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Watcher's Kiss #2
Assassin's Kiss
* can be read as a stand alone novel *
WINNER of the 2017 North Texas RWA Carolyn Readers Choice Contest, Specialized Category
Warrior Scorpio finds himself alone on a botched op. No weapons, no communication devices, injured…and instantly recognized by a group of witches who want him dead.
Witch Tessa promises to marry a rival leader to save her people. But she never planned on the new prisoner in her coven. Scorpio, a rough, former mercenary makes the outrageous claim that she belongs to him.
Even from behind bars, the longer Scorpio stays, the more he unsettles Tessa and she questions all she thought she knew. Choosing him will put everyone she cares for at risk. He’s nothing like she expected, and the last thing she could dare to want.
WINNER of the 2017 North Texas RWA Carolyn Readers Choice Contest, Specialized Category
Warrior Scorpio finds himself alone on a botched op. No weapons, no communication devices, injured…and instantly recognized by a group of witches who want him dead.
Witch Tessa promises to marry a rival leader to save her people. But she never planned on the new prisoner in her coven. Scorpio, a rough, former mercenary makes the outrageous claim that she belongs to him.
Even from behind bars, the longer Scorpio stays, the more he unsettles Tessa and she questions all she thought she knew. Choosing him will put everyone she cares for at risk. He’s nothing like she expected, and the last thing she could dare to want.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 12, 2016
2 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Kay
23 books259 followersSharon Kay writes award-winning fiction and can never get enough reading time. She loves winter and black coffee, and is endlessly inspired to write kick-ass heroines and the men strong enough to capture their hearts. Sharon lives in the Chicago area with her husband and son, and one weekend the idea for her first series formed, refusing to stay quiet until she put pen to paper. Her characters tend to keep her up at night, as they banter, fall in love, and slay endless varieties of power-hungry demons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
August 1, 2017
5 T & S Stars.
„I curse you now, demon. One day you will meet your destined mate. The very instance that you are in her presence, you will recognize that she is your other half, your female, and you will be seized with the need to claim her. You will ache with your need to complete the bond. But she…” the witch’s voice grew low, “she will despise you for the monster you are. She will avoid you as if you are poison to her. You will be in agony, demon. Let it be done!”
After a botched operation in Tainted Kiss, Scorpio is teleported to Bronwy he is severely injured and is captured by the witch’s coven where he once assassinated the chief mage Pennar, he was being blackmailed by a Dalamos, his mercenary skills in exchange for not hurting his brother and sister. He is to be bought to judgement by the village. They call him a murderer which is true. Half the village wants him dead and the other half doesn’t know what to do with him.
He is dangerous so they lock him up with dampening spells and gloves that let him from using his demonfire. He won’t leave as much as he wants to because he has smelt honeysuckle, the sign that he will have found his mate. As he is a lash demon he has the skills to run but doesn’t.
With his job being completed he didn’t realize the consequences of his actions. The village had lost so much the former village sat on dark ley lines with magic and only Pennar was strong enough for the dark magic to stay contained that is until the Vespera took over and dark magic also spread into their village.
Tessa is one of the most powerful witches in the coven. She has the affinity to metals. She wants to do right by her people. This means marrying the narcissistic bastard Damien from the Vespara coven. Scorpio isn’t happen about that but over time he proves himself to Tess and the village. She isn’t his biggest fan to begin with but that soon changes after he saves her life twice and Tessa gets to know him.
I loved all the characters in this book, be it the main or secondary characters. I loved the plot and the humor of the book.
“Ah, yes. Well this demon isn’t leaving.” With that Winston shuffled to a leather chair and lowered his slight frame. “Nope, we need to keep him See how helpful he is?” Tessa gave Scorpio an apologetic shrug. “Keep him? He’s not a stray dog.” “You know what I mean”
After two weeks he contacts the Watcher’s HQ to tell him that he is still alive and about the current situation that he has found his mate.
“Shit. I guess, congratulations are in order?” “Ehh, not yet. She’s not totally on board with the idea.”
To get Tess back. The Watcher’s pull out the big guns. Whysper the resident witch is kick ass and the ending was the best. Tessa was a bit naive when it came to the whole ending with Damien and her being kidnapped.
Can a leopard change his spots?
As long as the core of the person is solid then there are really no spots that need to be changed by said leopard.
I can’t wait for this series to continue.
Review to follow. Book received by Victory Editing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Can also be found on http://jeri-ryan.wix.com/jerisbookatt...
„I curse you now, demon. One day you will meet your destined mate. The very instance that you are in her presence, you will recognize that she is your other half, your female, and you will be seized with the need to claim her. You will ache with your need to complete the bond. But she…” the witch’s voice grew low, “she will despise you for the monster you are. She will avoid you as if you are poison to her. You will be in agony, demon. Let it be done!”
After a botched operation in Tainted Kiss, Scorpio is teleported to Bronwy he is severely injured and is captured by the witch’s coven where he once assassinated the chief mage Pennar, he was being blackmailed by a Dalamos, his mercenary skills in exchange for not hurting his brother and sister. He is to be bought to judgement by the village. They call him a murderer which is true. Half the village wants him dead and the other half doesn’t know what to do with him.
He is dangerous so they lock him up with dampening spells and gloves that let him from using his demonfire. He won’t leave as much as he wants to because he has smelt honeysuckle, the sign that he will have found his mate. As he is a lash demon he has the skills to run but doesn’t.
With his job being completed he didn’t realize the consequences of his actions. The village had lost so much the former village sat on dark ley lines with magic and only Pennar was strong enough for the dark magic to stay contained that is until the Vespera took over and dark magic also spread into their village.
Tessa is one of the most powerful witches in the coven. She has the affinity to metals. She wants to do right by her people. This means marrying the narcissistic bastard Damien from the Vespara coven. Scorpio isn’t happen about that but over time he proves himself to Tess and the village. She isn’t his biggest fan to begin with but that soon changes after he saves her life twice and Tessa gets to know him.
I loved all the characters in this book, be it the main or secondary characters. I loved the plot and the humor of the book.
“Ah, yes. Well this demon isn’t leaving.” With that Winston shuffled to a leather chair and lowered his slight frame. “Nope, we need to keep him See how helpful he is?” Tessa gave Scorpio an apologetic shrug. “Keep him? He’s not a stray dog.” “You know what I mean”
After two weeks he contacts the Watcher’s HQ to tell him that he is still alive and about the current situation that he has found his mate.
“Shit. I guess, congratulations are in order?” “Ehh, not yet. She’s not totally on board with the idea.”
To get Tess back. The Watcher’s pull out the big guns. Whysper the resident witch is kick ass and the ending was the best. Tessa was a bit naive when it came to the whole ending with Damien and her being kidnapped.
Can a leopard change his spots?
As long as the core of the person is solid then there are really no spots that need to be changed by said leopard.
I can’t wait for this series to continue.
Review to follow. Book received by Victory Editing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Can also be found on http://jeri-ryan.wix.com/jerisbookatt...
January 14, 2016
Book 2 in the Watcher's Kiss series
In his previous life Scorpio was an assassin for an evil demon, in order to save his younger brother and sister from torture and worse he was forced to kill on command. He is sent to kill a mage, Pennar and the consequences lead to the Bronwy coven being run off their lands and under the thumb of Damien, leader of the Vespera coven.
Scorpio is now a Lash Watcher, on a mission with his team he is suddenly ported to Bronwy to answer for the consequences. Once there, he immediately scents his mate and is confused when she doesn't recognise him as her mate too, another consequence of his actions all those years ago.
It takes a while for Tessa and the rest of her village to realise that Scorpio was as much a victim of circumstance as them but they come to trust him and believe he wants to help put things to rights. Just in the nick of time, if his plans aren't successful Tessa will suffer.
I hadn't read the first book in this series but I don't think that mattered, it reads well as a standalone. I enjoyed the world building, loved the couple and thought the relationship was realistically played out. There was no insta-love from Tessa, Scorpio had to work to make her love and trust him.
*Received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
In his previous life Scorpio was an assassin for an evil demon, in order to save his younger brother and sister from torture and worse he was forced to kill on command. He is sent to kill a mage, Pennar and the consequences lead to the Bronwy coven being run off their lands and under the thumb of Damien, leader of the Vespera coven.
Scorpio is now a Lash Watcher, on a mission with his team he is suddenly ported to Bronwy to answer for the consequences. Once there, he immediately scents his mate and is confused when she doesn't recognise him as her mate too, another consequence of his actions all those years ago.
It takes a while for Tessa and the rest of her village to realise that Scorpio was as much a victim of circumstance as them but they come to trust him and believe he wants to help put things to rights. Just in the nick of time, if his plans aren't successful Tessa will suffer.
I hadn't read the first book in this series but I don't think that mattered, it reads well as a standalone. I enjoyed the world building, loved the couple and thought the relationship was realistically played out. There was no insta-love from Tessa, Scorpio had to work to make her love and trust him.
*Received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
January 13, 2016
He is a demon who used have to kill for love, but the former mercenary, now a Lash Watcher has never been evil in spite of the pain he has caused. Scorpio knows pain, he knows what it’s like to be controlled, like a puppet dancing over a raging inferno, but that is his secret to tell or keep. After an operation has gone very wrong, Scorpio finds himself transported, injured and bleeding to Bronwy, a witch’s coven who remember him well for the death of their leader and consequent destruction of their village. Now locked away, his powers bound, what will be his fate? Never could he have imagined that an old curse would come back to torture him, mind, body and soul, but there she was, his true mate and she despised him, just like the witch who cursed him said.
Tessa is powerful, but this demon unnerves her with his stare, his deep voice and the kindness he seems to possess. Is it a trick so she will let down her guard and he can escape, or worse, kill off the coven? Things are bad enough since dark magic has declared war on her coven. Now there is a murdering monster who acts like a gentleman, except for saying “Mine” like a possessive child. As danger once again rears its ugly head in Bronwy, something must be done. Alone the witches are no match for the dark evil of Damian and his coven, but with Scorpio on their side, they may have a chance to turn the tables and win back all they have lost. He swears he will stay, he will fight for them, for Tessa and protect her at all costs, these are not the words of an animal, but those of a man who understands being the underdog, of a warrior willing to fight to the end for love. What does he hide deep within that could explain his past treachery? Follow Tessa and Scorpio as one powerful and semi-broken demon and one feisty, yet powerful witch face magic, mayhem and a chance for love against the odds and another witch’s curse.
Assassin’s Kiss by Sharon Kay is filled with the energy of Ms. Kay’s seemingly unlimited imagination. The world she has crafted is filled with magical beings, the eternal battle of good versus evil and the promise of finding an everlasting love between two unlikely mates. Scorpio is one of the more “refined” of Ms. Kay’s creations, there is a gentleness that comes from him even in his demon rage. Tessa is one tough cookie, ready to give whatever it takes for her people. Together, they make one sizzling hot team, hotter even than demon fire itself! Enter Ms. Kay’s world for the story, stay for the romance!
I received an ARC edition from Sharon Kay in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Watcher's Kiss - Book 2
Publication Date: January 12, 2016
Publisher: Sharon Kay
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Print Length: 302 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Tessa is powerful, but this demon unnerves her with his stare, his deep voice and the kindness he seems to possess. Is it a trick so she will let down her guard and he can escape, or worse, kill off the coven? Things are bad enough since dark magic has declared war on her coven. Now there is a murdering monster who acts like a gentleman, except for saying “Mine” like a possessive child. As danger once again rears its ugly head in Bronwy, something must be done. Alone the witches are no match for the dark evil of Damian and his coven, but with Scorpio on their side, they may have a chance to turn the tables and win back all they have lost. He swears he will stay, he will fight for them, for Tessa and protect her at all costs, these are not the words of an animal, but those of a man who understands being the underdog, of a warrior willing to fight to the end for love. What does he hide deep within that could explain his past treachery? Follow Tessa and Scorpio as one powerful and semi-broken demon and one feisty, yet powerful witch face magic, mayhem and a chance for love against the odds and another witch’s curse.
Assassin’s Kiss by Sharon Kay is filled with the energy of Ms. Kay’s seemingly unlimited imagination. The world she has crafted is filled with magical beings, the eternal battle of good versus evil and the promise of finding an everlasting love between two unlikely mates. Scorpio is one of the more “refined” of Ms. Kay’s creations, there is a gentleness that comes from him even in his demon rage. Tessa is one tough cookie, ready to give whatever it takes for her people. Together, they make one sizzling hot team, hotter even than demon fire itself! Enter Ms. Kay’s world for the story, stay for the romance!
I received an ARC edition from Sharon Kay in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Watcher's Kiss - Book 2
Publication Date: January 12, 2016
Publisher: Sharon Kay
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Print Length: 302 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
January 23, 2016
This is number two in this series but can definitely be read as a stand alone. And, I have to say... out of all of Sharon Kay's books this one really struck a chord with me and stands out as my favorite book that she has written so far. It seems like this Indie author has found her stride and so with each book the writing just gets better and better. If you love PR mixed with great steam and you love a... "Don't mess with me because I'll kick your butt!" heroine, then this is a great author to follow. She is one of my favorites for creating awesome characters, engaging storylines and always finds a way to bring strong, independent females together with those alpha males that make your heart go "thump thump"... as well as your lady parts! :)
Scorpio and Tessa are a match that you would think would be impossible to bring together, but strangely they are both cut from the same cloth and have the same priorities which are basically... I will do anything to keep those I love from coming to harm. Because they had similar values, it helped them to come together in a way that made sense.
Scorpio has a past that haunts him in the worst way. Tessa is unfortunately that one individual he meets in which his past collides very abruptly with the present. He must correct an act he was forced to commit decades earlier which caused a chain reaction of deadly consequences for an entire village. Tessa is his mate, but she hates him and that is a problem that is not easily resolved. He has to find a way to make her see him not as the mercenary he was forced to be in the past, but for the man he is now.
I love stories that revolve around magic and I think that is why I really enjoyed this installment. I loved Tessa and her ability to manipulate metal. I loved the conflict between her coven and the coven that they are fighting against who seem to be touched by dark magic. I loved the values that her coven held too and their determination to not give into hate but instead see the value of not succumbing to acts that would align with those touched by dark magic.
This is a very creative story, with really interesting and well developed characters. And, if you've read all of Sharon Kay's books you will get to see a few characters that you've met in prior books pop in for a visit. The writing in this one is stellar! It's easy to see that this author put a lot of heart into the emotions and feelings of these characters. It helped me to become more invested in their story.
So, another entertaining and enjoyable read by the lovely Sharon Kay. Looking forward to more from her for sure.
ARC was provided for review
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Scorpio and Tessa are a match that you would think would be impossible to bring together, but strangely they are both cut from the same cloth and have the same priorities which are basically... I will do anything to keep those I love from coming to harm. Because they had similar values, it helped them to come together in a way that made sense.
Scorpio has a past that haunts him in the worst way. Tessa is unfortunately that one individual he meets in which his past collides very abruptly with the present. He must correct an act he was forced to commit decades earlier which caused a chain reaction of deadly consequences for an entire village. Tessa is his mate, but she hates him and that is a problem that is not easily resolved. He has to find a way to make her see him not as the mercenary he was forced to be in the past, but for the man he is now.
I love stories that revolve around magic and I think that is why I really enjoyed this installment. I loved Tessa and her ability to manipulate metal. I loved the conflict between her coven and the coven that they are fighting against who seem to be touched by dark magic. I loved the values that her coven held too and their determination to not give into hate but instead see the value of not succumbing to acts that would align with those touched by dark magic.
This is a very creative story, with really interesting and well developed characters. And, if you've read all of Sharon Kay's books you will get to see a few characters that you've met in prior books pop in for a visit. The writing in this one is stellar! It's easy to see that this author put a lot of heart into the emotions and feelings of these characters. It helped me to become more invested in their story.
So, another entertaining and enjoyable read by the lovely Sharon Kay. Looking forward to more from her for sure.
ARC was provided for review
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KT Book Reviews
December 19, 2015
I've always been a fan of the world that Sharon Kay has created with the Solsti Prophesy and Watcher's Kiss series, and this book was no exception.
The first book in the Watcher's Kiss series, finds Scorpio, a Lash demon, unexpectedly taken hostage by a coven of witches who unfortunately remember his past.
After spending years as a mercenary for a twisted demon overlord, Scorpio has finally found a chance to redeem himself as a Lash Watcher, helping his fellow warriors maintain the peace between realms. However, when he finds himself held by the coven that he helped destroy, his chances of survival are slim. Throw into the mix a feisty, female witch named Tessa and you have an explosive combination of passion and power.
Scorpio immediately recognizes Tessa as his mate but with years of hatred and anger towards him, will Tessa ever be able to see beyond the monster?
I would highly recommend this series to PNR fans, Ms. Kay's book never disappoint.
***ARC given for honest review***
The first book in the Watcher's Kiss series, finds Scorpio, a Lash demon, unexpectedly taken hostage by a coven of witches who unfortunately remember his past.
After spending years as a mercenary for a twisted demon overlord, Scorpio has finally found a chance to redeem himself as a Lash Watcher, helping his fellow warriors maintain the peace between realms. However, when he finds himself held by the coven that he helped destroy, his chances of survival are slim. Throw into the mix a feisty, female witch named Tessa and you have an explosive combination of passion and power.
Scorpio immediately recognizes Tessa as his mate but with years of hatred and anger towards him, will Tessa ever be able to see beyond the monster?
I would highly recommend this series to PNR fans, Ms. Kay's book never disappoint.
***ARC given for honest review***
November 23, 2024
~ 4.5 Assassin’s Kiss Stars ~
Assassin’s Kiss is book two in the Watcher’s Kiss series by Sharon Kay. This novel can stand on it’s own. It’s an epic read full of deceit, hostility, corruption, and romance.
I was pulled into an intense, emotional, and epic battle for love and family. We are treated to a memorable couple and incredible world building .
The author does not hold back starting us off in a remarkable way by showing us Scorpio's past before becoming a Watcher. His circumstances left him with little to no real good chooses. Now he is left in a precocious predicament and must take baby steps to show those he hurt and his mate that he is as much a victim of circumstances as them.
Tessa is quite a character. She is in a precocious position as well and the feelings that Scorpio stirs make it that much more difficult. She’s stubborn and strong willed. Willing to make a big sacrifice to help save her people.
Tessa and Scorpio’s relationship played out nice and slow, making it realistic. The sensual scenes where passionate and powerful. Scorpio understood what needed to be done to win his women and the village over. The final battle was epic with loads of action and suspense.
The only thing that I did't get was why her friend (Zeebi) at the end threw herself in front of Tessa to save her from the bad wizards spell. I felt during that final scene that Zeebi was going to hurt Tessa, just to be with the bad guy or something. Zeebi's actions at the particular moment felt out of character. Maybe she still had a sliver of goodness in her left. I just don't know.
Assassin’s Kiss is a sensational read. This one is not to be missed, especially for paranormal romance fans who enjoy magic with a side of sexy as sin Lash demons.
*Disclaimer: I received a complimentary review copy provided by Sharon Kay with the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
Assassin’s Kiss is book two in the Watcher’s Kiss series by Sharon Kay. This novel can stand on it’s own. It’s an epic read full of deceit, hostility, corruption, and romance.
I was pulled into an intense, emotional, and epic battle for love and family. We are treated to a memorable couple and incredible world building .
The author does not hold back starting us off in a remarkable way by showing us Scorpio's past before becoming a Watcher. His circumstances left him with little to no real good chooses. Now he is left in a precocious predicament and must take baby steps to show those he hurt and his mate that he is as much a victim of circumstances as them.
Tessa is quite a character. She is in a precocious position as well and the feelings that Scorpio stirs make it that much more difficult. She’s stubborn and strong willed. Willing to make a big sacrifice to help save her people.
Tessa and Scorpio’s relationship played out nice and slow, making it realistic. The sensual scenes where passionate and powerful. Scorpio understood what needed to be done to win his women and the village over. The final battle was epic with loads of action and suspense.
The only thing that I did't get was why her friend (Zeebi) at the end threw herself in front of Tessa to save her from the bad wizards spell. I felt during that final scene that Zeebi was going to hurt Tessa, just to be with the bad guy or something. Zeebi's actions at the particular moment felt out of character. Maybe she still had a sliver of goodness in her left. I just don't know.
Assassin’s Kiss is a sensational read. This one is not to be missed, especially for paranormal romance fans who enjoy magic with a side of sexy as sin Lash demons.
*Disclaimer: I received a complimentary review copy provided by Sharon Kay with the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
January 7, 2016
Sharon kay creates a magical world full of a hot lash demon/watcher and witches in this book, it's book two in A Watchers Kiss series - Assassins Kiss.
Scorpio, was once an assassin, not by choice but he still killed to order. He has changed his ways and is now watcher under Arawn's watch. His currently a prisoner in a coven of witches and maybe his past is about to catch up with him in more ways than one!
Tessa, is the daughter of the coven leader. There coven has changed and so has the members life's due to the previous leaders death, which was caused by a certain Watcher! Tessa and her fellow witches are going to make him pay for his actions, that at is until she has to leave.....
Both the main characthers are very engaging, Scorpio is very smooth for a watcher, but his most definitely deadly even when his charming, his one you want on your side. Tessa isn't going to fall into Scorpio lap easily thanks to his past, he has his work cut out with this strong willed witch, she holds out longer than I expected but once his lips touch hers sparks fly and butterflies are released, those annoying ones that flutter in your tummy when you see someone you fancy.
There's always a baddy and damn Damien is bad and creepy, I sometimes take a liking to a baddy but not Damien.
This book is mostly based in the coven with the witches and Scorpio, the extras don't appear till later in the book, it was nice getting to know Scorpio more without the other watchers distracting me (they're all so yummy), but I enjoyed it when they turned up when needed and the brotherly interaction they all have.
An addictive paranormal world that's easy to read and lash demons/watchers to fall for.
Five I need my own lash demon stars
Scorpio, was once an assassin, not by choice but he still killed to order. He has changed his ways and is now watcher under Arawn's watch. His currently a prisoner in a coven of witches and maybe his past is about to catch up with him in more ways than one!
Tessa, is the daughter of the coven leader. There coven has changed and so has the members life's due to the previous leaders death, which was caused by a certain Watcher! Tessa and her fellow witches are going to make him pay for his actions, that at is until she has to leave.....
Both the main characthers are very engaging, Scorpio is very smooth for a watcher, but his most definitely deadly even when his charming, his one you want on your side. Tessa isn't going to fall into Scorpio lap easily thanks to his past, he has his work cut out with this strong willed witch, she holds out longer than I expected but once his lips touch hers sparks fly and butterflies are released, those annoying ones that flutter in your tummy when you see someone you fancy.
There's always a baddy and damn Damien is bad and creepy, I sometimes take a liking to a baddy but not Damien.
This book is mostly based in the coven with the witches and Scorpio, the extras don't appear till later in the book, it was nice getting to know Scorpio more without the other watchers distracting me (they're all so yummy), but I enjoyed it when they turned up when needed and the brotherly interaction they all have.
An addictive paranormal world that's easy to read and lash demons/watchers to fall for.
Five I need my own lash demon stars
January 8, 2016
4.5 Stars Let me just start off by saying I am not usually a fan of the whole paranormal, urban fantasy, witches and so on. I have tried a few times to read them in the past, but was never able to finish them so I steered clear of them. When I realized I had agreed to review an ARC copy of Assassin's Kiss by my own error I must say I was a little worried. But OMG I absolutely, positively, without a doubt enjoyed this story. Easy to connect with the character, they are sexy and strong , Scorpio is all alpha male. Tessa is loyal. The story line is great and easy to follow, The secondary I completely enjoyed. Over all a wonderful read.
Scorpio is Dalamos personal mercenary. When he is ordered to eliminate the mage to protect his sister, he is cursed by a witch.. Fast forward over a hundred years Scorpio is injured when a explosive spell sets off his transportation amulet landing him on the Bronwy River. He become captured by witches and the coven want him dead. Tessa is a witch and she has suffered plenty due to the actions of Scorpio. She despises him for putting her in the position she is in, in order to bring peace to her coven.
I have not read the first book Tainted Kiss (Watcher's Kiss #1) in this series, I was able to read Assassin's Kiss (Watcher's Kiss #2) without any issues or feeling lost.
I would definitely recommend this story. It has open my eyes to the paranormal, fantasy world. I will be going back and reading the first book in this series..
Christy,
Radical Reads Book Blog
Arc provided in exchange for my honest review
Scorpio is Dalamos personal mercenary. When he is ordered to eliminate the mage to protect his sister, he is cursed by a witch.. Fast forward over a hundred years Scorpio is injured when a explosive spell sets off his transportation amulet landing him on the Bronwy River. He become captured by witches and the coven want him dead. Tessa is a witch and she has suffered plenty due to the actions of Scorpio. She despises him for putting her in the position she is in, in order to bring peace to her coven.
I have not read the first book Tainted Kiss (Watcher's Kiss #1) in this series, I was able to read Assassin's Kiss (Watcher's Kiss #2) without any issues or feeling lost.
I would definitely recommend this story. It has open my eyes to the paranormal, fantasy world. I will be going back and reading the first book in this series..
Christy,
Radical Reads Book Blog
Arc provided in exchange for my honest review
January 13, 2016
From the first page, I was hooked! Engaging and original, another page turner from the author, who continues to surprise me with exciting adventures through enchanting worlds. But the biggest draw for me is always the characters, and as I've come to expect from the author, these characters are spellbinding, flawed, and lovable. Mix in some steamy, well written romance, and you have the start of another five star paranormal romance that will keep you up reading, late into the night!
Scorpio's life as an assassin, under the orders of a deadly and cruel leader, have led him through gut wrenching and challenging choices. But he had reasons for doing the things he did, others to protect, and a hardened exterior. So when the Winter Witch casts a spell on him he brushes it off. After all, he doesn't see himself as ever wanting a true mate, not with the life he leads. But years have passed, and now he finds himself face to face with Tessa... his other half. He knows she is the one. And as the full impact of an old curse is realized, he must come to terms with the damage he has done along the way... the lives he has impacted. And now, what his actions may mean for his own future. But can true love find a way?
Such a fantastic tale! I love the characters in this book, and the way their lives and stories intersect with the author's first series, The Solsti Prophecy. But you don't have to read the other series to jump right in and enjoy this enchanting tale!
Scorpio's life as an assassin, under the orders of a deadly and cruel leader, have led him through gut wrenching and challenging choices. But he had reasons for doing the things he did, others to protect, and a hardened exterior. So when the Winter Witch casts a spell on him he brushes it off. After all, he doesn't see himself as ever wanting a true mate, not with the life he leads. But years have passed, and now he finds himself face to face with Tessa... his other half. He knows she is the one. And as the full impact of an old curse is realized, he must come to terms with the damage he has done along the way... the lives he has impacted. And now, what his actions may mean for his own future. But can true love find a way?
Such a fantastic tale! I love the characters in this book, and the way their lives and stories intersect with the author's first series, The Solsti Prophecy. But you don't have to read the other series to jump right in and enjoy this enchanting tale!
December 31, 2015
When I started this book i had no idea it's part of a series and I didn't know what to expect - I have never read a witches PRN adult book and i had no idea how the author will make it work. But Sharon Kay did a wonderful job at capturing my interest from start to finish.
Assassin's Kiss tells the story of Scorpio, a ruthless warrior with a dark past; that past included him working as a mercenary for the evil Dalamos. On one of his missions he encounters an elder witch who, because of his actions, curses him with a love spell - he shall find his mate, but she'll despise him.
Fast forward 110 years and Scorpio, now a Lash Watcher, finds himself prisoner in a witch village. Here, the villagers want him to pay for his previous actions, actions which led to the dire situation the village is in. Early on, Scorpio feels there's something different about this covenant, and that is only intensified when he finds his mate. Tessa, a powerful metal witch, despises him for everything he put her village through. But soon after getting to know him better she realizes that there's more to Scorpio than meets the eye. In order to make Tessa his true mate, Scorpio will do anything he can to protect the village and its people, to undo his past actions, to make Bronwy safe again.
I loved how the author developed this story - it could've gotten corny and cliche, but it didn't. The chemistry between the characters is there from the beginning, but I adored seeing Scorpio having to work for Tessa - she didn't just succumb to his charms. The slow and steady pace their romance took was in contradiction with the fast paced evolution of the plot. The story was packed with action and incredibly vivid descriptions of battles, people and places. I had this feeling the author will lose me at one point, but she redeemed herself quickly
The characters were well written. Scorpio is a man's man, he's burly and tough, he's ruthless in his fights, but has one soft spot - he loves his family more than anything and won't stop at nothing to defend them. He's not sorry for his actions, but he feels compelled to right his wrongs. A warrior with a conscience is always the way to go.
Tessa was probably my favorite character from the book. She's strong and capable and the daughter of the Bronwy leader, but that doesn't define her. She wants to be known and respected by her own actions and not her father's rank. I loved that she was fierce, yet had her weak moments. Escaping her past isn't easy and she isn't ashamed of feeling fragile at times.
Another thing I enjoyed about the book were the secondary characters, characters I hope to read about in future installments in this series. They were well created and i was left wanting to know more about each and everyone of them.
I'm just in awe of this author and her incredible way of creating this wonderful fantasy world that could rival some of the biggest authors in the PRN/Fanstasy genre. She avoided cliches and went for originality and sometimes that's all it takes to distance yourself from the pack. I can only hope that she'll write more books in this series, because I couldn't get enough of these Lash Watchers.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy reads with amazing heroes and capable heroines, with smart and sensual dialogue and some greatly written action sequences.
***ARC given by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an HONEST review.
Assassin's Kiss tells the story of Scorpio, a ruthless warrior with a dark past; that past included him working as a mercenary for the evil Dalamos. On one of his missions he encounters an elder witch who, because of his actions, curses him with a love spell - he shall find his mate, but she'll despise him.
Fast forward 110 years and Scorpio, now a Lash Watcher, finds himself prisoner in a witch village. Here, the villagers want him to pay for his previous actions, actions which led to the dire situation the village is in. Early on, Scorpio feels there's something different about this covenant, and that is only intensified when he finds his mate. Tessa, a powerful metal witch, despises him for everything he put her village through. But soon after getting to know him better she realizes that there's more to Scorpio than meets the eye. In order to make Tessa his true mate, Scorpio will do anything he can to protect the village and its people, to undo his past actions, to make Bronwy safe again.
I loved how the author developed this story - it could've gotten corny and cliche, but it didn't. The chemistry between the characters is there from the beginning, but I adored seeing Scorpio having to work for Tessa - she didn't just succumb to his charms. The slow and steady pace their romance took was in contradiction with the fast paced evolution of the plot. The story was packed with action and incredibly vivid descriptions of battles, people and places. I had this feeling the author will lose me at one point, but she redeemed herself quickly
The characters were well written. Scorpio is a man's man, he's burly and tough, he's ruthless in his fights, but has one soft spot - he loves his family more than anything and won't stop at nothing to defend them. He's not sorry for his actions, but he feels compelled to right his wrongs. A warrior with a conscience is always the way to go.
Tessa was probably my favorite character from the book. She's strong and capable and the daughter of the Bronwy leader, but that doesn't define her. She wants to be known and respected by her own actions and not her father's rank. I loved that she was fierce, yet had her weak moments. Escaping her past isn't easy and she isn't ashamed of feeling fragile at times.
Another thing I enjoyed about the book were the secondary characters, characters I hope to read about in future installments in this series. They were well created and i was left wanting to know more about each and everyone of them.
I'm just in awe of this author and her incredible way of creating this wonderful fantasy world that could rival some of the biggest authors in the PRN/Fanstasy genre. She avoided cliches and went for originality and sometimes that's all it takes to distance yourself from the pack. I can only hope that she'll write more books in this series, because I couldn't get enough of these Lash Watchers.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy reads with amazing heroes and capable heroines, with smart and sensual dialogue and some greatly written action sequences.
***ARC given by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an HONEST review.
January 20, 2016
Assassin’s Kiss by Sharon Kay
Back from another fun journey from the wonderful and mystical realm of Torth where the twins moons light up their night sky. So many places within this realm I get the pleasure of visiting and in this book we are in the witch coven of Brownwy.
So this book picks up from Tainted Kiss where a mission goes awry and our hero, Scorpio goes missing. Injured and alone, Scorpio finds himself imprisoned at the hands of a witch coven that wants him dead. With Scorpio’s past as a mercenary, what better time for his past to catch up to him? And not only have that but, to find his mate in the midst of this group of witches that despised him? With so many missions under Scorpio’s belt, to gain the forgiveness of a whole witch coven and win the heart of his mate may be his most important mission yet.
In previous books, Scorpio was a man of few words and a cold unfeeling man with no emotion. He carries such an air of mystery that leaves you wondering what his story is and what shaped him to be the cold, lethal powerful man in Arwan’s watcher ranks.
Seeing Scorpio in action was a thing of beauty. The man is a powerful fighter and efficient killer complete with mind-numbing speed to boot. Charging dire wolves, snapping necks with his bare hands to throwing demon fire out of his hands oh my.... The only complaint was I wish I got to see how good he is with weapons but unfortunately his got taken away upon his capture initially. I was really surprised with how much I really liked Scorpio. For his hardened disposition, I expected a mean, slightly domineering man who can’t relate to others but no the man was continuing to win point after point with me. Scorpio was truly a man of honor who stayed true to his word. I really appreciated that the man used endless compassion, empathy and a world of patience to win Tessa over. Under all that hardened unemotion, is a kind, compassionate selfless man who puts others before himself. These books without fail make me fall hard for these watcher warriors of Torth. If you want selfless, kind and honorable men in your books, I suggest reaching for these books.
Tessa on the other hand was no slouch either. Tessa turned out to be an awesome witch with her own impressive abilities. I only wish to see more of her metal affinity abilities more throughout the book. After their terrible initial meeting, I was worried that Scorpio was going to kill himself trying to win over Tessa especially after reading the prologue but thankfully that was not the case because of her awesome intellect to see the bigger picture of his past actions. They made a spectacular match. I really enjoyed their physically love scenes I did but it was their emotional connection that left me breathless with awe.
I felt like Sharon had slowed the pace of this book compared to her other books with fast paced adventure but it was nice. Damien of the Vespera was a worthy villain and it was great to see the appearance of the other characters from previous books (Brenin needs a story ASAP). I really enjoyed this book and eagerly waiting for my next trip to Torth.
Reviewed by Xtina
Back from another fun journey from the wonderful and mystical realm of Torth where the twins moons light up their night sky. So many places within this realm I get the pleasure of visiting and in this book we are in the witch coven of Brownwy.
So this book picks up from Tainted Kiss where a mission goes awry and our hero, Scorpio goes missing. Injured and alone, Scorpio finds himself imprisoned at the hands of a witch coven that wants him dead. With Scorpio’s past as a mercenary, what better time for his past to catch up to him? And not only have that but, to find his mate in the midst of this group of witches that despised him? With so many missions under Scorpio’s belt, to gain the forgiveness of a whole witch coven and win the heart of his mate may be his most important mission yet.
In previous books, Scorpio was a man of few words and a cold unfeeling man with no emotion. He carries such an air of mystery that leaves you wondering what his story is and what shaped him to be the cold, lethal powerful man in Arwan’s watcher ranks.
Seeing Scorpio in action was a thing of beauty. The man is a powerful fighter and efficient killer complete with mind-numbing speed to boot. Charging dire wolves, snapping necks with his bare hands to throwing demon fire out of his hands oh my.... The only complaint was I wish I got to see how good he is with weapons but unfortunately his got taken away upon his capture initially. I was really surprised with how much I really liked Scorpio. For his hardened disposition, I expected a mean, slightly domineering man who can’t relate to others but no the man was continuing to win point after point with me. Scorpio was truly a man of honor who stayed true to his word. I really appreciated that the man used endless compassion, empathy and a world of patience to win Tessa over. Under all that hardened unemotion, is a kind, compassionate selfless man who puts others before himself. These books without fail make me fall hard for these watcher warriors of Torth. If you want selfless, kind and honorable men in your books, I suggest reaching for these books.
Tessa on the other hand was no slouch either. Tessa turned out to be an awesome witch with her own impressive abilities. I only wish to see more of her metal affinity abilities more throughout the book. After their terrible initial meeting, I was worried that Scorpio was going to kill himself trying to win over Tessa especially after reading the prologue but thankfully that was not the case because of her awesome intellect to see the bigger picture of his past actions. They made a spectacular match. I really enjoyed their physically love scenes I did but it was their emotional connection that left me breathless with awe.
I felt like Sharon had slowed the pace of this book compared to her other books with fast paced adventure but it was nice. Damien of the Vespera was a worthy villain and it was great to see the appearance of the other characters from previous books (Brenin needs a story ASAP). I really enjoyed this book and eagerly waiting for my next trip to Torth.
Reviewed by Xtina
January 15, 2016
Review copy courtesy of the author.
I think I've read just about all of the full length novels that this author has published. It all started back in 2013 with the first book in the Solsti Prophecy series. I fell in love with the world and the characters and I haven't looked back since. There's no need to read any of the other books before starting this one though. Feel free to jump on in!
I really liked Tessa, the heroine. She was strong and selfless and it was fun to read her. But she also felt real because she wasn't perfect. She had her weaknesses and fears that she had to deal with. I guess she was just a really well rounded character and to be honest, that's exactly what I've come to expect from this author. I liked that Tessa was such a good friend but I hated how long it took her to come around to the people in her life that weren't being totally honest. I can't fault her for not seeing what became obvious to the reader though. Tessa was kept in the dark, while I was able to see what everyone else was doing and thinking!
Scorpio... oh he sounded so hot! I pictured him like The Rock but with lighter hair. I loved how Scorpio was totally honest about who and what he was. He used to be an assassin but he's not a bad guy because he was sort of forced into it. He certainly isn't proud of what he's had to do but he's accepted it and is trying to make a better life by helping people as part of the cadre of Watchers (elite teams of warriors who help keep balance in the worlds). I thought it was pretty cool that Scorpio had this really awful and violent past but that he was also capable of lots of sweetness.
The Sexy Time, like all Sharon Kay novels, was plenty hot and steamy. But I liked the relationship between Tessa and Scorpio even more. I hope it doesn't sound too mean that I thought it was fun that Tessa HATED Scorpio when she first meets him. It made the progression from hate to something way better than hate that much more interesting to read. And Scorpio, for all that he was a huge, badass warrior, managed to take his time and not scare her off!
This was another excellent installment in this world that Sharon Kay has built. This is the second book in the Watcher's Kiss series but it can be read all on it's own. I really enjoyed the complex relationship between Tessa and Scorpio. It was certainly intense but it didn't feel like there was any unnecessary drama. This is definitely a paranormal romance and readers who like witches and alternate universes will definitely enjoy this book!
I think I've read just about all of the full length novels that this author has published. It all started back in 2013 with the first book in the Solsti Prophecy series. I fell in love with the world and the characters and I haven't looked back since. There's no need to read any of the other books before starting this one though. Feel free to jump on in!
I really liked Tessa, the heroine. She was strong and selfless and it was fun to read her. But she also felt real because she wasn't perfect. She had her weaknesses and fears that she had to deal with. I guess she was just a really well rounded character and to be honest, that's exactly what I've come to expect from this author. I liked that Tessa was such a good friend but I hated how long it took her to come around to the people in her life that weren't being totally honest. I can't fault her for not seeing what became obvious to the reader though. Tessa was kept in the dark, while I was able to see what everyone else was doing and thinking!
Scorpio... oh he sounded so hot! I pictured him like The Rock but with lighter hair. I loved how Scorpio was totally honest about who and what he was. He used to be an assassin but he's not a bad guy because he was sort of forced into it. He certainly isn't proud of what he's had to do but he's accepted it and is trying to make a better life by helping people as part of the cadre of Watchers (elite teams of warriors who help keep balance in the worlds). I thought it was pretty cool that Scorpio had this really awful and violent past but that he was also capable of lots of sweetness.
The Sexy Time, like all Sharon Kay novels, was plenty hot and steamy. But I liked the relationship between Tessa and Scorpio even more. I hope it doesn't sound too mean that I thought it was fun that Tessa HATED Scorpio when she first meets him. It made the progression from hate to something way better than hate that much more interesting to read. And Scorpio, for all that he was a huge, badass warrior, managed to take his time and not scare her off!
This was another excellent installment in this world that Sharon Kay has built. This is the second book in the Watcher's Kiss series but it can be read all on it's own. I really enjoyed the complex relationship between Tessa and Scorpio. It was certainly intense but it didn't feel like there was any unnecessary drama. This is definitely a paranormal romance and readers who like witches and alternate universes will definitely enjoy this book!
January 12, 2016
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review).
(This review may contain spoilers).
So, again… I was really happy to have the opportunity to read the second book in the Watcher series. Although it had been a little while since I’d read the last one, I was drawn really easily back into the world.
I felt a lot of empathy for Scorpio with the first scene. It was difficult to see any way around what he’d been ordered to do, even though I thought that the witch had a point in her decision to curse him. While I’m not a fan of love at first sight, it didn’t actually feel like that when I saw Scorpio’s and Tessa’s first meeting… and I really liked the fact that the author took the time to allow me to get to know the characters.
I did think that it would have been nice to see more of the individual characters in Tessa’s people, but I did enjoy seeing her relationship with her father. It was good to see that she was a strong female character… but still had weaknesses and made mistakes. I enjoyed getting to know more of both her and Scorpio’s past.
I really disliked Damien in this book. Unlike Tessa’s best friend, I couldn’t see any redeeming qualities in him at all. I was a bit confused with why he was so obsessed with Tessa, though. And I did feel that the reasons behind her decision to marry him weren’t made completely clear.
I liked the fact that this book was very much focused on Scorpio and Tessa, rather than switching constantly to the other characters from previous books. I especially enjoyed seeing Jinx take a shine to Scorpio… but that’s probably also because I love cats.
I did also really enjoy seeing more of the world, but a bit more concentrated. While I was confused about the crystals, I did enjoy the opportunity to see some of the witches lose their hostility towards Scorpio and it was good to see him begin to think of them as his people.
I felt that there was real danger in this book and the storyline was engaging, with realistic and likable main characters who each had hidden depth to them. I very much hope to read the next book in this series some time in the future.
(This review may contain spoilers).
So, again… I was really happy to have the opportunity to read the second book in the Watcher series. Although it had been a little while since I’d read the last one, I was drawn really easily back into the world.
I felt a lot of empathy for Scorpio with the first scene. It was difficult to see any way around what he’d been ordered to do, even though I thought that the witch had a point in her decision to curse him. While I’m not a fan of love at first sight, it didn’t actually feel like that when I saw Scorpio’s and Tessa’s first meeting… and I really liked the fact that the author took the time to allow me to get to know the characters.
I did think that it would have been nice to see more of the individual characters in Tessa’s people, but I did enjoy seeing her relationship with her father. It was good to see that she was a strong female character… but still had weaknesses and made mistakes. I enjoyed getting to know more of both her and Scorpio’s past.
I really disliked Damien in this book. Unlike Tessa’s best friend, I couldn’t see any redeeming qualities in him at all. I was a bit confused with why he was so obsessed with Tessa, though. And I did feel that the reasons behind her decision to marry him weren’t made completely clear.
I liked the fact that this book was very much focused on Scorpio and Tessa, rather than switching constantly to the other characters from previous books. I especially enjoyed seeing Jinx take a shine to Scorpio… but that’s probably also because I love cats.
I did also really enjoy seeing more of the world, but a bit more concentrated. While I was confused about the crystals, I did enjoy the opportunity to see some of the witches lose their hostility towards Scorpio and it was good to see him begin to think of them as his people.
I felt that there was real danger in this book and the storyline was engaging, with realistic and likable main characters who each had hidden depth to them. I very much hope to read the next book in this series some time in the future.
January 20, 2016
As a deadly assassin, demon Scorpio worked for Dalamos, killing off anyone he wanted killed without mercy or asking questions. He had to lock away his emotions because he only had one thing in mind: keeping his twin siblings well and alive and away fro Dalamos's threat. Dalamos held his family captive and used the to blackmail Scorpio to do his bidding.
Unfortunately for Scorpio he kills a newly bonded couple and an old witch curses him that he would find his mate and want her with all his being but she would hate him.
Fast forward to one hundred years later. Scorpio is now a Lash Watcher and his job is to maintain peace across the realms. He is out on a mission when he is captured by a coven of witches whose leader he killed. Now the witches want to punish him for all the bad things that have befallen them since their leader died.
This is where Scorpio meets the woman, Tessa a witch with an affinity to metal, who is to be his mate. He feels the instant connection and wants her at all cost.
But she hates him on sight for all the bad things that happened to her coven since he killed their leader. The coven was now under the influence of Vespera who uses dark magic to control them and extort things from them. Tessa is set to marry the man in a bid to protect her coven.
So with the odds stacked up against him, will Scorpio be able to escape captivity alive and convince Tessa that she is his mate? And even if Tessa agrees, how can she be with him without putting her coven at risk?
This is a story I really enjoyed mostly because of the wonderful world building. When I read a fantasy novel, I expect the author to paint the setting in such a way that makes it easy for me to picture every detail like I was watching a movie and she did a great job here. I also loved that although there was an instant connection (for Scorpio mostly) there was enough internal and external conflict to keep the couple apart. I really couldn't figure out how their issues were going to be resolved easily, which kept me at the edge of my seat.
This is definitely one every fan of fantasy romance should read. Happy to recommend.
Unfortunately for Scorpio he kills a newly bonded couple and an old witch curses him that he would find his mate and want her with all his being but she would hate him.
Fast forward to one hundred years later. Scorpio is now a Lash Watcher and his job is to maintain peace across the realms. He is out on a mission when he is captured by a coven of witches whose leader he killed. Now the witches want to punish him for all the bad things that have befallen them since their leader died.
This is where Scorpio meets the woman, Tessa a witch with an affinity to metal, who is to be his mate. He feels the instant connection and wants her at all cost.
But she hates him on sight for all the bad things that happened to her coven since he killed their leader. The coven was now under the influence of Vespera who uses dark magic to control them and extort things from them. Tessa is set to marry the man in a bid to protect her coven.
So with the odds stacked up against him, will Scorpio be able to escape captivity alive and convince Tessa that she is his mate? And even if Tessa agrees, how can she be with him without putting her coven at risk?
This is a story I really enjoyed mostly because of the wonderful world building. When I read a fantasy novel, I expect the author to paint the setting in such a way that makes it easy for me to picture every detail like I was watching a movie and she did a great job here. I also loved that although there was an instant connection (for Scorpio mostly) there was enough internal and external conflict to keep the couple apart. I really couldn't figure out how their issues were going to be resolved easily, which kept me at the edge of my seat.
This is definitely one every fan of fantasy romance should read. Happy to recommend.
January 12, 2016
Assassin's Kiss by Sharon Kay is the second book in the Watcher's Kiss Series. You can read this one as a standalone, although I recommend starting with Tainted Kiss (book 1) because you definitely will not want to miss Arawn and Ria's story.
Ms. Kay never ceases to amaze me with this fantastical (is that a word?) world she has created. You get witches, demons (the good kind), elves, and all sorts of paranormal beings in this series. The writing is strong, with an amazing eye for detail, and has some of the most engaging characters I've ever come across. If you're a fan of JR Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood series you will love this one as well.
In Assassin's Kiss we're introduced to Scorpio, a former mercenary, who finds himself being held prisoner by a witch's coven. He must now atone for his past mistakes, which isn't going to be easy considering the repercussions that came from a job he had to carry out years ago. Most members of the coven are out for blood, an eye for an eye. They've suffered so much and are seeking revenge.
Tessa, a young witch with an affinity for metal, instantly despises Scorpio. After all, he killed their former leader, leaving room for dark magic to grow and an evil leader to rise to power and kick Tessa and her coven off their land. There's no room for discussion in her mind, he must pay. Scorpio is clearly a cold, heartless murderer, right? Hmm, maybe not. The saying, "Every saint has a past, and every sinner has a future" comes to mind. And that's something Tessa and her coven will have to realize.
If you're looking to escape into a world so unlike anything you've ever read, then look no further. Ms. Kay delivers action, romance, and suspense in each book she writes and Assassin's Kiss is no exception. I was hooked from the very first page and you will be too!
Ms. Kay never ceases to amaze me with this fantastical (is that a word?) world she has created. You get witches, demons (the good kind), elves, and all sorts of paranormal beings in this series. The writing is strong, with an amazing eye for detail, and has some of the most engaging characters I've ever come across. If you're a fan of JR Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood series you will love this one as well.
In Assassin's Kiss we're introduced to Scorpio, a former mercenary, who finds himself being held prisoner by a witch's coven. He must now atone for his past mistakes, which isn't going to be easy considering the repercussions that came from a job he had to carry out years ago. Most members of the coven are out for blood, an eye for an eye. They've suffered so much and are seeking revenge.
Tessa, a young witch with an affinity for metal, instantly despises Scorpio. After all, he killed their former leader, leaving room for dark magic to grow and an evil leader to rise to power and kick Tessa and her coven off their land. There's no room for discussion in her mind, he must pay. Scorpio is clearly a cold, heartless murderer, right? Hmm, maybe not. The saying, "Every saint has a past, and every sinner has a future" comes to mind. And that's something Tessa and her coven will have to realize.
If you're looking to escape into a world so unlike anything you've ever read, then look no further. Ms. Kay delivers action, romance, and suspense in each book she writes and Assassin's Kiss is no exception. I was hooked from the very first page and you will be too!
January 15, 2016
4.5 out of 5
I received a copy of this story for an honest review.
Powerful warriors with dark pasts, wronged witches seeking revenge, a man and woman deemed enemies but helplessly drawn together - Assassin's Kiss (A Watchers Kiss Novel) has everything a paranormal romance fan could want. Once I started the story I could not put it down until I read the whole thing. Sharon Kay just keeps making the world of the Solsti and Watchers better and better and this latest installment is one of her best to date.
What I Loved: Assassin's Kiss is a solid story and I loved that it can be read as a stand alone. While established fans will find the well established paranormal realms and creatures that they've come to know and love in Kay's previous books, new readers will just find an incredibly well written and exciting story that they can dive right into. Scorpio and Tess a make a great pair and their energy sizzles.
What I Didn't Love: I would have enjoyed just a bit more interaction between Scorpio and his fellow Watchers or a slightly expanded epilogue showing Scorpio and Tessa more in that environment. That's just nit-picky though, Assassin's Kiss is still a top form paranormal romance.
Favorite Quotes:
"His brutally efficient outward actions seemed to define him, but obscured the true motivation that made his heart beat with the urgent need to protect."
"She gazed up at him, lost in the sincerity of his eyes. Sincerity that had radiated off him like sunlight ever since she'd first gotten near him. Warrior. Honor. Duty. Protect."
"Her warrior wore the armor of a cold mercenary. But under the veneer was a noble man who burned with life and love, who adored his family. Who fought for justice. All she could ever want in a mate."
Happy reading.
I received a copy of this story for an honest review.
Powerful warriors with dark pasts, wronged witches seeking revenge, a man and woman deemed enemies but helplessly drawn together - Assassin's Kiss (A Watchers Kiss Novel) has everything a paranormal romance fan could want. Once I started the story I could not put it down until I read the whole thing. Sharon Kay just keeps making the world of the Solsti and Watchers better and better and this latest installment is one of her best to date.
What I Loved: Assassin's Kiss is a solid story and I loved that it can be read as a stand alone. While established fans will find the well established paranormal realms and creatures that they've come to know and love in Kay's previous books, new readers will just find an incredibly well written and exciting story that they can dive right into. Scorpio and Tess a make a great pair and their energy sizzles.
What I Didn't Love: I would have enjoyed just a bit more interaction between Scorpio and his fellow Watchers or a slightly expanded epilogue showing Scorpio and Tessa more in that environment. That's just nit-picky though, Assassin's Kiss is still a top form paranormal romance.
Favorite Quotes:
"His brutally efficient outward actions seemed to define him, but obscured the true motivation that made his heart beat with the urgent need to protect."
"She gazed up at him, lost in the sincerity of his eyes. Sincerity that had radiated off him like sunlight ever since she'd first gotten near him. Warrior. Honor. Duty. Protect."
"Her warrior wore the armor of a cold mercenary. But under the veneer was a noble man who burned with life and love, who adored his family. Who fought for justice. All she could ever want in a mate."
Happy reading.
January 22, 2016
**Originally posted on Kiki's Kinky Picks**
Assassin’s Kiss by Sharon Kay was a solid book with well-developed characters and an interesting plot. It’s the second book in the Watcher’s Kiss series but can be read as a standalone. (I haven’t read the first book yet, and I had zero problems with reading this one.)
Scorpio is the most badass of badasses. But he isn’t just some cold-blooded killer and I think Sharon did a really great job portraying this. Everyone perceives him as one thing, but underneath the stoicism is someone who cares deeply for others.
There was a really interesting combination of old and modern in this book. The village Tessa and her coven live in comes across as very rustic. There are no cars or television and everyone carries knives or swords, yet everyone has a cell phone. It took a bit of getting used to.
Everything from the dire wolves to the portals were described well. Sharon has built an intricate world with this series. When I can really immerse myself into a book world, especially a fantasy or sci-fi, I can enjoy it so much more.
Whysper was my favorite character and I love that she called the Watchers ‘the boys.‘ I liked that old, powerful witches were like celebrities. That made me chuckle.
I really appreciated that Scorpio wasn’t intimidated by Tessa’s power. She’s a powerful leader in her coven with a much-coveted ability and Scorpio is nothing but impressed and supportive.
The bad guy, Damien, was a bit over-the-top evil for me. After the way he was described and feared by everyone, I was expecting Darth Vadar not Gachnar.
I really enjoyed Assassin’s Kiss. It was an interesting story that fell outside my usual genre but I still found it fascinating and engaging. I can’t wait to read the first book and I plan on following this series in the future.
Copy provided in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Assassin’s Kiss by Sharon Kay was a solid book with well-developed characters and an interesting plot. It’s the second book in the Watcher’s Kiss series but can be read as a standalone. (I haven’t read the first book yet, and I had zero problems with reading this one.)
Scorpio is the most badass of badasses. But he isn’t just some cold-blooded killer and I think Sharon did a really great job portraying this. Everyone perceives him as one thing, but underneath the stoicism is someone who cares deeply for others.
There was a really interesting combination of old and modern in this book. The village Tessa and her coven live in comes across as very rustic. There are no cars or television and everyone carries knives or swords, yet everyone has a cell phone. It took a bit of getting used to.
Everything from the dire wolves to the portals were described well. Sharon has built an intricate world with this series. When I can really immerse myself into a book world, especially a fantasy or sci-fi, I can enjoy it so much more.
Whysper was my favorite character and I love that she called the Watchers ‘the boys.‘ I liked that old, powerful witches were like celebrities. That made me chuckle.
I really appreciated that Scorpio wasn’t intimidated by Tessa’s power. She’s a powerful leader in her coven with a much-coveted ability and Scorpio is nothing but impressed and supportive.
The bad guy, Damien, was a bit over-the-top evil for me. After the way he was described and feared by everyone, I was expecting Darth Vadar not Gachnar.
I really enjoyed Assassin’s Kiss. It was an interesting story that fell outside my usual genre but I still found it fascinating and engaging. I can’t wait to read the first book and I plan on following this series in the future.
Copy provided in exchange for a fair and honest review.
December 26, 2015
Got this book from Netgalley for an honest review:
Scorpio is a walking definition of never judging a book by his cover. He worked for an evil man as an assassin to protect his siblings. But everyone around him just see him as a Lash demon who kills without regret. It was on a mission that a witch casts him a curse. He will be able to know his mate as soon as he meets her but she will loath him. Honestly I dont feel like this a curse but a blessing in disguise for he knew who his mate was even if she didnt like him. It gave him a chance to pause and see what happens in an after effect from his assassinations. He comes to regret some of the stuff he has done to make people suffer but he also wouldnt change it since he protected his family doing it. He has changed his ways since he became a watcher but is still trying to get over his reputation.
His mate is a witch named Tessa that was affected by the assassination more then most since she is has a rare magical gift working with metal. She promised marriage to the enemy in exchange for some peace to her coven from their dark magic. She meets Scorpio while fixing spells on his cage and instantly hates him for starting the chain reaction that landed her in her current position. She has to spend time with him and come to learn he isnt the cold blooded monster people believed. She starts to become his advocate. Slowly she falls in love with him but doesnt think she could actually be with him since she gave her word to save her coven. She is too trusting when it comes to people in her life but when the ultimate betrayal happens she doesnt believe she is good enough to be with Scorpio even when he came to her help. We just need to see if true love really does have the power to save someone you love.
Scorpio is a walking definition of never judging a book by his cover. He worked for an evil man as an assassin to protect his siblings. But everyone around him just see him as a Lash demon who kills without regret. It was on a mission that a witch casts him a curse. He will be able to know his mate as soon as he meets her but she will loath him. Honestly I dont feel like this a curse but a blessing in disguise for he knew who his mate was even if she didnt like him. It gave him a chance to pause and see what happens in an after effect from his assassinations. He comes to regret some of the stuff he has done to make people suffer but he also wouldnt change it since he protected his family doing it. He has changed his ways since he became a watcher but is still trying to get over his reputation.
His mate is a witch named Tessa that was affected by the assassination more then most since she is has a rare magical gift working with metal. She promised marriage to the enemy in exchange for some peace to her coven from their dark magic. She meets Scorpio while fixing spells on his cage and instantly hates him for starting the chain reaction that landed her in her current position. She has to spend time with him and come to learn he isnt the cold blooded monster people believed. She starts to become his advocate. Slowly she falls in love with him but doesnt think she could actually be with him since she gave her word to save her coven. She is too trusting when it comes to people in her life but when the ultimate betrayal happens she doesnt believe she is good enough to be with Scorpio even when he came to her help. We just need to see if true love really does have the power to save someone you love.
December 18, 2015
Marie's Tempting Reads ARC Review:
I FREAKING LOVED SCORPIO!! So Scorpio is the hero in Assassin's Kiss by Sharon Kay, and I found him to be incredibly intense. He was once a dangerous assassin, and now he tries to help his fellow demons to keep peace. When he is captured and taken prisoner by witches, he finds something he never expected...his mate! The moment he captures her scent, he wants her, even when he didn't know what she looked like. But once he sees her, his need for her becomes almost unbearable. I couldn't take my eyes from my ereader as I watched his exchanges with his beautiful witch Tessa. He wants her more and more with each exchange but the moment he finds out she is supposed to marry another, he knows he will stop at NOTHING to get Tessa to be his mate, in the full sense of the word.
Scorpio wasn't only intense, but surprisingly patient and sweet to Tessa. Even when she unleashes her powers on him, he wants her. This story felt a lot like Kresley Cole's IAD stories. It captured my complete attention and had me biting my lip, and eager to see what would happen next. Its full of almost non-stop action and steamy banter, terrific characters, and one incredible plot!
I actually enjoyed this book more than I did with the first one..and I honestly didn't think that was possible! I definitely want to see more in this series.
Assassin's Kiss gets a SENSATIONAL FIVE SHOOTING STARS! It truly is an exceptional story with one seriously macho, sexy demon, and a witch with attitude and sass! This is the type of paranormal romance that win awards.
I FREAKING LOVED SCORPIO!! So Scorpio is the hero in Assassin's Kiss by Sharon Kay, and I found him to be incredibly intense. He was once a dangerous assassin, and now he tries to help his fellow demons to keep peace. When he is captured and taken prisoner by witches, he finds something he never expected...his mate! The moment he captures her scent, he wants her, even when he didn't know what she looked like. But once he sees her, his need for her becomes almost unbearable. I couldn't take my eyes from my ereader as I watched his exchanges with his beautiful witch Tessa. He wants her more and more with each exchange but the moment he finds out she is supposed to marry another, he knows he will stop at NOTHING to get Tessa to be his mate, in the full sense of the word.
Scorpio wasn't only intense, but surprisingly patient and sweet to Tessa. Even when she unleashes her powers on him, he wants her. This story felt a lot like Kresley Cole's IAD stories. It captured my complete attention and had me biting my lip, and eager to see what would happen next. Its full of almost non-stop action and steamy banter, terrific characters, and one incredible plot!
I actually enjoyed this book more than I did with the first one..and I honestly didn't think that was possible! I definitely want to see more in this series.
Assassin's Kiss gets a SENSATIONAL FIVE SHOOTING STARS! It truly is an exceptional story with one seriously macho, sexy demon, and a witch with attitude and sass! This is the type of paranormal romance that win awards.
January 13, 2016
Oh wow what another great addition to the series.
We knew Scorpio was sent somewhere but who knew it would be right into the path of a coven he had wronged in the past. We knew he had a dark past and now we get to find out the truth behind it and what he did to protect those he loved, and how now that he is a watcher sworn to do good he will do anything to right the mistakes he has made now that he sees just how much his actions have caused pain to others especially when it involves his fated mate.
Tessa knows only the evil he did and the hurt it caused to her coven but can she open herself up enough to getting to know him to see that sometimes the lines between right and wrong are blurred?
Scorpio is strong and sure of himself he knows his past has not put him in a good light and he owns up to his actions not trying to find a way out of it but accepting whatever fate other see fit that he deserves.
Tessa cares for her family and friends and will do anything she can to make their lives better even if it means giving up her own freedom. She has always seen the world in black and white but when she sees how blurred the lines can really be she realises things might not be as simple as she thought and opens herself to the possibilities.
Allot other problems come from the past and mistakes made, and you see how hard Scorpio works to ensures Tessa sees things in a new way. I love seeing their story play out in this addition to the series!
We knew Scorpio was sent somewhere but who knew it would be right into the path of a coven he had wronged in the past. We knew he had a dark past and now we get to find out the truth behind it and what he did to protect those he loved, and how now that he is a watcher sworn to do good he will do anything to right the mistakes he has made now that he sees just how much his actions have caused pain to others especially when it involves his fated mate.
Tessa knows only the evil he did and the hurt it caused to her coven but can she open herself up enough to getting to know him to see that sometimes the lines between right and wrong are blurred?
Scorpio is strong and sure of himself he knows his past has not put him in a good light and he owns up to his actions not trying to find a way out of it but accepting whatever fate other see fit that he deserves.
Tessa cares for her family and friends and will do anything she can to make their lives better even if it means giving up her own freedom. She has always seen the world in black and white but when she sees how blurred the lines can really be she realises things might not be as simple as she thought and opens herself to the possibilities.
Allot other problems come from the past and mistakes made, and you see how hard Scorpio works to ensures Tessa sees things in a new way. I love seeing their story play out in this addition to the series!
January 20, 2016
This is book two in the "Watcher's Kiss" series. I have not yet read book one 'Tainted Kiss' and I did not have a problem keep up with this book...so for me this was a standalone book. I did enjoy the writing and story so I will be looking into get that first book. This is a paranormal romance too. Scorpio is a Warrior who had to do some killing that were forced on him to protect his sister and brother. They were threaten to be hurt if he did not do some of the 'hits'. One being that of a clan leader and the clan leaders true love. For that he was cursed by a witch to know his true love but she would hate him on site. Not believing it..he forgot the curse until he return years later to the place were he had killed the couple. There he finds the impact of his earlier acts. The people have been held under the thumb of a neighboring enemy. The people there remember him for his killing and take him hostage. There he does meet his true love, Tessa. Tessa does dislike him right of the bat. Scorpio decided he needed to help these people and free them from their enemy and correct the wrong he had done them. Also this would bring Tessa to fill different about him. But getting them to start trusting him and getting Tessa to not hate him doesn't seem to be to easy at first. I enjoy this book and hope that you will too!
January 21, 2016
Tainted Kiss was the first book that I read by Sharon Kay in preparation for Assassins Kiss. Now let me tell you, I couldn't put either down and finished them back to back. I kept going back to the thought of 'What happened to Scorpio?'. Before you ask, book 1 does not end in a cliffhanger and both books can be read as a stand alone BUT I would suggest reading both because they are just that captivating!
Assassins Kiss is the story of Scorpio the assassin turned Watcher and Tessa the metal controlling witch. Scorpio knows once he sees Tessa that she is meant to be his. There is only one problem: Scorpio is cursed and he did a great injustice to Tessa's people creating almost the end of their lives as a Coven.
Sparks fly between Scorpio and Tessa. His only ally is Tessa's cat Jinx. That has to count for something though, right? Can Tessa help Scorpio lift the curse and give them a chance at everything they could ever want or will the forces of darkness crush the destiny before them?
This is my confession: This series is a must read, regardless if it isn't your usual genre!
Assassins Kiss is the story of Scorpio the assassin turned Watcher and Tessa the metal controlling witch. Scorpio knows once he sees Tessa that she is meant to be his. There is only one problem: Scorpio is cursed and he did a great injustice to Tessa's people creating almost the end of their lives as a Coven.
Sparks fly between Scorpio and Tessa. His only ally is Tessa's cat Jinx. That has to count for something though, right? Can Tessa help Scorpio lift the curse and give them a chance at everything they could ever want or will the forces of darkness crush the destiny before them?
This is my confession: This series is a must read, regardless if it isn't your usual genre!
January 5, 2016
Sharon Kay has created another fabulous world with this series, which sucks you in!
Scorpio, a Lash demon, has been taken by a coven of witches who remember his past a little too well. As a mercenary for a demonic overlord, Scorpio is trying to redeem himself as a Lash Watcher, and maintain the peace between realms. But now he's been captured by the coven he once had to destroy and any chances of survival are gone.
But when a witch known as Tessa enters the frame, there may just be hope for Scorpio yet. She is his mate but can she see past her hatred and anger of him and his kind?
Fabulous narrative, explosive passion and a great storyline!!! Enjoyed this immensely.
***ARC given for honest review***
Scorpio, a Lash demon, has been taken by a coven of witches who remember his past a little too well. As a mercenary for a demonic overlord, Scorpio is trying to redeem himself as a Lash Watcher, and maintain the peace between realms. But now he's been captured by the coven he once had to destroy and any chances of survival are gone.
But when a witch known as Tessa enters the frame, there may just be hope for Scorpio yet. She is his mate but can she see past her hatred and anger of him and his kind?
Fabulous narrative, explosive passion and a great storyline!!! Enjoyed this immensely.
***ARC given for honest review***
January 11, 2016
I enjoyed this book. I was pleasantly surprised to see the spinoff book from the Solsti Prophecy series, which I had previously enjoyed. I did not read the first installment in this new Watcher series, but I thought the book read as a standalone.
Scorpio is a Lash demon who was forced to be an assassin before escaping and becoming a Watcher. Along the way, he was cursed that if he found his mate, she would despise him. Cue up about 100 years later and the impossible happens. He finds his mate, a tough as nails witch named Tessa. He has to earn her trust the hard way, but eventually she softens and falls in love. They of course have to fight the bad guy, but it definitely had a HOA. Great plot, great characters. Will now have to go back and read the first book!
Scorpio is a Lash demon who was forced to be an assassin before escaping and becoming a Watcher. Along the way, he was cursed that if he found his mate, she would despise him. Cue up about 100 years later and the impossible happens. He finds his mate, a tough as nails witch named Tessa. He has to earn her trust the hard way, but eventually she softens and falls in love. They of course have to fight the bad guy, but it definitely had a HOA. Great plot, great characters. Will now have to go back and read the first book!
August 22, 2016
Can a 100 year old curse keep destined soul mates from one another? Perhaps and perhaps not…
Demon Scorpio is the one cursed and he finds his mate while imprisoned in a Witch community he unknowingly created havoc in decades before. Tessa wants nothing to do with Scorpio but her cat, Jinx, thinks he is the cat’s meow. Over time things begin to change for both of them BUT a clan of black magic wielding witches needs to be defeated before true love can be claimed…if it can be claimed at all. There is plenty of action, some romance, good and evil, betrayal and a whole lot more throughout this book that took me to a different world filled with magic and more.
*I received a copy of this book from eBook Discovery in exchange for my honest review.*
Demon Scorpio is the one cursed and he finds his mate while imprisoned in a Witch community he unknowingly created havoc in decades before. Tessa wants nothing to do with Scorpio but her cat, Jinx, thinks he is the cat’s meow. Over time things begin to change for both of them BUT a clan of black magic wielding witches needs to be defeated before true love can be claimed…if it can be claimed at all. There is plenty of action, some romance, good and evil, betrayal and a whole lot more throughout this book that took me to a different world filled with magic and more.
*I received a copy of this book from eBook Discovery in exchange for my honest review.*
March 19, 2016
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
Pretty good story. I enjoyed it. The story felt rather incongruous with the paranormal elements and then completely mundane ones - jeans, phones, etc. Scorpio is working to overcome his past as an assassin. He is cursed by a witch after he kills a mage and his mate. A hundred years later, he's forgotten the curse until he is injured and captured by a group of witches. Tessa is a metal witch and deeply committed to her coven.
Watching them work to overcome both his past and her feelings about this past made for a goods story.
Pretty good story. I enjoyed it. The story felt rather incongruous with the paranormal elements and then completely mundane ones - jeans, phones, etc. Scorpio is working to overcome his past as an assassin. He is cursed by a witch after he kills a mage and his mate. A hundred years later, he's forgotten the curse until he is injured and captured by a group of witches. Tessa is a metal witch and deeply committed to her coven.
Watching them work to overcome both his past and her feelings about this past made for a goods story.
January 12, 2016
4.5
Before reading this story please read the below books first
Tainted Kiss (Watcher's Kiss #1)
This is Tessa and Scorpio’s story. Tessa has promised to marry someone to save her people. Scorpio knows that Tessa is his but can he get her to believe before she weds another? The longer that Scorpio stays in the jail the more time he has to convince Tessa. He could have easily escaped but once he recognized his mate he stayed. Now he fights the mating and tries to get Tessa to believe him. When he saves her she finally starts to believe. Can she really trust him or is he going to get her killed?
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
Before reading this story please read the below books first
Tainted Kiss (Watcher's Kiss #1)
This is Tessa and Scorpio’s story. Tessa has promised to marry someone to save her people. Scorpio knows that Tessa is his but can he get her to believe before she weds another? The longer that Scorpio stays in the jail the more time he has to convince Tessa. He could have easily escaped but once he recognized his mate he stayed. Now he fights the mating and tries to get Tessa to believe him. When he saves her she finally starts to believe. Can she really trust him or is he going to get her killed?
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
December 18, 2015
I loved this! The realm this author created is wonderful and I find that I like the Watchers series more than the Solsti series. Scorpio's story is all I had hoped for and more. Tessa was a female lead I really enjoyed and while it took a bit for her to warm up to the amazingly yummy Scorpio she did quicker than I actually anticipated. I can't wait for more from this series and I can't decide who I'd like to see a story on next, perhaps Brenin.
This was a complimentary e-copy provided by the author and publisher for a honest review via Netgalley.
This was a complimentary e-copy provided by the author and publisher for a honest review via Netgalley.
March 19, 2016
This is the second book in the watcher series, and the first I have read from Ms. Kay. I did enjoy.the world created although at times I felt as though I was not sure of the layout of things. Tessa is a strong willed female lead and I enjoyed her commentary throughout. Scorpio took a little more time to warm up to but I liked their interaction. I do feel if I read the first book in the series I might not be as confused about the different realms discussed and I plan to go back and read the first book to see if that is accurate assumption. Overall great read.
Read
June 3, 2017DNF at 48%. This was just not for me. Lightweight fluff and not much happening. I heard mine and my mate until I couldn't deal with it any more.
I was pulled in (suckered, actually) by all the high reviews; until I scrolled through the reviews. Nearly every one was an arc, as mine was, or a gift from the author...hmmm...
I was pulled in (suckered, actually) by all the high reviews; until I scrolled through the reviews. Nearly every one was an arc, as mine was, or a gift from the author...hmmm...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews