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Assassin/Shifter #23
Savage Love
Six years ago, Chaz Savage was on top of the world: Beloved NFL star, filthy rich, great friends -- and a man he was close to falling in love with. Lev Chirkoff was smart, funny, sexy and freaking adorable. Then, one night he was gone with no explanation. Chaz is devastated, left wondering what happened to the only man who ever had his heart. Eventually, hurt turns to anger and then to rage. If he EVER sees that man again....
Lev Chirkoff has an impossible job forced on him by the mob boss his father works for. It involves a professional athlete he has worshiped since the first time he saw him, and the very thought of it sickens Lev. He meets Chaz and they seem to be made for each other. Soon, his only plan is falling in love. When a traumatic night forces Lev out of Chaz's life, he disappears. But Chaz Savage never leaves his heart.
Six years later, Lev returns to Seattle, makes new friends and finds a purpose in life. A Halloween party puts him in Chaz's orbit again, and unsportsmanlike conduct doesn't begin to cover the big man's reaction. With the mob after Chaz, Lev is assigned to protect him as they go into hiding. But Chaz Savage isn't about to make it easy for the man who devastated him. Once old feelings stir, he finally has a chance to discover the truth of Lev's betrayal. Lev falls even more deeply for the man who is so much more than just a football star -- but surely his secret will only cost him Chaz's love forever.
They say it takes a village, but in this case it's a reservation -- and as Chaz and Lev come to an uneasy peace, they discover that the people around them are more than willing to give their lives for the safety of their family.
Lev Chirkoff has an impossible job forced on him by the mob boss his father works for. It involves a professional athlete he has worshiped since the first time he saw him, and the very thought of it sickens Lev. He meets Chaz and they seem to be made for each other. Soon, his only plan is falling in love. When a traumatic night forces Lev out of Chaz's life, he disappears. But Chaz Savage never leaves his heart.
Six years later, Lev returns to Seattle, makes new friends and finds a purpose in life. A Halloween party puts him in Chaz's orbit again, and unsportsmanlike conduct doesn't begin to cover the big man's reaction. With the mob after Chaz, Lev is assigned to protect him as they go into hiding. But Chaz Savage isn't about to make it easy for the man who devastated him. Once old feelings stir, he finally has a chance to discover the truth of Lev's betrayal. Lev falls even more deeply for the man who is so much more than just a football star -- but surely his secret will only cost him Chaz's love forever.
They say it takes a village, but in this case it's a reservation -- and as Chaz and Lev come to an uneasy peace, they discover that the people around them are more than willing to give their lives for the safety of their family.
235 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 13, 2014
35 people are currently reading
292 people want to read
About the author
Sandrine Gasq-Dion
79 books1,345 followersI have been blessed in this life to not only have parents that support me, but kids that do as well. I grew up in a loving but "Old School" French household. My parents worked for the airlines (TWA) so I was able to see a lot of Europe as a kid. I moved to Seattle Washington at the age of 22 and stayed there for twelve years before moving to Alaska for a little over two. Fairbanks, AK was one hell of an experience and I wouldn't hesitate to go back! I spent a little over a year in South Carolina before moving back to Arizona. I then left for Kansas for five years and now reside in Arizona. I've been connected to the military in one way or another for over half my life and wouldn't change a thing about it. Writing has become my full time job and I've never been so happy doing a job I love and being able to do it in my jammies. I plan on writing until I dry up and die. Hopefully, that won't happen soon!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
September 12, 2014
I find I'm getting disappointed more and more by the Assasin/Shifter series. I've been there from the beginning, know and love all the guys...but, these last few books seem to missing something. Depth.
This book has been coming, Chaz needed the closure. Why did Lev disappear all those years ago? We all know why if we've read the last few books in the series. WE DO NOT NEED THE CONSTANT BLURBS about previous books. Sandrine tried so hard to remind us all about who is who and why that she lost valuable space and time rather than keeping us involved with Chaz and Lev.
I understand she has invested a lot of herself in creating this world but maybe that's the problem. To many characters to incorporate into the stories. I follow several different series, fantasy, paranormal, scifi and contemporary. In all of them the author very rarely rehashes every characters history when they are a secondary character in a story. The reader is expected to know and understand that characters history.
I became irritated the more I had to read little snippets of each characters bio before their purpose in a particular scene was revealed. I've met them, I've read their book, get on with the story!
I love and miss the original Skull Blasters. They make appearances here and there but are faded images of the kick ass guys they were.
Sandrine, clear the clutter. Get back to basics. Your loyal fans know the guys, we love them too. Stop with the mini bio for each secondary character. Give us in depth guys and let your main characters shine through. If a new fan reads a story out of order I guarantee that if you create your MC's like you did back at the beginning, they will go back and start at the beginning. Without the fluff you've started using.
This book has been coming, Chaz needed the closure. Why did Lev disappear all those years ago? We all know why if we've read the last few books in the series. WE DO NOT NEED THE CONSTANT BLURBS about previous books. Sandrine tried so hard to remind us all about who is who and why that she lost valuable space and time rather than keeping us involved with Chaz and Lev.
I understand she has invested a lot of herself in creating this world but maybe that's the problem. To many characters to incorporate into the stories. I follow several different series, fantasy, paranormal, scifi and contemporary. In all of them the author very rarely rehashes every characters history when they are a secondary character in a story. The reader is expected to know and understand that characters history.
I became irritated the more I had to read little snippets of each characters bio before their purpose in a particular scene was revealed. I've met them, I've read their book, get on with the story!
I love and miss the original Skull Blasters. They make appearances here and there but are faded images of the kick ass guys they were.
Sandrine, clear the clutter. Get back to basics. Your loyal fans know the guys, we love them too. Stop with the mini bio for each secondary character. Give us in depth guys and let your main characters shine through. If a new fan reads a story out of order I guarantee that if you create your MC's like you did back at the beginning, they will go back and start at the beginning. Without the fluff you've started using.
August 10, 2014
Chaz Savage had it all, a successful NFL career and budding relationship with one sexy little Russian, Lev Chirkoff. The closeted football player starts to turn heads turning up everywhere with Lev, but he assures everyone they are just good friends. But that was then, and this is now, now Chaz is a firefighter and one of the few humans that are privy to the true heritage of the Skullblasters unit. But he still loves Lev, misses him, thinks about that man every damn day.
Six years ago, Lev Chirkoff made a deal with the devil that cost him the man he loved. Now back in Seattle as the newest recruit for the elite Skullblasters unit of Assassin’s and Shifter’s, Lev is brought face to face with that man. And it’s anything but a warm welcome. Chaz knows about the team, about the wolves, his best friend was saved by one, and fell in love with one before becoming one. So he can’t wrap his brain around Lev thinking he would not love him because he’s a shifter. But Chaz doesn’t know the whole story, and Lev fears losing him all over again once he tells Chaz the truth.
Lev has lost everyone and everything in his life that mattered and subsequently secluded himself in Siberia while he learned to control his wolf. He knows that returning to Seattle will open old wounds, but he didn’t expect the wash of emotions when he sees Chaz for the first time in six years. Chaz is angry, no volatile is a better term, but there is still love in the depths of those sad angry eyes. Lev as well reacts to Chaz invading his space immediately. He still wants this man more than anything.
There is a lot to resolve, but it doesn’t take either man long to realize that they still love each other. That they never stopped loving each other. They will have to share everything, even the painful truths, and deal with them to get beyond their own hurt and face the oncoming threat now seems intent on getting Chaz as well as the teams young charges, the Olympians. Lev just got him back, he refuses to lose Chaz again, but sometimes fate has other plans.
Classic Sandrine! Colorfull storylines, witty dialogue, passionate love and a group of men and shifters that will protect each other and their own with such ferocity that it’s downright frightening. As each of these new books progress, there is a sister story for the Twelve Olympians series, but everything always ties in together. And we are starting to see more and more characters within each story as the threat from Petey and the Rogues grows closer. I love how Sandrine focus’ on the current pairing, but always manages to make sure we stay in contact with favourites and give us a juicy morsel of some fun pairings to come.
This is a must read series, still my favourite M/M series, I love how the author manages to continually bring us something fresh twenty something books in. You MUST start at the beginning, seriously, you must. Each new instalment is just one piece of a very large puzzle that you have to have an outline for first, then add the pieces as they fit. Another success for Sandrine Gasq-Dion and the Skullblasters!
Six years ago, Lev Chirkoff made a deal with the devil that cost him the man he loved. Now back in Seattle as the newest recruit for the elite Skullblasters unit of Assassin’s and Shifter’s, Lev is brought face to face with that man. And it’s anything but a warm welcome. Chaz knows about the team, about the wolves, his best friend was saved by one, and fell in love with one before becoming one. So he can’t wrap his brain around Lev thinking he would not love him because he’s a shifter. But Chaz doesn’t know the whole story, and Lev fears losing him all over again once he tells Chaz the truth.
Lev has lost everyone and everything in his life that mattered and subsequently secluded himself in Siberia while he learned to control his wolf. He knows that returning to Seattle will open old wounds, but he didn’t expect the wash of emotions when he sees Chaz for the first time in six years. Chaz is angry, no volatile is a better term, but there is still love in the depths of those sad angry eyes. Lev as well reacts to Chaz invading his space immediately. He still wants this man more than anything.
There is a lot to resolve, but it doesn’t take either man long to realize that they still love each other. That they never stopped loving each other. They will have to share everything, even the painful truths, and deal with them to get beyond their own hurt and face the oncoming threat now seems intent on getting Chaz as well as the teams young charges, the Olympians. Lev just got him back, he refuses to lose Chaz again, but sometimes fate has other plans.
Classic Sandrine! Colorfull storylines, witty dialogue, passionate love and a group of men and shifters that will protect each other and their own with such ferocity that it’s downright frightening. As each of these new books progress, there is a sister story for the Twelve Olympians series, but everything always ties in together. And we are starting to see more and more characters within each story as the threat from Petey and the Rogues grows closer. I love how Sandrine focus’ on the current pairing, but always manages to make sure we stay in contact with favourites and give us a juicy morsel of some fun pairings to come.
This is a must read series, still my favourite M/M series, I love how the author manages to continually bring us something fresh twenty something books in. You MUST start at the beginning, seriously, you must. Each new instalment is just one piece of a very large puzzle that you have to have an outline for first, then add the pieces as they fit. Another success for Sandrine Gasq-Dion and the Skullblasters!
February 20, 2017
I admit it! I have an addiction! Such is life as a serial reader! LOL!!!
As always, a VERY entertaining read by one of my "go to" authors! I love that I can actually remember almost all of the secondary characters now and even who their husband or SO is! *pats self on back* Ms. Gasq-Dion has a natural talent for giving us just enough information to make us want to get the next book in the series but not in a "mad dash" sort of way! You know they are going to be a good read for when you don't have a clue what you want to read!
Lev and Chaz were both good men (not to mention HOT), so, of course, that means they must go through hell to find their HEA... predictable but, like I said, VERY entertaining! *grin*
As always, a VERY entertaining read by one of my "go to" authors! I love that I can actually remember almost all of the secondary characters now and even who their husband or SO is! *pats self on back* Ms. Gasq-Dion has a natural talent for giving us just enough information to make us want to get the next book in the series but not in a "mad dash" sort of way! You know they are going to be a good read for when you don't have a clue what you want to read!
Lev and Chaz were both good men (not to mention HOT), so, of course, that means they must go through hell to find their HEA... predictable but, like I said, VERY entertaining! *grin*
August 18, 2014
3.5 stars
August 19, 2015
My casting for the characters :
LEV
CHAZ
What I liked :
Holy damn chemistry!
This one has two of my favorite tags. I thought this would be 5 stars for me. It's okay, I hope the next would be good!
LEV
CHAZ
What I liked :
Holy damn chemistry!
This one has two of my favorite tags. I thought this would be 5 stars for me. It's okay, I hope the next would be good!
February 2, 2015
This is typical insta love story from Sandrine Gasq-Dion. I enjoyed it but still wish the author would stop giving a mini synopsis for every character that comes on page. That just take me out of the story. If you are reading book 23, you should know the main players by now. Also sometimes the characters come off as immature and unrealistic. Part of me always says that I would quit this series after this or that book but I can't resist Sandrine's books.
October 12, 2014
I hate to say it but I'm very disappointed in this book. I was so looking forward to finally reading Lev & Chaz's love story only to have very little of their book be about them.
I really wish Ms. Gasq-Dion would realize that the loyal fans of all three series already know all of the back stories and while yes sometimes it's nice to be reminded of certain things about certain couples we don't want to spend our hard earned money on a history lesson plus a new very short story about the main couple. If that's not bad enough then at 80% we get the lead in to the next book in the other series. I find it all very aggravating. If she's running out of new story line ideas maybe it's time to write something else, not fill up the space with the history of all who have come before.
I really wish Ms. Gasq-Dion would realize that the loyal fans of all three series already know all of the back stories and while yes sometimes it's nice to be reminded of certain things about certain couples we don't want to spend our hard earned money on a history lesson plus a new very short story about the main couple. If that's not bad enough then at 80% we get the lead in to the next book in the other series. I find it all very aggravating. If she's running out of new story line ideas maybe it's time to write something else, not fill up the space with the history of all who have come before.
August 1, 2015
Was lucky enough to get a pre-release copy of this and finished it in about three and half hours. It was great to finally see Lev & Chaz get their HEA. I think this book was one of the 'softer' ones in the series and was surprised by this. Chaz's last encounter with Lev was so angry that I totally expected something else that how the story unfolded. Of course there are several new twists and turns (how couldn't there be in this series?) and hints to which characters will have their own stories at some point in the future.
If you're a fan of the series, you won't want to skip this one!
If you're a fan of the series, you won't want to skip this one!
April 24, 2017
Another good installment in this series. I love how all the previous MCs are woven through out the stories without taking away from the current MCs. Lev & Chaz are sweethearts and as to be expected get their HEA after takin' care of rogue business.
October 27, 2017
I liked this okay, and I enjoyed the new elements (by book 23, you just gotta expand the universe a little to be able to have something to say in book 24) but there was just something missing. I didn't feel the connection between the MCs or something. Still, it's an imaginative series.
October 15, 2014
I have to admit as much as I still enjoyed this book I wanted more out of this story. The tension between Lev and Chaz in the past stories was so awesome and I was anticipating this book. I enjoyed the prologue as it definitely gave reason for Chaz’s antagonism and Lev’s reasoning, I just wanted more time spent in the development of the two of them together.
Lev knows that the likelihood of Chaz forgiving him is slim, but he’s determined to try. He’s got an opportunity for a second chance and he’s not going to waste it. His position with the Skull Blasters has given him a sense of belonging and solid place with great people. Now it’s time to get the man he loves back as well. When his old mob connections start showing back up and targeting the man he loves the timing becomes even more desperate.
For Chaz being a firefighter wasn’t his first plan, he loved playing football for the Seattle Seahawks, but he’s found joy in his job as well. When he left football after coming out he through himself into his new lifestyle and tried to shut out the pain of Lev’s having disappeared. Finding out all the secrets going on with his friends has added just another wrinkle in Chaz’s life, but one he’s intrigued by. Knowing Lev is a werewolf certainly seems like it might have been the impetuous for his leaving, but Chaz isn’t sure he’s ready to forgive and forget just yet.
So yep, I do really love Lev and Chaz together. They’re a great couple with a lot of history behind them. I enjoyed that Lev had had a crush on Chaz even before he met him. There connection in the prologue was palpable. I just wanted more time spent with them reconnecting. I’ve liked Chaz since his first introduction ages ago. He’s deserved his happily ever after.
I agree with a lot of the other reviewers that this far into the series a lot of the re-introductions get a little tedious and start to bog down the story. I understand their purpose in that there are a LOT of characters in this series of stories, but at this point I’m so committed to the stories having read now all twenty three books, I have a solid working knowledge of just who is who. The books are released quickly enough too, especially with the Olympians spin off series that I don’t loose any of my awareness either.
All that being said, oh boy are the layers and layers of gods and bad guys getting complicated. Chaz’s own history adds yet another pantheon into our crazy little society. I’m curious as to where this whole fantastic little party is headed. The rogues are getting their butts handed to them right and left and yet they keep on coming. I appreciated time spent back on the reservation though. I’ve always enjoyed that part of the group and it was fun to touch base with everyone out there. Of course Kane is just the cutest little thing.
This book was fun in all the ways that I expect this series to be fun, I just wish for a little bit more time with my MC’s. I really wanted to get to explore Lev and Chaz cause they’re awesome. All the guys in this series are just so much fun and I enjoy my dose of crack. It always puts a smile on my face.
Lev knows that the likelihood of Chaz forgiving him is slim, but he’s determined to try. He’s got an opportunity for a second chance and he’s not going to waste it. His position with the Skull Blasters has given him a sense of belonging and solid place with great people. Now it’s time to get the man he loves back as well. When his old mob connections start showing back up and targeting the man he loves the timing becomes even more desperate.
For Chaz being a firefighter wasn’t his first plan, he loved playing football for the Seattle Seahawks, but he’s found joy in his job as well. When he left football after coming out he through himself into his new lifestyle and tried to shut out the pain of Lev’s having disappeared. Finding out all the secrets going on with his friends has added just another wrinkle in Chaz’s life, but one he’s intrigued by. Knowing Lev is a werewolf certainly seems like it might have been the impetuous for his leaving, but Chaz isn’t sure he’s ready to forgive and forget just yet.
So yep, I do really love Lev and Chaz together. They’re a great couple with a lot of history behind them. I enjoyed that Lev had had a crush on Chaz even before he met him. There connection in the prologue was palpable. I just wanted more time spent with them reconnecting. I’ve liked Chaz since his first introduction ages ago. He’s deserved his happily ever after.
I agree with a lot of the other reviewers that this far into the series a lot of the re-introductions get a little tedious and start to bog down the story. I understand their purpose in that there are a LOT of characters in this series of stories, but at this point I’m so committed to the stories having read now all twenty three books, I have a solid working knowledge of just who is who. The books are released quickly enough too, especially with the Olympians spin off series that I don’t loose any of my awareness either.
All that being said, oh boy are the layers and layers of gods and bad guys getting complicated. Chaz’s own history adds yet another pantheon into our crazy little society. I’m curious as to where this whole fantastic little party is headed. The rogues are getting their butts handed to them right and left and yet they keep on coming. I appreciated time spent back on the reservation though. I’ve always enjoyed that part of the group and it was fun to touch base with everyone out there. Of course Kane is just the cutest little thing.
This book was fun in all the ways that I expect this series to be fun, I just wish for a little bit more time with my MC’s. I really wanted to get to explore Lev and Chaz cause they’re awesome. All the guys in this series are just so much fun and I enjoy my dose of crack. It always puts a smile on my face.
August 25, 2014
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
4.5 Stars
When the mob think Lev Chirkoffs father is skimming from them he ends up dead. Lev is then ordered to befriend NFL star Chaz Savage and prove he is gay in the hope of setting up a blackmail scam. There are a couple of problems with this plan: Lev has idolised Chaz for years and doesn’t want to do anything to hurt him. Lev is definitely not cut out for life in the mob.
Lev relocates and to his surprise after a stunt in an opposing teams jersey ends up being good friends with Chaz. After months of seeing each other every day their relationship becomes more than friendship when Chaz feels he can finally trust Lev with his secret. For a short while things are perfect but the mob haven’t forgotten their orders and are beginning to get impatient. When they finally send out an enforcer things go drastically wrong, Lev is bitten by a werewolf and can’t live with feeling of shame his deceit to Chaz will cause so disappears for the next six years.
Chaz was left distraught and heart broken when Lev disappeared six years ago. He is still not over the man and hasn’t had a proper relationship with anyone else since. When Lev suddenly reappears Chaz is overcome with anger but has to admit that he still wants the other man. Lev’s guilt is heavy for the way he treated Chaz and he is determined to finally tell him the truth even if it will dash any hope he has of winning the man back.
Truths come out, tears are spilled and forgiveness is slowly given. Any chance of a quiet life goes out of the window though when the mob re-emerges looking for a second chance at Chaz and this time it involves rogue wolves. Lev is assigned as a bodyguard to Chaz and would literally give his life to protect him.
Chaz and Lev are good together and it was interesting to finally find out the secrets to their relationship. Chaz has had time to come to terms with the fact that shifters live among society and a few of his very good friends are wolves so has no problem with the fact that the man he loves is a wolf.
Sandrine introduces a new ‘flavour’ of paranormal into this book. It is too easy to become addicted to this series! Each new book is a like a trip to visit the family, both familiar and new. If you haven’t read this series - start at the beginning! You need to build it up with layers, meet the characters and understand the world building, I promise you will not be disappointed!! I love the way these guys are just one big happy family - with fur, teeth and magic
4.5 Stars
When the mob think Lev Chirkoffs father is skimming from them he ends up dead. Lev is then ordered to befriend NFL star Chaz Savage and prove he is gay in the hope of setting up a blackmail scam. There are a couple of problems with this plan: Lev has idolised Chaz for years and doesn’t want to do anything to hurt him. Lev is definitely not cut out for life in the mob.
Lev relocates and to his surprise after a stunt in an opposing teams jersey ends up being good friends with Chaz. After months of seeing each other every day their relationship becomes more than friendship when Chaz feels he can finally trust Lev with his secret. For a short while things are perfect but the mob haven’t forgotten their orders and are beginning to get impatient. When they finally send out an enforcer things go drastically wrong, Lev is bitten by a werewolf and can’t live with feeling of shame his deceit to Chaz will cause so disappears for the next six years.
Chaz was left distraught and heart broken when Lev disappeared six years ago. He is still not over the man and hasn’t had a proper relationship with anyone else since. When Lev suddenly reappears Chaz is overcome with anger but has to admit that he still wants the other man. Lev’s guilt is heavy for the way he treated Chaz and he is determined to finally tell him the truth even if it will dash any hope he has of winning the man back.
Truths come out, tears are spilled and forgiveness is slowly given. Any chance of a quiet life goes out of the window though when the mob re-emerges looking for a second chance at Chaz and this time it involves rogue wolves. Lev is assigned as a bodyguard to Chaz and would literally give his life to protect him.
Chaz and Lev are good together and it was interesting to finally find out the secrets to their relationship. Chaz has had time to come to terms with the fact that shifters live among society and a few of his very good friends are wolves so has no problem with the fact that the man he loves is a wolf.
Sandrine introduces a new ‘flavour’ of paranormal into this book. It is too easy to become addicted to this series! Each new book is a like a trip to visit the family, both familiar and new. If you haven’t read this series - start at the beginning! You need to build it up with layers, meet the characters and understand the world building, I promise you will not be disappointed!! I love the way these guys are just one big happy family - with fur, teeth and magic
January 7, 2015
I have loved every book revolving around the Assassin/shifter series and the 12 Olympians. This is just an amazing series that can go on forever in my book. Chaz and Lev's story has been brewing within the previous books, and now we get to learn the truths about these 2 sexy guys. I read and reread this series more than any other and this book is a great addition. Sandrine has a remarkable talent for creating multiple story lines and keeping it fresh. I loved this one and read it in one sitting.
Chaz was a professional football player for the Seahawks and had everything going for him. Except the freedom to love who he wanted to. He was in the closet, only his best friend Cole,knew the truth.
Lev Chirkoff was just a kid born into a mafia family. His dad was an enforcer for the mob in New York. When the boss thought his dad had stolen from him, he had him killed. His mom had already been killed in a bomb attack on a taxi. Now he had no one and was ordered to go to Seattle and catch Chaz as a gay man so they could blackmail him. Scared, gay, and out of options, Lev goes to Seattle and runs into Chaz. They fell in love, but it was taking too long and Lev would never hurt Chaz. He had loved him since he saw Chaz when he entered the NFL. When the enforcers came to kill Lev, one of them turned on the other after Lev was bitten. He got Lev out of there and covered for him because he cared about Lev. Chaz never knew what happened to Lev until 6 years later when their paths crossed at the out reach center. Chaz was so angry and Lev couldn't tell him why he left. He figured if Chaz knew he was a werewolf and had been sent to blackmail him, he would never forgive him. But Lev still loved him even now. When the truth comes out, Chaz doesn't take it well. Their love is a mate match and they cannot fight it for long. But life in the group is never dull, and after the mob finds out that Lev is alive, they send in the troops to kill them. But the wolves, warlocks, and Olympians are not easy to hurt and the reservation becomes the battlefield. Mario's goons are not without their own special people as well, and someone might not survive the fighting. More secrets are uncovered, and the fate's plan becomes a little clearer. This one is a nail biter right to the end. But what a journey! This series just gets better and better! This is a must read for fans of the series. And if you haven't started it yet, what are you waiting for? Go to the beginning and join the best fighters for good the world has ever seen!
Chaz was a professional football player for the Seahawks and had everything going for him. Except the freedom to love who he wanted to. He was in the closet, only his best friend Cole,knew the truth.
Lev Chirkoff was just a kid born into a mafia family. His dad was an enforcer for the mob in New York. When the boss thought his dad had stolen from him, he had him killed. His mom had already been killed in a bomb attack on a taxi. Now he had no one and was ordered to go to Seattle and catch Chaz as a gay man so they could blackmail him. Scared, gay, and out of options, Lev goes to Seattle and runs into Chaz. They fell in love, but it was taking too long and Lev would never hurt Chaz. He had loved him since he saw Chaz when he entered the NFL. When the enforcers came to kill Lev, one of them turned on the other after Lev was bitten. He got Lev out of there and covered for him because he cared about Lev. Chaz never knew what happened to Lev until 6 years later when their paths crossed at the out reach center. Chaz was so angry and Lev couldn't tell him why he left. He figured if Chaz knew he was a werewolf and had been sent to blackmail him, he would never forgive him. But Lev still loved him even now. When the truth comes out, Chaz doesn't take it well. Their love is a mate match and they cannot fight it for long. But life in the group is never dull, and after the mob finds out that Lev is alive, they send in the troops to kill them. But the wolves, warlocks, and Olympians are not easy to hurt and the reservation becomes the battlefield. Mario's goons are not without their own special people as well, and someone might not survive the fighting. More secrets are uncovered, and the fate's plan becomes a little clearer. This one is a nail biter right to the end. But what a journey! This series just gets better and better! This is a must read for fans of the series. And if you haven't started it yet, what are you waiting for? Go to the beginning and join the best fighters for good the world has ever seen!
May 29, 2015
** slight spoilers, maybe **
I never liked Cole and Chaz, and their respective books prove me right. Chaz here seems needlessly churlish and flip-flopping on poor Lev.
And after messing around with their conflict without anything changing significantly, said conflict finally is poofed away via warlock ex machina. That’s… rather anticlimactic. This apparently is done just so they can be lovey-dovey from now on, I guess. And eventually get to the sex part. (I strongly disagree with Chaz about only penetration counting as sex. Pfft. Then again I guess that explains what Mr Horny And Slutty meant when he thought about how he had dated since being with Lev but never had sex with anyone else since. I wonder if blowjobs count in this. Probably not. Only full-on anal will do! Although he later says he hasn’t “been with anyone sexually”. Those are some weird kinds of standards.)
It’s funny that the author is bringing back. I remember thinking what a pity it was that the most interesting character in the book had died so fast after being introduced.
Alas, this goes hand in hand with the fact that no one is allowed to truly die. People are brought back or made immortal by the truckload. It defies any reason, really.
That thing with the gods just gets sillier with this instalment, too. As much as I am a fan of the mythological Arawn, this is too much for me. I’m trying to ignore the barrage of superlatives, but I think I am failing.
Up to that point I was still hanging on. But it became more and more of a chore to continue reading. To be honest, I became painfully bored.
In the last part nothing truly happens – at least nothing that feel emotionally intense. (Might be just poor writing; either way, I am not getting any warm vibes.) Mostly people just talk without saying anything – things like greetings and catching each other up on what everyone is up to. The weddings – something that should be extremely emotional or at least blissfully happy – end up being lifeless snapshots instead.
Maybe it’s simply difficult for me to enjoy anything currently, since I am sick again. I doubt it, but eh.
I never liked Cole and Chaz, and their respective books prove me right. Chaz here seems needlessly churlish and flip-flopping on poor Lev.
And after messing around with their conflict without anything changing significantly, said conflict finally is poofed away via warlock ex machina. That’s… rather anticlimactic. This apparently is done just so they can be lovey-dovey from now on, I guess. And eventually get to the sex part. (I strongly disagree with Chaz about only penetration counting as sex. Pfft. Then again I guess that explains what Mr Horny And Slutty meant when he thought about how he had dated since being with Lev but never had sex with anyone else since. I wonder if blowjobs count in this. Probably not. Only full-on anal will do! Although he later says he hasn’t “been with anyone sexually”. Those are some weird kinds of standards.)
It’s funny that the author is bringing back. I remember thinking what a pity it was that the most interesting character in the book had died so fast after being introduced.
Alas, this goes hand in hand with the fact that no one is allowed to truly die. People are brought back or made immortal by the truckload. It defies any reason, really.
That thing with the gods just gets sillier with this instalment, too. As much as I am a fan of the mythological Arawn, this is too much for me. I’m trying to ignore the barrage of superlatives, but I think I am failing.
Up to that point I was still hanging on. But it became more and more of a chore to continue reading. To be honest, I became painfully bored.
In the last part nothing truly happens – at least nothing that feel emotionally intense. (Might be just poor writing; either way, I am not getting any warm vibes.) Mostly people just talk without saying anything – things like greetings and catching each other up on what everyone is up to. The weddings – something that should be extremely emotional or at least blissfully happy – end up being lifeless snapshots instead.
Maybe it’s simply difficult for me to enjoy anything currently, since I am sick again. I doubt it, but eh.
dnf-not-4-me
November 10, 2014Question answered: Need to read series before reading this one. Don't want to read 22 books to catch up. Thank you for answering me Amanda!
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Someone, please tell me I don't have to read all 22 books in this series to read this one. I've been told "NO" when asked to read a book in this series as a stand-alone before, but OMG this blurb just got my goat and is calling out to me. But, fuck if I'm going to read 20 books in a series to catch up. (I've read 2 of them already.)
Can I read this one and know what's going on? Or does some diligent fan have a character map up that I could use to understand who is who?
Thanks in advance if you can help me. *sheepish grin*
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Someone, please tell me I don't have to read all 22 books in this series to read this one. I've been told "NO" when asked to read a book in this series as a stand-alone before, but OMG this blurb just got my goat and is calling out to me. But, fuck if I'm going to read 20 books in a series to catch up. (I've read 2 of them already.)
Can I read this one and know what's going on? Or does some diligent fan have a character map up that I could use to understand who is who?
Thanks in advance if you can help me. *sheepish grin*
August 29, 2014
so i just finished inhaling all 26 books in this series and im here wondering what to do with my life. they aren't nobel prize books by any stretch of the imagination whatsoever but, the overarching strory, the characters, the villians, the humor, the banter, EVERYTHING, makes this series so irresistible. im just going to twiddle my thumbs and wait desperately for the next story while i reread this series... from the beginning. lord i must sound like an addict.
August 17, 2014
So worth the wait
Another wonderful exciting book. Each new book is like a glimpse into the lives of old friends. As soon as I finish one book I crave the next. I love the love, danger and suspense but mostly I love the close love and friendship the characters have for each other. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
Another wonderful exciting book. Each new book is like a glimpse into the lives of old friends. As soon as I finish one book I crave the next. I love the love, danger and suspense but mostly I love the close love and friendship the characters have for each other. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
November 6, 2016
More supernatural beings get thrown into the mix
Well I did ask what would come next and now we've got Valkyrie, Celtic gods and probably Norse mythology thrown in on top of the werewolves, shifters, warlocks and vampires.
Still, I have to keep reading to find out what happens next with all the extra characters who keep turning up.
Well I did ask what would come next and now we've got Valkyrie, Celtic gods and probably Norse mythology thrown in on top of the werewolves, shifters, warlocks and vampires.
Still, I have to keep reading to find out what happens next with all the extra characters who keep turning up.
November 2, 2014
One of my all time favorite series!!!! One of the things I love about Sandrine is she always manages to bring back previous characters from all the other books we have loved so she joins they in flawlessly!!!!!
January 22, 2015
I liked the story but not the way the plot is going. Too many pantheons getting involved now.
September 2, 2018
A-freakin-mazing !!!!
Getting to see Chaz and Lev find each other again was so beautiful. They showed me that time has no bearing on true love and the pull it has to ones mate.
Getting to see Chaz and Lev find each other again was so beautiful. They showed me that time has no bearing on true love and the pull it has to ones mate.
July 22, 2017
Another great add to the series. Chaz Savage and Lev Chirkoff have a rough past and secrets between them. I laughed, I cried it was a roller-coaster ride for these two. Their love is so sweet and true and it jumps off the page. Don't want to give away or spoilers so I'll just say that the ending and the new surprise we find out blew my mind! I'm so excited to read more. Can't wait for the next.
March 18, 2017
I've never read a book where Greek mythology and Norse mythology all mixing together like this. It's getting madder and madder.
But I still wait for Samson's story. Aside from Andrei, Nik, Vince and Nicholas, I only love him. I don't really like Calvin though.
But I still wait for Samson's story. Aside from Andrei, Nik, Vince and Nicholas, I only love him. I don't really like Calvin though.
April 6, 2019
This was one of the better ones. The first part was tough on the MCs but the way it occurred made . I really liked the growth and development of each character and how MC Chaz's back story comes to light.
June 20, 2019
I love this book and I love the Series.
September 4, 2014
3 star review by Roberta
I remember when the first Assassin/Shifter book came out. I loved Mateo and Riley!! I couldn’t wait for the other guys to get their books. I loved meeting the new and interesting characters that impacted the story or would have storylines themselves. I will say that I stopped reading the series for a while. The last book I read was Lyon’s Den. I had missed a couple of books in between that one and Russian Prey, but I ALWAYS LOVED Devin and Andrei. So, I know that I’ve missed some stuff. I was wondering if I could pick up this book and be able to follow along.
Lev Chirkoff was raised in a Mafia family. His father was an enforcer and was trying to find a way to get them out. His father was killed and the Mafia boss wanted Lev to pay off his father’s debt by going to Seattle and finding out if Chaz Savage was gay. He didn’t care if he had to seduce him, hell…he knew that Lev was gay, so it wasn’t a big deal. Lev has always known he was gay and he also knew that he didn’t want to work in the mafia. Lev is this really sweet, naïve guy. You just want to put your arms around him to let him know that it’s going to be ok. He’s so adorable and kind. I really liked his character. To watch him grow and change from the sweet guy into this totally badass, sweet guy was kinda surreal.
Chaz Savage is a former Pro-Football player with the Seattle Seahawks. Chaz met and fell in love with Lev when Lev was sent to Seattle to blackmail him. When Lev disappeared from Chaz’s life, he spiraled for a bit and then got his life together. He left pro-football and became a firefighter. I love how Chaz is this really loving guy. Chaz is respected and cared for by those in his life. He’s a good son and a great friend. I love that he’s tough in the sense that he was on the hunt for the truth regarding what happened to Lev and if it all was a lie. I liked that he was a strong character. Even with all of the things in his life spiraling out of control…he really kept his cool and handled what was in his way. That is truly the mark of a well adjusted and wonderful person. I really admired Chaz while reading this book. To find out about his parents…he handled the information with grace and really…so believable. Chaz is another great character from Sandrine.
There were so many secondary characters in this book, that I can’t even begin to name them all. I get that Sandrine is adding more characters and also has a spin-off series, The 12 Olympians, so those characters are in this book as well. I will say that there were just a bit too many characters. That took away from the main storyline for me. I remember from having read her prior books, that she introduces new characters in her stories in order to keep the series alive, however, there is just so much going on with these other characters. I couldn’t remember their names. The shifters, the warlocks, immortals…etc, I was truly overwhelmed and that took away from the enjoyment of the story for me.
Now, there was the normal amount of sex in this book. It wasn’t too much or too little. Sandrine has always been able to balance out the intimacy of her characters with the storylines that she’s got going on. I have always found that it’s never sex for sex sake. The sex was always because the MC’s are building a relationship with each other and they are bonding together
There is always a fair amount of action in the Assassin/Shifter books and that hasn’t changed in the least. I like the fact that there isn’t just a romance going on, that these guys are fighting for something. That they have become a family and that they will ALL do whatever it takes to keep their family safe. Not just their family, but the world also. You won’t be disappointed in that aspect of the story.
Overall, this is a pretty good book. I liked that after not reading the series for awhile, I could follow along, somewhat regarding the characters. I will say that for me…this storyline is getting a bit out of hand. I wasn’t really impressed with the God’s/Other’s business. I felt that for me…it took away from the roots of the series for me. I felt so overwhelmed by so much additional information that was thrown at you, that it took away from the story for me.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews!
I remember when the first Assassin/Shifter book came out. I loved Mateo and Riley!! I couldn’t wait for the other guys to get their books. I loved meeting the new and interesting characters that impacted the story or would have storylines themselves. I will say that I stopped reading the series for a while. The last book I read was Lyon’s Den. I had missed a couple of books in between that one and Russian Prey, but I ALWAYS LOVED Devin and Andrei. So, I know that I’ve missed some stuff. I was wondering if I could pick up this book and be able to follow along.
Lev Chirkoff was raised in a Mafia family. His father was an enforcer and was trying to find a way to get them out. His father was killed and the Mafia boss wanted Lev to pay off his father’s debt by going to Seattle and finding out if Chaz Savage was gay. He didn’t care if he had to seduce him, hell…he knew that Lev was gay, so it wasn’t a big deal. Lev has always known he was gay and he also knew that he didn’t want to work in the mafia. Lev is this really sweet, naïve guy. You just want to put your arms around him to let him know that it’s going to be ok. He’s so adorable and kind. I really liked his character. To watch him grow and change from the sweet guy into this totally badass, sweet guy was kinda surreal.
Chaz Savage is a former Pro-Football player with the Seattle Seahawks. Chaz met and fell in love with Lev when Lev was sent to Seattle to blackmail him. When Lev disappeared from Chaz’s life, he spiraled for a bit and then got his life together. He left pro-football and became a firefighter. I love how Chaz is this really loving guy. Chaz is respected and cared for by those in his life. He’s a good son and a great friend. I love that he’s tough in the sense that he was on the hunt for the truth regarding what happened to Lev and if it all was a lie. I liked that he was a strong character. Even with all of the things in his life spiraling out of control…he really kept his cool and handled what was in his way. That is truly the mark of a well adjusted and wonderful person. I really admired Chaz while reading this book. To find out about his parents…he handled the information with grace and really…so believable. Chaz is another great character from Sandrine.
There were so many secondary characters in this book, that I can’t even begin to name them all. I get that Sandrine is adding more characters and also has a spin-off series, The 12 Olympians, so those characters are in this book as well. I will say that there were just a bit too many characters. That took away from the main storyline for me. I remember from having read her prior books, that she introduces new characters in her stories in order to keep the series alive, however, there is just so much going on with these other characters. I couldn’t remember their names. The shifters, the warlocks, immortals…etc, I was truly overwhelmed and that took away from the enjoyment of the story for me.
Now, there was the normal amount of sex in this book. It wasn’t too much or too little. Sandrine has always been able to balance out the intimacy of her characters with the storylines that she’s got going on. I have always found that it’s never sex for sex sake. The sex was always because the MC’s are building a relationship with each other and they are bonding together
There is always a fair amount of action in the Assassin/Shifter books and that hasn’t changed in the least. I like the fact that there isn’t just a romance going on, that these guys are fighting for something. That they have become a family and that they will ALL do whatever it takes to keep their family safe. Not just their family, but the world also. You won’t be disappointed in that aspect of the story.
Overall, this is a pretty good book. I liked that after not reading the series for awhile, I could follow along, somewhat regarding the characters. I will say that for me…this storyline is getting a bit out of hand. I wasn’t really impressed with the God’s/Other’s business. I felt that for me…it took away from the roots of the series for me. I felt so overwhelmed by so much additional information that was thrown at you, that it took away from the story for me.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews!
October 2, 2014
Chaz Savage was a super football player, on top of his game, when he fell in love with Lev Chirkoff. Lev leaves Chaz one day, without explanation, breaking his heart. This drives Chaz to come out publicly, and subsequently to retire from football.
Fortunately, Chaz finds a second love in firefighting and has been doing that happily for the last six years until Lev shows up again, wreaking havoc in Chaz’s life.
Lev, meanwhile, has been turned into a werewolf and has been fighting Rogues in Siberia, but still loves Chaz. He is happy to be assigned guard duty to Chaz but is afraid to be involved with him romantically due the danger that still dogs his footsteps.
The two dance around each other a little bit, but then admit they are still in love, and get back together.
Then the fun begins. Chaz isn’t who we think he is and there are plenty of bad-guys for both Lev and Chaz and all the Skull Blasters to vanquish.
I love this series by Sandrine Gasq-Dion. I have read all the books and honestly, if you haven’t, you can probably still enjoy this book, but a lot of it’s charm will be lost on you.
Part of what makes this series so great is re-visiting with characters from past books and we do that a lot in this book. We get to see who is going to be a daddy next – exciting! – and we even get to see not one, not two but three weddings!
I love the unapologetic way the characters confess their love for one another and the continual happily ever afters we witness with the other couples.
The addition of the newer warlock/demigod super powers is a lot of fun.
This is a quick, light read that fulfills all your expectations of a Sandrine/Skull Blaster book.
I recommend it and give it 4 of 5 hearts.
Fortunately, Chaz finds a second love in firefighting and has been doing that happily for the last six years until Lev shows up again, wreaking havoc in Chaz’s life.
Lev, meanwhile, has been turned into a werewolf and has been fighting Rogues in Siberia, but still loves Chaz. He is happy to be assigned guard duty to Chaz but is afraid to be involved with him romantically due the danger that still dogs his footsteps.
The two dance around each other a little bit, but then admit they are still in love, and get back together.
Then the fun begins. Chaz isn’t who we think he is and there are plenty of bad-guys for both Lev and Chaz and all the Skull Blasters to vanquish.
I love this series by Sandrine Gasq-Dion. I have read all the books and honestly, if you haven’t, you can probably still enjoy this book, but a lot of it’s charm will be lost on you.
Part of what makes this series so great is re-visiting with characters from past books and we do that a lot in this book. We get to see who is going to be a daddy next – exciting! – and we even get to see not one, not two but three weddings!
I love the unapologetic way the characters confess their love for one another and the continual happily ever afters we witness with the other couples.
The addition of the newer warlock/demigod super powers is a lot of fun.
This is a quick, light read that fulfills all your expectations of a Sandrine/Skull Blaster book.
I recommend it and give it 4 of 5 hearts.
August 28, 2014
August 25th to August 26, 2014
I can't believe that this is the #23 book of this amazing adventure series and it is still as fresh and exciting as the first one. My hats off to you Sandrine Gasq-Dion, for your never ending talent! This was a non stop action packed, take no prisoners story. It had it all, from heartache, to happiness. New discovery by main characters, plus surprising storylines. To those very entertaining hot insta-wet moments that were magnificently written!!! Beautiful weddings and birth announcements, Skull Blasters and Olympians this book has it ALL!!! I could not put it down. Did I even mention this was the explosive hot reunion of Chaz and Lev.....Yummy. This is a don't miss! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!
I can't believe that this is the #23 book of this amazing adventure series and it is still as fresh and exciting as the first one. My hats off to you Sandrine Gasq-Dion, for your never ending talent! This was a non stop action packed, take no prisoners story. It had it all, from heartache, to happiness. New discovery by main characters, plus surprising storylines. To those very entertaining hot insta-wet moments that were magnificently written!!! Beautiful weddings and birth announcements, Skull Blasters and Olympians this book has it ALL!!! I could not put it down. Did I even mention this was the explosive hot reunion of Chaz and Lev.....Yummy. This is a don't miss! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!
November 25, 2014
I love me some Sandrine Gasq-Dion! I finish one of her books and wait anxiously for the next to come out. I will probably cry the day there are no more Assassin/Shifter books! Of course that means I'll just have to re-read them, start to finish, over and over and over... wait I already do that!
I was really looking forward to Chaz and Lev's story and I was not dissapointed at all!
I don't want to get into the story too much as the blurb does a great job at selling it. I'll just say that I highly recommend it to anyone that loves the series, loves Sandi's writing, loves them some shifters and doesn't mind a bit of hurt/comfort.
I was really looking forward to Chaz and Lev's story and I was not dissapointed at all!
I don't want to get into the story too much as the blurb does a great job at selling it. I'll just say that I highly recommend it to anyone that loves the series, loves Sandi's writing, loves them some shifters and doesn't mind a bit of hurt/comfort.
August 24, 2014
Lev Chirkoff loved Chaz Savage from the moment he started watching him play football on television. When Lev is sent to Seattle to blackmail Savage his heart breaks. Lev and Savage connect and fall in love only to have it cut short by the bite that changes Lev into a werewolf and he is forced to abandon Savage without a word. Six years later, the two reunite explosively and must come together in order for both to survive. Their amazing love for one another has survived all the years apart and is stronger than ever. The journey to togetherness is not easy but worth the ride. One truly amazing addition to the series.
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