What do you think?
Rate this book
QuickSilver #1
Kill Me Quick
The pirates of Charleston’s Golden Age aren’t as dead as you might think.
In her centuries-long life, Kulika Yadav has chalked up more than her fair share of regrets. Deserting the crew of former pirate king Bartholomew Roberts is not one of them. She vowed she would never return to his Charleston mansion, knowing that doing so would mean captivity or death. Now, two hundred years after she left, she has no other her new master is dying, and the person who holds the key to his cure has disappeared on Bartholomew's turf.
But Kulika isn't the only woman on a mission in South Carolina. Patience Quick has been searching for her best friend for six months now, along with enough other missing people to fill a whole deck of cards. She's willing to do just about anything to find her friend, even if it means following a midnight lead to a colonial-era mansion, where a never-ending pool party is about to turn sinister.
While Kulika knowingly confronts the man who gave her immortality, Quick is left scrambling to understand the nature of the creatures whose nest she has unwittingly disturbed. When the two women's paths cross, blood will fly.
Kill Me Quick is the first book in Josie Jaffrey’s QuickSilver series, a sapphic dark fantasy series set in Charleston, South Carolina.
"This was my first dip into the Silverse, and I loved it! Mystery, romance, adventure, and a wonderful villain... the QuickSilver trilogy should be on every dark fantasy fan’s radar." ~ Kat Ellis, author of The Devouring Light
"There is something truly enchanting about Josie Jaffrey’s books, and KILL ME QUICK is no exception. This new installment in the Silverse series is packed with heart-pounding suspense, a chilling sense of impending danger, and a new cast of characters that are easy to root for (or, in Bartholomew’s case, easy to loathe!). Be ready to read on the edge of your seat!" ~ Talli Morgan, author of Silver Blood
In her centuries-long life, Kulika Yadav has chalked up more than her fair share of regrets. Deserting the crew of former pirate king Bartholomew Roberts is not one of them. She vowed she would never return to his Charleston mansion, knowing that doing so would mean captivity or death. Now, two hundred years after she left, she has no other her new master is dying, and the person who holds the key to his cure has disappeared on Bartholomew's turf.
But Kulika isn't the only woman on a mission in South Carolina. Patience Quick has been searching for her best friend for six months now, along with enough other missing people to fill a whole deck of cards. She's willing to do just about anything to find her friend, even if it means following a midnight lead to a colonial-era mansion, where a never-ending pool party is about to turn sinister.
While Kulika knowingly confronts the man who gave her immortality, Quick is left scrambling to understand the nature of the creatures whose nest she has unwittingly disturbed. When the two women's paths cross, blood will fly.
Kill Me Quick is the first book in Josie Jaffrey’s QuickSilver series, a sapphic dark fantasy series set in Charleston, South Carolina.
"This was my first dip into the Silverse, and I loved it! Mystery, romance, adventure, and a wonderful villain... the QuickSilver trilogy should be on every dark fantasy fan’s radar." ~ Kat Ellis, author of The Devouring Light
"There is something truly enchanting about Josie Jaffrey’s books, and KILL ME QUICK is no exception. This new installment in the Silverse series is packed with heart-pounding suspense, a chilling sense of impending danger, and a new cast of characters that are easy to root for (or, in Bartholomew’s case, easy to loathe!). Be ready to read on the edge of your seat!" ~ Talli Morgan, author of Silver Blood
203 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 5, 2025
1 person is currently reading
52 people want to read
About the author
Josie Jaffrey
58 books172 followersJosie is a dark fantasy, paranormal romance and historical fiction author who writes about lost worlds, dystopian societies and morally-ambiguous monsters (vampires are her favourite). She has published multiple novels and short stories. Most of those are set in the Silverse, an apocalyptic world filled with vampires and zombies.
Josie is the founding editor of indie fantasy magazine Indie Bites (www.silversunbooks.com) and the writer of the urban fantasy podcast Jack Valentine, Vampire Detective (www.jackvalentinepod.com).
She’s currently working on vampire murder mysteries (the Seekers series) and a YA series centred around Atlantis and the lost civilisations of the Mediterranean (the Deluge series). Researching the latter is the first time she’s used her Classics degree since university.
Josie lives in Oxford with her husband and two cats (Sparky and Gussie), who graciously permit human cohabitation in return for regular feeding and cuddles. The resulting cat fluff makes it difficult for Josie to wear black, which is largely why she gave up being a goth. Although the cats are definitely worth it, she still misses her old wardrobe.
Josie is the founding editor of indie fantasy magazine Indie Bites (www.silversunbooks.com) and the writer of the urban fantasy podcast Jack Valentine, Vampire Detective (www.jackvalentinepod.com).
She’s currently working on vampire murder mysteries (the Seekers series) and a YA series centred around Atlantis and the lost civilisations of the Mediterranean (the Deluge series). Researching the latter is the first time she’s used her Classics degree since university.
Josie lives in Oxford with her husband and two cats (Sparky and Gussie), who graciously permit human cohabitation in return for regular feeding and cuddles. The resulting cat fluff makes it difficult for Josie to wear black, which is largely why she gave up being a goth. Although the cats are definitely worth it, she still misses her old wardrobe.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
May 28, 2025
Thank you Josie Jaffrey for the review copy in exchange for an honest review. This does not change my opinion in anyway.
3,5 stars
In recent years I have been reading the new releases by Josie Jaffrey. Her universe has some vampires (and their world) that I do find interesting to read about. Kill Me Quick is a new installment set in this world and is the start to a new series.
After having followed Jack Valentine for a few books now, it was nice to follow a different character for a change. Two actually. One that we have met before and one that is new. Kulika we have seen interact with Jack. She is the second hand to the baron. She is send to find the one person that can help heal Jack. Quick is a new character who is in search of her friend. As you can tell, there are a bunch of spoilers for another series in here and I would not recommend you read it if you are not familiar with the other series. There is not enough explanation of the world or the other characters mentioned in this book. But if you are familiar with the world this is a fun book to read.
We learn more about Kulika's background in this series and honestly, it makes me curse the baron and Jack that she has to go back to her previous 'master' for their good. She was turned by a pirate captain a few hundred years ago and while they are currently on dry land, he still rules his 'crew' with an iron hand. It is not a crew however, it is more a cult where he uses everyone to his devices under the name of 'family'.
It is a fast paced novel and it easy to get sucked into the story. Having said that, I did struggle a little because I did not care about Quick as a character. While so many have been taking, she goes somewhere with the bartender. It never even occurred to her that as a bartender he was in an unique position to do some taking of clients. I found her naive and a little annoying. I didn't really understand the attraction between her and Kulika either.
It is also clear that this novel is a set up to a larger plot and that is noticable. However my interest has been piqued enough to want to read on.
3,5 stars
In recent years I have been reading the new releases by Josie Jaffrey. Her universe has some vampires (and their world) that I do find interesting to read about. Kill Me Quick is a new installment set in this world and is the start to a new series.
After having followed Jack Valentine for a few books now, it was nice to follow a different character for a change. Two actually. One that we have met before and one that is new. Kulika we have seen interact with Jack. She is the second hand to the baron. She is send to find the one person that can help heal Jack. Quick is a new character who is in search of her friend. As you can tell, there are a bunch of spoilers for another series in here and I would not recommend you read it if you are not familiar with the other series. There is not enough explanation of the world or the other characters mentioned in this book. But if you are familiar with the world this is a fun book to read.
We learn more about Kulika's background in this series and honestly, it makes me curse the baron and Jack that she has to go back to her previous 'master' for their good. She was turned by a pirate captain a few hundred years ago and while they are currently on dry land, he still rules his 'crew' with an iron hand. It is not a crew however, it is more a cult where he uses everyone to his devices under the name of 'family'.
It is a fast paced novel and it easy to get sucked into the story. Having said that, I did struggle a little because I did not care about Quick as a character. While so many have been taking, she goes somewhere with the bartender. It never even occurred to her that as a bartender he was in an unique position to do some taking of clients. I found her naive and a little annoying. I didn't really understand the attraction between her and Kulika either.
It is also clear that this novel is a set up to a larger plot and that is noticable. However my interest has been piqued enough to want to read on.
August 9, 2025
So this was my first book by Josie Jaffrey, and maybe one of my first sapphic centered romantasy reads. Usually, vampires are not at the top of my fantasy roster and I don't really have a penchant for pirates... and then I read this book.
This was such an enjoyable, fast-paced, nail-biting plot for two different characters *SIMULTANEOUSLY*. The eyebrows were up and I was waiting everytime they came in contact, until their story lines converged spectacularly.
This book was absolutely brimming with intriguing mystery, suspenseful action, and my almost immediate concern for characters. Something that stood out to me about this book, that had me signing up for the series as a whole, was the different forms that love can take in relationships. We have genuine and strong platonic friendships, the kind that feels like two mismatched socks finding each other. Meant to be a pair, even if they are only to be worn on different feet- like how I find myself interpreting the bond between Quick and Evita. Then we have the kind of mutual understanding and care that can only be formed through shared trauma bonds, such as between Kulika and Bayly. Of course, now I have to read other books in this universe to flush out the details behind the loyalty and appreciation between Kulika and Baron.
Side note, I had to pause for a deep sigh while yearning for this being written as a tragically beautiful prequel novella: "...their college romance- a brief liason back when Quick was still realising that she was bi and Evita was still realising she wasn't..."
I will be keeping this series on deck for when I want a fun break between some of my more somber and tedious reads.
This was such an enjoyable, fast-paced, nail-biting plot for two different characters *SIMULTANEOUSLY*. The eyebrows were up and I was waiting everytime they came in contact, until their story lines converged spectacularly.
This book was absolutely brimming with intriguing mystery, suspenseful action, and my almost immediate concern for characters. Something that stood out to me about this book, that had me signing up for the series as a whole, was the different forms that love can take in relationships. We have genuine and strong platonic friendships, the kind that feels like two mismatched socks finding each other. Meant to be a pair, even if they are only to be worn on different feet- like how I find myself interpreting the bond between Quick and Evita. Then we have the kind of mutual understanding and care that can only be formed through shared trauma bonds, such as between Kulika and Bayly. Of course, now I have to read other books in this universe to flush out the details behind the loyalty and appreciation between Kulika and Baron.
Side note, I had to pause for a deep sigh while yearning for this being written as a tragically beautiful prequel novella: "...their college romance- a brief liason back when Quick was still realising that she was bi and Evita was still realising she wasn't..."
I will be keeping this series on deck for when I want a fun break between some of my more somber and tedious reads.
May 16, 2025
Wow, this was really good! I read another sapphic vampire pirate story only a few months ago and when this one was suggested to me to read as an arc, I was almost skeptical if I would enjoy it, because I feared it would be predictable, but it wasn't at all! The world was unique and interesting and I liked the twist on the classic vampire lore (with the zombie risk and the pirate hierarchy). I liked the characters, their ethical dilemmas and the alternating perspectives between their story lines as well. My only confusion was why the pirates were in a mansion instead of at sea? And the story also ended a bit abrubtly (on a great cliffhanger), so now I need to find the sequel asap.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 25, 2025
This was my first dip into the Silverse, and I loved it! Mystery, romance, adventure, and a wonderful villain... this had everything I wanted and more. So glad I got to read it early!
April 29, 2025
I can safely say that I haven't read a book this fast in quite some time. Even though for the slightest moment I was annoyed at feeling like I was missing something, I kept going. Then I realized that is the point. The point is we are getting info from two characters that are trying their best to piece together what is happening as quickly as possible. The fact that the author is able to weave the story so seamlessly that it feels like you are getting the info simultaneously is nothing short of amazing.
Once things started really going, I felt like I was also trying to piece together what was happening just as fast as the characters and I loved every second! I knew that Bartholomew was going to give us a last knife twist and I should have seen that coming but it still got me. I cannot wait to start the next book!
Once things started really going, I felt like I was also trying to piece together what was happening just as fast as the characters and I loved every second! I knew that Bartholomew was going to give us a last knife twist and I should have seen that coming but it still got me. I cannot wait to start the next book!
June 5, 2025
Thank you to the author Josie Jaffrey for providing me with an omnibus edition of this series in exchange for honest review. The edition includes the trilogy plus short stories, but I’ll just talk about the first book here.
In Kill Me Quick, Kulika has to return to her former vampire leader to seek a cure for another. She’s reluctant to go back to a toxic situation, but doesn’t have much choice. Patience Quick is looking for her missing friend and ends up getting more than she bargained for in her search when she discovers the vampires.
I should mention that I haven’t read the other books in this universe connected to this series. As a result, I don’t know Jack Valentine who is mentioned here, or a few of the other characters. I did feel that perhaps it might have been better to read some of the other books first, to avoid mild spoilers and adjust to the world building easier.
That being said, you can still read this series without any other knowledge. I quickly adjusted to the Silver aka vampires. I think this depiction is really interesting, and I love seeing authors get creative.
The mystery element was also very intriguing. I wanted to keep reading to see what they would discover, especially knowing that both characters are aligned in what they are looking for. There’s a lot going on that neither of them really know about, which speaks to a wider plot outside of this specific book.
The end really hooks you in! I’m looking forward to seeing developments as the series goes on. I’m hoping to pick up the next book soon to see what happens. I think Kulika’s background had quite a bit of information and development so I want to know more about Quick.
This is a short book - I love long books, so I often want books to be longer. The fact that the vampires used to be pirates did relate to some things in the story but also seemed a bit random and unnecessary to me personally.
I think then there could be a lot more detail packed in, as well as interactions between the main characters. I think the connection between them developed very quickly, and while it does make sense given the world building in the book, it did come on a bit fast for me.
Overall, I thought this was a really fun read. Most of all, I think this view of vampires was a bit different so really drew me in, even if I wanted a bit more detail at times. I’m definitely interested enough to continue and see where the wider plot develops.
3.5
In Kill Me Quick, Kulika has to return to her former vampire leader to seek a cure for another. She’s reluctant to go back to a toxic situation, but doesn’t have much choice. Patience Quick is looking for her missing friend and ends up getting more than she bargained for in her search when she discovers the vampires.
I should mention that I haven’t read the other books in this universe connected to this series. As a result, I don’t know Jack Valentine who is mentioned here, or a few of the other characters. I did feel that perhaps it might have been better to read some of the other books first, to avoid mild spoilers and adjust to the world building easier.
That being said, you can still read this series without any other knowledge. I quickly adjusted to the Silver aka vampires. I think this depiction is really interesting, and I love seeing authors get creative.
The mystery element was also very intriguing. I wanted to keep reading to see what they would discover, especially knowing that both characters are aligned in what they are looking for. There’s a lot going on that neither of them really know about, which speaks to a wider plot outside of this specific book.
The end really hooks you in! I’m looking forward to seeing developments as the series goes on. I’m hoping to pick up the next book soon to see what happens. I think Kulika’s background had quite a bit of information and development so I want to know more about Quick.
This is a short book - I love long books, so I often want books to be longer. The fact that the vampires used to be pirates did relate to some things in the story but also seemed a bit random and unnecessary to me personally.
I think then there could be a lot more detail packed in, as well as interactions between the main characters. I think the connection between them developed very quickly, and while it does make sense given the world building in the book, it did come on a bit fast for me.
Overall, I thought this was a really fun read. Most of all, I think this view of vampires was a bit different so really drew me in, even if I wanted a bit more detail at times. I’m definitely interested enough to continue and see where the wider plot develops.
3.5
June 6, 2025
I received a review copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. It has not affected my opinions.
KILL ME QUICK is the first novella in the Quicksilver series, with is a trio of novellas (and several short stories) that takes place during the Seeker's series. Specifically, this happens during VALENTINE'S DAY and after.
There are, therefore, a few general spoilers for WINTA'S DAY (the preceding book) and to a lesser extent spoiler for Jack and Killian's relationship across the series. However, this series is focused on a side character in an all new setting, so is a good introduction to Josie's world if someone is looking for a taster (and isn't sure quite where to start in the overarching Silververse).
The tension at the heart of this book is whether Kulika will get trapped by Bartholomew again. He's desperate to get her to re-join him and is holding the information over her. He pushes and pushes, a great manipulator and antagonist for this series. A lot of focus in vampire novels often goes on the physical strength, but all that time would let some hone their manipulative skills - and that's what Bartholomew has done. He is the sort of person it's hard to say no to, who gets hooks in that are near impossible to remove. I look forwards to seeing how his threat develops (and how the protagonists deal with him) as the story progresses.
Quick is a nice world addition too, determined to help others and thrown into a world of vampires. her entrapment is more literal. She's a really intriguing combination of pragmatic but also relatively innocent/trusting, which led to a few troubles but also something she could use.
The vampires are not as piratical as I was expecting. It is set in the modern day, in a mansion on land. There are references to Kulika's past during the golden age of piracy, but none of this book happens on a ship with characters engaging in sword fights or the like. Instead, the piratical element is the pirate code, which is a trap closing around Kulika. I do hope there is more (typical) pirate-y things in the coming books.
KILL ME QUICK is the first novella in the Quicksilver series, with is a trio of novellas (and several short stories) that takes place during the Seeker's series. Specifically, this happens during VALENTINE'S DAY and after.
There are, therefore, a few general spoilers for WINTA'S DAY (the preceding book) and to a lesser extent spoiler for Jack and Killian's relationship across the series. However, this series is focused on a side character in an all new setting, so is a good introduction to Josie's world if someone is looking for a taster (and isn't sure quite where to start in the overarching Silververse).
The tension at the heart of this book is whether Kulika will get trapped by Bartholomew again. He's desperate to get her to re-join him and is holding the information over her. He pushes and pushes, a great manipulator and antagonist for this series. A lot of focus in vampire novels often goes on the physical strength, but all that time would let some hone their manipulative skills - and that's what Bartholomew has done. He is the sort of person it's hard to say no to, who gets hooks in that are near impossible to remove. I look forwards to seeing how his threat develops (and how the protagonists deal with him) as the story progresses.
Quick is a nice world addition too, determined to help others and thrown into a world of vampires. her entrapment is more literal. She's a really intriguing combination of pragmatic but also relatively innocent/trusting, which led to a few troubles but also something she could use.
The vampires are not as piratical as I was expecting. It is set in the modern day, in a mansion on land. There are references to Kulika's past during the golden age of piracy, but none of this book happens on a ship with characters engaging in sword fights or the like. Instead, the piratical element is the pirate code, which is a trap closing around Kulika. I do hope there is more (typical) pirate-y things in the coming books.
June 1, 2025
What a fabulous way to ring in Pride month; my first read for June is a 5 star sapphic romance with teeth.
If you like vampires, the Deep South, pirates, and the hunt for a missing person, then this is for you. The best part is that those somewhat disjointed elements are brought together in such a simple way that it really feels possible that one of the real Dread Pirates may have been the leader of a vampire crew back in the day. Having spent hundreds of years swindling and looting, the pirate Bartholomew has modernized: he’s brought his crew on land and turned them into something of a cult. And in their midst is a human woman searching for her missing best friend, and a prodigal daughter forced back to the nest in search of information.
Kulika & Patience spend a large part of this first book apart, but when they are together, fireworks abound - and the final act of this fast read is electric! Romance underpins a lot of the motivations in this book (the lore on vampires falling in love in this world is both fun and deadly), but the hunt for the missing Evita Khalyed is the main driver of the plot. I absolutely cannot wait to see how Kulika & Patience outsmart the awful Bartholomew in the rest of the series. Color me invested in this HEA.
Thank you to Josie Jaffrey for the opportunity to read & honestly review Kill Me Quick prior to its release.
If you like vampires, the Deep South, pirates, and the hunt for a missing person, then this is for you. The best part is that those somewhat disjointed elements are brought together in such a simple way that it really feels possible that one of the real Dread Pirates may have been the leader of a vampire crew back in the day. Having spent hundreds of years swindling and looting, the pirate Bartholomew has modernized: he’s brought his crew on land and turned them into something of a cult. And in their midst is a human woman searching for her missing best friend, and a prodigal daughter forced back to the nest in search of information.
Kulika & Patience spend a large part of this first book apart, but when they are together, fireworks abound - and the final act of this fast read is electric! Romance underpins a lot of the motivations in this book (the lore on vampires falling in love in this world is both fun and deadly), but the hunt for the missing Evita Khalyed is the main driver of the plot. I absolutely cannot wait to see how Kulika & Patience outsmart the awful Bartholomew in the rest of the series. Color me invested in this HEA.
Thank you to Josie Jaffrey for the opportunity to read & honestly review Kill Me Quick prior to its release.
July 16, 2025
Hello, new favourite vampire series!
I knew I was going to love this book from the moment I heard about it, and it exceeded all expectations. Josie Jaffrey’s prose is easy to get lost in, with chilling tension and addictive characters skillfully woven into every word. KILL ME QUICK is no exception; I could NOT put it down.
A gripping, seductive, and utterly devourable introduction to a new series, this story throws us into the dark and dangerous world of immortality, with an electrifying sapphic romance that sparks off the page from the very first interaction. Both of the protagonists are utterly badass and impossible not to fall for, especially in the midst of the trouble surrounding them. Between the mystery of a missing woman and the promise of threats from all sides, as well as a gorgeous, instinctive connection between the two women, I’m itching to get to the next novella in the series. Plus, zombies and former pirates! All set in an atmospheric mansion in the south! Jaffrey balances all of these qualities effortlessly despite the shorter length, providing us with a rich and intricate dark fantasy that will absolutely satisfy your literary cravings.
I can’t recommend this one enough! Read it! Read it!!!!
I knew I was going to love this book from the moment I heard about it, and it exceeded all expectations. Josie Jaffrey’s prose is easy to get lost in, with chilling tension and addictive characters skillfully woven into every word. KILL ME QUICK is no exception; I could NOT put it down.
A gripping, seductive, and utterly devourable introduction to a new series, this story throws us into the dark and dangerous world of immortality, with an electrifying sapphic romance that sparks off the page from the very first interaction. Both of the protagonists are utterly badass and impossible not to fall for, especially in the midst of the trouble surrounding them. Between the mystery of a missing woman and the promise of threats from all sides, as well as a gorgeous, instinctive connection between the two women, I’m itching to get to the next novella in the series. Plus, zombies and former pirates! All set in an atmospheric mansion in the south! Jaffrey balances all of these qualities effortlessly despite the shorter length, providing us with a rich and intricate dark fantasy that will absolutely satisfy your literary cravings.
I can’t recommend this one enough! Read it! Read it!!!!
August 14, 2025
Kill Me Quick is the first in Josie Jaffrey’s QuickSilver series, a part of the larger Silverse. As a big fan of the wonderful world the author has created, I am always happy to be sucked into a new part of the story.
Kill Me Quick is a mix of known (for fans of the Silverse) characters and new, mixing it with a new element that instantly grabbed me. After all, I am a simple woman, and I cannot turn down the promise of vampire pirates. I will admit that I fear I set my standards a little too high with my vampire pirates hope. While this story does a good job of nodding toward the history and the bigger picture, it was not quite to the extent I had hoped. I feel this was very much an introduction to the story, as there were lost of nuggets of information that I can see being expanded as the story progresses. Thus, while it was an easy read that left me wanting to see what comes next, it did not hit quite as hard as other books in the universe. I will certainly be jumping into the next book soon, though, as I am eager to see how things develop.
All in all, this was a fun addition to the universe. I certainly recommend it to fans wanting to continue to add to the larger storyline, and I am eager to see how things play out.
Kill Me Quick is a mix of known (for fans of the Silverse) characters and new, mixing it with a new element that instantly grabbed me. After all, I am a simple woman, and I cannot turn down the promise of vampire pirates. I will admit that I fear I set my standards a little too high with my vampire pirates hope. While this story does a good job of nodding toward the history and the bigger picture, it was not quite to the extent I had hoped. I feel this was very much an introduction to the story, as there were lost of nuggets of information that I can see being expanded as the story progresses. Thus, while it was an easy read that left me wanting to see what comes next, it did not hit quite as hard as other books in the universe. I will certainly be jumping into the next book soon, though, as I am eager to see how things develop.
All in all, this was a fun addition to the universe. I certainly recommend it to fans wanting to continue to add to the larger storyline, and I am eager to see how things play out.
June 3, 2025
‘𝔸𝕤 𝕚𝕥 𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟𝕤 𝕠𝕦𝕥, 𝕀 𝕕𝕚𝕕𝕟’𝕥 𝕟𝕖𝕖𝕕 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕥𝕠 𝕤𝕚𝕘𝕟 𝕞𝕪 𝕔𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕟𝕒𝕟𝕥 … ℕ𝕠𝕥 𝕨𝕙𝕖𝕟 𝕀 𝕒𝕝𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕𝕪 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕙𝕖𝕒𝕣𝕥 𝕣𝕚𝕘𝕙𝕥 𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖.’
I have a new fantasy favourite, and it is begging you to sink your teeth into it! Kill Me Quick by Josie Jaffrey is a sapphic, fast-paced (dare I say “quick”!), blood-stained delight, that offers a razor-sharp thrill ride set in her compelling Silververse!
This time, we are diving into a world of vampire pirates (yes I definitely said vampire pirates), navigating life-or-death stakes, suspense and tension filled moments that had me hooked! If you’re already familiar with the Silververse, you’ll love the clever ties to character you may remember. However, if you are new, you will be swept away by the brilliant characters, rich world-building, and intense plot. It’s dark, bold, and deliciously addictive.
With LGBTQIA+ rep, brilliant fantasy elements and covenants that demand signing, Kill Me Quick proves that Josie Jaffrey continues to stake her claim in fantasy fiction. I already wish I could read it again for the first time, but I am so excited to be able to continue with the next book in the trilogy - keep your eyes out for my next review!!!
I have a new fantasy favourite, and it is begging you to sink your teeth into it! Kill Me Quick by Josie Jaffrey is a sapphic, fast-paced (dare I say “quick”!), blood-stained delight, that offers a razor-sharp thrill ride set in her compelling Silververse!
This time, we are diving into a world of vampire pirates (yes I definitely said vampire pirates), navigating life-or-death stakes, suspense and tension filled moments that had me hooked! If you’re already familiar with the Silververse, you’ll love the clever ties to character you may remember. However, if you are new, you will be swept away by the brilliant characters, rich world-building, and intense plot. It’s dark, bold, and deliciously addictive.
With LGBTQIA+ rep, brilliant fantasy elements and covenants that demand signing, Kill Me Quick proves that Josie Jaffrey continues to stake her claim in fantasy fiction. I already wish I could read it again for the first time, but I am so excited to be able to continue with the next book in the trilogy - keep your eyes out for my next review!!!
June 15, 2025
This is much more vampire drama with pirate backstory than full-on pirate fantasy. And honestly? That blend worked. It’s moody, blood-soaked, and a lot darker than I expected. There’s a persistent sense of danger that keeps the plot moving, and I appreciated how layered Kulika and Quick both felt, even as their stories slowly converged. They haven't had a lot of time to get to know one another yet, but I'm looking forward to seeing their relationship grow.
This one was compelling, but I’ll admit: I felt the weight of the larger Silverse universe here. I know that you can start here, but I found myself just slightly off-balance more than once as characters were mentioned that I didn't know. That said, I enjoyed this enough that I’m planning to go back and dive into the Seekers books next, because the world-building really hooked me.
If you’re into dark urban fantasy with strong sapphic leads, an echo of pirate history, and vampires lurking behind a group of missing people, this one’s worth checking out. I’m really curious to see where it all goes next.
Thanks so much to the author for the complimentary copy and swag. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
This one was compelling, but I’ll admit: I felt the weight of the larger Silverse universe here. I know that you can start here, but I found myself just slightly off-balance more than once as characters were mentioned that I didn't know. That said, I enjoyed this enough that I’m planning to go back and dive into the Seekers books next, because the world-building really hooked me.
If you’re into dark urban fantasy with strong sapphic leads, an echo of pirate history, and vampires lurking behind a group of missing people, this one’s worth checking out. I’m really curious to see where it all goes next.
Thanks so much to the author for the complimentary copy and swag. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
June 6, 2025
Kill Me Quick by Josie Jaffrey is the first book in the QuickSilver Series, but I believe it has ties to other works from the author, and I had a little familiarity with some of the characters from the short stories published in the wonderful Indie Bites anthologies. All that being said, this book can absolutely be read without having any prior knowledge, any lore that you need to know is seamlessly woven into the storytelling.
Kulkia is a Silver, or Vampire, who spent centuries as a pirate under Captain Bartholomew Roberts, the former Pirate King. Escaping his clutches was not easy, but she did it and has managed to evade his clutches for two hundred years, but a debt of honour and the only chance of saving a friend's life is enough to send her back. She needs to find a girl, one who has gone missing in Roberts' turf. That girl is not the only missing person in the area though, and Kulkia is not the only one searching, Patience Quick is determined to find her best friend and is desperate enough to take some crazy risks to do it. As a human she has no idea of the danger she is walking into, and it soon becomes clear that her only hope of survival is an alliance with Kulika.
This was such a clever and original vampire story, honoring tradition and history but with a twist, and even a nod to zombies too. The characters, especially Patience, really had me rooting for them and Roberts is just the sort of villain that I love to hate. I love a good mystery, and while we do get some hints about what is going on here, the story is not resolved, so I am keen to get my hands on the next book and see where the author is going to take us, especially since the storytelling is so good. The ending of this book is so cleverly done, it immediately sets up the next book and had me worried about these characters that I came to care about so quickly. Not only that but it also made me want to explore not just more of the world, but also more of this author's writing.
I read an ARC courtesy of the author, all opinions are my own.
Kulkia is a Silver, or Vampire, who spent centuries as a pirate under Captain Bartholomew Roberts, the former Pirate King. Escaping his clutches was not easy, but she did it and has managed to evade his clutches for two hundred years, but a debt of honour and the only chance of saving a friend's life is enough to send her back. She needs to find a girl, one who has gone missing in Roberts' turf. That girl is not the only missing person in the area though, and Kulkia is not the only one searching, Patience Quick is determined to find her best friend and is desperate enough to take some crazy risks to do it. As a human she has no idea of the danger she is walking into, and it soon becomes clear that her only hope of survival is an alliance with Kulika.
This was such a clever and original vampire story, honoring tradition and history but with a twist, and even a nod to zombies too. The characters, especially Patience, really had me rooting for them and Roberts is just the sort of villain that I love to hate. I love a good mystery, and while we do get some hints about what is going on here, the story is not resolved, so I am keen to get my hands on the next book and see where the author is going to take us, especially since the storytelling is so good. The ending of this book is so cleverly done, it immediately sets up the next book and had me worried about these characters that I came to care about so quickly. Not only that but it also made me want to explore not just more of the world, but also more of this author's writing.
I read an ARC courtesy of the author, all opinions are my own.
August 27, 2025
Dual 3rd person pov, Charleston, SC, US. Cliffhanger for sure, no spice, some LGBTQ situations. I’m grateful for the chance to read this, having been provided with a free copy in exchange for my unbiased review. This book is very dark, but a romance of a kind. And very, very slow burn. The vampires are for the most part very brutal and gruesome. The story itself felt slow to me, like it just couldn’t get going. And then, just as it became more interesting, the book ended. One woman is looking for her best friend who disappeared, one vampire woman is looking for the same woman because her blood might safe the vampires boss/master/leader. The trail for said woman leads faintly towards Bartholomew’s mansion, who is a vampire working on creating an army. And who turned aforementioned vampire woman, though she is no longer bound to him. I think it’s a pretty good book, though I wish the pace had been quicker, and that the story had been more developed by now.
May 2, 2025
This was a strong start to the QuickSilver series, it had that pirate element that I was looking for and enjoyed in this type of book. I was invested in the time period and how it was used to tell the story. I thought it was a unique concept for pirates and vampires and how it was used in the storyline. This left me wanting to read more in this world and characters. I really enjoyed the way Josie Jaffrey wrote this as this was a strong start.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 9, 2025
Once again Josie Jaffrey gives us a brilliant addition to her expanding Silver Universe. Kulika is the focus of this, she's gone to help the Baron in saving Jack but there's a time limit and some times the past does more than just haunt you. I loved this book, the pacing is great, we get to explore more of the tension that's been slowly brewing for several books in a bigger plot and we get to see the differences in the Baron and Roberts. 4/5 Huge cups of coffee from me! Thanks so much to Jaffrey for an eARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
May 2, 2025
This is not just another vampire romance book - it's a fantastic, fast-paced, suspenseful tale of trust and betrayal, loyalty tested, resistance and hope. The characters were so well crafted I felt like I knew them, and the story kept me turning pages to the end. It was over too soon, and I have high hopes for the sequel!
I received an advance copy of this book for free, and I'm leaving my honest opinion voluntarily. Highly recommended!
I received an advance copy of this book for free, and I'm leaving my honest opinion voluntarily. Highly recommended!
May 5, 2025
(I received an ARC of this book for the purpose of writing a blurb; many thanks to Josie Jaffrey for the opportunity!)
There is something truly enchanting about Josie Jaffrey’s books, and KILL ME QUICK is no exception. This new installment in the Silverse series is packed with heart-pounding suspense, a chilling sense of impending danger, and a new cast of characters that are easy to root for (or, in Bartholomew’s case, easy to loathe!). Be ready to read on the edge of your seat!
Okay professional review done. Unhinged review:
hgheghjegh oh my god. *screams into my hands*
*downloads book 2 ARC immediately*
There is something truly enchanting about Josie Jaffrey’s books, and KILL ME QUICK is no exception. This new installment in the Silverse series is packed with heart-pounding suspense, a chilling sense of impending danger, and a new cast of characters that are easy to root for (or, in Bartholomew’s case, easy to loathe!). Be ready to read on the edge of your seat!
Okay professional review done. Unhinged review:
hgheghjegh oh my god. *screams into my hands*
*downloads book 2 ARC immediately*
May 18, 2025
This book is fabulous and it breaths new life into the vampire trope and adds lore in such a creative and thoughtful way. Jaffrey brilliantly intertwines vampires and pirates of yore. Both Kulika and Quick are strong, beautiful, and steady in their searches and when they finally cross paths their worlds are turned upside down in such a way that leaves you trying to catch your breath. I can’t wait to read the rest in the series. Put this on your summer reading list ASAP!
September 12, 2025
Whew! This was an intense, yet quick, read! I could hardly put it down right from the start! I was hooked. I am hooked because now I need the next book!! I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The world building and lead up to the explosive ending are incredible. I am so looking forward to seeing how our two MCs can reach a hea. I hope they will!!!! Recommend!!!
The world building and lead up to the explosive ending are incredible. I am so looking forward to seeing how our two MCs can reach a hea. I hope they will!!!! Recommend!!!
June 27, 2025
This is a fantastic vampire boo
The characters are great,the world building is fantastic and storyline is amazing.
It is a must read and pageturner
I would recommended
Looking forward to the next book
The characters are great,the world building is fantastic and storyline is amazing.
It is a must read and pageturner
I would recommended
Looking forward to the next book
June 6, 2025
A MUST READ! I could not put this down.
May 14, 2025
Kill Me Quick is the first book in the Quick Silver trilogy by Josie Jaffrey. It is set in her Silverse. This time the action takes place in Charleston, South Carolina.
Chronologically it fits in between book four of the Seeker books and book one of the Solis Invicti series. However, the author provides enough clues and explanations that you do not need to have read those other series before diving into Kill Me Quick.
The story is told from two point of views. Kulika is on a business trip for her boss Baron Drake looking for his last chance of survival. Quick is searching for her missing friend Evita who disappeared six months ago in Charleston. The moment their paths cross their fates get mixed up with vampires, zombies, pirates and most dangerous of all - love!
Kulika is one of my favourite characters in this universe. She is competent and has a no-nonsense attitude. Realizing she’d be the star in this trilogy made me whoop with delight. Getting more of her backstory was exciting and satisfying. I enjoyed seeing a softer and more vulnerable side to her.
This first instalment in the QuickSilver trilogy sets the scene for things to come and left a very uneasy feeling in my stomach. Right from the start the atmosphere is charged with foreboding and a sinister feeling permeates all of the scenes. I felt like watching an avalanche I couldn’t stop.
If you like dark paranormal fantasy this series is for you. Make sure to check out content warnings if you need them.
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Chronologically it fits in between book four of the Seeker books and book one of the Solis Invicti series. However, the author provides enough clues and explanations that you do not need to have read those other series before diving into Kill Me Quick.
The story is told from two point of views. Kulika is on a business trip for her boss Baron Drake looking for his last chance of survival. Quick is searching for her missing friend Evita who disappeared six months ago in Charleston. The moment their paths cross their fates get mixed up with vampires, zombies, pirates and most dangerous of all - love!
Kulika is one of my favourite characters in this universe. She is competent and has a no-nonsense attitude. Realizing she’d be the star in this trilogy made me whoop with delight. Getting more of her backstory was exciting and satisfying. I enjoyed seeing a softer and more vulnerable side to her.
This first instalment in the QuickSilver trilogy sets the scene for things to come and left a very uneasy feeling in my stomach. Right from the start the atmosphere is charged with foreboding and a sinister feeling permeates all of the scenes. I felt like watching an avalanche I couldn’t stop.
If you like dark paranormal fantasy this series is for you. Make sure to check out content warnings if you need them.
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
June 8, 2025
This is my first sapphic story to be honest BUT it is not my first story of Josie Jaffrey! I have read all her books this far and can say honestly, that she is a brilliant writer and storyteller!
Lucky for me I had knowledge of the silverse so I was able to cotton on quite easily the alternative and connections. But these characters are all new and all exciting! Great descriptions, amazing world-building, and intriguing characters. Everything you could possibly want in a book!
The love connection - or in this world’s terms, silver connection- is a slow burn, there isn’t much that goes in until the very end and it’s kissing, not at all graphic. The story is from two people’s POV and it’s very clear who and what is going on.
The whole story of pirates of legend not being dead- but reinvented is brilliant! Josie has created a handful of intriguing and enjoyable characters. The details and world-building is spectacular, you can see everything unfold before your eyes.
Fantastic all around!
Lucky for me I had knowledge of the silverse so I was able to cotton on quite easily the alternative and connections. But these characters are all new and all exciting! Great descriptions, amazing world-building, and intriguing characters. Everything you could possibly want in a book!
The love connection - or in this world’s terms, silver connection- is a slow burn, there isn’t much that goes in until the very end and it’s kissing, not at all graphic. The story is from two people’s POV and it’s very clear who and what is going on.
The whole story of pirates of legend not being dead- but reinvented is brilliant! Josie has created a handful of intriguing and enjoyable characters. The details and world-building is spectacular, you can see everything unfold before your eyes.
Fantastic all around!
August 24, 2025
This book dives straight back into Josie’s beautifully crafted Silverse as we follow the Barron’s right hand woman, Kulika, on her quest for information. Unfortunately her search means crossing paths with her former master whom she escaped centuries ago, but can she ‘play nice’ and avoid being drawn into her old life long enough to extract the vital information she seeks?
Loner Quick has spent months searching for her missing friend but her time is up and she must return to the UK and admit defeat. But on her last evening in Charleston she makes a decision set to change the course of her life forever. Can Kulika help Quick or will their unquestionable connection implode ?
I could NOT put this book down! Josie’s writing style is so unique and it feels just like a friend telling you a story. Having already read the rest of the books in this world is definitely an advantage as it provides the backstory for Kulika’s quest’ However, Josie manages to sprinkle and weave enough information into the story to enable those new to this world to understand and enjoy this story.
I’m really enjoying the mystery aspect of this series so far with both Quick and Kulika on their own quests for information. The atmosphere and the setting of the mansion in which the majority of the book is set is chefs kiss! The descriptions are perfectly written meaning as a reader I have vivid images of the surroundings and characters; I felt completely absorbed in the story from start to finish.
This is such a strong start to this new trilogy and I can already see the foundations being laid for an epic conclusion! I’m sure I’ve said it before, but Josie’s books just get better and better with every new release! Josie is one of my favourite authors; I know when I pick up one of her books it’s going to be an automatic 5 star win and a story that will stay with me for a long time after I’ve finished reading and I know this will be no different. I’m so excited to move on to the next book in this series- A Quick Study- be sure to keep your eyes peeled for my review.
Loner Quick has spent months searching for her missing friend but her time is up and she must return to the UK and admit defeat. But on her last evening in Charleston she makes a decision set to change the course of her life forever. Can Kulika help Quick or will their unquestionable connection implode ?
I could NOT put this book down! Josie’s writing style is so unique and it feels just like a friend telling you a story. Having already read the rest of the books in this world is definitely an advantage as it provides the backstory for Kulika’s quest’ However, Josie manages to sprinkle and weave enough information into the story to enable those new to this world to understand and enjoy this story.
I’m really enjoying the mystery aspect of this series so far with both Quick and Kulika on their own quests for information. The atmosphere and the setting of the mansion in which the majority of the book is set is chefs kiss! The descriptions are perfectly written meaning as a reader I have vivid images of the surroundings and characters; I felt completely absorbed in the story from start to finish.
This is such a strong start to this new trilogy and I can already see the foundations being laid for an epic conclusion! I’m sure I’ve said it before, but Josie’s books just get better and better with every new release! Josie is one of my favourite authors; I know when I pick up one of her books it’s going to be an automatic 5 star win and a story that will stay with me for a long time after I’ve finished reading and I know this will be no different. I’m so excited to move on to the next book in this series- A Quick Study- be sure to keep your eyes peeled for my review.
June 9, 2025
A page turner.
I couldn't put it down.
The writing is descriptive and draws you in until immersed into this world.
Quick's tenacious searching for her missing friend lands her in a world of horror. Surrounded by degradation, Quick's humanity shines through. When Quick meets Kulika she begins to hope.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I couldn't put it down.
The writing is descriptive and draws you in until immersed into this world.
Quick's tenacious searching for her missing friend lands her in a world of horror. Surrounded by degradation, Quick's humanity shines through. When Quick meets Kulika she begins to hope.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 31, 2026
This was absolutely amazing. I love hoe the author built the world and the scenes perfectly as i went through the book. The FMC Kulika was an absolute baddie. Granted she had been through some rough stuff in her days it she over come like a boss. i love the pirate theme in this book it was different and well appreciated. I did like how she went on a mission in South Carolina to find her best friend that had been missing for at that time for almost 6 months. She then come across the man who gave her immortality then she had to find out about it. I love how this is a sapphic story and it is set in my hometown of Charleston, South Carolina. This is the first book I have read by this author and plan to read many more.
October 29, 2025
I am honestly so excited to read the rest of this series.
This is one of those indie books where the love and the craft is apparent in every GD page. The pacing is great, the descriptions are visceral, and the characters separate themselves flawlessly.
I absolutely loved the odd dot of humour (Quick's introduction was particularly stellar), and even though I saw the end coming a mile away, I still found my heart pounding in that fun fake fear/anger combo.
Not too mention THANK YOU FOR GIFTING ME WITH A WELSH VILLAIN WITH A BRAIN 🙌 We dont get nearly enough rep in this category 💙
This is one of those indie books where the love and the craft is apparent in every GD page. The pacing is great, the descriptions are visceral, and the characters separate themselves flawlessly.
I absolutely loved the odd dot of humour (Quick's introduction was particularly stellar), and even though I saw the end coming a mile away, I still found my heart pounding in that fun fake fear/anger combo.
Not too mention THANK YOU FOR GIFTING ME WITH A WELSH VILLAIN WITH A BRAIN 🙌 We dont get nearly enough rep in this category 💙
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews