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House of Sicarii #1
Sicarii Part 1
Ben Corbin lost his parents then his uncle and clues to the man responsible take him to the small town of Spencer. While Ben is determined to get justice for the murder of his family, he finds himself drawn to Jacob Moser, an ex-prostitute with ties to the killer.
Jacob Moser owes his life to Marcel Serghi. A man forged into a killer under the most brutal conditions. A man who saved him when no one else would.
Ben and Jacob, two men from completely different worlds, who have no idea how much they need each other until a killer brings them together.
Jacob Moser owes his life to Marcel Serghi. A man forged into a killer under the most brutal conditions. A man who saved him when no one else would.
Ben and Jacob, two men from completely different worlds, who have no idea how much they need each other until a killer brings them together.
185 pages, ebook
First published April 28, 2020
60 people are currently reading
433 people want to read
About the author
Adrienne Wilder
50 books1,797 followersGeorgia born and bred, I am an artist, a writer, and a general pain in the ass.
I spend most of my days working on my next book or bettering my art.
Writing is my identity and I love every minute of it. It's work, lots of work (sometimes I work 12+ hours a day and I never get a vacation) but I don't regret doing it.
I currently share my house with a myriad of dogs, a few cats, a saltwater aquarium filled with coral and fish, as well as my partner who's great at giving hugs when the day's been rough.
And of course, my editor and PA, who helps me keep life reasonably organized. At least so I won't walk out the door without wearing pants.
I spend most of my days working on my next book or bettering my art.
Writing is my identity and I love every minute of it. It's work, lots of work (sometimes I work 12+ hours a day and I never get a vacation) but I don't regret doing it.
I currently share my house with a myriad of dogs, a few cats, a saltwater aquarium filled with coral and fish, as well as my partner who's great at giving hugs when the day's been rough.
And of course, my editor and PA, who helps me keep life reasonably organized. At least so I won't walk out the door without wearing pants.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
May 4, 2020
Despite the ambiguous blurb, I knew this would be epic. Adrienne Wilder writes intense plot driven stories with complicated characters worthy of love and redemption. This time was no different. It's unclear at first who all the MCs are, but what is evident is that Marcel is at the heart of the matter and the characters circling around him showcase his character at different angles - savior, protector, killer and lover. Each of them - Jacob, Ben, Sam and Yvette by their words and actions show his true self. I like Marcel a lot. He is a complete surprise for me here. He might be the anti hero of the story but in everything he does despite the manner he does it in he makes such a difference in people's lives. I can't say more, it would be a spoiler.
The story is tight. Every event leads to another, characters converge and the seeming lack of feelings has the opposite effect that shows how sometimes people feel too much. I loved how it all came back to Marcel, how he was not what he at first seemed, how tidbits here and there showed a wider bigger picture that I have yet to see. I loved the knowing and not knowing at the same time. It reads easily almost in one breath, so good. There is steam, angst and danger that make this an irresistible story for me.
The story is tight. Every event leads to another, characters converge and the seeming lack of feelings has the opposite effect that shows how sometimes people feel too much. I loved how it all came back to Marcel, how he was not what he at first seemed, how tidbits here and there showed a wider bigger picture that I have yet to see. I loved the knowing and not knowing at the same time. It reads easily almost in one breath, so good. There is steam, angst and danger that make this an irresistible story for me.
March 18, 2022
3.5 Stars
I'm enjoying the suspense/action and the sub plot involving a possible romance between another couples.
I'm not too crazy about the weird relationship development between the MCs or the kinky relationship between the one MC and the anti-hero.
I'm enjoying the suspense/action and the sub plot involving a possible romance between another couples.
I'm not too crazy about the weird relationship development between the MCs or the kinky relationship between the one MC and the anti-hero.
April 29, 2020
4.5 stars for the beginning of this compelling series !
Took me a bit to understand what was going on as the pieces on the board began to appear... once it settled, I was hooked ! Houses & feuds from old world mafia that is beginning-to unravel
Took me a bit to understand what was going on as the pieces on the board began to appear... once it settled, I was hooked ! Houses & feuds from old world mafia that is beginning-to unravel
December 11, 2021
This book is a 💣💣
May 2, 2020
I'm not quite certain about my feelings towards Sicarii
I waited to finish all three novellas before reviewing, it felt too incomplete to have an opinion after each part.
Though it's categorized under MM romantic suspense genre, this is by no means a traditional romance story. It felt more like a psychological-triller with romantic elements.
I won't attempt to decipher this story... because I can't, it's a mind fuck. When I finished, I just sort of stared at my kindle... Like.. what is this?
Impressive? yes
Original/Fresh? yes
There are multiple storylines that are connected to one common thread. After about 18% of the story, its seamless following along so many different roads that weave in and out, disappear from sight only to come back to the same point.
It's difficult to understand motivation in this story... because some of the characters are unlike any I've ever read. Powerful, complex...almost inhuman in a way.
Things get dark in this story.
Betrayal
Revenge
Blood
Violence
Pain
Fear
Yes, there is light at the end of the tunnel. There is some comfort-healing and happy ending. But the darkness that stuff was trilling and mind boggling.
Did I enjoy this? I have no idea. My mind is still wrapping it's head around it... all I can say is it's a damn good book in the sense of plot, characters, world building, writing style, dialogue... all of it, really well done. I would recommend this to anyone who want's something new in MM, who enjoys dark-romances & psychological-trillers.
I waited to finish all three novellas before reviewing, it felt too incomplete to have an opinion after each part.
Though it's categorized under MM romantic suspense genre, this is by no means a traditional romance story. It felt more like a psychological-triller with romantic elements.
I won't attempt to decipher this story... because I can't, it's a mind fuck. When I finished, I just sort of stared at my kindle... Like.. what is this?
Impressive? yes
Original/Fresh? yes
There are multiple storylines that are connected to one common thread. After about 18% of the story, its seamless following along so many different roads that weave in and out, disappear from sight only to come back to the same point.
It's difficult to understand motivation in this story... because some of the characters are unlike any I've ever read. Powerful, complex...almost inhuman in a way.
Things get dark in this story.
Betrayal
Revenge
Blood
Violence
Pain
Fear
Yes, there is light at the end of the tunnel. There is some comfort-healing and happy ending. But the darkness that stuff was trilling and mind boggling.
Did I enjoy this? I have no idea. My mind is still wrapping it's head around it... all I can say is it's a damn good book in the sense of plot, characters, world building, writing style, dialogue... all of it, really well done. I would recommend this to anyone who want's something new in MM, who enjoys dark-romances & psychological-trillers.
May 10, 2020
Wow... high stakes indeed. And Adrienne Wilder, the ever masterful storyteller. She gave enough story to keep you hooked without truly revealing everything. It’s intriguing as hell is what it is currently. Let’s hope the unravelling of it all pays off.
Off to the next book of this series! 🏃🏻♀️
Off to the next book of this series! 🏃🏻♀️
May 2, 2020
It's been a while between books of Adrienne Wilder for me. Not because they aren't a good writer, they are. Sicarii Part 1 rams that point home well and truly. These characters, the development of their lives - the intersection of their pasts, their futures - is potent, visceral, addictive.
I'm off to read Part 2 then 3.
I'm off to read Part 2 then 3.
September 27, 2020
For the fans of Adrienne Wilder, of dark reads and a twist on romance, this book is for you.
This book is what Adrienne is all about. You know when you pick up a book of theirs that your heart will be put through the ringer, as will you head. This story is weaved so meticulously, so beautifully, that I found it really hard to put it down. I finished Volume 1 right this second, and I am diving into volume 2 as soon as I finish this post. This is the story of five people. Don't worry though, you won't be confused and you will be able to follow the plot easily because it all comes together seamlessly. It's a story of murder, revenge, love, unconventional but beautiful. A story of pain and heartache and finding your way through heaps of obstacles. It is intriguing, and disturbing and even uncomfortable at times, but it is also un-put-downable ----> yes this is a word.
There are 3 volumes in this story. Proceed with caution!
#happyreading
This book is what Adrienne is all about. You know when you pick up a book of theirs that your heart will be put through the ringer, as will you head. This story is weaved so meticulously, so beautifully, that I found it really hard to put it down. I finished Volume 1 right this second, and I am diving into volume 2 as soon as I finish this post. This is the story of five people. Don't worry though, you won't be confused and you will be able to follow the plot easily because it all comes together seamlessly. It's a story of murder, revenge, love, unconventional but beautiful. A story of pain and heartache and finding your way through heaps of obstacles. It is intriguing, and disturbing and even uncomfortable at times, but it is also un-put-downable ----> yes this is a word.
There are 3 volumes in this story. Proceed with caution!
#happyreading
Want to read
February 12, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (9/6/2020)! 🎁
April 25, 2021
A free copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review through M/M Romance Group for DBML Program.
I read this book in two days, and it deserves 4.5 stars.
This book is a choreography of death, love, and what people are willing to do to stay alive.
There are lots of characters and many points of view, but all lead to one, Marcel, the killer of the house of Sicarii.
The book opens with a glance at Sam, then quickly moves to Jacob, and ends with Ben.
Each one of them with their actions gives the reader a different perspective of Marcel, and the intensity of the emotion he is able to pull out from each of them. He is a saviour, a lover, a protector, and a killer. He is no saint, but his actions speak of more than a mere assassin.
You feel overwhelmed with characters at the beginning until everything is in place and you can see how they are placed like pawns in a chessboard. The cover of the book is very telling but you won’t know until you are well into the story.
Marcel is fascinating and you’ll find yourself, liking him and disliking him at the same time. If you expect the usual killer, you are in for a surprise as nothing is normal in Marcel. He is a hard man, and he doesn’t have a conscience, but then you see another part of him, and you think, okay maybe he still has it.
The book is well written, and the story is intriguing and packed with angst, sex, violence, and danger. Be ready for a roller coaster of emotions and not all are going to be good, but they will be powerful.
It ends abruptly and with lots of questions unanswered but being a three-part book, I believe is a given.
I am not usually a lover of books in parts, but this book is good, and I am diving into book two today.
I can’t wait for ‘The End’.
I read this book in two days, and it deserves 4.5 stars.
This book is a choreography of death, love, and what people are willing to do to stay alive.
There are lots of characters and many points of view, but all lead to one, Marcel, the killer of the house of Sicarii.
The book opens with a glance at Sam, then quickly moves to Jacob, and ends with Ben.
Each one of them with their actions gives the reader a different perspective of Marcel, and the intensity of the emotion he is able to pull out from each of them. He is a saviour, a lover, a protector, and a killer. He is no saint, but his actions speak of more than a mere assassin.
You feel overwhelmed with characters at the beginning until everything is in place and you can see how they are placed like pawns in a chessboard. The cover of the book is very telling but you won’t know until you are well into the story.
Marcel is fascinating and you’ll find yourself, liking him and disliking him at the same time. If you expect the usual killer, you are in for a surprise as nothing is normal in Marcel. He is a hard man, and he doesn’t have a conscience, but then you see another part of him, and you think, okay maybe he still has it.
The book is well written, and the story is intriguing and packed with angst, sex, violence, and danger. Be ready for a roller coaster of emotions and not all are going to be good, but they will be powerful.
It ends abruptly and with lots of questions unanswered but being a three-part book, I believe is a given.
I am not usually a lover of books in parts, but this book is good, and I am diving into book two today.
I can’t wait for ‘The End’.
May 5, 2020
This review is for all three Sicarii books, as they form a complete standalone story.
There are five main characters in Sicarii: Marcel, Ben, Jacob, young Sam and the villain, Yvette. What I really appreciated was that the author offered all of theirs points of view, with great insight into their feelings and motivation.
Well, having Marcel's point of view didn't really help understand him better, but I was no less completely fascinated with him. Cold, almost inhumanely unfeeling and manipulative, yet it seemed that all his machinations were intended to help Sam, Ben and Jacob brake their barriers of fear. He had a way of transforming his appearance from easygoing to scary and imposing in the blink of an eye, to instill admiration, fear and hate at the same time...kudos to the author for managing that. And while I might not have agreed with Marcel's methods, I have to admit that in a twisted way he helped, or rather forced, Ben and Jacob learn to stand up for themselves. Sam, too.
Sicarii had a darker edge, for sure, definitely gritty, raw and laced with a heavy dose of intense fear. It showed sides of humanity at its worst, revenge, violence, mind games, despair and hate, but Ben and Jacob's love for each other, and Sam's sweetness shined through the ugliness. I loved everything about this story, every powerful emotion that it put me through. Just LOVED IT!
There are five main characters in Sicarii: Marcel, Ben, Jacob, young Sam and the villain, Yvette. What I really appreciated was that the author offered all of theirs points of view, with great insight into their feelings and motivation.
Well, having Marcel's point of view didn't really help understand him better, but I was no less completely fascinated with him. Cold, almost inhumanely unfeeling and manipulative, yet it seemed that all his machinations were intended to help Sam, Ben and Jacob brake their barriers of fear. He had a way of transforming his appearance from easygoing to scary and imposing in the blink of an eye, to instill admiration, fear and hate at the same time...kudos to the author for managing that. And while I might not have agreed with Marcel's methods, I have to admit that in a twisted way he helped, or rather forced, Ben and Jacob learn to stand up for themselves. Sam, too.
Sicarii had a darker edge, for sure, definitely gritty, raw and laced with a heavy dose of intense fear. It showed sides of humanity at its worst, revenge, violence, mind games, despair and hate, but Ben and Jacob's love for each other, and Sam's sweetness shined through the ugliness. I loved everything about this story, every powerful emotion that it put me through. Just LOVED IT!
August 23, 2020
Czuję się jak przekręcona przez wyżymaczkę...
Read
April 2, 2022Reseña de tres libros.
Por primera vez no voy a poner estrellas a un libro leído porque realmente no sé si es un "bodrio" o una "obra de arte "....me inclino por lo primero, a mi me ha dejado indiferente.
Muchas tramas, un poco de drama, otro tanto de traumas, algún asesinato con mucha sangre y bastante sexo entre unos personajes con los que no acabas de conectar.
Aunque pasan muchas cosas a mi me daba la impresión de que la historia no acababa de arrancar, por eso no fue DNF
Otra perdida de tiempo.
Por primera vez no voy a poner estrellas a un libro leído porque realmente no sé si es un "bodrio" o una "obra de arte "....me inclino por lo primero, a mi me ha dejado indiferente.
Muchas tramas, un poco de drama, otro tanto de traumas, algún asesinato con mucha sangre y bastante sexo entre unos personajes con los que no acabas de conectar.
Aunque pasan muchas cosas a mi me daba la impresión de que la historia no acababa de arrancar, por eso no fue DNF
Otra perdida de tiempo.
May 7, 2025
Marcel is the product of his environment. Toxic or not?
Not sure how all the parts fit together yet. The book is a puzzle and not all the pieces are there yet.
Off to read book 2…
Not sure how all the parts fit together yet. The book is a puzzle and not all the pieces are there yet.
Off to read book 2…
February 14, 2022
A great start. I’m definitely intrigued!
4.5 stars!
4.5 stars!
May 6, 2021
This book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review via the MMRG Don’t Buy My Love Program as were the following books of this series.
Trigger warnings: This series contains a lot of violence on and off page, mention of rape, abuse and drug use and might trigger some people
All this said I would love to let you know what I think about this book or the whole series. I got all three books from the author and down loaded them to my ebook reader. Then I started to read and found it difficult at first to follow the different strings of the plot. I didn´t need to wonder because I accidentally started reading the series with book 2. In the end it was a blessing for me as I´m sure I would have had more problems with the first book because of the violence and the tales of what happened to Jacob than I had this way. It made it easier for me to read as I knew what was happening later and the characters got throu all of what happened in book 1.
I love these books even with all that violence. I love the way Adrienne writes and I love the intricate plot of these books. I read book 1 and 3 in one go today because I wanted to know what happens to Ben and Jacob. I also wanted to know what happens to Sam. So I read and read and read and then needed some time to come back to myself after finishing the books. Don´t know if you get this feeling too sometimes. There are books that suck you right in and don´t want to let you go after finishing them. These books fall in that category for me.
Last I would like to say thank you to Adrienne. Thank you for giving me these books and thank you for writing them. And the biggest thank you for the epiloge of book 3. I needed to know. :)
Trigger warnings: This series contains a lot of violence on and off page, mention of rape, abuse and drug use and might trigger some people
All this said I would love to let you know what I think about this book or the whole series. I got all three books from the author and down loaded them to my ebook reader. Then I started to read and found it difficult at first to follow the different strings of the plot. I didn´t need to wonder because I accidentally started reading the series with book 2. In the end it was a blessing for me as I´m sure I would have had more problems with the first book because of the violence and the tales of what happened to Jacob than I had this way. It made it easier for me to read as I knew what was happening later and the characters got throu all of what happened in book 1.
I love these books even with all that violence. I love the way Adrienne writes and I love the intricate plot of these books. I read book 1 and 3 in one go today because I wanted to know what happens to Ben and Jacob. I also wanted to know what happens to Sam. So I read and read and read and then needed some time to come back to myself after finishing the books. Don´t know if you get this feeling too sometimes. There are books that suck you right in and don´t want to let you go after finishing them. These books fall in that category for me.
Last I would like to say thank you to Adrienne. Thank you for giving me these books and thank you for writing them. And the biggest thank you for the epiloge of book 3. I needed to know. :)
March 20, 2021
I think to do an honest review one would have to read the complete trilogy first. However I promised a review after each book so here goes.
The blurb is confusing but the plot is complex. I started reading this then real life intervened and when I got back to it I found that I had to draw a diagram to show how each character was linked to others.
The story is not a romance - at least not yet. It is more a psychological thriller where black and white don't exist and a secret world appears behind our understanding of society.
The writing is superb. Each character is well defined without so many words and one can easily picture each in their mind. Marcel at the moment is the centre pivot, the spider in the middle of the web. But Yvette is the female intent on the killing of Marcel and she doesn't care who gets in the way.
I want so much to quickly read further but dinner calls. Hopefully in the next few days all will be revealed and my review complete.
At the moment a definite 5 star read and a warning not to start Book 1 unless you have the next two on standby.
I was provided with a copy of this book in return for an honest review as part of M/M Romance Don't Buy My Love program.
The blurb is confusing but the plot is complex. I started reading this then real life intervened and when I got back to it I found that I had to draw a diagram to show how each character was linked to others.
The story is not a romance - at least not yet. It is more a psychological thriller where black and white don't exist and a secret world appears behind our understanding of society.
The writing is superb. Each character is well defined without so many words and one can easily picture each in their mind. Marcel at the moment is the centre pivot, the spider in the middle of the web. But Yvette is the female intent on the killing of Marcel and she doesn't care who gets in the way.
I want so much to quickly read further but dinner calls. Hopefully in the next few days all will be revealed and my review complete.
At the moment a definite 5 star read and a warning not to start Book 1 unless you have the next two on standby.
I was provided with a copy of this book in return for an honest review as part of M/M Romance Don't Buy My Love program.
May 8, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
If you are looking for a fresh story that is full of intensity and eroticism and violence, with one lead character that is overwhelmingly intriguing, but conditioned to have a moral compass far from center with no regrets, and a book where the story builds as pieces are uncovered at the perfect pace, Sicarii is what you want to be reading.
Sicarii is one long book split into three parts and all the installments are currently available. Each part is around 200 pages, but these books went down so fast it was hard to believe they were that long. This is also another story that I can’t really say much about and going into it only knowing the basics made for a more intense read for me.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
If you are looking for a fresh story that is full of intensity and eroticism and violence, with one lead character that is overwhelmingly intriguing, but conditioned to have a moral compass far from center with no regrets, and a book where the story builds as pieces are uncovered at the perfect pace, Sicarii is what you want to be reading.
Sicarii is one long book split into three parts and all the installments are currently available. Each part is around 200 pages, but these books went down so fast it was hard to believe they were that long. This is also another story that I can’t really say much about and going into it only knowing the basics made for a more intense read for me.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
Did not finish
May 10, 2020Dnf @65%
Me @ kindle unlimited: Take it back for the love of god, TAKE IT AWAY!!!!!
So this is what I get for a)- curiosity and b) not reading the ARCs I should be reading!!
Sooo this started out intriguing and it was weird but like, in a murdery and revenge way so I was fine. Then, THEN that scene happened and now I’m scarred for life. So Marcel has this weird kinky sex thing going on with Jacob which made me all kinds of uncomfortable but I skimmed them and it was okay. And then it happens with BEN and nope I’m out!!
What happened to wanting to kill him Ben???
Bye book. Nadda. Not a chance. Not for me.
The moral of this story is that fifty shades of grey scarred me as a teen and apparently I still cannot read any kind of kinky books, especially not this kind!!! Where was the MURDER I was promised??? I didn’t want the sex.
Me @ kindle unlimited: Take it back for the love of god, TAKE IT AWAY!!!!!
So this is what I get for a)- curiosity and b) not reading the ARCs I should be reading!!
Sooo this started out intriguing and it was weird but like, in a murdery and revenge way so I was fine. Then, THEN that scene happened and now I’m scarred for life. So Marcel has this weird kinky sex thing going on with Jacob which made me all kinds of uncomfortable but I skimmed them and it was okay. And then it happens with BEN and nope I’m out!!
What happened to wanting to kill him Ben???
Bye book. Nadda. Not a chance. Not for me.
The moral of this story is that fifty shades of grey scarred me as a teen and apparently I still cannot read any kind of kinky books, especially not this kind!!! Where was the MURDER I was promised??? I didn’t want the sex.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2020
Marcel is a very deceptive old man, old in looks but moves like someone much younger. An assassin, protected by the Sicarri. Jacob is a young man, old in experience. Protected by Marcel, in love with him. Ben is also young, seeking vengeance for his family. Not realizing that his path isn’t nearly as sure as he thought it was.
Marcel is definitely not what he seems. Is he evil incarnate or just a good guy who kills people to keep a sort of balance? Ben and Jacob should be out partying, having fun. Instead they are drawn into Marcel’s twisted, scary world.
Then there’s Sam, a gay teenager, in love with his best friend. Marcel works his (black) magic and saves Sam too.
So much happening in a short book. It had just enough information to suck me wholeheartedly into their world. My perceptions of the characters was constantly changing. The author did an excellent job juggling mystery, differing personalities, and casual killing. I wouldn’t call this a romance but it had some highly erotic (not sure that’s the right word) scenes. I’m very glad I can dive right into the second book without having to wait.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
Marcel is definitely not what he seems. Is he evil incarnate or just a good guy who kills people to keep a sort of balance? Ben and Jacob should be out partying, having fun. Instead they are drawn into Marcel’s twisted, scary world.
Then there’s Sam, a gay teenager, in love with his best friend. Marcel works his (black) magic and saves Sam too.
So much happening in a short book. It had just enough information to suck me wholeheartedly into their world. My perceptions of the characters was constantly changing. The author did an excellent job juggling mystery, differing personalities, and casual killing. I wouldn’t call this a romance but it had some highly erotic (not sure that’s the right word) scenes. I’m very glad I can dive right into the second book without having to wait.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
April 18, 2020
Terrifying, hot, hang on for dear life thrilling...This was just amazing. I don't even want to stop and write a review. I just want to open Part 2 and carry on reading. However, here's a little hint of what to expect:
Marcel, Jacob, Ben and Sam. An old man who is so complex, so dark, yet so pure somehow; a prostitute in love with his only client; a university student who is totally unaware as to who he really is; and an adolescent on the brink of first love.
Adrienne Wilder, ever the master story teller, slowly but surely weaves together the threads of a nail-biting tale of love, betrayal and revenge.
(ARC provided by the author. Review not required, but I couldn't move onto book two without saying something to let you know how much I'm hooked!)
Marcel, Jacob, Ben and Sam. An old man who is so complex, so dark, yet so pure somehow; a prostitute in love with his only client; a university student who is totally unaware as to who he really is; and an adolescent on the brink of first love.
Adrienne Wilder, ever the master story teller, slowly but surely weaves together the threads of a nail-biting tale of love, betrayal and revenge.
(ARC provided by the author. Review not required, but I couldn't move onto book two without saying something to let you know how much I'm hooked!)
July 5, 2020
Ok so this is a super angsty, suspenseful story, epically woven with danger. Going into it I knew there would be more stories. There are 3 main characters Ben, Jacob, and Marcel. Each path or choice leads into another path/choice. So many twists and turns. Definitely recommend reading all in order to get the full effect of the storyline. This wasn’t meant to be a standalone, can’t wait to read what’s next.
I am voluntarily leaving a review form an ARC that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
I am voluntarily leaving a review form an ARC that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
January 27, 2021
This author delivers yet another gritty urban series with complex, conflicted MCs who cannot be easily labelled 'good' or 'bad' - who draw from dark criminal pasts but capable of both altruistic and destructive deeds. I look forward to the next book with bated breath ... an enjoyable, riveting 4 star read so far.
May 4, 2020
CW: violence
So... I finished reading this, although I did skim the last chapter. I can't say I liked it. It's well written, and Marcel is waaay more than he appears, but I can't deal with the bad any more than I already have, so I'm done.
So... I finished reading this, although I did skim the last chapter. I can't say I liked it. It's well written, and Marcel is waaay more than he appears, but I can't deal with the bad any more than I already have, so I'm done.
March 17, 2021
Marcel is Magnificent! Adrienne Wilder has a gift for descriptive prose and wields a mastery of the english language. This author takes you deep into the inner workings of a secret society brewing with drama and serious turmoil. The Sicarii aren't anything to play with and you learn this from the first page!
The book itself is short, but do not let that fool you into believing the story isn't captivating. Wilder had me turning the pages quicker and quicker with ever chapter. I couldn't wait to see what cliffhanger she'd leave us on. I truly felt as though I was inside the story watching the workings of Marcel, Jacob, Sam, and Ben. Yvette's scenes chilled me and I still don't know whose "side" I'm really on.
All in all, Opening Move is an excellent story of submission, control, love, yearning, passion, courage, and suspense. Will definitely be reading the other two in the series... I have to know how this ends!!!
The book itself is short, but do not let that fool you into believing the story isn't captivating. Wilder had me turning the pages quicker and quicker with ever chapter. I couldn't wait to see what cliffhanger she'd leave us on. I truly felt as though I was inside the story watching the workings of Marcel, Jacob, Sam, and Ben. Yvette's scenes chilled me and I still don't know whose "side" I'm really on.
All in all, Opening Move is an excellent story of submission, control, love, yearning, passion, courage, and suspense. Will definitely be reading the other two in the series... I have to know how this ends!!!
June 21, 2020
Did not work for me At All. Granted, what I just slogged through, skipping liberally, is just the first third of a novel, basically the set-up. What happens is harsh and nasty (and Complicated!) and I didn't know who anyone was, so I didn't care. I am here to say that you may not like this either, even if you love Adrienne's Dragons in Atlanta books, as I do.
March 21, 2021
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
What made be want to read this book was the summary. I was not disappointed at all once I started it.
First off, I'd recommend this to anyone who loves a good plot, a nice mystery and really complex characters. However, if the idea of adults with huge age gaps participating in sex and at times of dubious consent in nature, then this book will not be for you. Please keep that in mind if ever you wish to read this.
Opening Move is the first book in the House of Sicarii series. The opening scenes of the book is something I wouldn't call terribly exciting. I'd even say it is your typical opener for a crime/thriller story. However, as you delve deeper into the plot, you are reeled in by the various events happening as seen through the eyes of the characters - Sam, Jacob, Marcel, Yvette, and Ben.
The heart of this story as presented is Marcel. We see facets of his personality through those people whose lives he has touched one way or another. He is a protector, savior, lover and killer all into one. The layer of mystery surrounding this character is one of the highlights of this book and I do look forward to the succeeding ones to unravel that mystery.
Each event is weaved nicely into the next and the storytelling is tight. The characters' motivations though at first glance is clear gets muddled up as the book goes on. There is so many shades of grey.
A tiny criticism that I have though is that the shifting POVs can be a bit confusing and jarring at times especially if the person reading it is not used to such transitioning. I am able to follow along easily since I am used to such things, but I think for some it might pose just a wee bit of problem especially when this transition throws the reader at times in a different scenario that might at first not be related to something that happened previously.
Another one would be that I feel like the women in this story feels so one dimensional as opposed to the male characters. They read like they are just there for plot devise purposes. Yes even Yvette who is the main antagonist so far in this book. This might change once I read the rest of the series but we will see.
Anyway, by the end of book 1, the reader is presented with a complex story with high stakes that each character is forced to confront. Every individual action done has an equal consequence that alters the lives entangled in it.
There is so much going on in this opening salvo for this series - Love, Betrayal, Revenge, Pain, Fear, Loyalty - there is just a lot. I am looking forward to the rest of the House of Sicarii.
I'd give this book a 4 out of 5 stars.
What made be want to read this book was the summary. I was not disappointed at all once I started it.
First off, I'd recommend this to anyone who loves a good plot, a nice mystery and really complex characters. However, if the idea of adults with huge age gaps participating in sex and at times of dubious consent in nature, then this book will not be for you. Please keep that in mind if ever you wish to read this.
Opening Move is the first book in the House of Sicarii series. The opening scenes of the book is something I wouldn't call terribly exciting. I'd even say it is your typical opener for a crime/thriller story. However, as you delve deeper into the plot, you are reeled in by the various events happening as seen through the eyes of the characters - Sam, Jacob, Marcel, Yvette, and Ben.
The heart of this story as presented is Marcel. We see facets of his personality through those people whose lives he has touched one way or another. He is a protector, savior, lover and killer all into one. The layer of mystery surrounding this character is one of the highlights of this book and I do look forward to the succeeding ones to unravel that mystery.
Each event is weaved nicely into the next and the storytelling is tight. The characters' motivations though at first glance is clear gets muddled up as the book goes on. There is so many shades of grey.
A tiny criticism that I have though is that the shifting POVs can be a bit confusing and jarring at times especially if the person reading it is not used to such transitioning. I am able to follow along easily since I am used to such things, but I think for some it might pose just a wee bit of problem especially when this transition throws the reader at times in a different scenario that might at first not be related to something that happened previously.
Another one would be that I feel like the women in this story feels so one dimensional as opposed to the male characters. They read like they are just there for plot devise purposes. Yes even Yvette who is the main antagonist so far in this book. This might change once I read the rest of the series but we will see.
Anyway, by the end of book 1, the reader is presented with a complex story with high stakes that each character is forced to confront. Every individual action done has an equal consequence that alters the lives entangled in it.
There is so much going on in this opening salvo for this series - Love, Betrayal, Revenge, Pain, Fear, Loyalty - there is just a lot. I am looking forward to the rest of the House of Sicarii.
I'd give this book a 4 out of 5 stars.
May 25, 2020
3.75 stars-- SICARII part 1 by Adrienne Wilder is a contemporary, adult, dark, erotic psychological thriller focusing on Ben Corbin, Jacob Moser and Marcel Serghi.
DEFINITION: In ancient times, in Judaism, the Sicarii were assassins and murderers who carried a dagger known as the sica.
WARNING: SICARII part 1 contains graphic scenes of M/M sexual situations that may not be suitable for all readers.
Told from three third person perspectives (Ben, Jacob and Marcel) SICARII part one introduces the players and sets the premise that follows a betrayal and vendetta in the world of the SICARII. Marcel Serghi is a member of the House Sicarii; an assassin who has disobeyed the laws of their covenant and as such finds himself the target of a woman seeking vengeance for someone she lost. Marcel is no longer the assassin of memory but a man who is much more. With former rent-boy (aka male prostitute) Jacob Moser as his part-time companion and sexual partner, Marcel bides his time knowing someone will come seeking revenge, and that someone has come looking for justice, at a cost to his own family and the people he loves. Enter Ben Corbin, a twenty-something young man who has last everyone and everything, and with one final act of rebellion, Ben sets out to take down the man he believes killed the only family he has ever known.
We are introduced to Marcel’s young neighbor, high school teen Sam Waters who is struggling with his sexual identity. Sam has been bullied most of his life, and Marcel Serghi sees something in Sam that calls to his heart. Building up Sam’s confidence, Marcel sets up a series of tasks for the young boy but his reasons and determinations have yet to be revealed.
SICARII part one is a story of betrayal, vengeance, power and control; of obedience and resignation; of family, love, and eroticism; of loss, lessons, deception, acknowledgement and acceptance. A complex and original story line, SICARII part one is compelling and dramatic that barely touches the surface of Marcel Serghi’s dark and dangerous history.
copy supplied for review
DEFINITION: In ancient times, in Judaism, the Sicarii were assassins and murderers who carried a dagger known as the sica.
WARNING: SICARII part 1 contains graphic scenes of M/M sexual situations that may not be suitable for all readers.
Told from three third person perspectives (Ben, Jacob and Marcel) SICARII part one introduces the players and sets the premise that follows a betrayal and vendetta in the world of the SICARII. Marcel Serghi is a member of the House Sicarii; an assassin who has disobeyed the laws of their covenant and as such finds himself the target of a woman seeking vengeance for someone she lost. Marcel is no longer the assassin of memory but a man who is much more. With former rent-boy (aka male prostitute) Jacob Moser as his part-time companion and sexual partner, Marcel bides his time knowing someone will come seeking revenge, and that someone has come looking for justice, at a cost to his own family and the people he loves. Enter Ben Corbin, a twenty-something young man who has last everyone and everything, and with one final act of rebellion, Ben sets out to take down the man he believes killed the only family he has ever known.
We are introduced to Marcel’s young neighbor, high school teen Sam Waters who is struggling with his sexual identity. Sam has been bullied most of his life, and Marcel Serghi sees something in Sam that calls to his heart. Building up Sam’s confidence, Marcel sets up a series of tasks for the young boy but his reasons and determinations have yet to be revealed.
SICARII part one is a story of betrayal, vengeance, power and control; of obedience and resignation; of family, love, and eroticism; of loss, lessons, deception, acknowledgement and acceptance. A complex and original story line, SICARII part one is compelling and dramatic that barely touches the surface of Marcel Serghi’s dark and dangerous history.
copy supplied for review
May 1, 2020
Part I of Sacarii is a type of introduction to this suspenseful, and somewhat, other, storyline. The Sacarii seem to be one in a number of alluded to secret societies that keep the world in check.
There is a weaving of seemingly separate lives being drawn together toward one Sacarii, Marcel. People in his personal orbit seem to be drawn to him, even knowing what he is and what he has done. Some fear him, some are angry, while one young innocent doesn't seem to be quite caught up in Marcel's world as of now; just Marcel doing something nice, but for what purpose, I haven't determined.
We get a good building point of the characters' backgrounds, but this was never meant to be a standalone. I really did not know exactly how to review this on its own, as I felt like just turning the page, or opening the next book, would have kept the story going just that much faster. I would definitely recommend having the three parts of this trilogy ready, because when one book ends, it's time to start the next. I am very much looking forward to seeing what happens next.
There is a weaving of seemingly separate lives being drawn together toward one Sacarii, Marcel. People in his personal orbit seem to be drawn to him, even knowing what he is and what he has done. Some fear him, some are angry, while one young innocent doesn't seem to be quite caught up in Marcel's world as of now; just Marcel doing something nice, but for what purpose, I haven't determined.
We get a good building point of the characters' backgrounds, but this was never meant to be a standalone. I really did not know exactly how to review this on its own, as I felt like just turning the page, or opening the next book, would have kept the story going just that much faster. I would definitely recommend having the three parts of this trilogy ready, because when one book ends, it's time to start the next. I am very much looking forward to seeing what happens next.
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