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Spirits #3
Guardian Spirits
Psychic medium Vincent Night and his lover Henry Strauss have spent months striving to uncover the dark secret harbored by Vincent’s dead mentor, James Dunne. Their only clue comes from a journal: Dunne was seeking to restore the Grand Harmonium, an artifact meant to breach the walls between life and death.
Fate seems to intervene when Henry and Vincent are offered a job investigating the haunted orphanage where Dunne lived as a youth. But the ghosts of the orphanage don’t rest easily, and the lovers soon find themselves in a battle to locate the Grand Harmonium before it falls into the wrong hands—and unleashes evil upon the world.
Fate seems to intervene when Henry and Vincent are offered a job investigating the haunted orphanage where Dunne lived as a youth. But the ghosts of the orphanage don’t rest easily, and the lovers soon find themselves in a battle to locate the Grand Harmonium before it falls into the wrong hands—and unleashes evil upon the world.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 18, 2018
About the author
Jordan L. Hawk
82 books2,565 followersJordan L. Hawk is a trans author from North Carolina. Childhood tales of mountain ghosts and mysterious creatures gave him a life-long love of things that go bump in the night. When he isn’t writing, he brews his own beer and tries to keep the cats from destroying the house. His best-selling Whyborne & Griffin series (beginning with Widdershins) can be found in print, ebook, and audiobook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
November 24, 2019
4.5 stars.
Jordan L. Hawk’s Spirits series kind of terrified me. Fine, it totally terrified me. Since I’m a scaredy-cat, you can take that with a grain of salt. But it was a delightfully chilling and thrilling romp.
I'm a Hawk fangirl. Look no further than Whyborne and Griffin to understand why. With each story, I fall further in love with the inherent creativity and originality, the immaculate writing, the spectacularly creepy (yes, that's a thing) atmospheres, the endearing characters and their hard-fought relationships.
These qualities are present in the Spirits series, which follows the ghost-hunting adventures of unlikely lovers Henry Strauss and Vincent Night. It features a wonderfully diverse cast of characters that I paid homage to in my review for Dangerous Spirits. They didn't touch my heart in the same way that Whyborne, Griffin and crew did, but that's a tall order since that group ranks among my favorite fictional characters EVER. Ultimately, I felt that this series was slightly more driven by plot than character interactions and affections. Still, the conclusion brings closure and HEAs to our heroes and heroines.
If there was ever a time of year to appreciate a good old-fashioned ghost story, it's now. Highly recommended.
Jordan L. Hawk’s Spirits series kind of terrified me. Fine, it totally terrified me. Since I’m a scaredy-cat, you can take that with a grain of salt. But it was a delightfully chilling and thrilling romp.
I'm a Hawk fangirl. Look no further than Whyborne and Griffin to understand why. With each story, I fall further in love with the inherent creativity and originality, the immaculate writing, the spectacularly creepy (yes, that's a thing) atmospheres, the endearing characters and their hard-fought relationships.
These qualities are present in the Spirits series, which follows the ghost-hunting adventures of unlikely lovers Henry Strauss and Vincent Night. It features a wonderfully diverse cast of characters that I paid homage to in my review for Dangerous Spirits. They didn't touch my heart in the same way that Whyborne, Griffin and crew did, but that's a tall order since that group ranks among my favorite fictional characters EVER. Ultimately, I felt that this series was slightly more driven by plot than character interactions and affections. Still, the conclusion brings closure and HEAs to our heroes and heroines.
If there was ever a time of year to appreciate a good old-fashioned ghost story, it's now. Highly recommended.
November 11, 2024
... and here we are at the final installment of the series. Vincent and Lizzie are still moping around vis-a-vis the revelations from Dangerous Spirits, so Henry goes ahead and books the group a truly exciting session of ghost hunting. Little does he suspect, that things are way more suspicious than coincidental in their new job. After all, how convenient would it be for the group to just accidentally stumble on their late mentor's old orphanage?
Once again, I cannot do anything but praise the creepy atmosphere of the book. Mr. Hawk delivers yet another deliciously thrilling ghost story. It honestly kept me riveted from start to finish, complete with some truly unexpected twists and turns.
I especially enjoyed the way the author managed to work in the resolution for several hanging threads from the characters' past: not just Vincent's, but also Henry. Though things do start out in a suspiciously convenient manner, with just the right people gathering at a haunted mansion, the final resolution is sufficiently satisfying for it all.
As for my complaints: once again, Henry and Vincent's relationship felt a tad bit too... lukewarm. Or maybe... not particularly memorable for me to properly recall two months later. But then, after two books, I was more interested in the mystery aspect of things. Still, that is by no means an acceptable reason for Lizzie's romantic storyline to be pushed into the background. I liked the general idea behind it all, but that was also an excellent reason to add in yet another point-of-view, not to mention a different type of LGBT romance. Alas, that probably would've made for a much longer and convoluted story... whose lack I'm still mourning.
Score: 3/5 stars
I'm very much excited to read more of the author's paranormal mysteries, though hopefully with some more exciting romantic (sub)plots. Recommendations welcome *hint hint*
===================
Review of book 1: Restless Spirits
Review of book 2: Dangerous Spirits
Once again, I cannot do anything but praise the creepy atmosphere of the book. Mr. Hawk delivers yet another deliciously thrilling ghost story. It honestly kept me riveted from start to finish, complete with some truly unexpected twists and turns.
I especially enjoyed the way the author managed to work in the resolution for several hanging threads from the characters' past: not just Vincent's, but also Henry. Though things do start out in a suspiciously convenient manner, with just the right people gathering at a haunted mansion, the final resolution is sufficiently satisfying for it all.
As for my complaints: once again, Henry and Vincent's relationship felt a tad bit too... lukewarm. Or maybe... not particularly memorable for me to properly recall two months later. But then, after two books, I was more interested in the mystery aspect of things. Still, that is by no means an acceptable reason for Lizzie's romantic storyline to be pushed into the background. I liked the general idea behind it all, but that was also an excellent reason to add in yet another point-of-view, not to mention a different type of LGBT romance. Alas, that probably would've made for a much longer and convoluted story... whose lack I'm still mourning.
Score: 3/5 stars
I'm very much excited to read more of the author's paranormal mysteries, though hopefully with some more exciting romantic (sub)plots. Recommendations welcome *hint hint*
===================
Review of book 1: Restless Spirits
Review of book 2: Dangerous Spirits
February 13, 2022
3.5 stars
The first book was very promising but in the end this series never really came alive for me. Although the writing is good as always, the plot and romance didn’t deliver.
Like in the second book, the plot is stronger than the romance but, in this book, even the plot wasn't at its best and I found the conclusion to be a bit weak and predictable.
Regarding the romance, I never truly connected with Henry and Vincent as a couple and .
These two declare their love to each other time and again, only to revert to thinking about themselves as an expendable part of the other’s life a minute later. If they don’t believe in their relationship, why should I?
The first book was very promising but in the end this series never really came alive for me. Although the writing is good as always, the plot and romance didn’t deliver.
Like in the second book, the plot is stronger than the romance but, in this book, even the plot wasn't at its best and I found the conclusion to be a bit weak and predictable.
Regarding the romance, I never truly connected with Henry and Vincent as a couple and .
These two declare their love to each other time and again, only to revert to thinking about themselves as an expendable part of the other’s life a minute later. If they don’t believe in their relationship, why should I?
May 19, 2018
Lies can be dangerous things, but some truths can be fatal. After learning that their mentor and father figure might not have been as honest or as upstanding as they always thought, Vincent and Lizzie are left left reeling. Henry is unsure how to comfort the man he loves, but he hopes that maybe he can at least distract him enough to stop Vincent from becoming dangerously obsessed with the questions around what exactly Dunne had really been up to all those years he had been training Vincent and Lizzie. Unfortunately Henry’s attempt backfires when the advertisement asking for a group of psychics to investigate a haunting that he picks is in fact tied to Dunne and the orphanage he grew up in. Desperate for answers that they are not getting anywhere else, the rest of the group agrees to go investigate the place, and perhaps while they are there find the key to Dunne’s Grand Harmonium–whatever that turns out to be–as well as to the question of why exactly Dunne has practically adopted Lizzie and Vincent in the first place.
First off…I kinda advise that if you have not read the previous two books in this series for a while, it might behoove you to go back and do a reread before starting this one. While Hawk does a decent job of reminding us about what happened in previous stories to help keep us from getting too confused, there were definite times where I really regretted not having the time to go back and do a series reread before I had to read Guardian Spirits. I wasn’t ever lost, but there was a certain sense of being two steps behind for some sections of this novel, and it made it a bit more work to keep up with what was going on on page. So if you have the time (and aren’t trying to meet a deadline like me) go back and reread Restless Spirits and Dangerous Spirits again. I think you’ll thank me when you get into the meat of this third book.
Secondly…oh my god I’m never going near the mountains, or in a cave, or down into the basement with Jordan L. Hawk because I’m not exactly sure I would come out alive. Although her characters do tend to make it out…mostly…intact so maybe she is the exact right person to undertake those things with. Probably best to just avoid those places altogether, though, because, as Vincent says, “ Nothing good ever happened in basements. ”
Thirdly…despite the fact that there were times I was having to dredge up vague memories of stories I haven’t read in years in order to remember who some of these characters were, I had a blast reading this book. Hawk is always so good with these types of stories. Kinda horrifying, but not so bad that I want to turn away from the page. The monsters are always so interesting and enthralling, all the while being scary and revolting at the same time. And because she is not afraid to get a little weird when it comes to her Big Bads, you never know what you are going to get, which makes you dread and crave the reveal all the more. Even with a series based around ghosts, where you have a pretty good idea what is coming, it is never quite like you expect it. What I’m saying is that the further I got into the story the more I was hooked because some part of me just wanted to close my eyes until it was over but a larger part of me was utterly crushed each time I had to put the kindle down to go back to work, or catch a bus. I love when stories can do that.
I’m hesitant to say a lot about the plot because of spoilers, but I do want to vaguely mention two aspects that I liked quite a bit, but which on the whole aren’t the focus of the book. One being I kinda loved what Hawk did with Lizzie’s character in this book. I’ve always liked her, and some of the events in this book, especially near the end made me really happy. It was all very low-key, no stress–well the parts that didn’t involve death and destruction–and I’m happy where the book let her go. I also like the character from one of the MC’s past that shows up in this book. Well, ok, not liked, but I like the way they were handled. While their actions do have an impact on the plot–which was a bit obvious, if well handled–my favorite part was the way they were written. With enough humanity to make you think maybe there is something redeemable there, but even if there isn’t, it made them well-rounded enough that you can hate a person and not a cardboard cut-out.
While there were a few times where I felt like calling almost the whole lot of them idiots for certain decisions made in this book, I was never once bored or uninterested in the outcome of this story. Jordan L. Hawk once again delivers a thrilling tale of danger and romance, much to no one’s surprise, I’m sure. And, yes, I do recommend that people don’t come into this book cold, I have found the whole series to be highly enjoyable, so go ahead and do a quick catch up before diving into this one. The only thing you will regret is that you’re never going to be able to sleep with the light off, or the doors and windows unsalted, ever again.
4.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
First off…I kinda advise that if you have not read the previous two books in this series for a while, it might behoove you to go back and do a reread before starting this one. While Hawk does a decent job of reminding us about what happened in previous stories to help keep us from getting too confused, there were definite times where I really regretted not having the time to go back and do a series reread before I had to read Guardian Spirits. I wasn’t ever lost, but there was a certain sense of being two steps behind for some sections of this novel, and it made it a bit more work to keep up with what was going on on page. So if you have the time (and aren’t trying to meet a deadline like me) go back and reread Restless Spirits and Dangerous Spirits again. I think you’ll thank me when you get into the meat of this third book.
Secondly…oh my god I’m never going near the mountains, or in a cave, or down into the basement with Jordan L. Hawk because I’m not exactly sure I would come out alive. Although her characters do tend to make it out…mostly…intact so maybe she is the exact right person to undertake those things with. Probably best to just avoid those places altogether, though, because, as Vincent says, “ Nothing good ever happened in basements. ”
Thirdly…despite the fact that there were times I was having to dredge up vague memories of stories I haven’t read in years in order to remember who some of these characters were, I had a blast reading this book. Hawk is always so good with these types of stories. Kinda horrifying, but not so bad that I want to turn away from the page. The monsters are always so interesting and enthralling, all the while being scary and revolting at the same time. And because she is not afraid to get a little weird when it comes to her Big Bads, you never know what you are going to get, which makes you dread and crave the reveal all the more. Even with a series based around ghosts, where you have a pretty good idea what is coming, it is never quite like you expect it. What I’m saying is that the further I got into the story the more I was hooked because some part of me just wanted to close my eyes until it was over but a larger part of me was utterly crushed each time I had to put the kindle down to go back to work, or catch a bus. I love when stories can do that.
I’m hesitant to say a lot about the plot because of spoilers, but I do want to vaguely mention two aspects that I liked quite a bit, but which on the whole aren’t the focus of the book. One being I kinda loved what Hawk did with Lizzie’s character in this book. I’ve always liked her, and some of the events in this book, especially near the end made me really happy. It was all very low-key, no stress–well the parts that didn’t involve death and destruction–and I’m happy where the book let her go. I also like the character from one of the MC’s past that shows up in this book. Well, ok, not liked, but I like the way they were handled. While their actions do have an impact on the plot–which was a bit obvious, if well handled–my favorite part was the way they were written. With enough humanity to make you think maybe there is something redeemable there, but even if there isn’t, it made them well-rounded enough that you can hate a person and not a cardboard cut-out.
While there were a few times where I felt like calling almost the whole lot of them idiots for certain decisions made in this book, I was never once bored or uninterested in the outcome of this story. Jordan L. Hawk once again delivers a thrilling tale of danger and romance, much to no one’s surprise, I’m sure. And, yes, I do recommend that people don’t come into this book cold, I have found the whole series to be highly enjoyable, so go ahead and do a quick catch up before diving into this one. The only thing you will regret is that you’re never going to be able to sleep with the light off, or the doors and windows unsalted, ever again.
4.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
May 16, 2021
A strong finish to the trilogy, tying in strands from the previous two books (although they're each complete as to plot).
I found this the most original as spec fic and also the most emotionally affective.
3.5 stars for the series overall. Recommended as a quick, light read, although I liked the author's more complex Widdershins series more.
I found this the most original as spec fic and also the most emotionally affective.
3.5 stars for the series overall. Recommended as a quick, light read, although I liked the author's more complex Widdershins series more.
October 15, 2018
4.5 Stars
Super scary story (with the fear factor only hightened by Greg Tremblay's narration - JFC those voices he did for Zubat (sp?) were horrifically wonderful) that once I started listening to I couldn't really stop. Yes, the begining dragged a bit for me, but holy cow, when they got to WV and that abandoned orphanage it was just a roller coaster of drama.
I think this one also really highlighted how close Vincent & Henry had grown, how much they cared for each other...and seriously, that whole cast is just brilliant. I adore how inclusive and representational it is. JLH is a master story-teller and character craftsman.
The best one yet, and if this is the end of the series then it surely went out with a bang.
Super scary story (with the fear factor only hightened by Greg Tremblay's narration - JFC those voices he did for Zubat (sp?) were horrifically wonderful) that once I started listening to I couldn't really stop. Yes, the begining dragged a bit for me, but holy cow, when they got to WV and that abandoned orphanage it was just a roller coaster of drama.
I think this one also really highlighted how close Vincent & Henry had grown, how much they cared for each other...and seriously, that whole cast is just brilliant. I adore how inclusive and representational it is. JLH is a master story-teller and character craftsman.
The best one yet, and if this is the end of the series then it surely went out with a bang.
May 20, 2018
3.5 stars
I would've probably enjoyed this better if I had ANY recollection about these characters and what happened in the previous books *face palm* Urgh, sometimes I wish I remember details.
In any case, thought the story was good; creepy ghosts were creepy. It was a good ending of the series. BUT, I didn't have any attachment to the characters, meaning that I read it without much caring to anyone's lives being in peril. Sorry people!
I would've probably enjoyed this better if I had ANY recollection about these characters and what happened in the previous books *face palm* Urgh, sometimes I wish I remember details.
In any case, thought the story was good; creepy ghosts were creepy. It was a good ending of the series. BUT, I didn't have any attachment to the characters, meaning that I read it without much caring to anyone's lives being in peril. Sorry people!
December 7, 2018
2.5 stars
The final book in the Spirits trilogy is adequate. This hasn't been my favorite series by Ms. Hawk by a long shot. I never really felt the romance between Henry and Vincent, the ghost adventuring is pretty standard though she does bring a certain flair to it, and the narrator is listenable, but nothing to write home about.
The plot here was again predictable and I could see every twist and turn coming from a mile away. While it makes emotional sense that Vincent and Jo would make the incredibly stupid decisions they make, it still felt like all the characters were given a case of the dumb-dumbs in order for the plot to happen, which is why this got downgraded half a star.
The final book in the Spirits trilogy is adequate. This hasn't been my favorite series by Ms. Hawk by a long shot. I never really felt the romance between Henry and Vincent, the ghost adventuring is pretty standard though she does bring a certain flair to it, and the narrator is listenable, but nothing to write home about.
The plot here was again predictable and I could see every twist and turn coming from a mile away. While it makes emotional sense that Vincent and Jo would make the incredibly stupid decisions they make, it still felt like all the characters were given a case of the dumb-dumbs in order for the plot to happen, which is why this got downgraded half a star.
November 27, 2020
Final instalment in this trilogy, and it packs a punch!
As I keep mentioning, Horror is not my favourite genre and yet, I’m totally addicted to Hawk’s books. Somehow the author crafts scary stories with taut plots that whisk you into this world, and make you forget our own. The added bonus is of course the cast, which makes the whole work so well. Although less developed than the ones in Whyborne and Griffin, which is normal since that is a much longer series, I still very much cared for our characters. Here is a disparate group of people who find each other and become a family! I can’t help loving that, probably because I feel like a misfit too ;0)
In all, a great end to the trilogy arc, full of discoveries, comeuppances, and scary scenes (if they made this into a film, there’s no way I could watch it LOL and yet, I probably would). Now back to W&G...
As I keep mentioning, Horror is not my favourite genre and yet, I’m totally addicted to Hawk’s books. Somehow the author crafts scary stories with taut plots that whisk you into this world, and make you forget our own. The added bonus is of course the cast, which makes the whole work so well. Although less developed than the ones in Whyborne and Griffin, which is normal since that is a much longer series, I still very much cared for our characters. Here is a disparate group of people who find each other and become a family! I can’t help loving that, probably because I feel like a misfit too ;0)
In all, a great end to the trilogy arc, full of discoveries, comeuppances, and scary scenes (if they made this into a film, there’s no way I could watch it LOL and yet, I probably would). Now back to W&G...
December 19, 2023
Thank you to Sandy Claws for gifting this to me during the 2023 Secret Santa Book Exchange!
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Very solid conclusion to the series--I'm so glad I finally came back to it after all these years! The plot wraps up quite nicely, including several threads I hadn't even thought to wish would be tied up! We also finally got my switching, which I did appreciate, though on the whole the smut dynamics in this series didn't really do much for me. The romance aspect was OK, but I found the plotting to be more compelling, along with the various relationship dynamics on a whole--I didn't feel a ton of romantic chemistry from the leads, especially in the last two books, but it didn't detract too much for me.
===
Very solid conclusion to the series--I'm so glad I finally came back to it after all these years! The plot wraps up quite nicely, including several threads I hadn't even thought to wish would be tied up! We also finally got my switching, which I did appreciate, though on the whole the smut dynamics in this series didn't really do much for me. The romance aspect was OK, but I found the plotting to be more compelling, along with the various relationship dynamics on a whole--I didn't feel a ton of romantic chemistry from the leads, especially in the last two books, but it didn't detract too much for me.
May 18, 2018
Wowwww. That. Was. Awesome. I’ve just finished Jordan L. Hawk’s newest addition to the Spirits series, and it was hands down my favorite of the series so far. All of the books have been good; I love Henry, Vincent, Lizzie, and Jo, and the story arc is intriguing. But, the bar was raised in this one. I’m amazed at the growth of this series over the course of the three books. Having read Dangerous Spirits immediately prior to this one, that growth really stood out. I’m always in awe of Jordan L. Hawk’s writing, but Guardian Spirits is even richer, even more detailed, and I love Hawk’s commitment to character diversity, which was displayed even more here. Also, this book was just flat out creepier and scarier! The ride was full-on from start to finish.
The story picks up very soon after the return from Devil’s Walk, where Vincent and Lizzie learned they had been lied to by their friend, Sylvester Ortensi, and perhaps by their beloved mentor, James Dunne, as well. Ortensi and Dunne had been working secretly toward trying to restore some instrument called the Grand Harmonium, which ostensibly can bridge the gap between life and death, all the while keeping Vincent and Lizzie in the dark as to their plan. Vincent and Lizzie are haunted by the idea that Dunne might have been purely using them for their abilities and their loyalty, and have been desperately trying to contact him for answers from across the veil. Henry feels for his lover, who is ever wracked by guilt over Dunne’s death, and for Lizzie, but mostly wishes they could somehow get past it. However, when an opportunity presents itself to possibly get the answers they seek, they of course jump at the chance.
The crew finds themselves at Angel’s Shadow, the orphanage where both Dunne and Ortensi lived as teenagers, working with a team of other mediums and the property’s new owner to investigate the reported hauntings there. Things start to get crazy straight away, as they realize that the ghosts are quite active and seem rather pissed off, one of them extremely so. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time they were at Angel’s Shadow, which was the bulk of the book. There were so many incredibly creepy moments, and even a few jump scares. All the fabulous, descriptive prose fans of Hawk have grown to expect was there, but it was somehow even better, even cooler. And, Vincent’s clairgustance remains the creepiest gift, by far!
I love these MCs so much. Henry is awesomely dry and funny, as always, but is also vulnerable, and so very caring. I adore his relationship with Jo. And Vincent is as particular as ever, and so smitten with Henry. Vincent is actually really put through his paces in this story. I loved his growth, and the different facets of him we got to see. Including a little jealousy at one point! The rest of the characters are also fabulous. Lizzie is a firecracker and constantly keeps everyone on their toes. And, our darling Jo is as brave and brilliant and sweet as always. There is also an incredibly charming newcomer who might just have his eye on Lizzie. 😉
Guardian Spirits is fantastic. It’s got everything that makes Jordan L. Hawk books a must-read. The paranormal and horror components were as awesome and chilling as you’d hope they would be, and everything is perfectly balanced out with that sharp wit and, of course, the romance, which is what I consider to be Hawk’s signature style. I don’t typically do scary, but this series has turned me into a lover of ghost stories.
Reviewed by Jules for The Novel Approach
The story picks up very soon after the return from Devil’s Walk, where Vincent and Lizzie learned they had been lied to by their friend, Sylvester Ortensi, and perhaps by their beloved mentor, James Dunne, as well. Ortensi and Dunne had been working secretly toward trying to restore some instrument called the Grand Harmonium, which ostensibly can bridge the gap between life and death, all the while keeping Vincent and Lizzie in the dark as to their plan. Vincent and Lizzie are haunted by the idea that Dunne might have been purely using them for their abilities and their loyalty, and have been desperately trying to contact him for answers from across the veil. Henry feels for his lover, who is ever wracked by guilt over Dunne’s death, and for Lizzie, but mostly wishes they could somehow get past it. However, when an opportunity presents itself to possibly get the answers they seek, they of course jump at the chance.
The crew finds themselves at Angel’s Shadow, the orphanage where both Dunne and Ortensi lived as teenagers, working with a team of other mediums and the property’s new owner to investigate the reported hauntings there. Things start to get crazy straight away, as they realize that the ghosts are quite active and seem rather pissed off, one of them extremely so. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time they were at Angel’s Shadow, which was the bulk of the book. There were so many incredibly creepy moments, and even a few jump scares. All the fabulous, descriptive prose fans of Hawk have grown to expect was there, but it was somehow even better, even cooler. And, Vincent’s clairgustance remains the creepiest gift, by far!
I love these MCs so much. Henry is awesomely dry and funny, as always, but is also vulnerable, and so very caring. I adore his relationship with Jo. And Vincent is as particular as ever, and so smitten with Henry. Vincent is actually really put through his paces in this story. I loved his growth, and the different facets of him we got to see. Including a little jealousy at one point! The rest of the characters are also fabulous. Lizzie is a firecracker and constantly keeps everyone on their toes. And, our darling Jo is as brave and brilliant and sweet as always. There is also an incredibly charming newcomer who might just have his eye on Lizzie. 😉
Guardian Spirits is fantastic. It’s got everything that makes Jordan L. Hawk books a must-read. The paranormal and horror components were as awesome and chilling as you’d hope they would be, and everything is perfectly balanced out with that sharp wit and, of course, the romance, which is what I consider to be Hawk’s signature style. I don’t typically do scary, but this series has turned me into a lover of ghost stories.
Reviewed by Jules for The Novel Approach
December 3, 2022
My favorite of the series! It continued all the wonderful qualities of the first two books but without the relationship insecurities. We see how strong Vincent and Henry have grown as a couple and how their bonds with each other as well as with Lizzie and Jo have strengthened.
This was his family: messy and beautiful and a little bit strange. They were his, and he was theirs.
4.5 stars
This was his family: messy and beautiful and a little bit strange. They were his, and he was theirs.
4.5 stars
December 25, 2018
I have had this audiobook since it came out but I didn't want to listen to it and not have it to look forward to. I finally gave in and I enjoyed it as much as I expected to.
Sometimes Jordan L. Hawk's books remind me of Indiana Jones movies, in the best way. This one has that feel, of a wild and dangerous adventure with very menacing villains. But there is also a really nice found-family theme, and of course I far prefer these characters to anyone in an Indiana Jones movie.
I really appreciate that none of the villains in this book make racist, transphobic, or homophobic remarks or threaten sexual violence at any point, and that there is no on-page coming-out scene for any major character. Instead, Henry and Vincent both have to cope with some issues from their pasts. I also like that Henry, Vincent, Jo, and Lizzie act as a team for most of the book.
This is the scariest book I've read by this author so far, but that may be down to Greg Tremblay's narration, which is great. I reread the first two books in this series many times before the audiobooks came out, and to me, he chose the perfect voices for all the characters.
This feels like the ending of this series, and I'm very happy with it! Now we just need a new series about (Only kidding, I really am satisfied, but I would also enthusiastically read that.)
Sometimes Jordan L. Hawk's books remind me of Indiana Jones movies, in the best way. This one has that feel, of a wild and dangerous adventure with very menacing villains. But there is also a really nice found-family theme, and of course I far prefer these characters to anyone in an Indiana Jones movie.
I really appreciate that none of the villains in this book make racist, transphobic, or homophobic remarks or threaten sexual violence at any point, and that there is no on-page coming-out scene for any major character. Instead, Henry and Vincent both have to cope with some issues from their pasts. I also like that Henry, Vincent, Jo, and Lizzie act as a team for most of the book.
This is the scariest book I've read by this author so far, but that may be down to Greg Tremblay's narration, which is great. I reread the first two books in this series many times before the audiobooks came out, and to me, he chose the perfect voices for all the characters.
This feels like the ending of this series, and I'm very happy with it! Now we just need a new series about (Only kidding, I really am satisfied, but I would also enthusiastically read that.)
May 23, 2018
5+1 stars
I loved this book. I have to say that this series is a must read. What Ms Hawk does with words is amazing. I was literally glued to the chair until I finished. The way things were described it made so much sense like I was right there with the MCs in the story, it was so immersive. The descriptions were so vivid and in abundance. It was awesome.
Apart from that I also enjoyed how transgender secondary characters were incorporated in the book. She was just wonderful with them. It was so subtle and yet you knew it when you looked close enough. It was beautiful.
I am happy to say that everyone found their happy ever after in one fashion or another. I was very glad for Lizzy and Charles and Jo too. Vincent was finally happy and free of all the weight from the past and Henry was right there by his side. For a moment closer to the end I was worried that what Henry thought might come true but when all hopes it seemed were dashed they came together and were victorious.
The ending of the book was bittersweet because it was the end of the series but I loved it so much that I am sure I will reread it again and again. A wonderful read. I highly recommend it!
I loved this book. I have to say that this series is a must read. What Ms Hawk does with words is amazing. I was literally glued to the chair until I finished. The way things were described it made so much sense like I was right there with the MCs in the story, it was so immersive. The descriptions were so vivid and in abundance. It was awesome.
Apart from that I also enjoyed how transgender secondary characters were incorporated in the book. She was just wonderful with them. It was so subtle and yet you knew it when you looked close enough. It was beautiful.
I am happy to say that everyone found their happy ever after in one fashion or another. I was very glad for Lizzy and Charles and Jo too. Vincent was finally happy and free of all the weight from the past and Henry was right there by his side. For a moment closer to the end I was worried that what Henry thought might come true but when all hopes it seemed were dashed they came together and were victorious.
The ending of the book was bittersweet because it was the end of the series but I loved it so much that I am sure I will reread it again and again. A wonderful read. I highly recommend it!
June 1, 2018
OMG JLH I love you!! This is the best book of the series so far!! I love love the story and spook, more so than getting a goodnight's sleep.
July 3, 2018
Another great read from Hawk!
I did not enjoy this one as much as the first two but I was still enthralled from the beginning. We are book 3 for the same couple so there was very little anxious romance in this book, and no misunderstanding, thank god. I was also able to guess at the twist of this one pretty early on, but that was ok because Hawks hauntings are worth the read, and I love a damn good ghost story.
In this story we’re not only battling the spirts but the what if’s? What is you could fully restore a loved one from the dead? A father, mother, wife, child that died in birth? What about bringing back great minds and artists such as Aristotle, Da Vinci? Would it be worth it? Or if would you mind be clouded with excitement of seeing a loved one again???
Anywho that’s all the “review” you get from me today, just read the damn books already!
On another note, I’ve never related to a couple of statements more in my life
“Proof no one should ever listen to me,” Vincent drawled.
This was his family: messy and beautiful and a little bit strange. They were his, and he was theirs.
I did not enjoy this one as much as the first two but I was still enthralled from the beginning. We are book 3 for the same couple so there was very little anxious romance in this book, and no misunderstanding, thank god. I was also able to guess at the twist of this one pretty early on, but that was ok because Hawks hauntings are worth the read, and I love a damn good ghost story.
In this story we’re not only battling the spirts but the what if’s? What is you could fully restore a loved one from the dead? A father, mother, wife, child that died in birth? What about bringing back great minds and artists such as Aristotle, Da Vinci? Would it be worth it? Or if would you mind be clouded with excitement of seeing a loved one again???
Anywho that’s all the “review” you get from me today, just read the damn books already!
On another note, I’ve never related to a couple of statements more in my life
“Proof no one should ever listen to me,” Vincent drawled.
This was his family: messy and beautiful and a little bit strange. They were his, and he was theirs.
May 10, 2022
I liked this better than the last book! Vincent and Henry are much more solid, though doubts still exist. This was more about Vincent seeking absolution in the death of his mentor. Even though I had read this before, I couldn't remember how it all played out so it kept my attention. It was a fitting end with a great HEA for the series.
May 18, 2018
Wowww. This book was full-on, from start to finish. By far my favorite of the series. Love, love, love.
June 5, 2018
I gave this book four stars even though I'm pretty sure it doesn't deserve them. In fact, every book in this series got four stars and I'm not sure any of it was deserved. This is definitely my least favorite series by this author. I've never really liked any of the characters. And this book was the worst. Honestly, the stupidity from these characters was just astounding. Are they really so blinded they couldn't see what a terriblehorriblestupid idea this was? Really? I actually considered putting this in the dnf pile because of the stupidity. And yet I've given it four stars. I know. I can't help it. If you ignore idiot characters the writing is enjoyable. Even with idiot characters I do enjoy a Jordan L. Hawk book. Still. WTF?
September 18, 2019
Creepy, a bit scary, a touch of horror, but all in a good way. A lot of answers are finally given with this adventure, the mystery of the haunted orphanage, the mystery behind Vincent’s mentors, the mystery of why Vincent was even possessed in the previous books. Not only did we get a happy ending for Henry and Vincent, Lizzie found love too!
September 16, 2018
Reading this was like getting lost in a killer horror movie. It was spooky, exciting, and kept me on the edge of my seat. You have all these secrets, a spooky orphanage, and ghosts galore. I would kill to see this on the big screen!
May 20, 2018
** 4.5 Stars **
A thrilling last ride!
A thrilling last ride!
June 21, 2023
Well done ending that wraps up strands in all of their lives.
January 13, 2020
Audiobook reviewDo you know what I did the first thing when I woke up this morning? You got it, I started listening to Guardian Spirits. This is the third, book in the Spirits series and I wouldn’t advice reading these books out of order as the events in this one builds on the previous ones. Lizzie and Vincent is still reeling from the revelations in Dangerous Spirits, and there are a lot of emotions going around; confusion, betrayal, denial and a thirst for answers. So since we left them the gang has been trying to uncover what secrets Lizzie and Vincent’s mentor hid from them. Until one day when they see and add seeking mediums for help uncovering the secrets of a haunted orphanage. The same orphanage their late mentor grew up. There are plenty of secrets hiding in the walls of the orphanage, secrets and demons from the past, and not all of them friendly.
The romance between Henry and Vincent is as usual way down on the priority list in this book – just like in the rest. In a way that fits as some things do need to have priority over romance, but at the same time if all of their relationship growing happens off page or in-between books we readers/listeners don’t really feel that connection to them or between them.
That was probably one of the reasons why I was so annoyed when Henry and Vincent repeated the same mistakes as in the last book i.e. not speaking with each other. Many things taking place here made them feel less than solid and I kind of wished they’d move on from that point. I mean I get that emotions run high in this book what with both of their past demons coming back into play, but still.
There’s no doubt that Jordan L. Hawk is widely talented and has such an amazing imagination to create wonderful worlds and characters. However, I would say that a lot of the would-be twists and turns in this series are predictable, a bit too predictable if I’m being honest. I’m not saying that any of it is bad, just that I’ve come to expect more from Hawk, and maybe that’s on me for judging them on a higher standard than I would others.
Greg Tremblay showed us once again what a solid narrator he is. With a wide range of voices he makes it easy to follow the different characters and everything that goes on. I especially liked the extra creepiness he added to the evil spirit, it definitely fit with the tone of the book and for just a moment made you doubt weather our main characters would make it out alive.
I don’t know if Dangerous Spirits is the last of this series, if it is I’ve had a wonderful time hunting spirits with this gang. And if not I’m looking forward to more adventures when we meet again sometime in the future.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
June 2, 2018
3.5
Months after the events of the last book, Vincent is still restless and troubled at the things he learned about his mentor Dunne and their friend Ortensi. Henry is doing his best to keep him happy and distracted but it only goes so far. Thinking to distract him with a case, Henry suggests a psychical investigation in the paper at Angel's Shadow Orphanage in West Virginia. This doesn't work as a distractor so much because this is the same orphanage that Dunne grew up in. The group believes that this "Grand Harmonium" is at this orphanage and that they need to learn more about what it does and how to either fix it or destroy it. They are joined in the investigation by their sponsor, Charles Thorpe, who also has ties to Dunne and the orphanage and Ira Wellington, who is actually Isaac, the man who duped and betrayed Henry so many years before. Henry will do anything to protect his family from danger, both physical and spiritual.
I'm pretty sure this is the final book in the series because everything felt well and truly wrapped up and everyone got their HEA. I didn't like this as much as the first two, probably because this book focused so much on the investigation itself, that it felt like the focus was very much taken off of Henry and Vincent. For some reason, they didn't feel as connected as they have in previous stories. I really liked the ways in which Henry proved his love to Vincent, but didn't feel very reciprocal this time...probably because Vincent is busy dealing with his own problems. It was sad for me that Henry gets despondent when everybody wants to use the Grand Harmonium to bring back a loved one and he feels like he's about to lose those relationships (when Jo's parents return and Vincent has his mentor back). This sort of never gets fully resolved and I felt like it needed to be. Sure, Henry feels like he has his family back when it turns out the thing won't work the way they wanted it to, but he never gets any external or internal reassurance that he's enough for them. For that matter, I wanted more discussion and resolution immediately after the incident. What happens instead is, they walk out of the cavern and we skip ahead 6 months to the epilogue. I wanted to have post-incident "I love yous," some feel good moments among them all (and yes - a sex scene would have been delightful!). I'm not saying I didn't like the book as it was, but these are things I found myself wishing for there towards the end.
I absolutely adore the characters that this author has created in this story. And this is the first one when they begin to feel like a unit, rather than two pairs working side by side (or against each other). I also very much like how this author ties together all strings - Henry's story with Isaac comes full circle, Lizzie finally gets her HEA and Vincent resolves his issues as well. I loved this series and will always be on the lookout for more from this author.
Months after the events of the last book, Vincent is still restless and troubled at the things he learned about his mentor Dunne and their friend Ortensi. Henry is doing his best to keep him happy and distracted but it only goes so far. Thinking to distract him with a case, Henry suggests a psychical investigation in the paper at Angel's Shadow Orphanage in West Virginia. This doesn't work as a distractor so much because this is the same orphanage that Dunne grew up in. The group believes that this "Grand Harmonium" is at this orphanage and that they need to learn more about what it does and how to either fix it or destroy it. They are joined in the investigation by their sponsor, Charles Thorpe, who also has ties to Dunne and the orphanage and Ira Wellington, who is actually Isaac, the man who duped and betrayed Henry so many years before. Henry will do anything to protect his family from danger, both physical and spiritual.
I'm pretty sure this is the final book in the series because everything felt well and truly wrapped up and everyone got their HEA. I didn't like this as much as the first two, probably because this book focused so much on the investigation itself, that it felt like the focus was very much taken off of Henry and Vincent. For some reason, they didn't feel as connected as they have in previous stories. I really liked the ways in which Henry proved his love to Vincent, but didn't feel very reciprocal this time...probably because Vincent is busy dealing with his own problems. It was sad for me that Henry gets despondent when everybody wants to use the Grand Harmonium to bring back a loved one and he feels like he's about to lose those relationships (when Jo's parents return and Vincent has his mentor back). This sort of never gets fully resolved and I felt like it needed to be. Sure, Henry feels like he has his family back when it turns out the thing won't work the way they wanted it to, but he never gets any external or internal reassurance that he's enough for them. For that matter, I wanted more discussion and resolution immediately after the incident. What happens instead is, they walk out of the cavern and we skip ahead 6 months to the epilogue. I wanted to have post-incident "I love yous," some feel good moments among them all (and yes - a sex scene would have been delightful!). I'm not saying I didn't like the book as it was, but these are things I found myself wishing for there towards the end.
I absolutely adore the characters that this author has created in this story. And this is the first one when they begin to feel like a unit, rather than two pairs working side by side (or against each other). I also very much like how this author ties together all strings - Henry's story with Isaac comes full circle, Lizzie finally gets her HEA and Vincent resolves his issues as well. I loved this series and will always be on the lookout for more from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 18, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Guardian Spirits is the third book in Jordan L. Hawk’s Spirits series and it is wonderful addition. The series follows scientist Henry Strauss and his partner in life and business, Vincent Night. Aided by their friend, Lizzie, and Henry’s neice, Jo, the foursome work together combining a traditional spiritualist approach and a scientific approach to the study of ghosts and mediumship. What I love most about this series is the way these four characters have built a family together. Each one is on the fringes of society for various reasons, not fully accepted by others. Yet together, they have a close bond of love and friendship and support, and I think that shines through the most in this story. As the four face peril, it is the bonds that connect them that end up being their salvation. Added to that is the connection between Vincent and Henry. I just adore them as a couple and love the way they support and care for one another, as well as the way their skills complement each other as they work a case.
As with the rest of the series, this story is a total thrill ride. As the team investigates the haunted orphanage, there is danger at every turn. Not only that, but there is a mystery as well as they try to find out about Dunne’s big secret, as well as the truth about The Grand Harmonium. The investigation is nicely developed, and when we finally find out what is really going on, it is all suitably terrifying. The story kept me breathless and engaged and Hawk brings together the excitement of the suspense, the bonds of friendship, and the love between Henry and Vincent so well.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Guardian Spirits is the third book in Jordan L. Hawk’s Spirits series and it is wonderful addition. The series follows scientist Henry Strauss and his partner in life and business, Vincent Night. Aided by their friend, Lizzie, and Henry’s neice, Jo, the foursome work together combining a traditional spiritualist approach and a scientific approach to the study of ghosts and mediumship. What I love most about this series is the way these four characters have built a family together. Each one is on the fringes of society for various reasons, not fully accepted by others. Yet together, they have a close bond of love and friendship and support, and I think that shines through the most in this story. As the four face peril, it is the bonds that connect them that end up being their salvation. Added to that is the connection between Vincent and Henry. I just adore them as a couple and love the way they support and care for one another, as well as the way their skills complement each other as they work a case.
As with the rest of the series, this story is a total thrill ride. As the team investigates the haunted orphanage, there is danger at every turn. Not only that, but there is a mystery as well as they try to find out about Dunne’s big secret, as well as the truth about The Grand Harmonium. The investigation is nicely developed, and when we finally find out what is really going on, it is all suitably terrifying. The story kept me breathless and engaged and Hawk brings together the excitement of the suspense, the bonds of friendship, and the love between Henry and Vincent so well.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
September 15, 2020
For my personal taste it got too horror-y, and the plot, which somehow weaved all the things we knew about both Henry and Vincent's pasts together was a little too convenient for my liking. But mostly I was disturbed by the horror aspects because I don't generally read horror, so my bad for reading this one. *shudders*
December 4, 2019
I loved all three novels in this series and I hope there will be more! Hawk captures the spirit of both Victorian-era spiritualism and M/M romance without resorting to anachronism or cliches.
August 9, 2018
3.5
Good conclusion (?) to the series.
Good conclusion (?) to the series.
June 9, 2018
I think the fact that it's been 3 years between this one and Dangerous Spirits has influenced my rating and my feelings about this story. There were very valid reasons for the huge gap but unfortunately it hasn't helped my enjoyment of this story. Sorry, 3 stars from me.
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