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Hitman #3
Last Kiss
Naomi: When I was kidnapped I thought only of survival. I don’t thrive well in chaos. That’s why I gave my captors exactly what they wanted: my skill with computers. Making millions for a crime lord who kept me imprisoned in his basement compound kept my family safe. When he was taken out, I thought my ticket to freedom had arrived. Wrong. I traded one keeper for another. This time I’m in the hands of a scarred, dark, demanding Russian who happens to be the head of the Bratva, a Russian crime organization. He wants my brain and my body. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t intrigued, but I can’t be a prisoner forever...no matter how good he makes me feel.
Vasily: At a young age, I was taught that a man without power is a puppet for all. I’ve clawed—and killed—my way to the top so that it is my heel on their necks. But to unify the fractured organization into an undefeatable machine, I need a technological genius to help me steal one particular artifact. That she is breathtaking, determined, and vulnerable is making her more dangerous than all of my enemies combined. But only I can keep her safe from the world that she now inhabits. Soon, I must choose between Naomi and Bratva law. But with every day that passes, this becomes a more impossible choice.
Vasily: At a young age, I was taught that a man without power is a puppet for all. I’ve clawed—and killed—my way to the top so that it is my heel on their necks. But to unify the fractured organization into an undefeatable machine, I need a technological genius to help me steal one particular artifact. That she is breathtaking, determined, and vulnerable is making her more dangerous than all of my enemies combined. But only I can keep her safe from the world that she now inhabits. Soon, I must choose between Naomi and Bratva law. But with every day that passes, this becomes a more impossible choice.
Audible Audio
First published May 5, 2015
109 people are currently reading
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About the author
Jessica Clare
69 books4,462 followersThis is a pen name for Jill Myles.
Jill Myles has been an incurable romantic since childhood. She reads all the 'naughty parts' of books first, looks for a dirty joke in just about everything, and thinks to this day that the Little House on the Prairie books should have been steamier.
After devouring hundreds of paperback romances, mythology books, and archaeological tomes, she decided to write a few books of her own - stories with a wild adventure, sharp banter, and lots of super-sexy situations. She prefers her heroes alpha and half-dressed, her heroines witty, and she loves nothing more than watching them overcome adversity to fall into bed together.
Jill Myles has been an incurable romantic since childhood. She reads all the 'naughty parts' of books first, looks for a dirty joke in just about everything, and thinks to this day that the Little House on the Prairie books should have been steamier.
After devouring hundreds of paperback romances, mythology books, and archaeological tomes, she decided to write a few books of her own - stories with a wild adventure, sharp banter, and lots of super-sexy situations. She prefers her heroes alpha and half-dressed, her heroines witty, and she loves nothing more than watching them overcome adversity to fall into bed together.
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May 10, 2015
Meet the surly Russian mafia and the germaphob American hacker
This might just be the best of the Hitman series yet. We've met Vasily Petrovich since the beginning of the series. He is some big shot in the Bratva and had allegiance with the two heroes, Nikolai and Daniel in the previous books. However, this can still work as a standalone, if you don't have the time to cover the grounds. In the previous book when Daniel was trying to save his sister, Naomi, only to have Vasily shipped her away instead.
Vasily, the brooding mafia wish to seize control the Petrovich Bratva after the assassination of their leader. The only thing standing in his way now is the missing Caravaggio painting. In order to track down the treasured artifact, Vasily had to gain the assistance from a renowned hacker, who turned out to be Naomi.
Naomi is one of a kind heroine, an Aspie hacker who is also a total germaphob. I've read a lot of books with Aspie's character, they usually make you feel pity and depressed, but Naomi just make you want to laugh at her quirks. I'm fascinated with the way her minds work.
"I think about all the fluids and horrible unclean things that come with sex.."
Vasily might no longer be a foot soldier, but he is still very much a deadly hitman when his skill is needed. I love getting a front row seat of all the violence that dish out by Vasily. Surprisingly, Naomi turned out to be his perfect sidekick.
"You saw me kill two men. This does not frighten you? Most women would be sobbing and weeping in a corner."
"I don't know those men. Should I be upset?"
"I am not sure if this makes you a sociopath or the perfect woman."
What makes this such as awesome read is that both Vasily and Naomi had their own quirks and they were so totally awkward in the beginning. The way Vasily mind works was as efficient and precise like clockwork. Get the job down, no attachment, kill everyone who stand in your way. At one point, I even suspect Vasily might be an Aspie himself. But I think he just happened to be raise that way, guarding his emotion to avoid being vulnerable.
"How many enemies do you have?"
"All that are not friends are my enemies."
"Okay, how many friends do you have?"
He is silent.
"I will be your friend, Vasily."
Vasily was not dealing well with his sudden budding desire for Naomi because he was usually not a sexual person. I've gotta say this is a first for me reading about a hero who downplay his own sexuality. The way he was so attuned to Naomi's quirk and needs is plain swoon worthy. He might be broody, stoic and had as much charisma as a block of ice, but his action speaks louder than words. They complement each other so well, like Bonnie and Clyde. I'm not condoning violence, but Naomi really is the best partner in crime to have.
How can you not root for this unlikely duo? When I started this book, I was skeptical with Vasily's mission all for a piece of oil and canvas, but with the romance, the violence, the action, the visit to fetish sex clubs and Daniel's cameo, it ended up being my best read of the series. Daniel's reaction to Naomi's detailed description of her sex life was priceless. I can't wait for the next book. I wonder who is the upcoming hero.
"Dig in your claws. Mark me with your teeth. Make me yours, Naomi."
"I love you, Nadya. I have lived a worthy life now that I have had the chance to love you."
This might just be the best of the Hitman series yet. We've met Vasily Petrovich since the beginning of the series. He is some big shot in the Bratva and had allegiance with the two heroes, Nikolai and Daniel in the previous books. However, this can still work as a standalone, if you don't have the time to cover the grounds. In the previous book when Daniel was trying to save his sister, Naomi, only to have Vasily shipped her away instead.
Vasily, the brooding mafia wish to seize control the Petrovich Bratva after the assassination of their leader. The only thing standing in his way now is the missing Caravaggio painting. In order to track down the treasured artifact, Vasily had to gain the assistance from a renowned hacker, who turned out to be Naomi.
Naomi is one of a kind heroine, an Aspie hacker who is also a total germaphob. I've read a lot of books with Aspie's character, they usually make you feel pity and depressed, but Naomi just make you want to laugh at her quirks. I'm fascinated with the way her minds work.
"I think about all the fluids and horrible unclean things that come with sex.."
Vasily might no longer be a foot soldier, but he is still very much a deadly hitman when his skill is needed. I love getting a front row seat of all the violence that dish out by Vasily. Surprisingly, Naomi turned out to be his perfect sidekick.
"You saw me kill two men. This does not frighten you? Most women would be sobbing and weeping in a corner."
"I don't know those men. Should I be upset?"
"I am not sure if this makes you a sociopath or the perfect woman."
What makes this such as awesome read is that both Vasily and Naomi had their own quirks and they were so totally awkward in the beginning. The way Vasily mind works was as efficient and precise like clockwork. Get the job down, no attachment, kill everyone who stand in your way. At one point, I even suspect Vasily might be an Aspie himself. But I think he just happened to be raise that way, guarding his emotion to avoid being vulnerable.
"How many enemies do you have?"
"All that are not friends are my enemies."
"Okay, how many friends do you have?"
He is silent.
"I will be your friend, Vasily."
Vasily was not dealing well with his sudden budding desire for Naomi because he was usually not a sexual person. I've gotta say this is a first for me reading about a hero who downplay his own sexuality. The way he was so attuned to Naomi's quirk and needs is plain swoon worthy. He might be broody, stoic and had as much charisma as a block of ice, but his action speaks louder than words. They complement each other so well, like Bonnie and Clyde. I'm not condoning violence, but Naomi really is the best partner in crime to have.
How can you not root for this unlikely duo? When I started this book, I was skeptical with Vasily's mission all for a piece of oil and canvas, but with the romance, the violence, the action, the visit to fetish sex clubs and Daniel's cameo, it ended up being my best read of the series. Daniel's reaction to Naomi's detailed description of her sex life was priceless. I can't wait for the next book. I wonder who is the upcoming hero.
"Dig in your claws. Mark me with your teeth. Make me yours, Naomi."
"I love you, Nadya. I have lived a worthy life now that I have had the chance to love you."
August 6, 2015
5 Vasily –is-my-volk Stars
Last Kiss is a standalone and is part of the Hitman series.
Book 1 - > Last Hit - > Nikolai and Daisy’s story
Book 2 - > Last Breath - > Daniel and Regan’s story. Regan is Daisy’s roommate.
Book 3 - > Last Kiss - > Vasily and Naomi’s story. Naomi is Daniel’s sister.
I love this series. Each book gets better and better and Last Kiss is my favorite so far.
Daniel saved Naomi, but she is yet again captured and this time by Vasily. Vasily needs Naomi to locate a painting. This painting is pivotal. The painting would help Vasiily control the Petrovich Bratva and help his sister.
Naomi isn’t your typical Heroine. She has Asperger’s. You can sense it in the previous book and it’s made clear in Last Kiss. She doesn’t process things the same way as everyone else. She doesn’t understand sarcasm, she says whatever is on her mind, she is highly intelligent, hates germs and loud noises.
The dynamics between Vasily and Naomi worked for me perfectly! I couldn’t imagine a better partnership. Vasily is like volk, a wolf. He bares scars on his body and just like Naomi, he can’t handle affection or human contact.
I love Naomi. She doesn’t understand social norms and her awkwardness is really cute to read. I love Vasily’s reaction towards her even more. Somehow, he just gets her and it’s completely adorable. He caters a lot towards Naomi’s hiccups, like how she likes brown foods and she has to wipe everything down before she can sit or touch anything.
Naomi is intrigued with Vasily and wants to help him. So it’s not a full blown kidnapping. I liked that she was willing. As Vasily and Naomi get closer to the paintings, we dig deeper into Vasily’s past and we get a better understanding on why he is the way he is. I enjoyed these parts. I felt like I got a lot of character development and it made me feel and love Vasily more.
Don’t even get me started on the steam. Oh my gosh, this book is steamy and it made me blush a few times. The sex club scenes! Vasily enjoys pain and it’s not total BDSM, but something about Naomi slapping Vasily in face just makes it so hot!
Read this! You will not be disappointed.
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review
REVIEW | AMAZON
REVIEW | AMAZON
AMAZON Pre-order, TBR, MAY 5th
Last Kiss is a standalone and is part of the Hitman series.
Book 1 - > Last Hit - > Nikolai and Daisy’s story
Book 2 - > Last Breath - > Daniel and Regan’s story. Regan is Daisy’s roommate.
Book 3 - > Last Kiss - > Vasily and Naomi’s story. Naomi is Daniel’s sister.
I love this series. Each book gets better and better and Last Kiss is my favorite so far.
Daniel saved Naomi, but she is yet again captured and this time by Vasily. Vasily needs Naomi to locate a painting. This painting is pivotal. The painting would help Vasiily control the Petrovich Bratva and help his sister.
The plan was to obtain the Emperor, find the Madonna, return home and wield absolute power over the Petrovich Bratva, and bring my sister home.
Naomi isn’t your typical Heroine. She has Asperger’s. You can sense it in the previous book and it’s made clear in Last Kiss. She doesn’t process things the same way as everyone else. She doesn’t understand sarcasm, she says whatever is on her mind, she is highly intelligent, hates germs and loud noises.
I was the Emperor. Captive of Hudson, hacker extraordinaire and cybercriminal misappropriating funds in exchange for the safety of my family. Now, I’m just Naomi Hays again.
The dynamics between Vasily and Naomi worked for me perfectly! I couldn’t imagine a better partnership. Vasily is like volk, a wolf. He bares scars on his body and just like Naomi, he can’t handle affection or human contact.
She is the witch and I am her wolf, her Volk. Order me, I think, tell me what to do.
I love Naomi. She doesn’t understand social norms and her awkwardness is really cute to read. I love Vasily’s reaction towards her even more. Somehow, he just gets her and it’s completely adorable. He caters a lot towards Naomi’s hiccups, like how she likes brown foods and she has to wipe everything down before she can sit or touch anything.
Naomi is intrigued with Vasily and wants to help him. So it’s not a full blown kidnapping. I liked that she was willing. As Vasily and Naomi get closer to the paintings, we dig deeper into Vasily’s past and we get a better understanding on why he is the way he is. I enjoyed these parts. I felt like I got a lot of character development and it made me feel and love Vasily more.
Don’t even get me started on the steam. Oh my gosh, this book is steamy and it made me blush a few times. The sex club scenes! Vasily enjoys pain and it’s not total BDSM, but something about Naomi slapping Vasily in face just makes it so hot!
I want her, more than I should, and I will do whatever I can to make it so she aligns herself with me.
I may not be able to trust her, but I want her. I may even need her.
Read this! You will not be disappointed.
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review
REVIEW | AMAZON
REVIEW | AMAZON
AMAZON Pre-order, TBR, MAY 5th
May 28, 2015
Title: Last Kiss
Series: Hitman #3
Author: Jen Frederick and Jessica Clare
Release date: May 5, 2015
Cliffhanger: No
HEA
What I love about this series is that these two talented authors give you real, raw, and un-watered down stories of criminals with tons of action and suspense. These books are about killers. They're violent, they're hardened, and they are not somebody who you would like to come across in a dark alley. Too many times, we get mafia or hitman books where the hero is supposedly a "scary guy" and he's has a sweet side just waiting for our lucky heroine to bring it to the surface. Or he's thinking about his feelings and mooning over his love...NO. Don't get me wrong, I love those guys when the character profile fits, but when I'm reading a book such as this, I want real.
This book is about Vasily, a man trying to claw his way to the top of the Russian Bratva and bring order back to the organization that has been slowly seeping out through bad leadership.
His other main objective is to bring his sister out of hiding and allow her to live her life in freedom and safety. Nothing and no one is going to stand in his way from his goals. He leaves no confusion over the fact that he will kill anyone who tries to stop him.
The key to getting every last thing he wants is a master computer hacker: Naomi. AKA: The Emperor. She is the one person that can hack into any system undetected and find the information he needs. Who has the Caravaggio painting? One piece of art holds the future of the entire Bratva and his sister's life in the balance.
I am not born to the Bratva or to some higher family. I am simply a killer with an elevated status, looking for an obscene painting that will cement my position as king of evildoers.
This book becomes a treasure hunt taking us through Italy and Russia, through sex clubs with unthinkable depravity, gunfire, and impossible situations. And through all this, we see this cold-hearted man slowly become attached to Naomi. A woman with Aspergers who has sensitivities to germs, social interactions, reading emotions, and cannot function with loud noises or unexpected places or situations.
I'm like one of the computers back in my garage apartment at home-wired differently for optimum efficiency.
Naomi was a difficult heroine for me. Usually I like quirky or nerdy heroines, but in this case, there were things I liked about her, but some of the things she thought about and the way she rationalized things in her head really took me aback. Because she is so clinical about every little thing and how she analyzes everything was strange, especially when it surfaces during their first sex scene together. And then there was the way she was so unattached and uncaring about him killing people right in front of her. And before you come after me with your torches and pitchforks, please understand that I know that this is the effect of Naomi's developmental disorder. But can you blame me for feeling at odds with thoughts like these?
I know he's a sociopath. I don't care. We all have our issues. But he's my sociopath, and as long as he doesn't hurt me or my family, or make me feel like less, he'll be mine and I'll be his.
And this was where I was at for about half of the book. My difficulties aside, however, I get that they are the perfect match for each other.
Neither like to be touched or enjoyed sex in the past.
Neither are emotional or soft.
Neither are understood by people or have any desire to become attached to anyone, let alone fall in love.
What I liked about them was the fact that they accepted one another for who they really were and their mutual respect and attraction felt natural and genuine.
They are extremely blunt and honest with one another from the very beginning and that is something that they both need and value. But again, it was odd. I'm not going to lie. At the same time though, I found myself chuckling at some of the things they would both say. So it left me feeling very conflicted. As the book wore on, in the end, they won me over. This book isn't a soft, fluffy, easy read. The characters are immoral, remorseless, and not ones that you can identify with or relate to. But there are moments when you see their humanity and vulnerabilities peek through, and it makes you believe in them as a couple that is meant for one another. The way she stands behind him so strongly, and how he accepts her idiosyncrasies unconditionally felt like a love at it's most basic and honest and that in itself is a beautiful thing.
My 3.5 star rating by no means translates that I thought that this was bad or even average, it was just a matter of personal taste over my feelings about the characters for the first part of the book. It took me a while to warm up to these two, but I did like them. I just didn't love them. If I were to rate this book on the writing and the quality of the plotted story, it would easily be a 5 star. The characters were solid, and the pace was fast flowing. These are two talented authors that have a permanent place on my auto-buy list. If you're looking for a mafia book with a very unique story and characters, I would highly recommend this one.
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May 26, 2015
3.75 - 4 Stars
I was undecided on my rating for this for a bit, quite honestly.
Don't get me wrong, I really did enjoy this book...
...just not as much as I thought I would, I suppose.
But being that book two in this series (Last Breath) is one of my ALL-TIME FAVORITES - you read that right:
ALL time.
FAVORITE.
(Them be some bold words right there, I know)
...It's pretty unreasonable of me to expect book three to reach those epic proportions.
But I be but a human yo, so trying to separate this book from that one is difficult for me.
So there's that.
Overall though, I really enjoyed this story.
I thought a great job was done with Naomi and her "Aspie" tendencies.
Also, Vasily was a great character and I enjoyed finally getting to know him better here.
Watching these two quirky people come together was a lot of fun to watch.
HOWEVER....
I have a serious confession to make.
*
*
*
*
*
This book really touched on a sensitive subject for me.
Something that has been a part of my life and affected me for as long as I can remember.
*
*
*
*
*
That's right, I'm talking about you, GERMS.
I fucking hate you.
Like Naomi, I have bit of OCD, and a whole lotta of GERMAPHOBE in me.
That's right, I am that annoying bitch who will wipe down my entire seating area when I get on a plane.
That crazy ass who will not sit on a toilet seat not located in my own house. Not even at my grandmother's house - actually, especially at my grandmother's house...
That asshole who will not shake a stranger's hand, but insist on a fist bump.
I know, I know, I'm heinous.
So my secret is out.
I am a germaphobe and an asshole.
A germassphobe, if you will.
Sorry, but certain things just gross me the fuck out.
NO.
No I'm not.
So needless to say, reading a lot of these scenes through Naomi's eyes made it a little...difficult for me to concentrate sometimes, as some of my own...issues would rear themselves.
So in scenes where they were about to get busy and Vasily had to "distract" her from the dirty mattress?
I was stuck on the dirty ass mattress.
Le sigh.
Anyway!
Enough about my crazy.
I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to pre-sanitizing and reading the next one.
I was undecided on my rating for this for a bit, quite honestly.
Don't get me wrong, I really did enjoy this book...
...just not as much as I thought I would, I suppose.
But being that book two in this series (Last Breath) is one of my ALL-TIME FAVORITES - you read that right:
ALL time.
FAVORITE.
(Them be some bold words right there, I know)
...It's pretty unreasonable of me to expect book three to reach those epic proportions.
But I be but a human yo, so trying to separate this book from that one is difficult for me.
So there's that.
Overall though, I really enjoyed this story.
I thought a great job was done with Naomi and her "Aspie" tendencies.
Also, Vasily was a great character and I enjoyed finally getting to know him better here.
Watching these two quirky people come together was a lot of fun to watch.
HOWEVER....
I have a serious confession to make.
*
*
*
*
*
This book really touched on a sensitive subject for me.
Something that has been a part of my life and affected me for as long as I can remember.
*
*
*
*
*
That's right, I'm talking about you, GERMS.
I fucking hate you.
Like Naomi, I have bit of OCD, and a whole lotta of GERMAPHOBE in me.
That's right, I am that annoying bitch who will wipe down my entire seating area when I get on a plane.
That crazy ass who will not sit on a toilet seat not located in my own house. Not even at my grandmother's house - actually, especially at my grandmother's house...
That asshole who will not shake a stranger's hand, but insist on a fist bump.
I know, I know, I'm heinous.
So my secret is out.
I am a germaphobe and an asshole.
A germassphobe, if you will.
Sorry, but certain things just gross me the fuck out.
NO.
No I'm not.
So needless to say, reading a lot of these scenes through Naomi's eyes made it a little...difficult for me to concentrate sometimes, as some of my own...issues would rear themselves.
So in scenes where they were about to get busy and Vasily had to "distract" her from the dirty mattress?
I was stuck on the dirty ass mattress.
Le sigh.
Anyway!
Enough about my crazy.
I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to pre-sanitizing and reading the next one.
July 21, 2019
Re-read 7/21/19 Audio version
Audio – 5++++ stars.
I have new respect Iggy Toma. I have a serious thing for accents, and the Russian accent is on top of the list. Iggy Toma’s character is a Russian assassin and DAMN…I was in heaven with Iggy’s performance. He also did an amazing job with side characters who had French and Italian accents. Yum!! The man is seriously talented, and I’m now an even bigger fan of his!
I’m also now a fan of Kasha Kensington as well. I have so very few favorite female narrators that I get excited when I can add another one to my list. Her accents were also on point!!
Iggy as the Russian assassin, Vasily, paired with Kasha as the autistic American hacker, Naomi, was everything I could have hoped for. There’s no change in my 5 star rating of the story.
The pairing of Iggy and Kasha is one of the best I’ve come across. They had me hooked after the Scarlet Scars duology by JM Darhower. Their performance in Last Kiss was no less impressive. If anything, they impressed me even more.
_______
9/6/2016
5 + stars!!!
Audio – 5++++ stars.
I have new respect Iggy Toma. I have a serious thing for accents, and the Russian accent is on top of the list. Iggy Toma’s character is a Russian assassin and DAMN…I was in heaven with Iggy’s performance. He also did an amazing job with side characters who had French and Italian accents. Yum!! The man is seriously talented, and I’m now an even bigger fan of his!
I’m also now a fan of Kasha Kensington as well. I have so very few favorite female narrators that I get excited when I can add another one to my list. Her accents were also on point!!
Iggy as the Russian assassin, Vasily, paired with Kasha as the autistic American hacker, Naomi, was everything I could have hoped for. There’s no change in my 5 star rating of the story.
The pairing of Iggy and Kasha is one of the best I’ve come across. They had me hooked after the Scarlet Scars duology by JM Darhower. Their performance in Last Kiss was no less impressive. If anything, they impressed me even more.
_______
9/6/2016
5 + stars!!!
May 20, 2015
4.5 - "All will happen as it should." Stars!
Last Kiss follows in the tradition of its predecessors in the Hitman series, in that it is an absolutely stellar read. I love the way that that Jen and Jessica have managed to take characters that let’s face it, under normal circumstances you would run a mile from and make them likeable, on some levels relatable and completely fall in love with them.
I am fascinated by this man.
I felt the same for Vasily, on the surface a hardened, brash, cold emotionless killer, but pair him with a woman who although completely different struggles in the same ways he does, with self expression, feeling emotions and sharing her feelings and you have a perfect match. Naomi due to her Aspergers and Vasily due to his upbringing and the life he generally leads have more than a few things in common, some funny... some sad, and I found myself laughing as much as sympathizing with both of them as the book progressed.
”You don’t get to finger me again.”
This isn’t your hearts and flowers romance, but the authors have still given you a story with all the emotion and expectations you would expect in the building of a relationship, it is just in really extreme circumstances. The story begins in Brazil pretty much where Last breath left off.
”I will not hurt you so long as you do as I ask. Be loyal and you will live. Cross me and you too, will have a hole between your eyes.”
In their search for a priceless Carvaggio painting that was formerly in the possession of Vasily's Bratva Family, their journey takes in the sights and some of less salubrious destinations of Italy (although some of the things that Vasily and Naomi saw in Venice, I am glad I missed on my own trip there!) and then back to Russia for the climax of the tale.
Parts of this book are ruthless and remorseless, this couple together are also blunt, harsh and pretty unforgiving, but that works for them, and it is expressed so well that you feel nothing but happiness that two souls who wholly expect to spend their lives alone, being judged and vilified for who they are and how they act, come together as one perfect whole.
Another brilliant addition to this series, I cannot wait to see what the authors have in store for us next, with Last Hope is due for release in September 2015.
”I like your germs.”
ARC generously provided by the author, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
Last Kiss follows in the tradition of its predecessors in the Hitman series, in that it is an absolutely stellar read. I love the way that that Jen and Jessica have managed to take characters that let’s face it, under normal circumstances you would run a mile from and make them likeable, on some levels relatable and completely fall in love with them.
I am fascinated by this man.
I felt the same for Vasily, on the surface a hardened, brash, cold emotionless killer, but pair him with a woman who although completely different struggles in the same ways he does, with self expression, feeling emotions and sharing her feelings and you have a perfect match. Naomi due to her Aspergers and Vasily due to his upbringing and the life he generally leads have more than a few things in common, some funny... some sad, and I found myself laughing as much as sympathizing with both of them as the book progressed.
”You don’t get to finger me again.”
This isn’t your hearts and flowers romance, but the authors have still given you a story with all the emotion and expectations you would expect in the building of a relationship, it is just in really extreme circumstances. The story begins in Brazil pretty much where Last breath left off.
”I will not hurt you so long as you do as I ask. Be loyal and you will live. Cross me and you too, will have a hole between your eyes.”
In their search for a priceless Carvaggio painting that was formerly in the possession of Vasily's Bratva Family, their journey takes in the sights and some of less salubrious destinations of Italy (although some of the things that Vasily and Naomi saw in Venice, I am glad I missed on my own trip there!) and then back to Russia for the climax of the tale.
Parts of this book are ruthless and remorseless, this couple together are also blunt, harsh and pretty unforgiving, but that works for them, and it is expressed so well that you feel nothing but happiness that two souls who wholly expect to spend their lives alone, being judged and vilified for who they are and how they act, come together as one perfect whole.
Another brilliant addition to this series, I cannot wait to see what the authors have in store for us next, with Last Hope is due for release in September 2015.
”I like your germs.”
ARC generously provided by the author, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
December 24, 2019
Loved this!❤️
September 20, 2015
So Awesome!!!!!
Review coming
Review coming
April 14, 2016
Naomi and Vasily's story was so much better than I thought it would be!
I really thought that Vasily and Naomi were amazing characters, they were just so complex and unique.
Naomi has Aspergers, she doesn't process things the same way as everyone else. She doesn't understand sarcasm, she says whatever is on her mind. But she is also way beyond brilliant, she is an extraordinary computer hacker and so strong and brave, throughout the book!
While Naomi was different from most heroines I couldn't help but love her , her endless facts were just so funny!
One of my favorite parts of the book was when we got to read how Naomi really feels about her Aspergers .
Vasily is a member of the Bratva .He is a cold hearted killer, who doesn't like to be touched and he trusts no one!
I loved seeing Vasily change from a dangerous man with no feelings to a caring, protective and loving man.
He didn't try to change her, he tried to understand her quirks so he could help her. He made her feel normal.
He always listens to her ramble even when she does it while having sex.. He was protective of Naomi. He was her wolf and she was his Queen.
Vasily and Naomi were just perfect for each other!
This series just keeps getting better and better. Can't wait to read next book.
I really thought that Vasily and Naomi were amazing characters, they were just so complex and unique.
Naomi has Aspergers, she doesn't process things the same way as everyone else. She doesn't understand sarcasm, she says whatever is on her mind. But she is also way beyond brilliant, she is an extraordinary computer hacker and so strong and brave, throughout the book!
While Naomi was different from most heroines I couldn't help but love her , her endless facts were just so funny!
One of my favorite parts of the book was when we got to read how Naomi really feels about her Aspergers .
Vasily is a member of the Bratva .He is a cold hearted killer, who doesn't like to be touched and he trusts no one!
I loved seeing Vasily change from a dangerous man with no feelings to a caring, protective and loving man.
Perhaps I still need lessons on how to read her. “Do you want to have sex with me, Naomi?”
“Of course. I don’t need sex, exactly. But I'd like for you to put your mouth between my legs. And I’d like to feel your penis inside me. I think that would feel good based on prior empirical evidence."
He didn't try to change her, he tried to understand her quirks so he could help her. He made her feel normal.
“ Around Vasily I don't feel like a freak or a weirdo. He makes my idiosyncrasies seem normal instead of strange.”
He always listens to her ramble even when she does it while having sex.. He was protective of Naomi. He was her wolf and she was his Queen.
“ This is Naomi Hays. She is my queen, She will rule at my side. She is the brains to my brawn.
Vasily and Naomi were just perfect for each other!
This series just keeps getting better and better. Can't wait to read next book.
May 20, 2015
This mafia slut just got her fix and now she's more than satisfied :D
The Hitman series are one of my favorite mafia series and this book wasn't a let down :D
What I loved the most was the fact that the main female character is a person but despite all that Naomi fits really well with Vasily who has some (Big) issues of his own.
This book can't be described because the interaction between the two of them and their relationship to the outside world is so different from you're normal romance mafia novel.
If you want something different and unique then this book is definitely for you and what I can honestly say is that de description and the depiction of a person with is so accurate that sometimes I found it to be a little to much for a romance novel but loved it nonetheless :D
The Hitman series are one of my favorite mafia series and this book wasn't a let down :D
What I loved the most was the fact that the main female character is a person but despite all that Naomi fits really well with Vasily who has some (Big) issues of his own.
This book can't be described because the interaction between the two of them and their relationship to the outside world is so different from you're normal romance mafia novel.
If you want something different and unique then this book is definitely for you and what I can honestly say is that de description and the depiction of a person with is so accurate that sometimes I found it to be a little to much for a romance novel but loved it nonetheless :D
August 17, 2015
5+ UNIMPEACHABLE STARS
I’m speechless. What a book!! The story was action packed and kept me on the edge of my seat. It, also, had suspense, romance and hot sexy times. The dual POV worked so well, and that ‘s why I fell in love with both Vasily and Naomi. This book had many different elements making it one of my favorites of the year.
I’m speechless. What a book!! The story was action packed and kept me on the edge of my seat. It, also, had suspense, romance and hot sexy times. The dual POV worked so well, and that ‘s why I fell in love with both Vasily and Naomi. This book had many different elements making it one of my favorites of the year.
January 28, 2018
4.5 Contamíname con tus microbios STARS
Este libro me ENCANTÓ
Naomi y Vassily fue una increíble pareja los amé en todo el libro, Naomi fue adorable y su autismo le sumó puntos a la historia, me sacó varias carcajadas ya que no tiene filtro y decía lo que pensaba y Vassily Aww me hizo suspirar de amor casi casi como Nick ese hombre tan frío y al parecer sin sentimientos aprendió amar junto a Naomi ya que para los dos son sentimientos desconocidos.
Es un libro lleno de amor, sexy, con mucha aventura intriga y ya no diré más sólo LÉANLO.
Este libro me ENCANTÓ
Naomi y Vassily fue una increíble pareja los amé en todo el libro, Naomi fue adorable y su autismo le sumó puntos a la historia, me sacó varias carcajadas ya que no tiene filtro y decía lo que pensaba y Vassily Aww me hizo suspirar de amor casi casi como Nick ese hombre tan frío y al parecer sin sentimientos aprendió amar junto a Naomi ya que para los dos son sentimientos desconocidos.
Es un libro lleno de amor, sexy, con mucha aventura intriga y ya no diré más sólo LÉANLO.
June 17, 2018
This book is EVERYTHING!!!
May 4, 2018
Last Kiss es el tercer libro de la saga Hitman creada por la autora Jessica Clare y tiene como protagonistas a Vasily y Naomi, personajes que conocemos brevemente en la historia anterior.
Cuando comence esta saga el año pasado lo hice porque tenia muchas ganas de leer una serie de mafia que no tuviera los tipicos cliches, queria algo diferente y con un toque original y sinceramente, estas novelas resultaron ser aun mejores de lo que imaginaba.
Por ahora las tres novelas que he leido no pueden ser mas diferentes, es cierto que tienen pequeños detalles en comun, pero las tramas en si, son muy singulares ( al igual que las parejas protagonistas ).
En esta tercera parte conocemos mas en profundidad a Naomi y Vasily, los cuales fueron unos personajes increibles de leer, no solo porque carecen de los topicos tan presentes en este tipo de libros sino tambien porque su relacion no es ni predecible ni aburrida.
Quizas el unico pero que le pondria es que me hubiera gustado un poco mas de desarrollo en determinadas partes y tambien que su historia de amor hubiera sido un poco mas pausada, en algunas escenas tuve la sensacion de que todo sucedia de forma un poco precipitada.
En resumen, Last Kiss es la opcion ideal si eres fan de las novelas de mafia o si te apetece leer una historia que se salga de lo comun y que te mantega en alerta hasta el final.
3.5 Estrellas!
January 7, 2022
I liked this one a lot both characters we have met previously Naomi who is Daniels sister and Vasily a Bratva soldier. At the end of the last book, Vasily absconded with Naomi in the confusion of Daniel being shot. This takes up events directly after this with Vasily needing Naomi’s computer hacker skills to locate a lost piece of art that will solidify his leadership in the Bratva.
Vasily is not a good man his past definitely defines him and due to this, he can’t abide being touched. he lives for the brotherhood one though that he feels needs a change of leadership and some stronger values at the helm. It’s with this goal in mind that he now needs to procure an important piece of art one that he will need Naomi’s assistance to track down.
Naomi is an unusual heroine she’s actually on the spectrum an Aspie and as such has all sorts of quirks and unique foibles that make her so very individual she’s also obsessed with germs and is highly intelligent excelling in computers. Being so literal she’s actually unintentionally funny and I loved this about her.
Two very unlikely individuals that shouldn’t work but just do and I really enjoyed Naomi’s unique outlooks and total acceptance along with Vasily’s gradual metamorphosis from cold and shut off to something more. Even the intimate scenes between these two were individual to them. The clinical language used and Vasily’s predispose towards pain it all just clicked.
This was fast-paced and was also slightly saucier than its predecessors. It deals with a subject close to my own heart my own teenage son being a fellow Aspie. It’s again well written and easily managed to keep my attention. Vasily is a bad man and does remain one throughout we just also are shown that he does have some redeeming qualities and a heart one that now beats for Naomi. This is such an excellent series each book in it is very different in plot and you will definitely appreciate this more if read in order. An unusual romance that I enjoyed a lot.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
May 5, 2015
The third full book in the Hitman series picks up somewhere along the same timeline as the second book. Naomi is Daniel’s (the hero from book two) sister, and while he was trying to save her, he passed her into the care of Vasily, a member of the Petrovich Bratva who’s angling to lead. To do this, he must retrieve a painting critical to controlling the Bratva, but it’s been in the wind for years. Naomi, an Aspie, is brilliant with computers and able to track anything she sets her mind to.
The Good, The Bad and Everything In Between
- They should be in pictures : I’ve enjoyed the Hitman series from the beginning and this entry is no different. Ms. Clare and Ms. Frederick have created a great action/suspense/romance series and I eagerly gobble up each installment. There’s a very cinematic feel and it’s very easy to picture these scenes play out on a big screen.
- Vasily and Naomi are kindred spirits : They’re such an unusual couple and I certainly enjoyed watching their romance unfold bit by bit. Both have issues with physical closeness, for very different reasons. Both have emotional walls that they use to protect themselves and they have a very particular set of morals that are unexpectedly in sync. I enjoyed that Naomi’s Asperger’s Syndrome doesn’t just “go away” to facilitate a romance, but that she and Vasily function well within the parameters of what she is comfortable with. Vasily’s a typical Hitman hero, incredibly violent with everyone but the heroine. They’re a unique couple that worked, but….
- Their similarity drew them together, but kept me at a distance : I was more fascinated than emotionally engaged with these two. The way they think, the things they do can be cold and violent and on occasion, off-putting. That same cold feeling didn’t lend itself to engaging with them the way I normally would with romantic leads. Much like Naomi, it wasn’t bad, just different.
The Bottom Line
Hard to rate - I liked it and I think it’s a very interesting, action packed read. The romance kept me at a distance, though, even if it fit because of the two very unusual leads. While Last Breath is still my favorite, this is worth the read and I’d recommend for fans of the series, and those who enjoy good action with quirky characters.
**ARC provided by author for review**
The Good, The Bad and Everything In Between
- They should be in pictures : I’ve enjoyed the Hitman series from the beginning and this entry is no different. Ms. Clare and Ms. Frederick have created a great action/suspense/romance series and I eagerly gobble up each installment. There’s a very cinematic feel and it’s very easy to picture these scenes play out on a big screen.
- Vasily and Naomi are kindred spirits : They’re such an unusual couple and I certainly enjoyed watching their romance unfold bit by bit. Both have issues with physical closeness, for very different reasons. Both have emotional walls that they use to protect themselves and they have a very particular set of morals that are unexpectedly in sync. I enjoyed that Naomi’s Asperger’s Syndrome doesn’t just “go away” to facilitate a romance, but that she and Vasily function well within the parameters of what she is comfortable with. Vasily’s a typical Hitman hero, incredibly violent with everyone but the heroine. They’re a unique couple that worked, but….
- Their similarity drew them together, but kept me at a distance : I was more fascinated than emotionally engaged with these two. The way they think, the things they do can be cold and violent and on occasion, off-putting. That same cold feeling didn’t lend itself to engaging with them the way I normally would with romantic leads. Much like Naomi, it wasn’t bad, just different.
The Bottom Line
Hard to rate - I liked it and I think it’s a very interesting, action packed read. The romance kept me at a distance, though, even if it fit because of the two very unusual leads. While Last Breath is still my favorite, this is worth the read and I’d recommend for fans of the series, and those who enjoy good action with quirky characters.
**ARC provided by author for review**
February 24, 2017
Loved it! I don't think I can adequately put into words just how much I love this book. I think it might have even tied with Nick and Daisy as my favourite *tied cause of my unending love for Nick*
But I really thought that Vasily and Naomi were amazing characters. Both dealing with always being on the outskirts of society, always being different from everyone else. Then they meet each other, and suddenly they fit, perfectly somewhere, with someone. Its magical. I didn't want this one to end, I could read about Vasily and Naomi for days and days, and if that isn't a testament to how good a book and its writing really is, then I don't know what is. I love this whole series, and I can not wait to read the next one!!
Thank you so much to the authors for sending me an ARC for an honest review!
But I really thought that Vasily and Naomi were amazing characters. Both dealing with always being on the outskirts of society, always being different from everyone else. Then they meet each other, and suddenly they fit, perfectly somewhere, with someone. Its magical. I didn't want this one to end, I could read about Vasily and Naomi for days and days, and if that isn't a testament to how good a book and its writing really is, then I don't know what is. I love this whole series, and I can not wait to read the next one!!
Thank you so much to the authors for sending me an ARC for an honest review!
March 2, 2015
ARC provided by author.
My favorite of the 3 novels in this trilogy. Not much angst, interesting/unique take having heroine with Aspergers/Autism in 1st person. Real anti-hero who's likeable. Very different.
My favorite of the 3 novels in this trilogy. Not much angst, interesting/unique take having heroine with Aspergers/Autism in 1st person. Real anti-hero who's likeable. Very different.
to-read-soon
March 4, 2016
“ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.”
April 24, 2023
Sigh! What a good book 😍😍😍 this started off with some boring talk about a painting and I almost dnfed to come back to it later but I told my self "hey! It's a hitman book! There will be fucking!"
And there was. Of a donkey being effed with a stool 😂😂😂😐🤷🤷
One sentence with 69 which is now my second book that I've read with it so its worth mentioning.
Seriously, a Russian hit man who was abused as a child as raised as an assassin and a aspergers h who has trouble processing the world with its yucky germs and noise and people? I relate 😂😂 vasily understood her quirks and made sure to help her through their journey of finding a old painting that would give him the position of leader in the Brava and kill his old child tormentor. So be aware its not descriptive, but there's some child abuse in this.
He calls her a Russian word for idiot to get out of a customs snafu and my hurt heart 😭😭😭
Anyway, last hit Book 1 was a five star read!!! I didn't read book 2 because at the time, I didn't want to read about sex trade stuff 😳 but I read this fine without reading book 2!
And there was. Of a donkey being effed with a stool 😂😂😂😐🤷🤷
One sentence with 69 which is now my second book that I've read with it so its worth mentioning.
Seriously, a Russian hit man who was abused as a child as raised as an assassin and a aspergers h who has trouble processing the world with its yucky germs and noise and people? I relate 😂😂 vasily understood her quirks and made sure to help her through their journey of finding a old painting that would give him the position of leader in the Brava and kill his old child tormentor. So be aware its not descriptive, but there's some child abuse in this.
He calls her a Russian word for idiot to get out of a customs snafu and my hurt heart 😭😭😭
Anyway, last hit Book 1 was a five star read!!! I didn't read book 2 because at the time, I didn't want to read about sex trade stuff 😳 but I read this fine without reading book 2!
June 27, 2018
i love this book because of vasily. he is so enigmatic poetic. i do not know an alpha male can be so seducing poetic.
naomi is kicking ass heroine. her autism match vasily poetic. what a perfect pair! the dead pan banter between them is very poetic and alluring.
the story is simple. but the development of the characters is very well executed.
naomi is kicking ass heroine. her autism match vasily poetic. what a perfect pair! the dead pan banter between them is very poetic and alluring.
the story is simple. but the development of the characters is very well executed.
July 21, 2015
I will start with a declaration that I love, Love, LOVE this series. So for me to give this book 3 stars is partially out of love for the series and shows that it really did not work for me. (I know I am in the minority!) The writing continues to be great. I think JC and JF make a fabulous team and I cannot wait for the next book.
What did work
There were some funny scenes - Naomi poking Vasily to gauge is reaction as a "science" experiment. Her discussion with Daniel about having sex with Vasily. Those scenes were HILARIOUS!
The writing - it was so good that with all of the things listed below that I did not like, I still enjoyed reading the story and stayed up late to finish it
Seeing Daniel again, no matter how minor a role
The characters were fairly consistent in personality throughout the book, but still showed personal growth
The story moved. There was a lot of action and it did not really get bogged down
What did not work
The main characters
Naomi was just too weird for me. I could not connect with her. Her incessant ramblings drove me a bit nuts and I never felt she had a clue what love meant or what was required for a good relationship
Vasily was also hard to connect to. He was too detached and I had a hard time accepting what might be his excuses for past bad behavior. I can handle anti-heros but usually, there is something that makes it all ok for me. They do not have to become good guys. Vasily just did not reach that point for me and I really wanted to love him.
I did not feel an emotional connection between H/h - especially since neither of them really showed much emotion anyway
Vasily rarely shared and was never completely honest with Naomi. She never knew about the sister. He did not even think to tell her. He never talked about his past abuse. Ever. It seemed there were so many things he got away with because her condition made it impossible for her to focus or realize she had been "done wrong" or was not being treated as a partner. And he did not fix this over the course of the book. So we saw it continue up until the very end when she still does not know things, like about the sister!
I have not forgiven Vasily for allowing Regan to be raped in Last Hit - I do not feel he cares about it - at all. He had a goal and he was ok with the girls being used as a means to an end. He did not want her sold into slavery, but the rape by his colleague was NEVER addressed and really bugs me
The sex scenes - so many issues with these. I guess I feel she should have tried to understand why he needed it and why she enjoyed it. They were more disturbing to me than not.
Sex club #1 - it totally did not fit. Although, I do believe that the props used made it more believable. I just do not see how she could have ever done that for the first time there.
Sex club #2 - no, just NO! I never want to read about that. I need to bleach my eyes. Thank goodness there were no real details, but I do not even want to think about it! It is NOT something between the couple if you do not want to read spoilers.
The overarching themes of sexual abuse were so dominate and never really addressed.
In the end, Vasily did not fight for Naomi. He accepted his fate with the Bratva. He was resigned to it. That disappointed me more than anything. He walked in expecting to be killed. It said to me that he put himself and the organization above her.
There are so many things I did not like, that it looks like I really did not like the book. I guess the only way to explain it is that the book was good in spite of all the things I did not like, not that I would read it again. I can see lovers of the series wanting to read it and MANY people absolutely loved the main characters and their idiosyncrasies. But the book does not progress any of the other storylines so it is not critical to the series either.
What did work
There were some funny scenes - Naomi poking Vasily to gauge is reaction as a "science" experiment. Her discussion with Daniel about having sex with Vasily. Those scenes were HILARIOUS!
The writing - it was so good that with all of the things listed below that I did not like, I still enjoyed reading the story and stayed up late to finish it
Seeing Daniel again, no matter how minor a role
The characters were fairly consistent in personality throughout the book, but still showed personal growth
The story moved. There was a lot of action and it did not really get bogged down
What did not work
The main characters
Naomi was just too weird for me. I could not connect with her. Her incessant ramblings drove me a bit nuts and I never felt she had a clue what love meant or what was required for a good relationship
Vasily was also hard to connect to. He was too detached and I had a hard time accepting what might be his excuses for past bad behavior. I can handle anti-heros but usually, there is something that makes it all ok for me. They do not have to become good guys. Vasily just did not reach that point for me and I really wanted to love him.
I did not feel an emotional connection between H/h - especially since neither of them really showed much emotion anyway
Vasily rarely shared and was never completely honest with Naomi. She never knew about the sister. He did not even think to tell her. He never talked about his past abuse. Ever. It seemed there were so many things he got away with because her condition made it impossible for her to focus or realize she had been "done wrong" or was not being treated as a partner. And he did not fix this over the course of the book. So we saw it continue up until the very end when she still does not know things, like about the sister!
I have not forgiven Vasily for allowing Regan to be raped in Last Hit - I do not feel he cares about it - at all. He had a goal and he was ok with the girls being used as a means to an end. He did not want her sold into slavery, but the rape by his colleague was NEVER addressed and really bugs me
The sex scenes - so many issues with these. I guess I feel she should have tried to understand why he needed it and why she enjoyed it. They were more disturbing to me than not.
Sex club #1 - it totally did not fit. Although, I do believe that the props used made it more believable. I just do not see how she could have ever done that for the first time there.
Sex club #2 - no, just NO! I never want to read about that. I need to bleach my eyes. Thank goodness there were no real details, but I do not even want to think about it! It is NOT something between the couple if you do not want to read spoilers.
The overarching themes of sexual abuse were so dominate and never really addressed.
In the end, Vasily did not fight for Naomi. He accepted his fate with the Bratva. He was resigned to it. That disappointed me more than anything. He walked in expecting to be killed. It said to me that he put himself and the organization above her.
There are so many things I did not like, that it looks like I really did not like the book. I guess the only way to explain it is that the book was good in spite of all the things I did not like, not that I would read it again. I can see lovers of the series wanting to read it and MANY people absolutely loved the main characters and their idiosyncrasies. But the book does not progress any of the other storylines so it is not critical to the series either.
June 15, 2015
”I don’t like to be touched.”
“It is destiny”, I quip. “I do not enjoy being touched either.”
Last Kiss starts with Vasily Petrovich in his quest to find the Caravaggio also known as Madonna and the Volk. Vasya, a Russian, who wants to claim the leadership of the Petrovich Bratva. A cold, calculating man who wants power to protect the people he cared about.
Naomi Hays is an autistic, an asperger’s actually. She functions like a computer, a genius and have poor social skills who spouts random facts and is easily distracted.
“As an Aspie, when I spiral, I get lost in myself. I lose track of what’s going on and turn inward in my mind, where it’s nice and quiet and safe.”
An hour ago, I was the Emperor. Captive of Hudson, hacker extraordinaire and cybercriminal misappropriating funds in exchange for the safety of my family.
I am utterly amazed with how Naomi’s mind works actually. And just like Vasily, every quirks and uniqueness that she have, I noticed and I like that about her. She may blabber too much but she is fearless and brave and will do anything to protect those she care about, which on that count, she is more like Vasily than she have realized.
Their journey were quite a surprise for me. I expected bloody mess filled with too many action and fighting but somehow, it wasn’t at all what I had come upon. There is that, of course, but what I enjoyed the most where the parties they visited and the disguises they played.
It was a fun read because I laugh and Naomi is funny. She speaks without filter and it is too straight forward and direct. Did I already said that I like how her mind works? Well, I do. And the tech stuff that she can pull? Absolutely awesome.
Although, the ending was quite a disappointment for me. Because really, I was wishing that there’s have to be more pages for me to read but alas! No such luck. I just hope like in Last Hit, there’s a novella so I can read more of Naomi and Vasily. Wishful thinking!
“For people who do not like to touch, we seem to be bothered more when we are not connected.”
August 4, 2019
3.25 For Science Stars
I didn’t really know how I’d receive Naomi’s character in this book. As a self proclaimed “Aspie,” her Asperger’s Syndrome, is very much on a savant level, as she was an MIT student, and renowned computer hacker. I honestly didn’t know how I’d connect with her being the heroine in a book about the Russian mafia, with having too many to quirks too list.
These two were both very complex characters that each had a list of things that worked against them in terms of forging relationships. Usually, I like reading about characters with Autism Spectrum Disorder because the lighter endearing parts of the disorder are capitalized on more so, then all the taxing idiosyncrasies. In this one, I wasn’t really endeared to Naomi’s character, nor did I feel her and Vasily’s connection until later in the book, and when it came it was a strong. His patience, and understanding was surprising for being the rough and tough Russian assassin, he came across as in the previous books.
I liked how Vasily didn’t give into Naomi’s every compulsion, and made her tough it out sometimes! He accommodated her when possible, but not excessively. Understandably, her behavior, and tactics had always worked for her until she came across Vasily. There were a few funny moments highlighting some of the absurdity, especially with her food factoids! She was so literal and matter of fact about ALL the things! LOL
Overall, this was just an ok plot for me. Not sure if I’ll go onto the next book in this series later. The ratings and reviews seemed to have dropped off, so I’ll just move on for now...
I didn’t really know how I’d receive Naomi’s character in this book. As a self proclaimed “Aspie,” her Asperger’s Syndrome, is very much on a savant level, as she was an MIT student, and renowned computer hacker. I honestly didn’t know how I’d connect with her being the heroine in a book about the Russian mafia, with having too many to quirks too list.
These two were both very complex characters that each had a list of things that worked against them in terms of forging relationships. Usually, I like reading about characters with Autism Spectrum Disorder because the lighter endearing parts of the disorder are capitalized on more so, then all the taxing idiosyncrasies. In this one, I wasn’t really endeared to Naomi’s character, nor did I feel her and Vasily’s connection until later in the book, and when it came it was a strong. His patience, and understanding was surprising for being the rough and tough Russian assassin, he came across as in the previous books.
I liked how Vasily didn’t give into Naomi’s every compulsion, and made her tough it out sometimes! He accommodated her when possible, but not excessively. Understandably, her behavior, and tactics had always worked for her until she came across Vasily. There were a few funny moments highlighting some of the absurdity, especially with her food factoids! She was so literal and matter of fact about ALL the things! LOL
Overall, this was just an ok plot for me. Not sure if I’ll go onto the next book in this series later. The ratings and reviews seemed to have dropped off, so I’ll just move on for now...
March 5, 2015
This has been a series that from book one I have always been waiting for more and never feel like the series should end, book one was so different from so many books that this series has been one to stand out among this crowded genre. In book two we met both Vasily our hero and Naomi our heroine and got a small glimpse into the beginning of their story. I will say that this story is different from the last two as well as the novella but after saying that, I didn't feel like this book feared somewhere unknown or that that it didn't fit into this series. Because it very much did. But with every series with different main characters in each book each book will be it's own story and journey of each couple.
This books starts with Vasily capturing Naomi, but Naomi isn't like most females, she is brilliant and can do anything on a computer but she is also a woman with Autism/Aspergers. What Vasily needs to be in charge is a painting long gone and he knows only one person who could find that painting but he never expected that person to be a beautiful woman. How he was raised has made him into the man he is but it also made him not like most, so when he see's Naomi and has such a strong reaction to her he is shocked.
While trying to deal with his feeling toward Naomi Vasily has to stay on task to find the painting to not only secure his seat as leader but to protect the only person in his life he loves. Naomi knows she is different and what most would be ok with Naomi can't live with, but the longer she is with Vasily the more she starts feeling things she has never experienced. And the care that Vasily shows her as well as the way he seems to know what is and isn't ok for Naomi the more she finds she likes being by him and opening up, and more importantly thinking of doing things with him that normally would disgust her.
As they continue to track down the key to Vasily's future the more the future and their plans for it change and soon neither can imagine being without the other. And just when they think they have what they have been searching so hard for, the rug is pulled out from their feet and their plans are changed for them. Now they will have to decide what really matters and what they really want most.
This writing duo is amazing the way they work together to create stories just works as plain and simple as that statement is it's true. It's obvious that they can write with many great books between the two that they have written on their own but bring these two ladies together and you just have to sit back and watch magic happen. Even if I didn't like this story, which I did I could still read their books just for the way they tell their stories. The attention to detail and the smallest thing just makes for an even more enjoyable read and paints a picture so real as you read.
While Naomi was different from most heroines I couldn't help but love her, and the growth she goes through in this book is amazing, it's so obvious that she and Vasily are made for each other. I also appreciate that both Ms. Clare, and Ms. Frederick didn't make a miracle cure for Naomi that wouldn't have been believable because yes she grows leaps and bounds in this book but they still kept this book real with Naomi's condition. I think they are both very brave to write a main character who wasn't "perfect" it was refreshing and just added another layer to this book.
Vasily isn't your typical hero, if you read any of the other books in this series you know that the heroes aren't "good" and that made me love him more. I love a hero who is bad and will kill for what he needs or wants but then drop the heroine in from of him and for her he is loving and kind and anything she needs him to be. Vasily is the man he is because of how he was raised and those years have formed the man that is Vasily. Till he meets Naomi he has a one track mind. After Naomi his world tips on its axel and everything he thought he knew and had planned changed. Vasily is possessive and not ashamed of Naomi AT ALL. She is it and anyone who has a problem will have to answer to him. How could you not love that.
This book is steamier than the other books but again it fits this book and feels true to the characters. Their is some mild and quick **************SMALL SPOILER********** mild voyeurism, which isn't my thing but it is very quick and I can see how for Naomi this wasn't what it would be for most heroines. This didn't ruin the book and it was very quick and not like most in books, I don't want to say more to give away anything really important but it is very fast in the book and not what most are thinking********** END SMALL SPOILER **********. We also get a nice bit with Naomi's brother the hero from another book that I loved.
This was a great book it has a possessive hero, steam, two great main characters and most importantly a great story that I didn't want to put down. This is one of those series you can't wait for more and you hope doesn't end any time soon. It's also a series that these two authors aren't afraid to step out of the box with and in taking that leap they have created a great series that many are trying to emulate. Their risk has paid off big time with this series and I can't wait to see what they create next.
** On a side note I can not wait for book four the hero is who I have been waiting for since I first read about him!!!!!
**Thank you Jen Frederick for this ARC for my honest review
This books starts with Vasily capturing Naomi, but Naomi isn't like most females, she is brilliant and can do anything on a computer but she is also a woman with Autism/Aspergers. What Vasily needs to be in charge is a painting long gone and he knows only one person who could find that painting but he never expected that person to be a beautiful woman. How he was raised has made him into the man he is but it also made him not like most, so when he see's Naomi and has such a strong reaction to her he is shocked.
While trying to deal with his feeling toward Naomi Vasily has to stay on task to find the painting to not only secure his seat as leader but to protect the only person in his life he loves. Naomi knows she is different and what most would be ok with Naomi can't live with, but the longer she is with Vasily the more she starts feeling things she has never experienced. And the care that Vasily shows her as well as the way he seems to know what is and isn't ok for Naomi the more she finds she likes being by him and opening up, and more importantly thinking of doing things with him that normally would disgust her.
As they continue to track down the key to Vasily's future the more the future and their plans for it change and soon neither can imagine being without the other. And just when they think they have what they have been searching so hard for, the rug is pulled out from their feet and their plans are changed for them. Now they will have to decide what really matters and what they really want most.
This writing duo is amazing the way they work together to create stories just works as plain and simple as that statement is it's true. It's obvious that they can write with many great books between the two that they have written on their own but bring these two ladies together and you just have to sit back and watch magic happen. Even if I didn't like this story, which I did I could still read their books just for the way they tell their stories. The attention to detail and the smallest thing just makes for an even more enjoyable read and paints a picture so real as you read.
While Naomi was different from most heroines I couldn't help but love her, and the growth she goes through in this book is amazing, it's so obvious that she and Vasily are made for each other. I also appreciate that both Ms. Clare, and Ms. Frederick didn't make a miracle cure for Naomi that wouldn't have been believable because yes she grows leaps and bounds in this book but they still kept this book real with Naomi's condition. I think they are both very brave to write a main character who wasn't "perfect" it was refreshing and just added another layer to this book.
Vasily isn't your typical hero, if you read any of the other books in this series you know that the heroes aren't "good" and that made me love him more. I love a hero who is bad and will kill for what he needs or wants but then drop the heroine in from of him and for her he is loving and kind and anything she needs him to be. Vasily is the man he is because of how he was raised and those years have formed the man that is Vasily. Till he meets Naomi he has a one track mind. After Naomi his world tips on its axel and everything he thought he knew and had planned changed. Vasily is possessive and not ashamed of Naomi AT ALL. She is it and anyone who has a problem will have to answer to him. How could you not love that.
This book is steamier than the other books but again it fits this book and feels true to the characters. Their is some mild and quick **************SMALL SPOILER********** mild voyeurism, which isn't my thing but it is very quick and I can see how for Naomi this wasn't what it would be for most heroines. This didn't ruin the book and it was very quick and not like most in books, I don't want to say more to give away anything really important but it is very fast in the book and not what most are thinking********** END SMALL SPOILER **********. We also get a nice bit with Naomi's brother the hero from another book that I loved.
This was a great book it has a possessive hero, steam, two great main characters and most importantly a great story that I didn't want to put down. This is one of those series you can't wait for more and you hope doesn't end any time soon. It's also a series that these two authors aren't afraid to step out of the box with and in taking that leap they have created a great series that many are trying to emulate. Their risk has paid off big time with this series and I can't wait to see what they create next.
** On a side note I can not wait for book four the hero is who I have been waiting for since I first read about him!!!!!
**Thank you Jen Frederick for this ARC for my honest review
July 9, 2015
*** 6 stars ***
First I want to thank Jessica Clare, Jen Frederick, and Goodreads for the giveaway. I didn't expect this rare opportunity and am extremely thankful for the chance to read such an amazing book! :)
Soooooo…………………………………………………………………………………
!!! I LOVE THIS BOOK !!!
Do not expect this type of read.
EXPECT THIS!
I mean….
Naomi = is a nerd, computer genius, Aspie, socially challenged, has a few quirks, is extremely lovable, humorous, cute, and wonderfully awkward.
Vasily = is the volk, Bratva, he’s a monster, killer, a man blind to his own soul, damaged, aggressive, loving, protective, honorable, possessive, and 100% alluring.
This book is about Vasily and Naomi finding the Caravaggio, also known as the Madonna. Why is this painting so important, because Vasily needs it in order to establish his leadership over the Petrovich Bratva. Their journey is wonderfully captivating and will leave you hungry for more. What intrigued me more about the book wasn’t the background story, world development, interworking’s of the mafia, or historical facts, although they were very very good, but the character development. Holy Fruit Cake, I was so impressed that the authors not only gave the heroine a normally repulsive disease/diagnosis, but they made the syndrome both intriguing and attractive. I loved how Naomi was always true to her character and disease process and how Vasily easily and swiftly adapted to her unique needs. It made me absolutely fall in love with these two characters to a degree I can honestly say I have NOT felt before. Their chemistry and desire to evolve and adapt to one another was beyond words.
*** Fireworks People Fireworks***
“I’m special, people say. That’s one of those “kind but not kind” words people use when they don’t want to say what they mean. I don’t know why they don’t just say it aloud. It doesn’t bother me. I’m autistic. Asperger’s, actually, though I suppose we don’t call it that anymore. But I’ve been Aspie for years now, and still am, in my own mind. It means I function differently than most people. I’m inside my own head more than most, and I don’t know how to deal with people. I’ve been called everything from Rain Man to retard. I’m not, though.”
Asperger’s Syndrome Symptoms (WebMD):
• Problems with social skills: Children with Asperger's syndrome generally have difficulty interacting with others and often are awkward in social situations. They generally do not make friends easily. They have difficulty initiating and maintaining conversation.
• Eccentric or repetitive behaviors: Children with this condition may develop odd, repetitive movements, such as hand wringing or finger twisting.
• Unusual preoccupations or rituals: A child with Asperger's syndrome may develop rituals that he or she refuses to alter, such as getting dressed in a specific order.
• Communication difficulties: People with Asperger's syndrome may not make eye contact when speaking with someone. They may have trouble using facial expressions and gestures, and understanding body language. They also tend to have problems understanding language in context and are very literal in their use of language.
• Limited range of interests: A child with Asperger's syndrome may develop an intense, almost obsessive, interest in a few areas, such as sports schedules, weather, or maps.
• Coordination problems: The movements of children with Asperger's syndrome may seem clumsy or awkward.
• Skilled or talented: Many children with Asperger's syndrome are exceptionally talented or skilled in a particular area, such as music or math.
________________________________________________________________________
Vasily: “You saw me kill two men. This does not frighten you? Most women would be sobbing and weeping in a corner.”
Naomi: I shrug “I don’t know those men. Should I be upset? They were bad guys.”
Vasily: “Nyet, moy besstrashnyy devushka, we are the bad guys.”
Naomi: “Then they were worse guys.” … “I don’t know those men. They mean nothing to me alive or dead.”
Vasily: “I am not sure if this makes you a sociopath or the perfect woman.”
________________________________________________________________________
Vasily: “Would you like a safe word?”
Naomi: “A safe word?”
Vasily: “A word you say that will tell me you wish to go no further?” … “Pick something that would not come up in normal conversation.”
Naomi: “Dyspepsia”
***That’s is my kind of safe word ;) unique medical terminology***
________________________________________________________________________
***Mysophobia***
Naomi: I can’t stop gazing at the baseball cap in his hands. “Has this been laundered?”
Vasily: “It was factory sealed when I purchased it. I made the vendor remove it from a plastic bag.”
Naomi: Oooh, factory sealed. Germ free. I shiver. Those are magical words for me.
________________________________________________________________________
First I want to thank Jessica Clare, Jen Frederick, and Goodreads for the giveaway. I didn't expect this rare opportunity and am extremely thankful for the chance to read such an amazing book! :)
Soooooo…………………………………………………………………………………
!!! I LOVE THIS BOOK !!!
Do not expect this type of read.
EXPECT THIS!
I mean….
Naomi = is a nerd, computer genius, Aspie, socially challenged, has a few quirks, is extremely lovable, humorous, cute, and wonderfully awkward.
Vasily = is the volk, Bratva, he’s a monster, killer, a man blind to his own soul, damaged, aggressive, loving, protective, honorable, possessive, and 100% alluring.
This book is about Vasily and Naomi finding the Caravaggio, also known as the Madonna. Why is this painting so important, because Vasily needs it in order to establish his leadership over the Petrovich Bratva. Their journey is wonderfully captivating and will leave you hungry for more. What intrigued me more about the book wasn’t the background story, world development, interworking’s of the mafia, or historical facts, although they were very very good, but the character development. Holy Fruit Cake, I was so impressed that the authors not only gave the heroine a normally repulsive disease/diagnosis, but they made the syndrome both intriguing and attractive. I loved how Naomi was always true to her character and disease process and how Vasily easily and swiftly adapted to her unique needs. It made me absolutely fall in love with these two characters to a degree I can honestly say I have NOT felt before. Their chemistry and desire to evolve and adapt to one another was beyond words.
*** Fireworks People Fireworks***
“I’m special, people say. That’s one of those “kind but not kind” words people use when they don’t want to say what they mean. I don’t know why they don’t just say it aloud. It doesn’t bother me. I’m autistic. Asperger’s, actually, though I suppose we don’t call it that anymore. But I’ve been Aspie for years now, and still am, in my own mind. It means I function differently than most people. I’m inside my own head more than most, and I don’t know how to deal with people. I’ve been called everything from Rain Man to retard. I’m not, though.”
Asperger’s Syndrome Symptoms (WebMD):
• Problems with social skills: Children with Asperger's syndrome generally have difficulty interacting with others and often are awkward in social situations. They generally do not make friends easily. They have difficulty initiating and maintaining conversation.
• Eccentric or repetitive behaviors: Children with this condition may develop odd, repetitive movements, such as hand wringing or finger twisting.
• Unusual preoccupations or rituals: A child with Asperger's syndrome may develop rituals that he or she refuses to alter, such as getting dressed in a specific order.
• Communication difficulties: People with Asperger's syndrome may not make eye contact when speaking with someone. They may have trouble using facial expressions and gestures, and understanding body language. They also tend to have problems understanding language in context and are very literal in their use of language.
• Limited range of interests: A child with Asperger's syndrome may develop an intense, almost obsessive, interest in a few areas, such as sports schedules, weather, or maps.
• Coordination problems: The movements of children with Asperger's syndrome may seem clumsy or awkward.
• Skilled or talented: Many children with Asperger's syndrome are exceptionally talented or skilled in a particular area, such as music or math.
________________________________________________________________________
Vasily: “You saw me kill two men. This does not frighten you? Most women would be sobbing and weeping in a corner.”
Naomi: I shrug “I don’t know those men. Should I be upset? They were bad guys.”
Vasily: “Nyet, moy besstrashnyy devushka, we are the bad guys.”
Naomi: “Then they were worse guys.” … “I don’t know those men. They mean nothing to me alive or dead.”
Vasily: “I am not sure if this makes you a sociopath or the perfect woman.”
________________________________________________________________________
Vasily: “Would you like a safe word?”
Naomi: “A safe word?”
Vasily: “A word you say that will tell me you wish to go no further?” … “Pick something that would not come up in normal conversation.”
Naomi: “Dyspepsia”
***That’s is my kind of safe word ;) unique medical terminology***
________________________________________________________________________
***Mysophobia***
Naomi: I can’t stop gazing at the baseball cap in his hands. “Has this been laundered?”
Vasily: “It was factory sealed when I purchased it. I made the vendor remove it from a plastic bag.”
Naomi: Oooh, factory sealed. Germ free. I shiver. Those are magical words for me.
________________________________________________________________________
May 4, 2015
My Thoughts:
The Hitman Series has been an epic reading escape full of action, danger, violence, suspense, and passion. I can't get enough when it comes to learning about all of the key players in this series. The authors continue to weave fascinating characters, with dynamic plots; leading to the ultimate reading experience.
In Last Kiss, we get Vasily and Naomi's story. Vasily is trying to take over leadership within the Russian Bratva. The elders have tasked him with locating a rare and priceless painting that holds special symbolism, if he wants to lead. In order to find this painting, he needs, Naomi, an extraordinary computer hacker. Vasily and Naomi are each complicated individuals, that have trouble relating to others, and vice versa. However, the more time they spend in each others presence, the more they start feeling towards one another. Can love find a way in a world of constant threats, violence, and danger?
Last Kiss was a story that touched me deeply. I loved learning about Vasily and Naomi. They were well-developed, complex, and unique characters. Vasily had a darkness to him. He didn't trust anyone, and had erected so many walls around his heart. He had a past that resulted in his stunted emotional well-being. However, if anybody could get past his walls, it was Naomi.
Naomi had Aspergers. All her life she has been labeled as "stupid," "retarded," and "crazy." Her world was a place where organization, logic, and the scientific method too precedence. She was very lonely, due to fact that others could not relate to her, and treated her as if she was beneath them. Vasily takes the time to get to know Naomi. He genuinely listens to her, observes her very closely, and where others see a flawed individual, he see's her for her beauty, intelligence, and the rare treasure that she is.
It was such a treat to watch Vasily and Naomi fall in love. I loved the dichotomy in Vasily's personality of such a hard and dangerous man being able to be gentle, show tenderness, care, compassion, and genuine love. These two characters made the story magnificent for me. However, there was also a fast-paced plot, full of twists, action, suspense, and intrigue that also added to a superb reading experience.
My Rating:
I give, Last Kiss, by Jessica Clare and Jen Frederick, 4.5 Wild Quest Across Europe, Climactic, Powerfully Evocative, Passionate, Falling In Love Filled Stars!
*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit A Bookish Escape at http://www.abookishescape.com
The Hitman Series has been an epic reading escape full of action, danger, violence, suspense, and passion. I can't get enough when it comes to learning about all of the key players in this series. The authors continue to weave fascinating characters, with dynamic plots; leading to the ultimate reading experience.
In Last Kiss, we get Vasily and Naomi's story. Vasily is trying to take over leadership within the Russian Bratva. The elders have tasked him with locating a rare and priceless painting that holds special symbolism, if he wants to lead. In order to find this painting, he needs, Naomi, an extraordinary computer hacker. Vasily and Naomi are each complicated individuals, that have trouble relating to others, and vice versa. However, the more time they spend in each others presence, the more they start feeling towards one another. Can love find a way in a world of constant threats, violence, and danger?
Last Kiss was a story that touched me deeply. I loved learning about Vasily and Naomi. They were well-developed, complex, and unique characters. Vasily had a darkness to him. He didn't trust anyone, and had erected so many walls around his heart. He had a past that resulted in his stunted emotional well-being. However, if anybody could get past his walls, it was Naomi.
Naomi had Aspergers. All her life she has been labeled as "stupid," "retarded," and "crazy." Her world was a place where organization, logic, and the scientific method too precedence. She was very lonely, due to fact that others could not relate to her, and treated her as if she was beneath them. Vasily takes the time to get to know Naomi. He genuinely listens to her, observes her very closely, and where others see a flawed individual, he see's her for her beauty, intelligence, and the rare treasure that she is.
It was such a treat to watch Vasily and Naomi fall in love. I loved the dichotomy in Vasily's personality of such a hard and dangerous man being able to be gentle, show tenderness, care, compassion, and genuine love. These two characters made the story magnificent for me. However, there was also a fast-paced plot, full of twists, action, suspense, and intrigue that also added to a superb reading experience.
My Rating:
I give, Last Kiss, by Jessica Clare and Jen Frederick, 4.5 Wild Quest Across Europe, Climactic, Powerfully Evocative, Passionate, Falling In Love Filled Stars!
*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit A Bookish Escape at http://www.abookishescape.com
May 16, 2015
3 Stars!!
I was really excited to finally get this book, I've been looking forward to Naomi's book since Last Breath (she's Daniel's sister).
Naomi has Aspbergers Syndrome (actually, she's is a highly functioning Aspie), flat out she's a genius who happens to be a cyber hacker. Vasily is a Russian Mobster with the Petrovich Bratva who kidnaps Naomi to help him find a painting that is important to the Bratva and to solidify his plans to take over as the head of the Bratva.
This book had a LOT going on almost too much going on....
I would have liked this book a LOT more if the sometimes extreme and somewhat strange situations they found themselves in had been left out or even reduced with more focus on the actual romance of Vasily and Naomi. As a couple they were good together and had a great understanding of each others needs and feelings, I actually LOVED them together, they just fit together like a puzzle. So in closing if you can get past all the other stuff going on it's worth reading just to see Vasily & Naomi's relationship come together and see them get their HEA.
I was really excited to finally get this book, I've been looking forward to Naomi's book since Last Breath (she's Daniel's sister).
Naomi has Aspbergers Syndrome (actually, she's is a highly functioning Aspie), flat out she's a genius who happens to be a cyber hacker. Vasily is a Russian Mobster with the Petrovich Bratva who kidnaps Naomi to help him find a painting that is important to the Bratva and to solidify his plans to take over as the head of the Bratva.
This book had a LOT going on almost too much going on....
I would have liked this book a LOT more if the sometimes extreme and somewhat strange situations they found themselves in had been left out or even reduced with more focus on the actual romance of Vasily and Naomi. As a couple they were good together and had a great understanding of each others needs and feelings, I actually LOVED them together, they just fit together like a puzzle. So in closing if you can get past all the other stuff going on it's worth reading just to see Vasily & Naomi's relationship come together and see them get their HEA.
January 12, 2022
*4.5* I have enjoyed each book in this series incrementally more than the last, but I don't know if the next book can top this one. I loved these characters!
She is the witch and I am her wolf, her Volk.The communication between these two was so refreshing to read. One physically abused as a child, the other on the spectrum, but they find a perfect harmony when they are together.
“This is Naomi Hays. She is my queen, She will rule at my side. She is the brains to my brawn."I almost fell off the treadmill with laughter a few times listening to this audiobook. Excellent narration! The bland, painfully honest voice of Naomi by Kasha Kensington and the smooth and richly accented voice of Vasily by Iggy Toma, were so well done. Naomi's blunt conversations around sex were quite shocking and refreshing at the same time.
“Of course. I don’t need sex, exactly. But I'd like for you to put your mouth between my legs. And I’d like to feel your penis inside me. I think that would feel good based on prior empirical evidence."Excellent overall story and audiobook!
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