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Soldiers and Mercenaries #2
When I First Saw Red
RED:
Lázhien’s human. A common Imperial soldier. And my soulmate.
How could fate get it so wrong?
The demon in me craves this bond with every shred of his being. He pushes me to accept it. This time I won’t yield to his demands.
LÁZHIEN:
Red’s a lust demon, a whore and a stuck-up snob.
The most beautiful man I’ve ever seen. Pain in the arse. And he hates my guts.
I’d be an idiot to pursue him. Yet something about him compels me to make him mine.
When I First Saw Red is a complete and standalone short novel with an HEA ending, featuring a couple of reluctant fated soulmates—a demon and a human—trying and failing to defy destiny.
Lázhien’s human. A common Imperial soldier. And my soulmate.
How could fate get it so wrong?
The demon in me craves this bond with every shred of his being. He pushes me to accept it. This time I won’t yield to his demands.
LÁZHIEN:
Red’s a lust demon, a whore and a stuck-up snob.
The most beautiful man I’ve ever seen. Pain in the arse. And he hates my guts.
I’d be an idiot to pursue him. Yet something about him compels me to make him mine.
When I First Saw Red is a complete and standalone short novel with an HEA ending, featuring a couple of reluctant fated soulmates—a demon and a human—trying and failing to defy destiny.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 5, 2020
66 people are currently reading
481 people want to read
About the author
Kasia Bacon
17 books351 followersA linguist and an avid reader with a particular fondness for fantasy and paranormal genres, KASIA BACON lives in London with her husband. When not tearing her hair out over a translating project, she writes stories about the shenanigans of emotionally constipated assassins and sexy Elves. Otherwise, she can be found shaking her loins at a Zumba class, binging on anime or admiring throwing knives on Pinterest. A lover of MMA and Muay Thai, she also enjoys nature and the great outdoors. She dreams of becoming independently wealthy, leaving the city and moving into her wooden mini-manor—located in the heart of stunning forests resembling those of the Elven Country depicted in her tales.
For excerpts, free stories and updates about new projects, sign up for Kasia’s newsletter at:
kasiabacon.wixsite.com/orderseries/ne...
https://linktr.ee/KasiaBacon
For excerpts, free stories and updates about new projects, sign up for Kasia’s newsletter at:
kasiabacon.wixsite.com/orderseries/ne...
https://linktr.ee/KasiaBacon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
June 6, 2020
Yay, we finally, finally, FINALLY got a full-length fantasy story from Kasia Bacon and I couldn't be happier!
Okay, I know I'm super weird, but as I was reading, my mind kept drifting to something along the lines of InuYasha goes gay. And red-headed. And prostitute?!?!?
Ōkkanȏ, aka Red, had lived his entire post-puberty life in service of satisfying his inner lust demon, so upon meeting their fated soulmate, to say that Red was less than thrilled about a lifelong bond being forced upon him would be a vast understatement.
Gruff, drill sergeant Lázhien was mostly content with the steady, regimented life of a soldier, but when a bout of loneliness saw him visiting a local brothel, he was immediately taken with Red's unmatched beauty, even though Red's snarky attitude was equally unmatched.
Then after one night together, Lázhien, unlike Red's usual clientele, who only wanted the shiniest bauble to play with, he wanted to keep Red for his very own, but didn't see how Red would ever want him in return.
So this was your classic story of two men with lots of baggage, consumed by attraction, but neither feeling worthy of the other, which is about all that I'm going to say to avoid spoilers.
I will say that I really liked Ranélle, the brothel owner and Red's best friend, as she meddled her way into the guys getting their HEA, whether they liked it or now. She was just the right level of pushy for my tastes.
I also really loved "the happy" that I saw once they gave into their mutual feelings and allowed fate to take over, as they'd both only been existing before, instead of living their lives to the fullest.
The writing was stellar, as always, with much more steam than we've previous seen in Kasia's short stories, but nothing approaching gratuitous.
If I had to list one niggle, it would be that, due to the premise of how the potential bond could be broken, the MC's spent very little time actually together on-page, with multiple "fortnight" jumps over the wallowing and longing periods of separation that I think might've more firmly cemented their intense feelings in my own head.
I'd rate the book at around 4.25 stars and recommend it to any fans of the M/M Fantasy genre.
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July 25, 2020
4 Happy Hearts!
When I saw this come across the blog there was no question I wanted to read it, and I grabbed it up without paying too much attention to the blurb. All I needed to know was that this was a Kasia Bacon story, and it was set in her wonderful Order Universe.
This time around, the romance focuses on soldier Lazhien, who’s not typically one to frequent brothels, but a lonely free night nudges him towards the local establishment just to get out of the barracks to kick back and have a drink. He really has no set plans to indulge, but when he lays eyes on the most beautiful man he’s ever seen, the attraction bowls him over despite his slight aversion towards paying for sex, and Lazhien surprises himself by offering an exhorbitant amount for a night with the Tii-Matashi.
What Lazhien doesn’t realize is that Okkano is equally knocked on his ass, that being a “two-soul”, the demon incubus that inhabits his being has apparently marked Lazhien as his. Okkano certainly doesn’t want to be tied down, he for sure doesn’t want to be further dictated by the demon in him, and he absolutely definitely doesn’t want what looks like a dumb brute of a solider as his soulmate no matter how delicious his big muscles are. To say the least, the dislike at first sight (and on principle) from both sides is palpable but so is the rampant desire and want that is pulling Lazhien and Okkano together like nobody’s business, something that they can barely resist as they try to keep things in check unsuccessfully.
These two fight what feels so right and they have plenty of reasons and assumptions to not finalize such a permanent bond, but Bacon throws in some very good twisty feels and angsty baggage to make Lazhien and Okkano’s pairing all the more rewarding once they come to their stubborn senses...
This is by far the sexiest of the author’s works regarding such a buildup, despite the lack of fully fleshed out explicit details where it counts. Regardless, I loved what I got and greatly enjoyed myself, simply asking for more yumminess in whatever the next book may be. Pretty pretty please with a cherry on top?
Essentially, I’m biased, and I don’t think this author can really do any wrong with the fantastical, rich, and complex world she has created. I’ll continue to happily line up for her stories for as long as she churns them out, and I can only hope it will be for many years to come!
Thank you to the author for a copy in exchange for an honest review
When I saw this come across the blog there was no question I wanted to read it, and I grabbed it up without paying too much attention to the blurb. All I needed to know was that this was a Kasia Bacon story, and it was set in her wonderful Order Universe.
This time around, the romance focuses on soldier Lazhien, who’s not typically one to frequent brothels, but a lonely free night nudges him towards the local establishment just to get out of the barracks to kick back and have a drink. He really has no set plans to indulge, but when he lays eyes on the most beautiful man he’s ever seen, the attraction bowls him over despite his slight aversion towards paying for sex, and Lazhien surprises himself by offering an exhorbitant amount for a night with the Tii-Matashi.
What Lazhien doesn’t realize is that Okkano is equally knocked on his ass, that being a “two-soul”, the demon incubus that inhabits his being has apparently marked Lazhien as his. Okkano certainly doesn’t want to be tied down, he for sure doesn’t want to be further dictated by the demon in him, and he absolutely definitely doesn’t want what looks like a dumb brute of a solider as his soulmate no matter how delicious his big muscles are. To say the least, the dislike at first sight (and on principle) from both sides is palpable but so is the rampant desire and want that is pulling Lazhien and Okkano together like nobody’s business, something that they can barely resist as they try to keep things in check unsuccessfully.
These two fight what feels so right and they have plenty of reasons and assumptions to not finalize such a permanent bond, but Bacon throws in some very good twisty feels and angsty baggage to make Lazhien and Okkano’s pairing all the more rewarding once they come to their stubborn senses...
This is by far the sexiest of the author’s works regarding such a buildup, despite the lack of fully fleshed out explicit details where it counts. Regardless, I loved what I got and greatly enjoyed myself, simply asking for more yumminess in whatever the next book may be. Pretty pretty please with a cherry on top?
Essentially, I’m biased, and I don’t think this author can really do any wrong with the fantastical, rich, and complex world she has created. I’ll continue to happily line up for her stories for as long as she churns them out, and I can only hope it will be for many years to come!
Thank you to the author for a copy in exchange for an honest review
June 5, 2020
This is the second book in the Soldiers and Mercenaries series by Kasia Bacon.
Her writing is exquisite, as always! From the first page you get transported into this fantastic world with humans, elves, soldiers, courtesans.
We get Ōkkanȏ Kyatto - a male courtesan with an Incubus lust demon, and Sergeant Jhagán Lázhien - a human soldier.
They couldn't be more different, but they share a very special and rare bond: Sergeant Jhagán is Ōkkanȏ/Tii-Matâshi's fated soulmate.
This story starts with intense lust, even if Ōkkanȏ can't stand soldiers. But Lázhien is determined to have him anyway.
There's a lot of inner struggles, especially in Ōkkanȏ, who has to fight his demon a lot. He's insecure and afraid to be rejected. So even if he gives into temptation, he was not ready to give their bond a try.
Lázhien was a great surprise. He was tough on the outside, but an attentive lover. He was also kind, and protective. I would have wanted him to fight more for Ōkkanȏ, to speak his mind and not to just accept the situation.
Even if I liked Madame Ranelle, I would have wanted Lázhien to pursue Ōkkanȏ on his own.
Overall I enjoyed the story and especially the epilogue!
ARC kindly provided by the author.
Her writing is exquisite, as always! From the first page you get transported into this fantastic world with humans, elves, soldiers, courtesans.
We get Ōkkanȏ Kyatto - a male courtesan with an Incubus lust demon, and Sergeant Jhagán Lázhien - a human soldier.
They couldn't be more different, but they share a very special and rare bond: Sergeant Jhagán is Ōkkanȏ/Tii-Matâshi's fated soulmate.
This story starts with intense lust, even if Ōkkanȏ can't stand soldiers. But Lázhien is determined to have him anyway.
There's a lot of inner struggles, especially in Ōkkanȏ, who has to fight his demon a lot. He's insecure and afraid to be rejected. So even if he gives into temptation, he was not ready to give their bond a try.
Lázhien was a great surprise. He was tough on the outside, but an attentive lover. He was also kind, and protective. I would have wanted him to fight more for Ōkkanȏ, to speak his mind and not to just accept the situation.
Even if I liked Madame Ranelle, I would have wanted Lázhien to pursue Ōkkanȏ on his own.
Overall I enjoyed the story and especially the epilogue!
ARC kindly provided by the author.
June 1, 2020
Wow.
Talk about getting lost in a book. The writing just pulled me in. It’s amazing how such a short book can achieve what so many full length ones cannot.
I loved both these characters. Red is a Tii-Matâshi a split soul. One half being a lust demon.
Lázhien a soldier. But not the mindless brute Red imagines.
Both manage to surprise the other.
The attraction and pull between these two is beautiful. The writing is detailed, atmospheric and almost breathtaking. And as always leaves you wanting more.
I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided by the author.
Talk about getting lost in a book. The writing just pulled me in. It’s amazing how such a short book can achieve what so many full length ones cannot.
I loved both these characters. Red is a Tii-Matâshi a split soul. One half being a lust demon.
Lázhien a soldier. But not the mindless brute Red imagines.
Both manage to surprise the other.
The attraction and pull between these two is beautiful. The writing is detailed, atmospheric and almost breathtaking. And as always leaves you wanting more.
I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided by the author.
May 31, 2020
Scorching hot and complete. And I mean COMPLETE as in a 400 pages’ novel complete.
Complete because nothing is missing. It’s all there. The steam, the love, the humor, the relationship development. It’s the longest in The Order series and a it’s noticeable.
Complete because we really get to know the characters. The dialogues are a super useful tool here, giving us insight of the situation, their personalities and their backgrounds. Beautifully written as usual.
Complete in the sex scenes. Kasia went all dirty and explicit on us and it was a delight.
Complete is the whole idea of the Tii-Matâshi. I love the two souls or split souls thing, their dichotomous nature and the way Kasia explains it. Loved the absence of freedom the demon inside Red entail. His conflicted self, not just because of that but also his past. It’s exquisite. Really
”I’d long settled for being carried through life like a leaf caught in the wind. With the way my demon constricted me, I’d had limited opportunity to exercise my free will.”
Soul mates who fight the soul matting, the attraction, the inevitability of it. But maybe it’s the idea of the no-inevitability what attracted me the most. There’s an option there, there’s still freedom to choose, and it’s not only the demon imposing himself.
“Accepting a soulmate is a choice, not a prison sentence.”
Complete because Lázhien is yummy. Super deep thought this one, don’t miss it, please.
And complete because —and I’m writing it in capital letters—: THERE’S A SNIPPET FROM THE SCOUTS!!!! *yells loudly* and what an excerpt! Sexy and intriguing. I want, no, scratch that, I NEED more of Ervyn and Lochan.
A highly recommend read which stands alone perfectly, btw.
***ARC copy review***
Complete because nothing is missing. It’s all there. The steam, the love, the humor, the relationship development. It’s the longest in The Order series and a it’s noticeable.
Complete because we really get to know the characters. The dialogues are a super useful tool here, giving us insight of the situation, their personalities and their backgrounds. Beautifully written as usual.
Complete in the sex scenes. Kasia went all dirty and explicit on us and it was a delight.
Complete is the whole idea of the Tii-Matâshi. I love the two souls or split souls thing, their dichotomous nature and the way Kasia explains it. Loved the absence of freedom the demon inside Red entail. His conflicted self, not just because of that but also his past. It’s exquisite. Really
”I’d long settled for being carried through life like a leaf caught in the wind. With the way my demon constricted me, I’d had limited opportunity to exercise my free will.”
Soul mates who fight the soul matting, the attraction, the inevitability of it. But maybe it’s the idea of the no-inevitability what attracted me the most. There’s an option there, there’s still freedom to choose, and it’s not only the demon imposing himself.
“Accepting a soulmate is a choice, not a prison sentence.”
Complete because Lázhien is yummy. Super deep thought this one, don’t miss it, please.
And complete because —and I’m writing it in capital letters—: THERE’S A SNIPPET FROM THE SCOUTS!!!! *yells loudly* and what an excerpt! Sexy and intriguing. I want, no, scratch that, I NEED more of Ervyn and Lochan.
A highly recommend read which stands alone perfectly, btw.
***ARC copy review***
June 2, 2020
Fantasy is my true love when it comes to reading and finding an author who can write stunningly brilliant stories like Kasia Bacon does is a joy.
Here she stretches beyond the 5k short story and into a novella filled with all the best bits of her Order Universe.
One snarky half-elf/incubus with a wicked tongue and a streak of independence a mile wide.
One stoic and resolute Drill Master, a soldier of honour and commitment.
Throw in a meddling whorehouse owner who wants the best for her friend even when that's him leaving her employ, and a setting rich with culture and you get a fabulous opposites attract fated mates romance.
That there's a sneak peek into The Order #3 at the end is just the icing on the cake.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Here she stretches beyond the 5k short story and into a novella filled with all the best bits of her Order Universe.
One snarky half-elf/incubus with a wicked tongue and a streak of independence a mile wide.
One stoic and resolute Drill Master, a soldier of honour and commitment.
Throw in a meddling whorehouse owner who wants the best for her friend even when that's him leaving her employ, and a setting rich with culture and you get a fabulous opposites attract fated mates romance.
That there's a sneak peek into The Order #3 at the end is just the icing on the cake.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
December 20, 2021
Wow. Just wow
This is my first Kasia Bacon book and it will certainly not be my last.
I am gob-smacked by the talent of this author.
The writing, the world building, the feelings.
I mean....
"My choice. My fate. My love."
Gah. I melted.
Incubus meets human soldier. Mates, can't be apart, possessive, jealous. Yesss pleaaaaasssseeee
I love when MCs can't see anyone but the other.
As for the audiobook by Cornell Collins:
This narrator's performances are always top notch and it is also the case here.
The voices he gave the characters, the inflections, the emotions...
Just spectacular narration that added to my enjoyment.
This is my first Kasia Bacon book and it will certainly not be my last.
I am gob-smacked by the talent of this author.
The writing, the world building, the feelings.
I mean....
"My choice. My fate. My love."
Gah. I melted.
Incubus meets human soldier. Mates, can't be apart, possessive, jealous. Yesss pleaaaaasssseeee
I love when MCs can't see anyone but the other.
As for the audiobook by Cornell Collins:
This narrator's performances are always top notch and it is also the case here.
The voices he gave the characters, the inflections, the emotions...
Just spectacular narration that added to my enjoyment.
June 7, 2020
4.5 Stars
It's official -- the master of the short story has shown she can write an awesome full length novel, too! Loved loved, fucking loved!!!
Stubborn MCs ✔️
Fated Mates ✔️
Deliciously hot sex ✔️
Glorious happy ending ✔️
And a cool cat ✔️
It's official -- the master of the short story has shown she can write an awesome full length novel, too! Loved loved, fucking loved!!!
Stubborn MCs ✔️
Fated Mates ✔️
Deliciously hot sex ✔️
Glorious happy ending ✔️
And a cool cat ✔️
June 8, 2020
4.5 stars! Not that I didn't already know this but now it's official. Kasia Bacon can do no wrong for me. I loved this one as much as I have every other things she's written, every word. I loved Lázhien and Red *Ōkkanȏ*, loved their chemistry and the initial *attempted* reluctance, and I really love the world her stories are set in. This was a complete win in every way! <3
June 11, 2020
5+++ stars First a shout out because my goodness what a great story!!
Red and Lázhien
Ōkkanȏ Kyatto aka Red is a thirty-three-year-old lust demon a Tii-Matâshi, a whore, earning good money. When a big rough looking bear of a sergeant looks at Red, he’s shocked but Red haughtily turned around and dismissed the man. In shock because dang that was his fated soulmate!
He doesn’t want to be tied to anyone, and he certainly doesn’t need anyone.
Lázhien admires the beauty of the creature standing on the balcony looking down at the buzz of the whorehouse. He also concludes he’s a snob and he wants him!
A bond is hard to deny. Recognize your mate and an intense lust starts. Then an idea pops up in Red’s head, they’ll f*ck each other’s brains out and afterward they will carry on, separately.
After the incredibly intense and most fulfilling night of his life with Lázhien, Red has to survive the next two weeks until the d*mn bond expires.
Lázhien feels hurt by Red and his refusal to bond, he is head over heels.
Stepping into the enchanting Order Universe, a magical world where we can find Incubus, Elves, Mages, and Art was more than breathtaking.
The glossary at the beginning was awesome, I was already sold by all the foreign creative designations.
It was an immensely powerfully written story, it had a snarky dirty language, just delicious!
The emotional parts were also well voiced and palpable.
The way this author expresses the scenery was great to visualize. It all felt right and made sense.
I loved this passionate story enormously, with all the beautiful creatures, strong-headed characters, and thank goodness an hea.
A winner for sure!
Red and Lázhien
Ōkkanȏ Kyatto aka Red is a thirty-three-year-old lust demon a Tii-Matâshi, a whore, earning good money. When a big rough looking bear of a sergeant looks at Red, he’s shocked but Red haughtily turned around and dismissed the man. In shock because dang that was his fated soulmate!
He doesn’t want to be tied to anyone, and he certainly doesn’t need anyone.
Lázhien admires the beauty of the creature standing on the balcony looking down at the buzz of the whorehouse. He also concludes he’s a snob and he wants him!
A bond is hard to deny. Recognize your mate and an intense lust starts. Then an idea pops up in Red’s head, they’ll f*ck each other’s brains out and afterward they will carry on, separately.
After the incredibly intense and most fulfilling night of his life with Lázhien, Red has to survive the next two weeks until the d*mn bond expires.
Lázhien feels hurt by Red and his refusal to bond, he is head over heels.
Stepping into the enchanting Order Universe, a magical world where we can find Incubus, Elves, Mages, and Art was more than breathtaking.
The glossary at the beginning was awesome, I was already sold by all the foreign creative designations.
It was an immensely powerfully written story, it had a snarky dirty language, just delicious!
The emotional parts were also well voiced and palpable.
The way this author expresses the scenery was great to visualize. It all felt right and made sense.
I loved this passionate story enormously, with all the beautiful creatures, strong-headed characters, and thank goodness an hea.
A winner for sure!
July 19, 2024
"You know, I still can't wrap my head around why you'd want me, I'm nothing special. Unlike you."
"You're special to me....for a lot of reasons. Your muscles might be one. As to why? It's simple. Firstly, because my demon wants you. You and nobody else. And secondly, because....you make me whole."
Okkano, art by shuanqwen @devianart
Lazhien, art by unknown
"You're special to me....for a lot of reasons. Your muscles might be one. As to why? It's simple. Firstly, because my demon wants you. You and nobody else. And secondly, because....you make me whole."
Okkano, art by shuanqwen @devianart
Lazhien, art by unknown
June 28, 2020
Ms. Bacon is definitely one of my very favorite authors and with this second book of the "Soldiers and Mercenaries" series she did not disappoint! Her world building is exquisite, her characters fully fleshed and her story-telling skills honed and ready. I love this world that she has created and in Red she has brought forth my very favorite character of all her book so far. The complexities of him being an elf and a succubus fascinated me. I look forward to the next book in this series!
December 24, 2021
Well that was just fabulous! It's not often I get time to concentrate on an audio book and tend to only listen to books I have already read (because attention span of a gnat!). Though as usual Kasia Bacon nailed this story with a tight script, a gorgeous love story and throw in fated mates and I was sold.
Loved the snark and banter which was rounded off with a sweet epilogue.
Loved the snark and banter which was rounded off with a sweet epilogue.
June 30, 2020
4.5/5
"Don’t hold back then, sergeant. Put those fine muscles of yours to good use. I’m not made of glass.” [...] “Fight me. Push me down. Make it rough. Until I stop thinking. Until I scream. Or until you do."
Lázhien and Ōkkanô are fated soulmates but the thing is that the latter is part of a species that has a demon with an incubus appetite inside them, and Lázhien is just a human soldier, so there’s no way in hell they are meant to be together.
Ōkkanô works in the ‘pleasure business’ mostly so he can keep his demon at bay, but when he meets the muscled soldier, he cannot help but to feel a different kind of vibe around him. His desire for him is beyond his control and it’s like having a beast inside him, roaring to come out and satisfy itself. The same can be said about Lázhien, who falls instantly for Ōkkanô’s (aka Red) features and attitude.
Now, I really don’t want to give too much details but you must now that this is by far my favorite novella from The Order universe! I’m really glad it’s longer than the other books because we get to know the characters a little bit more, and well, you know me, I never get tired of Kasia’s unique style.
I loved that we have both of their POVs, their interaction, the banter, the intense and conflicting emotions, and of course, the sex scenes are inferno hot! Honestly, I could have read the entire book in one sitting but I had to make it last! The Order Universe is a true gem and if you haven’t read anything from her, what are you waiting for?
Last but not least, I have the perfect cast for them: Jon Bernthal as Lázhien and Ben Barnes as Red. Oh, can I have more of them? PLEASE!
PREVIOUS REVIEWS:
The Mutt | The Highlander | Twenty-one Arrow Salute | Blessings and Light | Rago | The Poison Within | Don't fight the Spark
"Don’t hold back then, sergeant. Put those fine muscles of yours to good use. I’m not made of glass.” [...] “Fight me. Push me down. Make it rough. Until I stop thinking. Until I scream. Or until you do."
Lázhien and Ōkkanô are fated soulmates but the thing is that the latter is part of a species that has a demon with an incubus appetite inside them, and Lázhien is just a human soldier, so there’s no way in hell they are meant to be together.
Ōkkanô works in the ‘pleasure business’ mostly so he can keep his demon at bay, but when he meets the muscled soldier, he cannot help but to feel a different kind of vibe around him. His desire for him is beyond his control and it’s like having a beast inside him, roaring to come out and satisfy itself. The same can be said about Lázhien, who falls instantly for Ōkkanô’s (aka Red) features and attitude.
Now, I really don’t want to give too much details but you must now that this is by far my favorite novella from The Order universe! I’m really glad it’s longer than the other books because we get to know the characters a little bit more, and well, you know me, I never get tired of Kasia’s unique style.
I loved that we have both of their POVs, their interaction, the banter, the intense and conflicting emotions, and of course, the sex scenes are inferno hot! Honestly, I could have read the entire book in one sitting but I had to make it last! The Order Universe is a true gem and if you haven’t read anything from her, what are you waiting for?
Last but not least, I have the perfect cast for them: Jon Bernthal as Lázhien and Ben Barnes as Red. Oh, can I have more of them? PLEASE!
PREVIOUS REVIEWS:
The Mutt | The Highlander | Twenty-one Arrow Salute | Blessings and Light | Rago | The Poison Within | Don't fight the Spark
Read
December 10, 2021RUNNER-UP IN THE RAINBOW AWARDS 2020-2021 IN BEST BISEXUAL FANTASY & PARANORMAL ROMANCE
Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089796K9B
Amazon UK:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B089796K9B
A tug-of-war between Choice and Fate won by LOVE!
🖤 Demon/Human paring
🖤 Enemies-to-Lovers
🖤 Fated Soulmates
🖤 Hurt/Comfort
🖤 HEA
🖤 Complete and standalone story
Now also available in AUDIO, narrated by the fab Cornell Collins!!
https://www.audible.com/pd/B09NB3BLKX...
Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089796K9B
Amazon UK:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B089796K9B
A tug-of-war between Choice and Fate won by LOVE!
🖤 Demon/Human paring
🖤 Enemies-to-Lovers
🖤 Fated Soulmates
🖤 Hurt/Comfort
🖤 HEA
🖤 Complete and standalone story
Now also available in AUDIO, narrated by the fab Cornell Collins!!
https://www.audible.com/pd/B09NB3BLKX...
June 6, 2020
4,5 stars
Captivating from the first page to the last.
Full of lovely feels and gorgeous sizzle.
Lázhien is a tall, strong and upright soldier with a big heart and a tender touch.
Ōkkanȏ/Red is a sassy, yet so vulnerable Elf who shares his body with an Incubus and works in a whorehouse to satisfy his demon’s needs.
I always enjoy the soulmate trope, and it’s dealt with in the most intriguing way here. While Red is fighting himself and the demon inside him whether to accept a connection he hasn’t chosen, Lázhien desperately tries not to get his heart broken.
The pining, the want, the desire and passion are just swoon-worthy!
There’s something ultimately engaging about Kasia Bacon’s writing that makes my heart sing every single time. It’s the sheer breadth of imagination, the intensity of emotions, the depth of characterization and that dry humour that pops up ever so often, for one, but it’s the lovable characters that makes her books so memorable.
If you enjoy fantasy, don’t miss this fab book and series!
Captivating from the first page to the last.
Full of lovely feels and gorgeous sizzle.
Lázhien is a tall, strong and upright soldier with a big heart and a tender touch.
Ōkkanȏ/Red is a sassy, yet so vulnerable Elf who shares his body with an Incubus and works in a whorehouse to satisfy his demon’s needs.
I always enjoy the soulmate trope, and it’s dealt with in the most intriguing way here. While Red is fighting himself and the demon inside him whether to accept a connection he hasn’t chosen, Lázhien desperately tries not to get his heart broken.
The pining, the want, the desire and passion are just swoon-worthy!
There’s something ultimately engaging about Kasia Bacon’s writing that makes my heart sing every single time. It’s the sheer breadth of imagination, the intensity of emotions, the depth of characterization and that dry humour that pops up ever so often, for one, but it’s the lovable characters that makes her books so memorable.
If you enjoy fantasy, don’t miss this fab book and series!
July 12, 2020
I think that it's a given after so many successful stories that Kasia Bacon knows how to write a fantasy story with magical creatures. She has the ability to fit a full story in just a few pages and make it complete.
In her latest release, When I First Saw Red, - a full length novel! - she plays again with fated mates (like in Rago). It's another unlikely pairing, this time between a human and a demon.
Here, the couple tries to resist the bond and to move on. The demon has some unresolved issues from his past regarding his self worth and so the human has to fight to gain his trust.
The story unfolds over a few months' time with the main characters spending most of this period apart. There are side characters that enrich the plot and beautifully support the main ones, and there are even more information about Bacon's world.
I love how every story extends the Order Universe and adds something to it. As always, I look forward to the next book.
An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
In her latest release, When I First Saw Red, - a full length novel! - she plays again with fated mates (like in Rago). It's another unlikely pairing, this time between a human and a demon.
Here, the couple tries to resist the bond and to move on. The demon has some unresolved issues from his past regarding his self worth and so the human has to fight to gain his trust.
The story unfolds over a few months' time with the main characters spending most of this period apart. There are side characters that enrich the plot and beautifully support the main ones, and there are even more information about Bacon's world.
I love how every story extends the Order Universe and adds something to it. As always, I look forward to the next book.
An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
June 7, 2020
I've seen my friends, Todd and Jewel, read this author over the past few years. When I saw this long-ish book come out, I decided to give it a chance. I've very glad I did. This was very well done. Loved the relationship angst and the way fated mates was addressed.
December 14, 2023
Lázhien is everything Red despises. He's a soldier and gods forbid, human. Red catches Lázhien's eye straightaway and he can't help but fork out his well earned silver for one night with Red. But no matter how these two feel about each other, both walk away feeling a little bereaved and out of sorts. Each dealing with their own insecurities and hurts. But with some well meaning pushes from a friend, the two still gravitate towards each other.
I love Kasia Bacon's work. Almost everything she has written has been a 5 star read for me. She just ticks all my boxes. But, I was hesitant to read this one. It has a few troupes I don't particularly care for like reluctant mates, prostitutes and even a dead ex (didn't know that until reading). But while this did have all those things, and I wanted to whack both mc's up the head a few times, it still held my interest and dare I say I liked it? Of course, I've said before Kasia could write the phone book and I'd read it and love it.
My biggest complaint was I really wanted more time for them to be together and work through their differences. We do get a pretty sweet epilogue that was satisfying. I would love to see more of these two though.
I love Kasia Bacon's work. Almost everything she has written has been a 5 star read for me. She just ticks all my boxes. But, I was hesitant to read this one. It has a few troupes I don't particularly care for like reluctant mates, prostitutes and even a dead ex (didn't know that until reading). But while this did have all those things, and I wanted to whack both mc's up the head a few times, it still held my interest and dare I say I liked it? Of course, I've said before Kasia could write the phone book and I'd read it and love it.
My biggest complaint was I really wanted more time for them to be together and work through their differences. We do get a pretty sweet epilogue that was satisfying. I would love to see more of these two though.
December 21, 2021
The second book in Kasia Bacon's Soldiers and Mercenaries series, When I First Saw Red is also a standalone.
If you enjoy erotic fantasy stories, Kasia Bacon writes the best. The supernatural creatures are creative, and the world building is excellent in the Order Universe.
The audio version of When I First Saw Red is performed by the marvelous Cornell Collins, who does a spectacular job (as always).
an audiobook copy of When I First Saw Red was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
If you enjoy erotic fantasy stories, Kasia Bacon writes the best. The supernatural creatures are creative, and the world building is excellent in the Order Universe.
The audio version of When I First Saw Red is performed by the marvelous Cornell Collins, who does a spectacular job (as always).
an audiobook copy of When I First Saw Red was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
June 5, 2020
5 incubus-y/soldier-y stars!!!
I'd never been one for whorehouses.
That's the first line of Kasia Bacon's great new book, When I First Saw Red :) :) :)
Well... I'd ALWAYS been one for whorehouses. Very much so. In my reads... ;)
And Kasia Bacon's newest MC, Okkano "Red" Kyatto is such an exquisite prostitute that I would've been frequenting Cocks and Hens, well, probably daily ;)
When I First Saw Red is a Soldiers and Mercenaries story that evokes images of mediaevalish Japan and fantasy elven countries... It's subtle and sublime.
IMHO, in terms of writing style and language, it's Bacon's best book yet! Yes, it's longer, and yes, it's more focused on the poetry of lovemaking (if I may say so) and so it shows the author's full artistry of weaving a perfect 'reluctant fated mates' story: full of contrasts, insecurities and heartwarming affection.
I loved both MCs dearly. I thought that Red would be my favourite hero - an elven halfling whore, with mysterious markings on his face, mysterious past and not-so-mysterious skills in his bedroom... Who wouldn't like him, right? ;)
And yet, Lazhien, a fierce giant of a soldier, stole and warmed my heart with his thoughtfulness, easy smile, and gentle approach towards Red.
Ow! And I want me a mogo cat, too! ;)
Anyway, I don't want to spoil too much. I must just tell you that this book is so different from the previous The Order Series stories - it's less "adventurous", and more focused on the MCs, it's beautifully poetic and full of little details that make the story flow and seem much more "personal".
On the other hand, it fits the The Order Universe perfectly... Again, you will find here a few strong soldiers, some great banter, a good deal of steam and a little bit of magic...
The secondary characters are endearing and essential, and the mogo cat is cute and sweet ;)
I think one of the best lines from the book is, at the same time, a great sum-up of this story:
Soldiers and whores go together like dogs and fleas. :) :) :)
Well, I agree wholeheartedly!
Highly recommended for all The Order fans and also for those of you who love a historical fantasy world with unusual pairings, fierce and sweet MCs, strange, fascinating rituals and beautiful writing! ;)
And off I go to get my "dessert" - the sneak peek of Scouts with Lochan and Ervyn, generously provided by Kasia Bacon at the end of When I First Saw Red :)
I'd never been one for whorehouses.
That's the first line of Kasia Bacon's great new book, When I First Saw Red :) :) :)
Well... I'd ALWAYS been one for whorehouses. Very much so. In my reads... ;)
And Kasia Bacon's newest MC, Okkano "Red" Kyatto is such an exquisite prostitute that I would've been frequenting Cocks and Hens, well, probably daily ;)
When I First Saw Red is a Soldiers and Mercenaries story that evokes images of mediaevalish Japan and fantasy elven countries... It's subtle and sublime.
IMHO, in terms of writing style and language, it's Bacon's best book yet! Yes, it's longer, and yes, it's more focused on the poetry of lovemaking (if I may say so) and so it shows the author's full artistry of weaving a perfect 'reluctant fated mates' story: full of contrasts, insecurities and heartwarming affection.
I loved both MCs dearly. I thought that Red would be my favourite hero - an elven halfling whore, with mysterious markings on his face, mysterious past and not-so-mysterious skills in his bedroom... Who wouldn't like him, right? ;)
And yet, Lazhien, a fierce giant of a soldier, stole and warmed my heart with his thoughtfulness, easy smile, and gentle approach towards Red.
Ow! And I want me a mogo cat, too! ;)
Anyway, I don't want to spoil too much. I must just tell you that this book is so different from the previous The Order Series stories - it's less "adventurous", and more focused on the MCs, it's beautifully poetic and full of little details that make the story flow and seem much more "personal".
On the other hand, it fits the The Order Universe perfectly... Again, you will find here a few strong soldiers, some great banter, a good deal of steam and a little bit of magic...
The secondary characters are endearing and essential, and the mogo cat is cute and sweet ;)
I think one of the best lines from the book is, at the same time, a great sum-up of this story:
Soldiers and whores go together like dogs and fleas. :) :) :)
Well, I agree wholeheartedly!
Highly recommended for all The Order fans and also for those of you who love a historical fantasy world with unusual pairings, fierce and sweet MCs, strange, fascinating rituals and beautiful writing! ;)
And off I go to get my "dessert" - the sneak peek of Scouts with Lochan and Ervyn, generously provided by Kasia Bacon at the end of When I First Saw Red :)
August 13, 2020
This is a fun, captivating fantasy story of an exotic brothel worker who has a double personality, part of his spirit being a lust-demon whose presence is a constant push toward sex. Red has coped with it by letting his demon dictate what he does with his body, while making good money and using what time he can claw away from his courtesan lifestyle to paint and draw. It's not ideal, but it works. Until the day he meets the eyes of a big soldier, across the room in the brothel, and his demon spots its soulmate. A man Red absolutely does not want in his life.
Lázhien lost a wife and child years ago, and wasn't looking for anything beyond maybe a bed partner for an hour. But he's a man who likes stability and comfort and he's suddenly obsessed with the red-haired demon-elf in not just a sexual but a "bring him home and cosset him" way. Unfortunately Red is prickly, stand-offish, and seems determined to push Lázhien away.
Red is a strong man, and determined, but he's working against his demon, Lázhien, and the demands of fate. It's going to be an interesting battle.
The characters here were fun, the world-building imaginative and not so complex as to lose the thread of the story. I would have liked a lot more from these two, but that's not a criticism of this neatly woven little story with its solid HEA.
Lázhien lost a wife and child years ago, and wasn't looking for anything beyond maybe a bed partner for an hour. But he's a man who likes stability and comfort and he's suddenly obsessed with the red-haired demon-elf in not just a sexual but a "bring him home and cosset him" way. Unfortunately Red is prickly, stand-offish, and seems determined to push Lázhien away.
Red is a strong man, and determined, but he's working against his demon, Lázhien, and the demands of fate. It's going to be an interesting battle.
The characters here were fun, the world-building imaginative and not so complex as to lose the thread of the story. I would have liked a lot more from these two, but that's not a criticism of this neatly woven little story with its solid HEA.
April 15, 2023
Uhm looks like I haven’t written review about this masterpiece?! Shame on me.
All the stars!!! I own a signed paperback 🥹 that’s how great it is 💜
All the stars!!! I own a signed paperback 🥹 that’s how great it is 💜
Read
September 7, 2020I've been known to call Ms. Kasia Bacon the Queen of short fiction fantasy; grasping and holding not only my attention but my heart firmly in a short number of pages. She does this, she's done this and she does it so damn well. But with this, with the beautiful Red and his human, she's given me more pages and my heart almost couldn't take it.
Almost.
I had my first peek at Red back in November of 2017 when the author participated in a flash fiction even with The Unicorns aka Boy Meets Boy Reviews. The picture she was given was/is gorgeous and really who Red is. From those last lines, the promise that Sergeant Jhagán would be back in a weeks time with more money than he should promise for a night with the Red headed whore with two-souls... I knew I was going to need the story.
Knowing the beginnings of this one didn't hurt one bit as I opened to the first page and was gifted in getting the dual POV's of Ōkkanȏ Kyatto and Sergeant Lázhien Jhagán. I adored being in both their heads as they go through what would be their last normal moments before their lives would be forever changed.
You see, this is a fated mates story and quite possibly my favorite trope of all. I find it extremely romantic that fate has someone out their for you and when/if you find them you can't control anything until they are yours. Fated mates bring about romance, angst, freaking hot as hell sex and the sweetest bits of intimacy. It also comes with jealousy and sexy declarations of MINE that for this reader will never get old.
So with that being said. I couldn't wait to get into what each of these men feel after their lust at first sight meeting and specifically how Ōkkanȏ would feel knowing he is a Tii-Matâshi and ruled by his demon. The demon that instantly recognized his mate and wanted him. I liked the easy conversation Red has with Renellé, his boss at the brothel, concerning the lore of fated mates. We aren't hit over the head with a bunch of information, we are given the specifics listening to friends have a chat and that truly makes a difference.
The first night with Red and Lázhien was amazing. Lázhien is soldier through and through and yet mere minutes in the room with Red and he is doing things that are not orderly. Either led by the mate spell or lust, Lázhien moves with his want and in return, the snarky and stuck up Red melts literally in his hands. These two were so good together and I knew what Red would plan, what he wouldn't tell Lázhien so I held my breath.
The added number of pages with this story gives us time to really get in the heads of these men and watch their characters unfold before us as they grow and accept fate. Truly, I adored being with both of them while they struggled with this new and fierce longing they have for one another.The thing only fated mates can do for one another always gives me that warm and fuzzy feeling and when you have a demon involved and he finally gets what he wants? Gods. What a thing to witness.
I won't go into all the details with this book, I find myself writing enough already, but I will say it was beautiful. The push and pull between Red and Lázhien had my heart twisted and 13 days became a troublesome time to wait but it was always worth it
This book couldn't have been more perfect and read at the right time for me. I think I'm going to have another round with these two.
Psst. Keep reading after the About the author and book list pages. TRUST ME.
On a personal note: I was given this as an arc from the author back in May during the dark of my depression. I've been having a hard time reading and really thought that I couldn't read romance anymore. I would try and want to read but couldn't. It hurt to acknowledge the fact because being a romance reader is a large part of my identity. Thankfully, I picked up the right book to show me love rules, even over my mental health.
Almost.
I had my first peek at Red back in November of 2017 when the author participated in a flash fiction even with The Unicorns aka Boy Meets Boy Reviews. The picture she was given was/is gorgeous and really who Red is. From those last lines, the promise that Sergeant Jhagán would be back in a weeks time with more money than he should promise for a night with the Red headed whore with two-souls... I knew I was going to need the story.
Knowing the beginnings of this one didn't hurt one bit as I opened to the first page and was gifted in getting the dual POV's of Ōkkanȏ Kyatto and Sergeant Lázhien Jhagán. I adored being in both their heads as they go through what would be their last normal moments before their lives would be forever changed.
I hadn't quite wrapped my head around the concept of fate choosing one's lifelong partner that way. Yet in secret I considered it romantic.
You see, this is a fated mates story and quite possibly my favorite trope of all. I find it extremely romantic that fate has someone out their for you and when/if you find them you can't control anything until they are yours. Fated mates bring about romance, angst, freaking hot as hell sex and the sweetest bits of intimacy. It also comes with jealousy and sexy declarations of MINE that for this reader will never get old.
So with that being said. I couldn't wait to get into what each of these men feel after their lust at first sight meeting and specifically how Ōkkanȏ would feel knowing he is a Tii-Matâshi and ruled by his demon. The demon that instantly recognized his mate and wanted him. I liked the easy conversation Red has with Renellé, his boss at the brothel, concerning the lore of fated mates. We aren't hit over the head with a bunch of information, we are given the specifics listening to friends have a chat and that truly makes a difference.
The first night with Red and Lázhien was amazing. Lázhien is soldier through and through and yet mere minutes in the room with Red and he is doing things that are not orderly. Either led by the mate spell or lust, Lázhien moves with his want and in return, the snarky and stuck up Red melts literally in his hands. These two were so good together and I knew what Red would plan, what he wouldn't tell Lázhien so I held my breath.
That night-my night with Red - had ruined more than my finances. It had wrecked my head. And I couldn't even begin to fathom what the fuck it had done to my heart.
The added number of pages with this story gives us time to really get in the heads of these men and watch their characters unfold before us as they grow and accept fate. Truly, I adored being with both of them while they struggled with this new and fierce longing they have for one another.The thing only fated mates can do for one another always gives me that warm and fuzzy feeling and when you have a demon involved and he finally gets what he wants? Gods. What a thing to witness.
I won't go into all the details with this book, I find myself writing enough already, but I will say it was beautiful. The push and pull between Red and Lázhien had my heart twisted and 13 days became a troublesome time to wait but it was always worth it
This book couldn't have been more perfect and read at the right time for me. I think I'm going to have another round with these two.
Psst. Keep reading after the About the author and book list pages. TRUST ME.
On a personal note: I was given this as an arc from the author back in May during the dark of my depression. I've been having a hard time reading and really thought that I couldn't read romance anymore. I would try and want to read but couldn't. It hurt to acknowledge the fact because being a romance reader is a large part of my identity. Thankfully, I picked up the right book to show me love rules, even over my mental health.
July 11, 2020
4,5 „the demon knows better” ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
RTC
RTC
December 23, 2021
Updated for audio book review
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
A new book by Kasia Bacon is a treat indeed. I first learned about Red when the author posted the first chapter online and I was instantly hooked. She has a remarkable way of writing and I have yet to find anything she has written that does not capture all of my attention.
Red is a unique and exceptionally interesting character. He is part lust demon and part elf and his life is about satisfying his demon. He’s not particularly bothered to work in a brothel, but if he didn’t have to satisfy his demon, he most likely would have chosen another line of work. He is sought after for his long red hair and enticing ways and no one that enters the brothel is immune to him. Being human, Lázhien has no idea what is even happening to him that every thought is about Red, and it takes some time for him to even learn about having a mate.
This is the book that offers all of the magic of reading where you can be transported to another world and it’s definitely the book to read next.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
A new book by Kasia Bacon is a treat indeed. I first learned about Red when the author posted the first chapter online and I was instantly hooked. She has a remarkable way of writing and I have yet to find anything she has written that does not capture all of my attention.
Red is a unique and exceptionally interesting character. He is part lust demon and part elf and his life is about satisfying his demon. He’s not particularly bothered to work in a brothel, but if he didn’t have to satisfy his demon, he most likely would have chosen another line of work. He is sought after for his long red hair and enticing ways and no one that enters the brothel is immune to him. Being human, Lázhien has no idea what is even happening to him that every thought is about Red, and it takes some time for him to even learn about having a mate.
This is the book that offers all of the magic of reading where you can be transported to another world and it’s definitely the book to read next.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
June 14, 2020
Good
Reviewed on June 11, 2020
When I First Saw Red is a well written and entertaining book with a layered world building based on fantasy and mythology.
I liked the snark and banter , the humor and overall sweetness of the story.
Rating: Between 3.5 and 4 stars
Re-read: No
Recommend: Yes
#ReadOn2020 #KindlFire #KU #GRR #Amazon #KasiaBacon
Reviewed on June 11, 2020
When I First Saw Red is a well written and entertaining book with a layered world building based on fantasy and mythology.
I liked the snark and banter , the humor and overall sweetness of the story.
Rating: Between 3.5 and 4 stars
Re-read: No
Recommend: Yes
#ReadOn2020 #KindlFire #KU #GRR #Amazon #KasiaBacon
October 14, 2020
So, here's the thing with this author's stories (at least the ones I have read so far), they are infuriatingly short but so well written that even though I would have liked more of the story, they are really fine just the way they are. I can't be mad at her, even though I want to be.
They tell the story that's meant to be told without extraneous background or a lot of secondary characters. The conflict is normally pretty cut and dry and not all over the place so I just can't complain. Plus, like I said, she is a really good writer.
They tell the story that's meant to be told without extraneous background or a lot of secondary characters. The conflict is normally pretty cut and dry and not all over the place so I just can't complain. Plus, like I said, she is a really good writer.
June 3, 2020
The author's world building concept for this series is brilliant. Well constructed and explained, in a manner that you feel it's magic and diversity, the way the different species interacted and treated each other. That's why it was easy to understand why Láhzien and Ókkanó weren't exactly what they'd expected for a life partner for themselves, let alone for a fated mate.
The idea of Tii-Matâshi was incredible, a demon (either incubus or succubus) in another specie's body, controlling them, their desires and actions. Most of them ended up in the sex workers industry due to their demon's insatiable lust, just like Ókkanó (Red). Sadly, it left him without the freedom of choice for most of his life, to a point he didn't really know his OWN desires and hopes, even if given the opportunity.
And that's why, when Red realized Láhzien was his fated mate, to him it felt just like another thing decided for him, another choice taken away. A look across a room was all it took for Red to recognize Láhzien and his life altering meaning. Red's shock and anger, though, were interpreted by the human soldier as disdain and snobbery, causing him to literally see red ... besides an incredible fire in his loins and tremor in his heart.
That they'd be incendiary together was a given, considering Red's incubus. Their meetings were also fired up by Ókkanó's animosity which made Láhzien's blood boil, and it was hilarious to see. That was fun, watching them close to jumping at each other's throats to then share a blazing passion. But what I loved most was how beautifully the author has written their emotional connection. Faught feelings at its finest, really, a soul eating yearning for each other, for finally having that perfect someone just for them.
No doubt, the fates couldn't have chose better. Irreverent, snarky, impetuous Ókkanó was perfectly balanced by serious, steady, wholesome and responsible Láhzien. For a bit I was worried that fear and pride would be far more stronger than the pull of the fated bond, and they'd lose the precious gift they were offered. But, thanks to a meddling best friend-whom I adored, by the way- and just when everything seemed lost, they finally allowed themselves to just give in to their feelings and grasp happiness.
When I First Saw Red is an amazing read. I loved everything about it: the world, the magic, the laughter, the characters and their romance. Just LOVED IT!
The idea of Tii-Matâshi was incredible, a demon (either incubus or succubus) in another specie's body, controlling them, their desires and actions. Most of them ended up in the sex workers industry due to their demon's insatiable lust, just like Ókkanó (Red). Sadly, it left him without the freedom of choice for most of his life, to a point he didn't really know his OWN desires and hopes, even if given the opportunity.
And that's why, when Red realized Láhzien was his fated mate, to him it felt just like another thing decided for him, another choice taken away. A look across a room was all it took for Red to recognize Láhzien and his life altering meaning. Red's shock and anger, though, were interpreted by the human soldier as disdain and snobbery, causing him to literally see red ... besides an incredible fire in his loins and tremor in his heart.
That they'd be incendiary together was a given, considering Red's incubus. Their meetings were also fired up by Ókkanó's animosity which made Láhzien's blood boil, and it was hilarious to see. That was fun, watching them close to jumping at each other's throats to then share a blazing passion. But what I loved most was how beautifully the author has written their emotional connection. Faught feelings at its finest, really, a soul eating yearning for each other, for finally having that perfect someone just for them.
No doubt, the fates couldn't have chose better. Irreverent, snarky, impetuous Ókkanó was perfectly balanced by serious, steady, wholesome and responsible Láhzien. For a bit I was worried that fear and pride would be far more stronger than the pull of the fated bond, and they'd lose the precious gift they were offered. But, thanks to a meddling best friend-whom I adored, by the way- and just when everything seemed lost, they finally allowed themselves to just give in to their feelings and grasp happiness.
When I First Saw Red is an amazing read. I loved everything about it: the world, the magic, the laughter, the characters and their romance. Just LOVED IT!
September 19, 2020
3.5 stars rounded up
Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews