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Lords of the Underworld #14.6

The Darkest Assassin

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Fox is a demon-possessed immortal with many talents.
Ability to open portals—check
Power to kill the most dangerous Sent Ones—check
Scare away any man who might want to date her—mate
Now, the keeper of Distrust has been marked for death, a winged assassin with rainbow-colored eyes tracking her every move, determined to avenge the males she accidentally decimated. If only she could control the desire to rip off his clothes…

Bjorn is a fierce warrior with many complications.
Tragic, torture-filled past—check
A wife he was forced to wed, who is draining his life force—check
Ever-intensifying desire for the enigmatic Fox—mate
Never has he hesitated to exterminate an evil being. Until now. The sharp-tongued female with a shockingly vulnerable heart tempts him in ways no one else ever has, threatening his iron control.

But, as Fate itself seems to conspire against the unlikely pair, both old and new enemies emerge. And Fox and Bjorn must fight to survive.

And learn to love…

211 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 10, 2019

567 people are currently reading
3354 people want to read

About the author

Gena Showalter

263 books27.8k followers
Gena Showalter is the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of over seventy books, including the acclaimed Lords of the Underworld series, the Gods of War series, the White Rabbit Chronicles, and the Forest of Good and Evil series. She writes sizzling paranormal romance, heartwarming contemporary romance, and unputdownable young adult novels, and lives in Oklahoma City with her family and menagerie of dogs and cats.

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5 stars
1,244 (50%)
4 stars
840 (33%)
3 stars
332 (13%)
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52 (2%)
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16 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 234 reviews
Profile Image for Sophia Triad.
2,241 reviews3,764 followers
December 28, 2019
Do you remember Bjorn from Angels of Dark series?
What or who was eating away Bjorn????

Finally we will get his story!

Well I loved the story.
Bjorn finds the perfect girl and he has a sizzling chemistry with Fox. Fox is the enemy who was sent to destroy and who later will become his lover.
Many favourite characters from Angels of Dark also appear (Thane I love you!) and the writing style remined me the first books of Lords of the Underworld.

Highly entertaining and highly recommended for all the fans.
Profile Image for Kat valentine ( Katsbookcornerreads).
775 reviews1,264 followers
September 18, 2020
Loved it!!!! I have wanted to know all about sent one and hot as f##k Bjorn since first reading about him in the angels of the dark series!!! We finally know his story and who's been pulling his strings and litterly been sucking the life out of him. And bad girl and kick ass Fox is back!!! Living with the demon distrust has been no picnic and when she kills 10 sent ones bjorn is sent to kill her. But the attraction is instant and their be no turning back.
I love this little bad ass and was so happy that gena picked someone like bjorn to be her mate! They have unbelievable hot chemistry and when the gloves come off and desire takes the wheel it's a steamy and sexy romp that has the bed a rocking!!! I never get tired of this series!! Gena showalter is a hell of a writer and the Lord's of the underworld is a fabulous series!!! Until next time Luv's 💕💋
Profile Image for Natalie  ~ The Biblioholic.
2,713 reviews1,419 followers
December 6, 2019
Bjorn, one of the Sent Ones, the One True Dread, was tasked with executing the killer who took out ten of his brethren. Fox the Executioner knew she deserved some sort of punishment for what she had done. She also believed that she should have been shown some lenience or understanding because she didn't want to kill those warriors - it wasn't her fault that the demon who possessed her, Distrust, went a little (a lot) nuts. Their initial meeting didn't go as planned... she's naked, he can't look away from any part of her, and they're both distracted. It made for some crazy hot reading!!

Fox always relied on money and material things because those things would never let her down. They can't hurt her. Reality TV gives her life and her one true connection was Galen, the man who took her in when she had no one. And then Bjorn burst into her life, quickly becoming her everything, even if he planned to kill her. He was a warrior of honor, he had two best friends who were like brothers to him, and he was caught in an untenable situation he didn't know how to get out of. Forced to wed a woman he despised, he couldn't help but hunger for the one woman who was the exact opposite of everything he thought he wanted and yet was everything he needed.

"I'm not afraid of the dark, I am the dark." - Bjorn

"The best way to navigate the dark? With a sword." - Fox

Amidst the action and the underlying theme of war, a beautiful love story developed. Bjorn and Fox didn't have many reasons to trust each other and they fought their instincts hard every step of the way, denying their feelings and causing each other pain, but somehow they were able to connect in ways no one expected. They had each lived a hard life, with painful and heartwrenching pasts, and wanted more. I loved how they were the perfect complement for each other. I loved that they didn't take things lying down or allow the other to walk all over them. Fox was just as fierce as Bjorn and I loved how the author showed how much these characters appreciated and admired the qualities they found in the other. I found it impossible not to fall in love with these people and their story and how their love may not have come easily, but it was most definitely worthwhile.

Reading The Darkest Assassin was such an incredible experience! Bjorn and Fox shared the intense chemistry we all come to anticipate in an enemies-to-lovers story and it was beyond delicious! They were engaged in a dance of death and it was hypnotic, enchanting, and lethal. I think one of the best things about this story was the fact that I had already read Baden's story, where he was the original holder of the demon, Distrust, and I got the chance to compare his horrific journey with the one Fox had to face. At least she hasn't gone crazy yet, determined to die in order to escape her fate. If you want to know more about Baden, check out The Darkest Torment. As for Bjorn and Fox, their story was absolutely perfect for paranormal romance readers everywhere!

Find my full review HERE



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Profile Image for Azet.
1,095 reviews285 followers
March 16, 2021
In "The Darkest Assassin" the Sent One Bjorn, the One True Dread gets the mission to kill Fox the Executioner who is possessed by the demon of Distrust-for her crime in killing 10 Sent One warriors in the former novella.What he never expected was the undenyable pull he would feel towards Fox-and her insistent seduction which makes him forget the whole purpose of his mission.

I have always longed for Bjorn to find his heroine-he is so broken and tortured inside that i wept for his pain.His loyalty for Thane and Xerxes brings tears to my eyes-all these three men would gladly die for each other.Fox is the gothic kickass chick that was Galen`s sidekick and knows she is sexy and knows how to prove it.She brings a whole light and joy into Bjorn`s world,and despite the demon inside her she fought for her life and happiness.Bjorn and Fox becomes each others safe heaven,i love how Gena Showalter executed their love-story.
YEAHHH I got to meet William the Ever Randy´s fated heroine,she seems so awesome!How i look forward to their story!Meeting Thane and Elin was awesome too,they are still madly in love with each other its so romantic!

***
“I love your fearlessness. I love your mind, and I love your body. I love your honesty and loyalty, both a rare and precious prize. I love your strength, and I love your vulnerability. I love your everything, and I hate the way I treated you and made you feel. You built me up, yet I tore you down.”

-Bjorn
Profile Image for Madison Warner Fairbanks.
3,396 reviews495 followers
January 29, 2021
The Darkest Assassin by Gena Showalter
Lords of the Underwood book 14.6. Paranormal romance novella. Best read as part of the series. Or at least familiar with the series.
Very dark and ugly. I hate lying and that’s all Fox and Bjorn do in this story. Lie to themselves. Lie to each other.
Tragic, violent, gruesome, erotic and sad.
I will not be reading more of this series.
Profile Image for Naomi.
598 reviews23 followers
February 27, 2022
Bjorn is coming...

This book is absolutely amazing and brilliant and all the things you're hoping for. It brings you right back to the Angels of the Dark world with our favorite characters while being absorbed into the LOTU storyline. Like, my mind is blown and I couldn't have hoped for a better story. Seriously. Feels like old school LOTU and I love it.

Gena managed to write the perfect novella, the pacing is just right, Fox and Bjorn work great together and the way they meet is priceless, one of my favorite thing ever. I loved the story and how everything got together with the Lords, and how Gena is preparing us for William's book. Speaking of William, we also get to see him in this book and his heroine too! I swear to god, I lost my mind and my heart stopped beating for a few seconds.

So, if I had one word for this book it'd be BRILLIANT (and maybe Axel). It felt like coming home and I couldn't be happier.

Disclaimer: I was able to read an early copy of this book as I work for the author.
Profile Image for Jypsy .
1,524 reviews72 followers
January 17, 2020
★★★ BRAND NEW RELEASE ★★★ 


From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Gena Showalter comes a new story in her Lords of the Underworld series…


What happens when a ruthless winged warrior falls in love with the demon-possessed beauty he’s been ordered to kill?


THE DARKEST ASSASSIN is available now!

✔️Purchase Now: https://amzn.to/2EhKpry 


Watch the Book Trailer: http://bit.ly/35g4nh3


*REVIEW* 💋💋💋💋

I will admit I have not read the entire LOTU series-yet. This little detail did not hinder my enjoyment of The Darkest Assassin. This story is a novella in the 1001 Dark Nights Series, so get your copy to add to your collection. Fox and Bjorn are supernatural creatures, and they are at war with each other. Bjorn is tasked with killing Fox because of something bad she did. Instead, Fox becomes his captive. The more time Bjorn spends in the presence of Fox, the less he wants to kill her. Will Bjorn complete his task? Will Fox escape captivity?These two are drawn to one another with a burning desire. Act upon this or ignore it? They are supposed to be enemies, but attitudes can change. Getting to know someone can greatly alter perception and preconceived notions. Maybe Bjorn and Fox are wrong about the idea of being enemies, or maybe they are maliciously using each other and lying.I like the enemies to lovers trope, and this is definitely a different take on it. I like the characters because they are interesting, unpredictable and bizarre. Strange works in this story. Although it is a shorter length novella, I felt like I spent a long time in this world-in a good way. I was totally absorbed in what was happening. This is a compelling and unique read, and I recommend trying it, even if you are not a paranormal fan. Now, I must go back, and read the entire series!

▪Thank you Inkslinger and the author for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.▪
Profile Image for Rachael*Caribbean*girl*bibliophile.
2,255 reviews516 followers
December 11, 2019
Spoilers ahead


I liked Bjorn from the angels series and hoped all the guys would get their books

Here Bjorn is paired with Fox who is Galen's protege and the new keeper of the demon Distrust. Under the demon's influence Fox kills some sent ones and Bjorn is sent to execute her. From the moment they meet sparks fly between them and he ends up taking her captive. A lack of trust and communication between them however leads to a slew of misunderstandings but with war brewing, an army to amass and a jealous wife things get really complicated.


I enjoy this author's work but the characters voices are really coming across as immature with their use of slang and some of the humor
Every book I've read in this series has the same sequence of sexy times
Again a lot of back and forth with the does he/does she scenario instead of actual communication
Bjorn distrusted Fox almost to the very last page and still thought of killing her
Everything was neatly wrapped up and forgiven in a rush at the end
Loved the bromance
We get a glimpse of Ever Randy and his h

Bjorn had been celibate a year
He was unwillingly married to an evil OW but it wasn't sexual
h has been celibate for many years
Profile Image for ⏃ : ✦ villainous_vixen ⏃ : ✦.
777 reviews115 followers
December 3, 2019


Gena Showalter fans rejoice, we have another novella in the Lords of the Underworld series. Even after so many books, I can't get enough. It feels like an eternity, but finally the long awaited warrior William is next to get his HEA. So many questions are about to get answered in The Darkest King.


Fox, the keeper of Distrust & Bjorn, an Elite One.

Fox is judge, jury, and executioner. Host to demon of Distrust, she accepts a deal of a lifetime thus losing control of the demon who slaughters countless of innocents. She finds herself in a corner. . . Marked for certain death, the hunter becomes the hunted. Payment must be paid, and Bjorn is sent to condemn the keeper of Distrust to death. It's a job, get in get out and go home. That is until he see's the fire in her eyes. There is a thin line between love and hate, yet they can't resist the temptation.



Bjorn & Fox are broken individuals. They have worn their masks for so long its hard to let anyone in. It was gut-wrenching coping with emotions they haven't allowed them to feel in so long. . . I could see the inner struggle they both felt between love and duty. Do they dare to risk everything to be with each-other. Consequences be damned?

The Darkest Assassin is a dark, action packed, novella in the Lords of the Underworld series. While this could technically could be read as a stand-alone, it would be best to start with The Darkest Night.


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Profile Image for Malinda.
1,852 reviews245 followers
March 8, 2020
4.5-5 stars

This was a great story. It was a enemies-to-lovers story and very well done. Fox and Bjorn are both likeable characters and it was hard to see them on opposite sides and wonder how they manage to get their HEA in the end. And while they're figuring out their "relationship" there's a lot going on, most of it overlaps with the events in the next book, The Darkest King. Overall, this was pretty typical of the rest of the books in the series...characters that are very likable in a great story that's majorly engaging (I only stopped reading this to sleep and then I was right back to reading it). I'd definitely recommend the series but the books might be a bit confusing as standalones. :D

Note - I listened to the audio version of this story and as normal, the narrator did a great job.
Profile Image for Dianne.
6,815 reviews631 followers
December 11, 2019
Talk about an enemy to lover tale that sizzles across the pages! Gena Showalter has poured all of her special flavor and talent into another fabulous, hardcore paranormal tale with THE DARKEST ASSASSIN!

Bjorn has been tasked with executing The Executioner. Little did he know, the infamous, demon-possessed Fox would make his blood boil with desire. Between his tortured past, his torturous marriage and his overpowering need to possess Fox, Bjorn is caught in a web of danger unlike any he has ever faced, the danger of losing his heart and possibly his very soul to the woman he must kill.

Fox is no average assassin, she is almost too good at her job, thanks to the demon buried deep within her, she must die in order to kill Distrust. Hard-headed, independent and reluctant to trust, her heart and her libido seem powerless against the stark charms of Bjorn. How can two powerful beings, on opposite sides of the battle be so attracted to one another? How can they learn to trust in each other and to follow their hearts?

Steam, passion and volatility pretty much sum up the push-me, pull-me relationship these two struggle with. Great dialogue, incredible action, intense scenes and overwhelming conflict make this another powerhouse of reading from Gena Showalter!

I received a complimentary ARC edition as part of The Darkest Assassin Blog Tour! This is my honest and voluntary review.

Series: Lords of the Underworld - Book 14.6
Publication date: December 10, 2019
Publisher: Evil Eye Concepts, Inc
Genre: Dark Paranormal Romance
Print Length: 212 pages
Available from: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Profile Image for  Reading In Pajamas .
1,091 reviews105 followers
January 24, 2020
Blog Tour & Review: THE DARKEST ASSASSIN (Lords of the Underworld Novella) by Gena Showalter https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-bmm
Publication Date: December 10, 2019
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Cori
Rated 4.5 Stars

I loved Bjorn and Fox together! This story was so much fun and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Their story included passion, heartache, emotion and danger. Gena Showalter always tells a great love story. She also gave a sneak peak scene with William who’s up next in THE DARKEST KING! I absolutely cannot wait. I highly recommend this entire series. It’s one of my favorites that I read over and over. I’m obsessed with the Lords of the Underworld!

*Review copy provided by Inkslinger in exchange for an honest review.

~*~*~*~
Profile Image for Laura.has.too.many.books.
721 reviews6 followers
November 11, 2023
* You need to read the previous books first.

In a moment where she lost her control on her demon Distrust, Fox the Executioner has killed ten innocent send ones in a fit of rage. Now she is hunted by them, especially one named Bjorn, the one true dread. However, when he breaks down her door to kill her, there is an instant spark of attraction and he is unable to kill her. Dragging her to Heaven to punish her seems to be Fox's penalty, but the war is hell is escalating and Bjorn has his own demons to fight.

This novella was the perfect length for the story told, but the timeline was a bit chaotic as it seems like we bounced a bit all over the place. It made the story a bit confusing and the ending told me absolutely nothing and did nothing to hype me for the final book in this series. Bjorn is a interesting character who we have met before, but Fox is and stays a bit of an enigma. The romance was fun and this novella was not shy in its violence.
Profile Image for  CCAM&GZM.
310 reviews92 followers
January 25, 2020
My issue with paranormal romance (PR) is that every time I choose to read it, I have to take a leap of faith. Why? Because, nowadays, the definition, rules, and characteristics of this sub-genre are no longer respected or even clear. There is a real BIG risk to find erotica, or at least an erotic romance story instead of a PR or, hell, even instead of urban fantasy! Yes, the carnal aspects are somehow (more or less, depending on whom you'll ask) linked with the PR but they should not be the main dish. In PR, the romance plot should be strongly intertwined with the "action" plot. The explicit scenes could be forgotten, what we need is the (intense) passion and tension build on the paranormal circumstances in which the love relation starts, develops and fulfills.

Gena Showalter (I should check if Show-alter is a pen name or just a good coincidence) successfully put together a PR where the romance line is influenced and influences the paranormal happenings which are to be distinguished between the general and specific. The intrigue is developed well, on different levels, and the pace is alert. The main characters, both strong, are treated fairly and equally. There are no empty politically correct declarations or exaggerations confusing an independent, emancipated woman with a woman with loose or no morals and putting the man on an inferior position.

A major plus for the author is the way she introduced the erotic scenes in the story. "Unfortunately" for me, in The Darkest Assassin, I couldn't skip (all) those scenes anymore... because I would have missed some information necessary for what is to come (ahem.. no pun intended... ) or at least some of the fun moments that give the whole a better flavor.

Definitely, in order to fully enjoy the story, we should read the rest of the series. These being said, the new readers of the Lords of the Underworld will still found out that, with The Darkest Assassin, they hit a jackpot and will put the series on their shortest TBR list. An easy thing to do when it is a given that Gena Showalter is a PR safe choice.

Enjoy!

https://mythicalbooks.blogspot.com/20...
Profile Image for Canan .
1,083 reviews71 followers
Read
May 30, 2020
Kitabın Fox'un hikayesi olduğunu biliyordum ama erkek karakterin muhtemel Angels of the Dark serisine aday bir karakter olan, Sent Ones, Üçün Biri Bjorn olduğunu fark etmemiştim. Böylelikle yazarın o seriye devam etmeyeceği belli oldu gibi. Ama ara kitapta olsa en azından hikayelerini yazması iyi olmuş.
Fox'u ilk Aeron'un hikayesinde mi görmüştüm çok net değilim ama orada aşırı itici bir karakterdi. Ama ilerleyen kitaplar da daha pozitif ve medeniydi diyebilirim. O yüzden merak etmiştim.
Kızımız Güvensizliğin muhafızı... Bu yüzden iblisinin etkisinde kaldığı bir anda yapmaması gereken bir hata yapar. Pişman olduğu bir hata ama soran kim? Bu hata da karşısına Bjorn'u çıkarır. İnfazcısı....
Bjorn sorunlu üçlüden biri... Yaşadıkları işkencelerden sonra bir şekilde ayakta kalmayı başaran biri. Zar zor...
Çiftimiz bir araya geldiği ilk andan itibaren ortada bir çekim vardır , ama bu infaz görevine yada kaçış planlarına engel değildir. Sadece azıcık oyalanıyorlardır... Birbirlerini daha iyi tanımak , biraz çekişme birkaç yatak aktivitesi ve biraz da düşmanla etkileşim...
Kitap kısa olduğu için yüzeyseldi... Hani şu konuya biraz daha değinseydi dediğim bir kaç nokta oldu ama yine de fena değildi. Ve nedense sanki okumam uzun sürdü gibi geldi. William'ın hikayesini de okuyup seriye bir ara vermem lazım artık bu kesin 🤣
William demişken adamın adı geçince bile okumam hızlandı 🙈😂 Bulunduğu sahneler yine güzeldi ve spoiler vardı biraz. Ama olsun severiz spoiler 🤣
Profile Image for ReadToBreathe.
870 reviews32 followers
September 4, 2020
4 Stars
I'm Not interested in putting a review 😑 everyone here pissed me off and I wish I could kill everyone. I'm just putting 4 stars because I love Fox
Profile Image for Alexandra.
1,895 reviews10 followers
December 17, 2019
I received an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. Review and blog tour can be found on *Milky Way of Books*

I'm always in for yet another story set in the Lords of the Underworld universe. A world so diverse and dimensional that has long since transpired the borders of mythology. To be honest, I loved Fox more here than Bjorn (who acted many times like a jerk).

True the romance and the heat levels were high but I loved how strong Fox was and tried many times to overcome Distrust, her own insecurities and be a badass.
The war is also becoming more serious and the cameo appearance of William will probably make the next book much more addicting and highly anticipating. Finally, I also hope that the rest of the Sent Ones gang will get their own stories.
Profile Image for Scholar inArmor.
132 reviews24 followers
October 19, 2020
LAST READ OF THE YEAR 2019, REMINISCING:



This year was a rollercoaster of everything for me. It started bad, then it started to get better and better. In the end, I could not believe it myself; how successful this year was and how happy I have become. J. R. Ward wrote 3 novels and 1 novella this year. What I love most about her is that she is safe. She writes her book and keeps her story going, she even introduced Murhder back into the fold and reunited Trez with his beloved mate. Larissa Ione wrote another novella in the Demonica Underworld series and ended her Demonica series with Reaper. Gurl, I was panicked! Speaking of panic, Nalini Singh provided me with the nearest stroke experience ever and it is called Archangel's War. Gurl, that was a fucking book! She wrote another book in her Psy-Changeling series and a handful of short stories which were all good. Cassandra Clare gifted me with two wonderful books and I couldn't be happier and grateful for them. Rick Riordan gifted me with a satisfactory 4th book in the Trial of Apollo series. Sherrilyn McQueen published the 3rd, final, book in her Deadman's Cross series and it was disappointing. Her short story written with her son for the Hex Life anthology was disappointing too, but her short story which featured The League characters was nice. Speaking of disappointment, there is Cast mother & daughter duo 3rd year in a row with their politically influenced young adult series. On the other hand, Lara Adrian is wonderful and stable as always with her Midnight Breed and Hunter Legacy series. Maggie Stiefvater blew my mind with her 1st book in the Dreamer trilogy. Last but not least, Gena Showalter released her 2nd novella with 1001 Dark Nights anthology and I liked it. I hope that she does more of these for her characters... I have picked up Gena's new series called The Forest of Good and Evil and the Evil Queen got me hooked up! I will finish this year's reminiscence by acknowledging that all of the scheduled books written by Sherrilyn McQueen are being postponed due to her husband's drama. I just hope that everything resolves as quickly as possible and that I can continue to enjoy reading books from the Dark-Hunter & The League series.

AFTER READING:

I loved Fox and Bjorn together. They had chemistry and everything that is needed to make me invested in a story told in a novella format. In my opinion, there was enough world-building in this book which was a continuation of the Angels of the Dark series.

I hope that Gena continues to publish more stories in the 1001 Dark Nights format. There are plenty of characters that I would love to see paired up. Gena has a share of characters just waiting for their stories to be told; Xerxes, Winter, Cameron, Viola, Siobhan, Axel, etc.



BEFORE RELEASE:

Fox, Keeper of Distrust & Bjorn, Elite One.

I am so excited that slightly minor characters are getting their story told at least in the novella form. I'm getting my hopes up for Xerxes and many other Sent Ones to be featured in the novellas since Showalter stopped writing her Angels in the Dark series.

Profile Image for Ann Lorz.
1,707 reviews22 followers
December 16, 2019
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....

It's been a while since I've read a book by Gena Showalter but I can tell you it was like coming home reading The Darkest Assassin. Right away it reminded me why I loved her books so much. I can feel a summer reread coming on.

I just loved both Bjorn and Fox. The heat coming off these two could heat a twelve-story building. Right away you knew that this story was going to be wild.

Bjorn might have a job to do but it's really hard to do said job when you start to have feelings for the person you are supposed to kill.

What I love about these two is how misunderstood they are. This really is a case of more than you see. They each have hidden depths that are shown right away. Together they are a force.

I love how during their journey Fox learned to love and be about more than what money can buy her. She has a lot of good in her she's just not used to showing it. I love her humor and sharp tongue. These two made me laugh more than once.

Poor Bjorn doesn't have it any better. His life sucks and at the moment it's even worse. You can't help not feeling for the poor man. Together these two grow and learn to live again. As they do they entertain us. I'm so glad I decided to read The Darkest Assassin. The story truly made me happy. I can't wait to go back into TLOTU again.

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ARC received for an honest review
Profile Image for Olga.
67 reviews3 followers
January 25, 2020
It was an ok read for me, but nothing to write home about. I don't think that GS does her characters justice, since they give an immature vibe and talk like highschoolers trying to outsmart each other (BTW who talks like that? Especially immortals that have lived for thousands of years.)
The worst thing for me, however, was the introduction of William's love interest. Seriously? After 14 books this is how we first meet her (I don't remember her being mentioned in some of the previous books)? FFS! Let the poor girl make a memorable appearance. Don't cheapen her and don't rob her off her awesomeness (if you give her any).
Bottom line, if you change the names and a bit of the characters' backstories, it's actually the same couple's book told in different ways and circumstances.
Profile Image for MissClo.
409 reviews27 followers
May 23, 2023
Poor Fox. Honestly, that poor woman goes through some shit in this book. Beatings, whippings, stabbing, kidnappings and just keeps having to bounce back.

I can’t quite remember another heroine suffering this much in any Gena books.

Profile Image for Tanya Davis.
544 reviews60 followers
December 12, 2019

I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. 
One of my favorite things about Gena Showalter's books is her female characters and Fox is no exception. She's fiesty, smart-mouthed and kick-ass! I loved her from the start. The fact that Fox does something directed by her demon is a sign that she hasn't gotten good control of it yet. It also means that she is going to regret some of her actions. The Distrust demon takes over and causes Fox to do something that puts her on the kill list for the Sent Ones. She knows it as soon as she comes to her senses. Fox prepares herself for being attacked. She doesn't have long to wait! Bjorn shows up at the most inopportune time. But you can't catch this fox unprepared!

 

Bjorn has not had an easy life, but now he has his boys and a great gig being a Sent One. His situation makes you feel for him, and when he experiences the little happy times with Fox, it just made my heart swell. I really felt he deserved that time. His relationship with Thane and Xerxes is so great and I'm thankful he has that kind of support, it is just sad that he's been celibate for so long. His time with Fox felt like an awakening for him. I really enjoyed seeing the changes that happened for him.

 

The Darkest Assassin was a fun, quick love story with characters that go through a fair amount of growth. We get a glimpse of William and his potential mate, which made me even more excited for The Darkest King. There is not a lot of movement in the war. But I'm sure we'll see more of it in the full sized novels. We were hyper focused on our couple and I loved every minute. The Darkest Assassin is also a great explanation of the Sent Ones becoming involved in the war and how they all end up in hell. Great little tidbits in here, with a big heart-warming love story. Definitely all the characteristics of a fun Gena Showalter book!

 

BOOK TRAILER

 

“I love this world…this is Gena Showalter at her best!”—J.R. Ward, #1 New York Times bestselling author

“The Gods of War series is my new obsession.”—Christine Feehan, #1 New York Timesbestselling author

"One of the premier authors of paranormal romance. Gena Showalter delivers an utterly spellbinding story!"-Kresley Cole, #1 New York Times bestselling author

"Gena Showalter never fails to dazzle."-Jeaniene Frost, New York Times bestselling author
 


This review was originally posted on Rantings of a Reading Addict
Profile Image for BooksBooksandmoreBooks69.
1,968 reviews38 followers
December 8, 2019
I’ve read all the books in this series. Bijorn was in a spin off series (Angels of the Dark) and I’ve been wondering if he’d ever get a book.

Fox has been in a few books too. And I’ve never really taken to her, (she seemed very cold and standoffish) but once I read why she was that way, the story had me liking her more.

The story has us visiting Fox not long after she kills innocents (“sent ones” who are angels) she is then attacked by Bijorn (he’s been sent to dispense justice after she’d killed the “sent ones”) captured and taken to his home, there she is thrown into a dungeon, to await her fate.

Back story on Bijorn ..... he’s an angel, (what class?) he’s an assassin?
He was captured a while back and tortured alongside his best friends (Thane and Xerxes) it changed his character. No longer the happy man his friends knew, but years together the three men have an unbreakable bond. And it helped to keep Bijorn grounded. Oh and he was a “wife”!! But it’s not a happy marriage, it’s a very one sided and poisonous one!!

Backstory on Fox ..... adopted “daughter” to Galen the keeper of both false hope and jealousy, she “houses” the demon Distrust. The constant nagging in her head (the demon tells her she not worthy, to kill anyone first, that way they can’t kill her. To always be distrustful of others) orphaned are a very early age, Fox has had to survive the best way she can. She’s also a Gatekeeper (she can create portals) a rare and dying breed, so she keeps that bit of information to herself. A skilled warrior and assassin, every bit as lethal as her title “The Executioner”

It’s a short story, so we don’t have time for Fox and Bijorn to have a slow relationship.
The trust between these two is slow in coming, he wonders when she will try to kill him, she wonders when she can escape. Bijorn is also told by his superiors that Fox has to die for her crimes (which he’s finding harder and harder to do) But after several incidents a tentative alliance is formed. Both fight their attraction to one another, but realise that together they are stronger. But one mistaken moment, and they are back to square one.

The story gives us more info on William (his book is next and widely anticipated) and the fight between lucifer and the Lords of the Underworld. It seems to be coming to a climax, so I have to wonder if the series is coming to an end?

I have to say, I liked this book, I would have loved a longer story. Liked how we go to catch up with old characters (would have liked interaction with a few Lords)

🦋
Profile Image for Kelly.
5,661 reviews227 followers
August 25, 2022
I'm excited that Fox is getting her chance to find her special someone, but I'm really really REALLY thrilled to see one of the terrible trio (not their real name!) getting the chance to find his happy place. I mean, Bjorn's been through A LOT (all three of the Downfall angels have), not the least of which is being life-bonded against his will to a shadow queen who's been merrily draining the life out of him.

Basically, if anyone deserves a chance at a HEA, it's Bjorn and his boys. (Which has me crossing my fingers that Xerxes is on the list of Angels Who Need a Story.)

So. Fox, BFF of Galen and current keeper of Distrust, is...not having a great day. While under the influence of her demon she miiiight have caused a little mayhem and killed a few angels. Which isn't good. Especially when Bjorn shows up to exact her punishment. The punishment being death.

Except...Bjorn kind of likes the sassy Fox and, instead of killing her, he spirits her away to Downfall where a series of events start to unfold. Starting with Bjorn being summoned by his soul-sucking wife and ending with Thane and Xerxes exacting a little punishment on Fox when they misunderstand that she tried to save him after said soul-sucking. It's not pretty. And Bjorn is VERY NOT HAPPY about what was done.

But, but but but things work out for the best and soon Fox and the big guy are cuddling up (literally) and teaming up (also literally) to have each others' backs. Sure, Bjorn is a little bone-headed at times and he doesn't always do the right thing, but he gets where he needs to be eventually. And Fox puts aside her hurt when she realizes that hanging onto it might separate her (permanently) from the guy who makes her heart go pitter-patter.

The terrible trio (still not their real name), a whole lot of blood and guts, a deeply unhinged shadow queen, and two people who figure out their exactly what the other needs. *thumbs up*

-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
519 reviews83 followers
December 18, 2019
Gena strikes again with yet another amazing Lords of The Underworld book! After getting glimpses through the series of angels and especially this angel hero I’ve been dying for his story and it did not disappoint!

Our heroine is an immortal being who is also the keeper of the demon Distrust (yeah one of the demons let out of Pandora’s box). In 1 minute her life changes when she somehow kills 10 weaponless angel warriors. Our angel hero gets tasked with bringing her to justice- and when I say justice I mean execution..... cue him finding her naked out of a shower and the hottest naked fight scene ever I totally get why he wants her.....

Gena brings her signature take no s*#% characters to life with an ease I can’t help but admire. The heroine takes no prisoners but also loves reality TV and just pop culture in general (hello! relatable!) and our hero is a straight forward warrior angel with a haunted past. Put them together and BOOM you are in for one hell of a ride! Now heads up this totally seems longer than a novella (and for once I had no complaints about length!). If you are a fan of this series you definitely need to be reading this and like NOW (cos you totally see some William action!)
Profile Image for Sofia Lazaridou.
2,863 reviews136 followers
December 30, 2019
3.5 stars


The darkest assassin is a stand-alone novella in the Lords of the Underwood series by Gena Showalter. I haven't read the latest books in the series and so, I was a little lost, so I don't believe that readers who are not familiar with the series will enjoy it as much as those who are familiar with what's going on.

In my opinion, the novella should have been longer because the ending was rushed and it was a little unbelievable. I would have preferred to see the characters talk about some of the stuff that happened and a good groove would have been very much appreciated. The beginning was good though and it had a very good pace, which unfortunately only made the ending feel lesser. Overall though, the story wasn't bad. Seeing William and his heroine made things even better in my opinion.
Profile Image for kookyquinn.
487 reviews49 followers
February 16, 2020
Been intentionally waiting to read this bad boy closer to when The Darkest King was released. But let me tell you it wasn’t easy. I preordered so this has been sitting on my Kindle like a temptress and it did not disappoint. I absolutely adored Fox. She was strong and brave but also kind and vulnerable. Bjorn I mostly wanted to strangle but eventually decided he was perfect for my Fox. This is a novella set in the Lords of the Underworld series but you can read it as a stand-alone. There is lots of action and the only time I set the book down was after an especially steamy scene when I needed to stop and take a quick trip to pound town with my husband.
Profile Image for Fantasy Book Review Kim.
581 reviews3 followers
March 11, 2022
Fox the executioner has made a mistake and a Sent One has been sent to kill her. But when she locks eyes with a horn, she’s overcome with feelings that she has never felt before.

The dynamic between these two characters is interesting. She is a bad ass assassin who only takes contracts on people who deserve it like murders and rapists. He is an elite Sent One who is tasked with killing demons. Their banter is cute and they fall for each other fast which I love.

These novellas are a fun way to fill in parts of the main story we wouldn’t normally see. I love how this one folds into Williams story to easily.
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