Books & voluntarily reviewed ~
I am simply blown away that this is a debut novel from this author, and she is certainly one to look out for in the future! Priest is the President of the MC, and Willow is on the run after seeing something she should not have. Both of these characters are broken in different ways, but can the trust each other and allow themselves to heal? Will the MC be able to protect Willow? No spoilers; this is a must read, you will not be disappointed. This is a well written fast paced story which has a complex plot, and is filled with action, suspense, secrets and love. I cannot wait to read the next book in this intriguing series, and recommend for all MC lovers.
I was on facebook one night and this author was looking for someone to check if her idea of a plot and storyline made sense. I told her I’d look at it. What she had so far blew me away. This was her first book. I knew then this was going to be amazing and original.
Then I beta read the rest and I was speechless because for a new author she has a lot of talent. She’s mastered the art of writing. She kept me wanting more. I was hooked of this page turner.
This is an MC book that is suspenseful and very intriguing. There are so many twists and turns that my head was reeling from it all. Trust me, this is a must read.
Standalone told in a dual POV with an HEA. I strongly recommend this story.
We tend to forget the less fortunate. Willow is the less fortunate, as was her mother. Priest is her savior. This book is everything. Suspense and love all rolled into one. Not all demons are bad, remember that. I can’t explain how good this book was. Read it. You won’t be disappointed. Thank you, Ashley for this beautiful story.
I freaking loved this MC book so hard! It’s such a deep, heartfelt but heartbreaking story. Willow is such a beaten down girl, but never loses hope, both inside and out. Willow and Priest had me hooked from the beginning.
Willow certainly has had life kick her ass more times then anyone should endure, both mentally and physically. The poor girl at times just can’t catch a break, somehow she gathers strength and keeps fighting to find happiness. Priest, holy hell, he is the definition of a King, both of an MC club and in the bedroom. He’s been dealt with a shit hand at life and has one goal in life and sinners need to watch out. I love what Guardian Angels stood for!
This book was a great start in this new MC series. I loved everything about it. It had a kickass, although deeply sad story line and equally amazing characters. I fell head over heels in love with protective, hard as a rock but a teddy bear Priest!
Heartbreakingly Fantastic!
Utterly heartbreaking but fantastically amazing all in one. This story captured my heart from beginning to end. I was absolutely enthralled by it. Action packed, full of suspense, intrigue and soul-stirring love.
The main characters are perfect and wonderfully written. I fell in love with each and everyone of them. Willow is a beautiful soul that needs to find her other half to complete her. She is damaged by the circumstances life has thrown her, but she is strong and fierce. It takes a lot to bring out her fierceness and strength but she just needed the right motivation. Priest is also very damaged by his circumstances but found a way to make things better and to better the world at the same time. When Willow and Priest are thrown together their interactions are explosive and amazing. They fight their evils together in order to be together.
At times this story really broke my heart but then put the pieces back together very slowly. I loved every minute of it and I didn’t want it to end. I can’t wait to see if the other characters will get their own stories.
Incredible writing and storytelling. Highly recommend.
5 amazing stars for this debut novel by Ashley Lane. This book just blew me away. I was sucked right in from the beginning and then decided that sleep was optional because I could not put it down until the very end. I wasn’t sure what to expect because this isn’t your typical MC romance. Washed In Blood has a unique storyline with beautifully broken and complex characters, action, and suspense.
Priest/Kingston was murdered at 16 years-old while defending an innocent, but it wasn’t his time as according to the angel Azreal, he still had a purpose. (I know that sounds like a paranormal premise, but it isn’t). Twenty years later, he is the president of a vigilante-type MC club. I absolutely adored Priest. He is strong, intelligent, and loves fiercely. He has a great sense of loyalty towards his fellow MC brothers and has dedicated his life towards serving justice against those who prey on others. When he encounters Willow, he feels a sense of calm when near her, but he also feels deep-seated protectiveness towards her. I loved how caring and loving he was towards her.
Willow is a heroine who’s story is sure to pull at your heartstrings. She is young – only 20 years-old and has already led a long and difficult life. Even having endured so much in her short life, she never stops fighting. She is a survivor and continues to persevere even when it seems like she will never be able to stop running. Trust is hard to come by, but she starts to feel safe with Priest.
I loved watching Priest and Willow’s relationship develop. The author did a great job in making the reader feel that undeniable connection between them. There are moments of tenderness between them as well as some pretty hot scenes. The secondary characters are also well developed. I enjoyed learning about the dark pasts of each of the MC members and I am really hoping that the author gives each of them their own book as I am curious about their stories.
Washed In Blood is not for the faint of heart. It is a book full of action and suspense. It is fast-paced and will leave you flipping the pages to find out what happens, but also dreading the moment the book ends because it is that good. There are scenes of violence and abuse (not between the hero and heroine). This is the debut novel by this author and I am thoroughly impressed with her style and quality of writing as well as the intricate plot. I loved the characters and how this book is not your typical MC romance.
With its dramatic opening, this book sets up an intense pace which it succeeds in maintaining throughout. The Heaven’s Guardians are an interesting group of men, drawn together by Priest, for almost crusading purposes.
This is a good first novel in a new series, setting up the scenes for the other men’s stories. I enjoyed Priest’s and Willow’s tale, and the imagination that has gone into its telling. I was a bit disappointed that most of the female characters were, to me, on the victim spectrum and would have liked to see some stronger representatives of the female of the species! I did find that a bit frustrating.
Overall, a good, entertaining read, with good world building.