Ancient Guardians: The Legacy of the Key (Ancient Guardian Series, Book 1)
Ancient Guardians: The Legacy of the Key (Ancient Guardian Series, Book 1) book cover

Ancient Guardians: The Legacy of the Key (Ancient Guardian Series, Book 1)

Paperback – December 21, 2012

Price
$15.99
Format
Paperback
Pages
446
Publisher
Pasidian Press
Publication Date
ISBN-13
978-0615736747
Dimensions
6 x 1.01 x 9 inches
Weight
1.31 pounds

Description

"The plot is actually something that I had not read before. The worlds and people that S.L. created really blew me away. " Fang Freaking-tastic reviews "The author excelled at describing setting and characters. There were times were I felt I was right there.. -Books that Hook "This book is an eclectic mix of science-fiction and fantasy, and it makes a nice blend." -I Heart Reading. " Let's just say this story is science fiction, fantasy, romance, action, mystery, suspense, and men-in-black all rolled into one. " -Books, Books, and more Books Entertaining from start to finish, the world-building is fantastic, particularly Pemdas, as Morgan blends fantasy with a somewhat advanced 18 to 19th century England's surrounding. This book is definitely a worthy read. Layered with drama, romance, adventure and even sci-fi, there are many elements to attract fans of different genres. Reece is a smart and determined female lead, which I appreciate very much. Simply put, Ancient Guardians is definitely an exciting series to follow and The Legacy of the Key is a commendable work from S.L. Morgan. -Reviewed By Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite The story took me from this world and transported me to a different time and to a place so beautiful and magnificent I sometimes needed a moment to pause and just take in the breathtaking scenery described therein. S.L. Morgan's writing style did justice to the plot by vividly describing the amazing beauty of the place and bringing to life the exciting characters. I could literally picture the ladies of the palace in their beautiful gowns. A definite page-turner with a perfect mixture of science fiction, action, romance and historical style. - Reviewed By Faridah Nassozi for Readers' Favorite The theme is original and full of suspense, adventure, drama and excitement.xa0There is an element of mystery and whimsy that surrounds the story and makes it an excellent read. It has a futuristic theme which will fascinate readers and the plot has a little bit of everything, making it an entertaining science fiction.xa0The book is fast paced and will take readers to another dimension altogether. It is a great roller coaster ride with fantasy, science fiction, mystery, romance, action, suspense and a new dimension all woven together. -Reviewed By Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite While Ancient Guardians isn't the kind of book that makes you sit on the edge of your seat or keeps you awake until you arrive at the last page, it is a book that keeps you motivated. It didn't take me more than a few days to finish it - but I did not feel like I had to rush it. I could simply enjoy the fantastic world and Reece's journey. It's more like a "feel at home in the world" book than a book you rush through just to know what's happening. It's definitely an enjoyable read with likable and detestable characters. - Reviewed by Kim Anisi for Readers' Favorite Books to look for: 1. Ancient Guardians: The Legacy of the Key (Available now, FREE ebook) 2. Ancient Guardians: The Uninvited (Available now) 3. Ancient Guardians:xa0The Awakeningxa0Release date, 2015 4. Ancient Guardians: Book 4: (Untitled) Release date 2015/2016 ***Special Note: Book 4 will be the final book in the Ancient Guardians Novel Series. We plan to start a "mini-series" bringing readers back to where Levi and Harrison first start serving on Earth. The novellas will consist of the different assignments they go on together and also their 'promotion' to being the two who are given the greatest assignment a Guardian couldxa0receive: Guarding 'The Key.'xa0*** This series reaches across many different genres, romance, fantasy, science fiction, fantasy historical romance and has appealed to audiences from ages 12 to 80. It is my hope that you will enjoy the fantasy and escape the Ancient Novel Series brings. Categories: Young Adult Young Adult Romance Romance Science Fiction Science Fiction Fantasy Fantasy Clean romance Clean romance From the Inside Flap Reece followed a path toward plants with glowing, iridescent flowers. They seemed to change color as she moved past them--now purple, now red, now green. As she stepped carefully along the path, farther and farther away, the laughter of the young women began to fade. She was still in the Palace gardens, though, and she was pretty sure she could find her way back. Although she knew it was obvious the women were trying to get rid of her, she appreciated this time alone. The events of the day were starting to catch up with her, and she needed some down time. Something fluttered its glowing blue wings in front of her. She slowly reached out to it, and it came to rest on her outstretched finger. It was as small as a butterfly and colored like one, but it had only two broad wings, and they were brighter than any butterfly's. She stood still, not moving a muscle as it explored its place of rest on her finger. She felt the weary, stressed energy leaving her body, which was being replaced with a calm peace, as if she'd had a sound sleep. A soft chuckle from behind made her jump, and the glowing insect fluttered away swiftly. She turned and saw Levi, who was biting his lip to conceal a smile. The good humor that had returned to his face had brightened his deep blue eyes. Pleased that he seemed to be in a much better mood, she decided to smile in return instead of reprimanding him for startling her. He allowed his lips to curve up at one corner as he spoke softly, "Those are the Tenillian. They are an interesting species in our land. They give their unique energy to objects they touch." "That little thing that was on my hand? It's what made me feel so rested?" He smiled down in response to her amazed expression. "That's amazing! How do they do that?" He tilted his head, smiling. "They have a unique way of gathering and storing energy from our vegetation; it's simply a transfer of that energy, from them to you." Her eyes followed him as he approached her. "Nice to see you're in a better mood. Does it take scaring me half to death to put a smile on your face?" He walked up to her, eyes searching hers. "I'm sorry I startled you. I'm surprised the ladies allowed you to wander off alone, as unfamiliar as you are with the gardens. I decided it would be best to find you before you became lost and were forced to spend your first night in Pemdas outdoors." He laughed. "Harrison is still back with the women, enjoying the opportunity to make them feel ashamed of themselves. Since I am here now, allow me to escort you to another section of the gardens. I believe you will find it even more intriguing." Reece nodded in acceptance. She followed him quietly as he led her past topiary bushes, glowing vividly green. A miniature bridge over a tiny valley led them to an open area with stone benches. Another small pond, which was surrounded by ferns, shone silver; when she looked, she saw that the shine came from hundreds of small fish, or whatever fish equivalents there were in this place, swimming beneath its surface. In the center, a stone boy played with a stone ball. The ball seemed balanced on a column of water that rose up and spilled into the pond. Levi led the way to a bench. Insect-like creatures fluttered around them, twinkling like Christmas lights. Large groups of them flew back and forth in the canopy of tall trees over the benches. "Why does everything glow like this?" "It is due to the distinctive qualities of our atmosphere. It creates a unique energy that surrounds the lands, allowing the things that feed from it a natural way of glowing." He looked up into the trees. "Even though I've lived here my entire life, I'm still astounded by the beauty of Pemdas at night. I can only imagine how it seems to you." "I am truly amazed. It's good to hear you admit that you're not used to it either, but then again, you do go to Earth a lot. I can't understand how you would ever want to leave this place." A voice answered from behind them. "Speaking of Earth...how am I doing with my earlier predictions, Reece?" Harrison stepped over the bridge and took a seat on an empty bench. Reece looked at him, confused. "Predictions?" "I believe I mentioned something along the lines of, 'You will never want to return to Earth.'" Reece laughed. "Oh. Well, I'm not sure I'm at that point yet. Speaking of returning to Earth, how long do you think it will take until I can go back?" "It all depends on when the Ciatron lose interest in you. Our hopes are that they'll investigate your stand-in and come to the conclusion that you are not the one they seek. Obviously, the clone does not possess the information that you possess, and we're hopeful that their interest will wane," Levi said. "What exactly is a 'stand-in' anyway? Obviously, it's something that looks and acts like me, but is it a real living being?" "No--it's more like a humanoid robot. An android. The exact image of you, and programmed with all of your memories and knowledge." "What? How does your world make something like that?" Harrison laughed. "We have inventors and scientists in Pemdas, too, Reece!" Reece shook her head. "That's really hard for me to believe, I guess." Harrison chuckled. "Oh? How's that?" "Um, well, it just feels like I've time traveled or something coming here. You know, like you all wouldn't be so advanced with your technology." She looked over at Harrison's attire. "For example, a little over an hour ago, I was expected to wear a dress with a corset, then I see you two, changed into tailcoats, trousers, and waistcoats." She smiled at Harrison's amused grin. "I think it's pretty obvious that the last time everyone on Earth dressed like this, it was back in the eighteenth century. And Earth's scientists and inventors weren't creating robots and things of that nature." Levi chuckled. "Reece, it is perfectly understandable for you to view Pemdas in such a way. You will find as you are with us that it is not only the way we dress that will remind you of the earlier cultures of Earth, but you will also see that we do not rely on technology as Earth does either." "I guess that explains why we came here on horseback, then. That's the only way everyone gets around here?" "I believe you will find a ride in a horse and carriage in Pemdas is just as relaxing, if not more, than driving in a vehicle on the paved roads of Earth, especially the luxurious carriages of Pasidian Palace," Harrison added with a grin. Reece was amazed at the fact that horseback was their preferred method of transportation. "But why is it like that here? I really don't get it. It seems that Pemdas would be more technologically advanced, given the car we left the park in. And the object that was in your hand that you were looking at in the car-" she directed at Levi, "that was like a cell phone or computer, wasn't it?" She looked at the fountain. "I guess that's what is confusing to me." "You are correct in your assumptions about our technology. It is far greater than Earth's. The device in my hand was what we use to communicate with Pasidian's command center. We communicate with it telepathically," Levi responded. S.L. Morgan has taken her imagination and put it into words. Have you ever wondered if life existed beyond Earth? Have you ever felt as though someone were watching you, following you for reason beyond your understanding?Since S.L. Morgan was a child she was known for intriguing everyone around her with her vivid imagination. Until now, she has finally put her words onto paper. Praised for her unique worlds she has created, the enchantingxa0realm that she has brought readers into; S.L. Morgan's novel series has recently won international book awards and her novel series has sent her soaring to the top ofxa0 the best seller's list. Romance, deceit, new worlds, and undiscovered mysteries await in this new novel series. S.L. Morgan was born and raised in California. After 29 years of living in the Sierra Nevada Mountains there, she and her husband began their journeys of moving throughout the United States.xa0She and her family have just recently moved from Texas back to their hometown of Oakhurst, Ca.xa0Visit her website at slmorganauthor.com. Read more

Features & Highlights

  • No matter where you are, facing your reality with passion and purpose will always lead down the path you were intended to go Reece Bryant was able to pick up the pieces of her broken life after the sudden death of her father. Though emotionally draining, she found the courage to move on, which would have made her father proud. After finalizing the last of his estate, and returning to pursue her degree in medical school, she has never felt so confident. While making her way through this world on her own, she is suddenly confronted with the truth of her existence, and the reality of her future. It is when she encounters two alluring and mysterious men, that a series of extraordinary events takes place, putting Reece’s life in grave danger. With her life in the balance, Reece must blindly trust the two mysterious strangers; and when she does, she is brought into an enchanting world that is beyond her logical comprehension. This captivating land reveals new worlds and new dimensions to which her existence is paramount. But it is once she falls in love with the stunning Levi Oxley that everything will change, and Reece’s life will be in more danger than ever before. Forced to return to Earth and face a Council of Worlds, Reece discovers there is more to this enchanting dimension than she could have ever imagined. At a moment’s notice, even thru the fog of our denial, our journey can become crystal clear. And within the revelation, once our fear subsides, we can find contentment and purpose if we focus on the things that matter most. Trust—Courage—Love.

Customer Reviews

Rating Breakdown

★★★★★
30%
(2.2K)
★★★★
25%
(1.9K)
★★★
15%
(1.1K)
★★
7%
(521)
23%
(1.7K)

Most Helpful Reviews

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Good debut

I would give The Legacy of the Key a 3.5. As far as debut novels go, it was pretty good. It's a weird combo of contemporary but historical at the same time (you'll see) and sci-fi, if that makes any sense, and it actually works.

I loved the world building in this. The author creates an alternate dimension called Pemdas and I really liked the way she makes it come alive with vivid, detailed descriptions, I could almost see it before my eyes. Great imagination.

Reece was a good heroine. She's smart and she can hold her own, she doesn't let anyone put her down. I was waiting for her to become a weak damsel in distress, but it never really happens, she doesn't need saving and she pretty much deals with everything thrown her way. I liked the way she handled the girls in the palace. At the same time, she's a typical girl, swooning over pretty boys, loving big bathrooms, grooming products and big closets.

Levi (love that name!) was a good hero - none of that possessive, controlling stuff we so often see in romance these days. He also had that air of nobility about him, but it definitely doesn't define him and he's just a normal, good guy. I must say that I really liked him, he was just the right amount of cocky, even though at times he was too sappy for my liking.

I thought Reece had better chemistry with Harrison than Levi. It's not really a love triangle although I expected it to be, the blurb definitely implies it. Yes, the romance is very sweet, but maybe a little too perfect and a tad cheesy. It's a slow build up to them admitting to their feelings, and I liked how subtle it was.

While I generally liked the writing, I'd say it still reads like a debut novel - the author barely ever uses contractions, even in dialogue, which just seemed completely unnatural. At first I thought maybe it's just the Pemdai that talk like that, but no, the heroine does as well. And there is an abundance of improper use of commas (punctuation in general, but commas especially) - it messes up the flow of the story. I was constantly making pauses in my head wherever a comma was even though I knew I shouldn't, and it took me longer than it normally would to read a book this long.
That being said, I loved the characters and the plot. I must admit, I was really surprised at where the story went. I didn't expect it. All the people in the palace - the spiteful trio (I always think that if I want to slap someone from a book, it's a good character), and the lovely Elisabeth, the Emperor and Empress, Jasmeen and my favorite, Harrison, they were great and they all add something to the story. It was a little slow at times, but seeing as the author took her time to introduce you to Pemdas and all the back story it made sense. It was really interesting so I wasn't bored.

It's a very clean read, for those who care about those things.

Overall, if you want to read a light story set in a different dimension with a sweet love story and a bit of a thrill at the right times, I definitely recommend it. It's a good escapist read because it takes you to a whole different world and makes you want to visit Pemdas yourself. The story ties up nicely in the end, but at the same time the author creates a good introduction for the sequel. Will I read the next book? I think I probably will. I kind of want to know what else is out there, you know?
125 people found this helpful
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FREE BOOK WOW IM HOOKED

I don't write reviews for books, but this book deserves it! As one who doesn't read much, I have to say that I'm glad I took a chance with a free book!!!
On a business flight, I decided I would try and find something to entertain me! The book cover drew me in. I thought I'd give this book a chance. WOW! I'm glad I did!!! Dimensions around Earth? This author drew me in from the beginning. I had no idea where she was going with this story, but I had to know! Ghosts? Yeah, she got me on that! (You'll have to read to know what I'm talking g about)
Then the next thing I know, I feel like I'm living in this book! The vivid scenery, this new world, Guardians who protect people of Earth from Aliens??? I'm hooked. I want more!!!! Did I get more? Yes, Ms. Morgan had me wondering, are the Alien and conspiracies really true???
Yes, there is romance. I enjoyed it. It was definitely a romance not of what we're used to in this day and time. And admire Ms. Morgan for bringing back the days of a classic romance.
I don't want to say to much! But, yes, I'm buying the next book in this series! I MUST KNOW where this author will take her series!
8 people found this helpful
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Wonderful read!

The Guardians "the key" is one book you can happily add to your bookshelf and read over and over. The characters and plot leap off the pages. Could not put it down.Levi and Reece love is what fairy tales in real life would be.
4 people found this helpful
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I'd love to see this in a movie just to see ...

I'd love to see this in a movie just to see the beautiful scenery of Pemdia. I just want to know where the Pemdia get their money to buy all this high tech stuff for when their in the other dimensions when ( although the royals have some neat high tech stuff in Pemdia) the rest of the culture is King Arthurish?
3 people found this helpful
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Five Stars

Love it. Such an easy read and interesting story
3 people found this helpful
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Hokey plot and poorly written

I normally enjoy fantasy and science fiction books but this one wasn't written well. The writing was awkward, conversations were sappy and unrealistic. Most of the plot (which I skimmed) consisted of the main character hanging around a palace being amazed that she's been taken from her world to another dimension. It was just to amateurish to be enjoyable. After cringing through several chapters I gave up.
2 people found this helpful
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Five Stars

Loved this book! Nice twist on a pride and prejudice theme.
2 people found this helpful
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Enjoyable read

To those recent reviewers who felt the need to belittle the character of the writer-I feel it is more important to focus attention on the read and content of the book. As someone who is not an avid reader, I found this book to be very interesting, captivating, an completely enjoyable. I spent the majority of the my Christmas day wrapped up in a blanket, reading Ancient Guardians. I think the author does a good job of combining the suspense of science fiction with classic romance (but not too much!) I look forward to the sequels. Thank you for grabbing my attention.
2 people found this helpful
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Amazing read!

I normally don't review books, but this one blew my mind. This book was recommended by a friend and I'm so glad she told me to read it. The author did a great job of grabbing my attention and making me feel like I lived in this enchanting world with these characters. I'm a huge reader and wasn't let down at all with the professionalism of the writer and content. This book is perfect and I saw the entire story in my mind like a movie! Highly recommended to romance readers who enjoy escaping into other worlds!
1 people found this helpful
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A Part of My Family

This book along with the rest of the series is one of the best books I have read in a long time. The story line keeps you interested and you want to know what happens next. The characters are well built so that you feel as if they are part of your family. You grow to care for and anticipate how each will react in different situations. In fact, I was saddened when the series ended. How will I find out how their lives are going?
1 people found this helpful