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Villains & Vixens #1
Bloodthirsty
“Forgive me.”
Those were Professor Arnaud’s final words before I sliced through his neck. His was the first head I took, but it wouldn’t be the last.
Severing my connections to l’Academie d’Invisible was harder, but eventually, I escaped and built a reputation of my own.
Infamy suits me, and the harsh lessons of my childhood have served me well. I’m untouchable, undetectable, and untraceable. My targets are dead from the moment my name is whispered.
I am The Guillotine, and I work alone.
That is, until five criminals from my past reappear like unwanted phantoms, and I'm forced to choose between my targets and my vengeance.
Either way, heads will roll.
Those were Professor Arnaud’s final words before I sliced through his neck. His was the first head I took, but it wouldn’t be the last.
Severing my connections to l’Academie d’Invisible was harder, but eventually, I escaped and built a reputation of my own.
Infamy suits me, and the harsh lessons of my childhood have served me well. I’m untouchable, undetectable, and untraceable. My targets are dead from the moment my name is whispered.
I am The Guillotine, and I work alone.
That is, until five criminals from my past reappear like unwanted phantoms, and I'm forced to choose between my targets and my vengeance.
Either way, heads will roll.
448 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2022
321 people are currently reading
809 people want to read
About the author
Cassandra Featherstone
61 books1,097 followersCassandra Featherstone has channeled her lifelong passion for writing into a flourishing career, a journey that started when she first grasped a pencil as a gifted child with ADHD.
Her debut novel, born during the solitude of COVID lockdown in March 2020, draws on a tapestry of personal encounters and insights that resonate deeply with her readers.
An international bestseller, Cassandra has topped Amazon charts in categories such as LGBT Anthologies, LGBTQ+ Mystery, and Bisexual Romance, among others. Her works navigate the complexities of bullying, PTSD, body dysmorphia, mental health struggles, personal reinvention, and the empowerment of claiming one's own space. Importantly, Cassandra offers a thoughtful and respectful portrayal of LGBTQIA+ relationships, subtly reflecting her own connection with the community through her narratives.
Her literary repertoire spans sci-fi fantasy, urban fantasy, paranormal, and comedic genres in academy whychoose settings, with a strong commitment to portraying consensual, safe, and accurately depicted BDSM and kink lifestyles. Her books are an invitation to explore transformative stories that are both inclusive and engaging.
Often affectionately called ‘The Muppet’ for her wacky theater kid personality, she resides in the Midwest with her tech-savvy husband, their creatively inclined college student, a literary-minded dog, and four scheming cats.
Her debut novel, born during the solitude of COVID lockdown in March 2020, draws on a tapestry of personal encounters and insights that resonate deeply with her readers.
An international bestseller, Cassandra has topped Amazon charts in categories such as LGBT Anthologies, LGBTQ+ Mystery, and Bisexual Romance, among others. Her works navigate the complexities of bullying, PTSD, body dysmorphia, mental health struggles, personal reinvention, and the empowerment of claiming one's own space. Importantly, Cassandra offers a thoughtful and respectful portrayal of LGBTQIA+ relationships, subtly reflecting her own connection with the community through her narratives.
Her literary repertoire spans sci-fi fantasy, urban fantasy, paranormal, and comedic genres in academy whychoose settings, with a strong commitment to portraying consensual, safe, and accurately depicted BDSM and kink lifestyles. Her books are an invitation to explore transformative stories that are both inclusive and engaging.
Often affectionately called ‘The Muppet’ for her wacky theater kid personality, she resides in the Midwest with her tech-savvy husband, their creatively inclined college student, a literary-minded dog, and four scheming cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews
November 11, 2022
I don’t think I’ve ever genuinely disliked a book to the extent I did this one..
This is just silly. I don’t even know where to begin. This is probably going to get messy.
ALL ABOARD THE STRUGGLE BUS
So pretty early on in the book, Remy dislocated her shoulder. She puts it back in herself, and says she’s going to need a sling- we never hear about this shoulder problem again… until a little while later where she’s in another fight scene and yep, has to pop her shoulder in because she dislocated it… so she has a hot shower and we never hear about it again? I didn’t realize this was a fantasy, and she could heal herself so quick 🤷🏼♀️
Another thing that doesn’t make sense- Remy will walk into a room/ building looking like one person, and leave looking like a completely different person. Now this whole book is all about cameras and gadgets and whatnot. So if she walks into a room in an airport, cameras abound, and leaves as someone else, the cameras aren’t going to catch some random walking out that never walked in..? And the original person who walked in doesn’t walk out..?
Your boy Coda was originally described as being an “emo cowboy” (whatever tf that is) and we first meet him in a country themed bar.. then he’s suddenly an “emo rocker/ rockstar”. He continues to switch, but ultimately ends the book as a rockstar.. bro pulled a Taylor Swift like 4/5 times in this bitch…
The five men are all mad at each other for keeping secrets, and not using their mics. They will rant about it in their POV chapter, and then the next paragraph they’re going dark and ignoring everyone.. doing the EXACT thing they were just bitching about… i guess if you think about it, it is a typical man thing to do 🧐
Jinx and Dwyn had sex and snacked on the same woman.. whose 🐱 had minimum 3 piercings in it, and you’re telling me they didn’t realize, didn’t have two fucking brain cells to rub together, to realize that this was the same broad….?
There were grammatical errors. Whole words were just missing from a sentence. In other parts random words were just thrown in there like parsley.. at the start of the book, there’s literally a memo saying not to report grammatical errors to amazon, so I really shouldn’t have been surprised lol.
This whole book was just trying to be top tier bad asses, but really they’re just a bunch of dumb asses…
This is just silly. I don’t even know where to begin. This is probably going to get messy.
ALL ABOARD THE STRUGGLE BUS
So pretty early on in the book, Remy dislocated her shoulder. She puts it back in herself, and says she’s going to need a sling- we never hear about this shoulder problem again… until a little while later where she’s in another fight scene and yep, has to pop her shoulder in because she dislocated it… so she has a hot shower and we never hear about it again? I didn’t realize this was a fantasy, and she could heal herself so quick 🤷🏼♀️
Another thing that doesn’t make sense- Remy will walk into a room/ building looking like one person, and leave looking like a completely different person. Now this whole book is all about cameras and gadgets and whatnot. So if she walks into a room in an airport, cameras abound, and leaves as someone else, the cameras aren’t going to catch some random walking out that never walked in..? And the original person who walked in doesn’t walk out..?
Your boy Coda was originally described as being an “emo cowboy” (whatever tf that is) and we first meet him in a country themed bar.. then he’s suddenly an “emo rocker/ rockstar”. He continues to switch, but ultimately ends the book as a rockstar.. bro pulled a Taylor Swift like 4/5 times in this bitch…
The five men are all mad at each other for keeping secrets, and not using their mics. They will rant about it in their POV chapter, and then the next paragraph they’re going dark and ignoring everyone.. doing the EXACT thing they were just bitching about… i guess if you think about it, it is a typical man thing to do 🧐
Jinx and Dwyn had sex and snacked on the same woman.. whose 🐱 had minimum 3 piercings in it, and you’re telling me they didn’t realize, didn’t have two fucking brain cells to rub together, to realize that this was the same broad….?
There were grammatical errors. Whole words were just missing from a sentence. In other parts random words were just thrown in there like parsley.. at the start of the book, there’s literally a memo saying not to report grammatical errors to amazon, so I really shouldn’t have been surprised lol.
This whole book was just trying to be top tier bad asses, but really they’re just a bunch of dumb asses…
November 8, 2022
This book kept coming up on my radar, day after day, but I swore to myself I was going to avoid it - for no reason other than that it seemed interesting, but I didn't want to start a book that would end on a big cliffhanger and have to wait forever for the next book. But finally, I bit the bullet and decided I just had to read it because it seemed so interesting. I am simultaneously so happy and so mad at myself for picking this up. This was good. Like, couldn't put it down for even a second good. I finished it in one sitting and then found myself so sad when it ended on the big cliffhanger.
What I loved:
1. The plot of this book is super interesting. I love a read that's action packed and feels dangerous. Our FMC is the most renowned and feared assassin in the world, and the guys are all highly intelligent and incredible agents in their respective categories. The backstory for the characters is thought out and we get snippets of it throughout the book, and the world building is great. We get little easter eggs planted throughout this entire book that make it really interesting as a reader.
2. Remy. Our FMC is a freaking badass. I have so much respect for her character, not just because of the fact that she is the most renowned assassin, but because she is resilient and has built herself back up from a place that should have been impossible. And despite the fact that I am most definitely NOT a badass assassin, I still found I was able to relate to Remy's character. Her pain and struggles at feeling betrayed and forgotten by the people she loved and trusted most in life cut through me just like how it cut through her, and I felt it was really well done.
3. The budding friendship between Lys and Remy is perfection and I'm so excited to see more of that in the next book.
What I didn't love:
1. I just couldn't get over the fact that our FMC didn't recognize the guys. Yes, I understand that it's been 13 years. And yes, I understand that they're all secret agents. Our FMC has had reconstructive surgery that changed her face and is constantly in a new disguise throughout the book, so the fact that she doesn't get recognized makes sense. But, unless I blatantly missed it, the book doesn't address that the guys had any sort of facial surgeries, nor does it mention them changing their appearance or having disguises. So, for all we know, they just look like older versions of themselves? I mean, they all grew up together and she had an intimate relationship with them all in the past - it's just odd to me that she didn't recognize Jinx or Dwyn in the book.
I'm curious to see how the dynamic between Remy and the guys will develop in the second book, and I'm even more excited to learn more about the event 13 years ago that caused Remy's 'death.' In all of our flashbacks we get from Remy and the guys as they first started interacting as children, Remy ends up saving their asses in each one. I would bet that her saving the guys once again played a role in what happened 13 years ago, and will obviously be paralleled in the present day as she's saving the guys (especially Raz, with the hit out on him).
Seriously a good read, I would definitely recommend.
4/5 stars.
What I loved:
1. The plot of this book is super interesting. I love a read that's action packed and feels dangerous. Our FMC is the most renowned and feared assassin in the world, and the guys are all highly intelligent and incredible agents in their respective categories. The backstory for the characters is thought out and we get snippets of it throughout the book, and the world building is great. We get little easter eggs planted throughout this entire book that make it really interesting as a reader.
2. Remy. Our FMC is a freaking badass. I have so much respect for her character, not just because of the fact that she is the most renowned assassin, but because she is resilient and has built herself back up from a place that should have been impossible. And despite the fact that I am most definitely NOT a badass assassin, I still found I was able to relate to Remy's character. Her pain and struggles at feeling betrayed and forgotten by the people she loved and trusted most in life cut through me just like how it cut through her, and I felt it was really well done.
3. The budding friendship between Lys and Remy is perfection and I'm so excited to see more of that in the next book.
What I didn't love:
1. I just couldn't get over the fact that our FMC didn't recognize the guys. Yes, I understand that it's been 13 years. And yes, I understand that they're all secret agents. Our FMC has had reconstructive surgery that changed her face and is constantly in a new disguise throughout the book, so the fact that she doesn't get recognized makes sense. But, unless I blatantly missed it, the book doesn't address that the guys had any sort of facial surgeries, nor does it mention them changing their appearance or having disguises. So, for all we know, they just look like older versions of themselves? I mean, they all grew up together and she had an intimate relationship with them all in the past - it's just odd to me that she didn't recognize Jinx or Dwyn in the book.
I'm curious to see how the dynamic between Remy and the guys will develop in the second book, and I'm even more excited to learn more about the event 13 years ago that caused Remy's 'death.' In all of our flashbacks we get from Remy and the guys as they first started interacting as children, Remy ends up saving their asses in each one. I would bet that her saving the guys once again played a role in what happened 13 years ago, and will obviously be paralleled in the present day as she's saving the guys (especially Raz, with the hit out on him).
Seriously a good read, I would definitely recommend.
4/5 stars.
Read
November 9, 2022DNF @ 52%
I’m so sad I couldn’t get into this one. I was excited from the description and rave reviews but this one fell flat for me. And I had so many questions. Here’s what didn’t work for me:
I’m so sad I couldn’t get into this one. I was excited from the description and rave reviews but this one fell flat for me. And I had so many questions. Here’s what didn’t work for me:
March 31, 2023
Spy kids the movie was better
I'm not sure how a feel about an Assassin who rarely Assassin's? There is a whole cat and mouse between some of the guys and this one chick. But its absolutely boring! I wanted blood, killing! Not w.e spy kids this was. She doesn't work with anyone, yet works with ppl? She's The assassin guillotine! Yes somehow she's the Dutchess as well? I hate books where The character has a persona and somehow later down the read has another persona.I rolled my eyes so much I just was over this entire read. My thing is if you're an assassin then that's what you do by trade! But somehow She's being run around with some riddle guy? I just dont see it? It's ridiculous! Just a heads up, they find out who she is 3 pages till the end, and somehow all these amazing trained ppl drop the ball. Goofy.
I'm not sure how a feel about an Assassin who rarely Assassin's? There is a whole cat and mouse between some of the guys and this one chick. But its absolutely boring! I wanted blood, killing! Not w.e spy kids this was. She doesn't work with anyone, yet works with ppl? She's The assassin guillotine! Yes somehow she's the Dutchess as well? I hate books where The character has a persona and somehow later down the read has another persona.I rolled my eyes so much I just was over this entire read. My thing is if you're an assassin then that's what you do by trade! But somehow She's being run around with some riddle guy? I just dont see it? It's ridiculous! Just a heads up, they find out who she is 3 pages till the end, and somehow all these amazing trained ppl drop the ball. Goofy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2025
It was a 3 star read until the end...
Keyword - cliffhanger.
I automatically retract 1 star if there's a cliffy.
Keyword - cliffhanger.
I automatically retract 1 star if there's a cliffy.
February 26, 2023
I really enjoyed the plot and the level of detail the author put into crafting this.
With any sort of underworld/assassins book, there will naturally be some suspension of disbelief and that was the case here, though it thankfully never fully crossed over into outright farce.
The Fmc is very relatable, competent and strong. The guys were all unique and interesting (finally!) and I was intrigued to see how their relationships would develop.
It irked me that it took so long for her to connect the dots that the mystery guys she kept seeing were members of The Five. It also seemed ridiculous that the men never even got close to figuring out who she was either.
The confrontation at the end of the book was set up to be explosive...but then lost its way in the rush to end on a dramatic cliffy.
Hopefully, some of that tension and drama will pick up in the follow-up.
With any sort of underworld/assassins book, there will naturally be some suspension of disbelief and that was the case here, though it thankfully never fully crossed over into outright farce.
The Fmc is very relatable, competent and strong. The guys were all unique and interesting (finally!) and I was intrigued to see how their relationships would develop.
It irked me that it took so long for her to connect the dots that the mystery guys she kept seeing were members of The Five. It also seemed ridiculous that the men never even got close to figuring out who she was either.
The confrontation at the end of the book was set up to be explosive...but then lost its way in the rush to end on a dramatic cliffy.
Hopefully, some of that tension and drama will pick up in the follow-up.
November 2, 2022
Bloodthirsty, the first book in the Villains & Vixens series by Cassandra Featherstone is a dark and steamy contemporary romance that will leave you begging for more!!
Remy is the ultimate of heroines: string, independent, fierce, full of sass and violent tendencies that she’s not afraid to resort to! With hints about her traumatic and hurtful past, she uses all her vast knowledge to take on various jobs and her journey just pulls you right in and doesn’t let you go. She not only I’ve came her past, but has rebuilt her life around her own talents and strengths and is not one of the most sought after Assassins in the world. I love how intelligent she is and how she’s able to play the field pretty much on her own with just a plethora of disguises at her disposal…until fate steps in and once again reunites her with several blasts from her past Even if she’s unaware of it herself ;)
Coda, Raz, Dwyn, Jinx and Mo meanwhile are part of an elite group known as the Five—after losing their beloved sixth member, Remy, a decade ago. A loss that resulted from their own betrayal. And while they each mounted her loss in their own way, it’s clear that they all still claim a piece of her as their own. So what’s going to happen when they realize she’s not dead like they thought and just how is Remy going to take being reunited with them once again? Pure explosive heat!!! Especially with enemies lurking around every corner that seem to want them all dead. So the question is can Remy and her guys move past the betrayal and deceit that severed their ties years ago to work together to find the mastermind behind the assassination attempts or is history doomed to repeat itself once again?
This story was absolute perfection and full of nonstop action, mystery, intrigue, suspense, twists, turns and of course lots of steamy explosive heat!!! With an intensely intricate plot, and deadly new world to explore, this story will keep you guessing and scrambling at a fast pace to keep up with all the twists but man is it worth it! And that tantalizing cliffhanger?!? I need the second book stat!!!
Remy is the ultimate of heroines: string, independent, fierce, full of sass and violent tendencies that she’s not afraid to resort to! With hints about her traumatic and hurtful past, she uses all her vast knowledge to take on various jobs and her journey just pulls you right in and doesn’t let you go. She not only I’ve came her past, but has rebuilt her life around her own talents and strengths and is not one of the most sought after Assassins in the world. I love how intelligent she is and how she’s able to play the field pretty much on her own with just a plethora of disguises at her disposal…until fate steps in and once again reunites her with several blasts from her past Even if she’s unaware of it herself ;)
Coda, Raz, Dwyn, Jinx and Mo meanwhile are part of an elite group known as the Five—after losing their beloved sixth member, Remy, a decade ago. A loss that resulted from their own betrayal. And while they each mounted her loss in their own way, it’s clear that they all still claim a piece of her as their own. So what’s going to happen when they realize she’s not dead like they thought and just how is Remy going to take being reunited with them once again? Pure explosive heat!!! Especially with enemies lurking around every corner that seem to want them all dead. So the question is can Remy and her guys move past the betrayal and deceit that severed their ties years ago to work together to find the mastermind behind the assassination attempts or is history doomed to repeat itself once again?
This story was absolute perfection and full of nonstop action, mystery, intrigue, suspense, twists, turns and of course lots of steamy explosive heat!!! With an intensely intricate plot, and deadly new world to explore, this story will keep you guessing and scrambling at a fast pace to keep up with all the twists but man is it worth it! And that tantalizing cliffhanger?!? I need the second book stat!!!
did-not-finish
May 28, 2025DNF at 23%.
I can't take this anymore.
I like a strong heroine as much as anyone. I adore when they're smart and tricky and know how to get around in the world.
But, this one? What the author thinks is "smart" does not seem very intelligent to me.
This woman knows she's being hunted. She was almost killed when a pickup went wrong. She's got multiple identities in multiple countries. She's always looking for an escape route. She recognizes the face of one of her old team in a bar and rescues him. Fine. But she also recognizes the voice of another team member. But when a third team member flirts with her, she DOESN'T know who he is!? Improbable. Also, if they're as close as I believe, HOW COULD SHE NOT RECOGNIZE ANY PART OF HIS BODY!!!??? Or his voice!? Or his tattoos or scars?
But, okay, she thinks he's a total stranger. Once again, SHE GOT HURT! Her arm was dislocated and she's bruised to kingdom come... but she has NO PROBLEM with getting naked with a strange man on a train!? Like, she leads him to her compartment where her multiple identities are stashed with absolutely no concerns?
And then, lets him strip her down to her skin.
And this is where the author just didn't seem to remember she's injured. The dude stares at her skin and feels invisible tats on her skin (huh?) but doesn't notice that her body is black and blue!?
I just can't. There is no sense to any of this.
I was already annoyed by:
1. How many times each of the characters says "I'm always having sex with randos... yay me" (uh, this is a romance, I don't want to hear that they've had tons of sex with all sorts of people...)
2. Supposedly all 6 of them were raised on an island in the middle of nowhere and they don't know their own cultural/national heritage. So, why is EVERYTHING based on (white) American culture/language? Ugh, so annoying.
I can't enjoy this. It's not well thought out.
I can't take this anymore.
I like a strong heroine as much as anyone. I adore when they're smart and tricky and know how to get around in the world.
But, this one? What the author thinks is "smart" does not seem very intelligent to me.
This woman knows she's being hunted. She was almost killed when a pickup went wrong. She's got multiple identities in multiple countries. She's always looking for an escape route. She recognizes the face of one of her old team in a bar and rescues him. Fine. But she also recognizes the voice of another team member. But when a third team member flirts with her, she DOESN'T know who he is!? Improbable. Also, if they're as close as I believe, HOW COULD SHE NOT RECOGNIZE ANY PART OF HIS BODY!!!??? Or his voice!? Or his tattoos or scars?
But, okay, she thinks he's a total stranger. Once again, SHE GOT HURT! Her arm was dislocated and she's bruised to kingdom come... but she has NO PROBLEM with getting naked with a strange man on a train!? Like, she leads him to her compartment where her multiple identities are stashed with absolutely no concerns?
And then, lets him strip her down to her skin.
And this is where the author just didn't seem to remember she's injured. The dude stares at her skin and feels invisible tats on her skin (huh?) but doesn't notice that her body is black and blue!?
I just can't. There is no sense to any of this.
I was already annoyed by:
1. How many times each of the characters says "I'm always having sex with randos... yay me" (uh, this is a romance, I don't want to hear that they've had tons of sex with all sorts of people...)
2. Supposedly all 6 of them were raised on an island in the middle of nowhere and they don't know their own cultural/national heritage. So, why is EVERYTHING based on (white) American culture/language? Ugh, so annoying.
I can't enjoy this. It's not well thought out.
June 5, 2023
Bloodthirsty by Cassandra Featherstone is a contemporary why choose romance that I listened to on audio narrated by Kayden Lukakis and Michelle Price. This is the first book in the Villains and Vixens series.
I was hooked from the first chapter and couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. I loved that we got Remy, Coda, Raz, Dwyn, Jinx, and Mo's points of views throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.
The book ended on a great cliffhanger that left me begging for more. I can't wait for the next book in the series Ruthless to be released on October 9, 2023.
Kayden and Michelle did an amazing job on the narration. They both really know how to bring a story to life. I look forward to listening to more of their work in the future.
I would recommend this book if you like dark romance, contemporary romance, why choose romance, or romantic suspense.
The Flock Team
I was hooked from the first chapter and couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. I loved that we got Remy, Coda, Raz, Dwyn, Jinx, and Mo's points of views throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.
The book ended on a great cliffhanger that left me begging for more. I can't wait for the next book in the series Ruthless to be released on October 9, 2023.
Kayden and Michelle did an amazing job on the narration. They both really know how to bring a story to life. I look forward to listening to more of their work in the future.
I would recommend this book if you like dark romance, contemporary romance, why choose romance, or romantic suspense.
The Flock Team
July 3, 2023
4.75+⭐️’s
Damn! Such a good book!
I’m SO annoyed with myself for getting SO invested into a book when the series is not only not available on Audible, it’s not even available via Kindle!!!!
Nooooooo!!!!!!!!
It was like the first 95% of the book was the characters history and the build up to the great reveal… thennnnn…. The cliffhanger almost literally had me fall of the edge of my seat! Lol!! Whoops!
And now I’m bummed…. Because the written portion (let alone audio 🤞) won’t be available until the beginning of October!!!
My complaining is more so on me because I friggen know better to not get into a book series when it’s not complete (*cough*zodiacacademy*cough*👀🙄) when it’s done by an exceptional writer(s).
On a whim i purchased this audiobook and was drawn in so deep whereby I started looking for the follow up to this book, and I was disappointed it wasn’t available. Then I saw Cassandra only has one other book on audio, which is part one of a series recorded Nov 2022, and my expectations for future audiobook releases are significantly lowered… which sucks for me… but ultimately Ms Featherstone doesn’t owe me shit.
But damn!!
I just wish I waited until pt 2 (assuming it’s the last of this part of a series) was released before I got into this. Now I have to wait for the release like a kid in the 90’s waiting for a phone call that’s tethered to a cord in the wall. The wait totally sucks, but usually is ultimately worth it.
Damn! Such a good book!
I’m SO annoyed with myself for getting SO invested into a book when the series is not only not available on Audible, it’s not even available via Kindle!!!!
Nooooooo!!!!!!!!
It was like the first 95% of the book was the characters history and the build up to the great reveal… thennnnn…. The cliffhanger almost literally had me fall of the edge of my seat! Lol!! Whoops!
And now I’m bummed…. Because the written portion (let alone audio 🤞) won’t be available until the beginning of October!!!
My complaining is more so on me because I friggen know better to not get into a book series when it’s not complete (*cough*zodiacacademy*cough*👀🙄) when it’s done by an exceptional writer(s).
On a whim i purchased this audiobook and was drawn in so deep whereby I started looking for the follow up to this book, and I was disappointed it wasn’t available. Then I saw Cassandra only has one other book on audio, which is part one of a series recorded Nov 2022, and my expectations for future audiobook releases are significantly lowered… which sucks for me… but ultimately Ms Featherstone doesn’t owe me shit.
But damn!!
I just wish I waited until pt 2 (assuming it’s the last of this part of a series) was released before I got into this. Now I have to wait for the release like a kid in the 90’s waiting for a phone call that’s tethered to a cord in the wall. The wait totally sucks, but usually is ultimately worth it.
October 16, 2022
Ooh I loved this book. Remy is a sassy, bloodthirsty, take no prisoners FMC. I loved all the plot twists in this book. Great steam, fantastic kills and some awsome flirting. Very interested to see what happens next after that cliffhanger.
October 15, 2022
Oh my god!!! This book is amazing!!!! I am in love and completely hooked!!! I was not ready for it to be done and I need more!!!!!! Definitely recommend!!!!!
March 5, 2025
4.8 Stars
Holeeee Shiiit!! This book was amazing!
This story was so incredible I just want to squeal and go full-on fangirl (which is completely out of character for me). It’s packed with all my favorite things, and I loved every second of it!
Our FMC, Remy, is a bonafide assassin, and she is absolutely perfect!
Remy's not some 18 year old wannabe assassin with hyped up skills that are more fantasy than reality. She's not the type of badass who constantly toots her own horn and tells everyone that she's the baddest bitch. This female is a 30 year old woman who has spent her entire life being tortured and trained to the brink of death to become the best. She has different identities and functions like a chameleon while she adapts to her current role. She flies completely under the radar, and no one alive knows her true identity.
Remy doesn't brag that she can kill you, she will actually kill you.
This girl doesn't have a bleeding heart. She's not gonna risk her life for civillians, and she doesn’t care if innocents get caught in the crossfire. This woman is savage and amazing.
I don't know how to tell you about this story without ruining it. I don't think I can do it, so I'm not even gonna try. Remy is amazing. The guys are awesome. The story is awesome. Just read it.
In terms of spice, this book has only two sex scenes, but they are really good ones. No group action yet. The FMC and her guys are not actually together in this book and they definitely don't know each others true identities. This book reminds me a bit of the movie "Catch Me If You Can."
- 👀 POV: Multiple, First person
- 📖 Contemporary
- ❣️ Reverse Harem
- 🎱 Tropes: Crime syndicates & assassins, second chance, hidden identity
- 🌎 World-building: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- ⭐️ Plot-line: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- 🤓 Character Development: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
- 🙀 Suspense: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
- 👥 Harem: Five ruthless criminals
- 🍒 Virgins: None
- ♥️ Romance: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
- 🌶 Spice Level: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
- 🔥 Burn: Medium
- 👄 Kinks: MM relationship, spanking, bondage, BDSM
- 🚫 No: Other women (OW), cheating, bullying, non-con or dub-con
- ‼️ Triggers: Past trauma, forced body modifications (past), violence, murder, alcohol use, PTSD, passing mentions of self-harm/depression, betrayal, past torture, emotional and physical abuse (as children), brainwashing, forced sterilization (past), being hunted for sport (past—child/teen), criminal behavior.
Holeeee Shiiit!! This book was amazing!
This story was so incredible I just want to squeal and go full-on fangirl (which is completely out of character for me). It’s packed with all my favorite things, and I loved every second of it!
Our FMC, Remy, is a bonafide assassin, and she is absolutely perfect!
Remy's not some 18 year old wannabe assassin with hyped up skills that are more fantasy than reality. She's not the type of badass who constantly toots her own horn and tells everyone that she's the baddest bitch. This female is a 30 year old woman who has spent her entire life being tortured and trained to the brink of death to become the best. She has different identities and functions like a chameleon while she adapts to her current role. She flies completely under the radar, and no one alive knows her true identity.
Remy doesn't brag that she can kill you, she will actually kill you.
This girl doesn't have a bleeding heart. She's not gonna risk her life for civillians, and she doesn’t care if innocents get caught in the crossfire. This woman is savage and amazing.
I don't know how to tell you about this story without ruining it. I don't think I can do it, so I'm not even gonna try. Remy is amazing. The guys are awesome. The story is awesome. Just read it.
In terms of spice, this book has only two sex scenes, but they are really good ones. No group action yet. The FMC and her guys are not actually together in this book and they definitely don't know each others true identities. This book reminds me a bit of the movie "Catch Me If You Can."
- 👀 POV: Multiple, First person
- 📖 Contemporary
- ❣️ Reverse Harem
- 🎱 Tropes: Crime syndicates & assassins, second chance, hidden identity
- 🌎 World-building: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- ⭐️ Plot-line: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- 🤓 Character Development: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
- 🙀 Suspense: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
- 👥 Harem: Five ruthless criminals
- 🍒 Virgins: None
- ♥️ Romance: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
- 🌶 Spice Level: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
- 🔥 Burn: Medium
- 👄 Kinks: MM relationship, spanking, bondage, BDSM
- 🚫 No: Other women (OW), cheating, bullying, non-con or dub-con
- ‼️ Triggers: Past trauma, forced body modifications (past), violence, murder, alcohol use, PTSD, passing mentions of self-harm/depression, betrayal, past torture, emotional and physical abuse (as children), brainwashing, forced sterilization (past), being hunted for sport (past—child/teen), criminal behavior.
October 23, 2022
Congrats to Cassandra Featherstone, Bloodthirsty is her first contemporary series, Villains and Vixens and it was outstanding. This book was everything, I barely read anything outside the paranormal romance or fantasy although lately omegaverse and organize crime are becoming favorites so when I heard about Cass writing a rh about a group of Assassins, and the badest of them all being a female it became a must read and I'm so glad I did.
All of these characters are highly intelligent, I mean genius-level. The way their brain works, to be fifty steps ahead, see all the angles, the skill set they have, it's impressive. I love Remy so much, she has so much fire and amazing skills to back it up. She's really good at her job but she's lonely, the woman literally has no one she can trust and with her background I totally understand. The most enduring thing about Remy was her commentary, the woman has little snippets with herself that I can't help but laugh at.
The guys that used to be Remy's are a hot mess. They haven't gotten over her "death" and it's affecting all of them, they are jerks to each other and haven't been a real team since. Mo denies his feelings, Jinx is charming but doesn't take off the mask, Coda uses his fame to lose himself, Raz is emotionally punishing himself and Dwyn is a psycho who takes too many risks. I like the guys even if they're a mess. Something has changed because not only are Remy and the guys running in the same area they are steadily drawn to each other in the wildest game of cat and mouse.
This book kinda reads like a badass spy novel except for them being assassins, hackers, thieves, and more. There's a bunch of criminal syndicates, dead drops, open markets, and other cool stuff. Seriously, the background is constantly moving from country to country at different locations from Paris to Berlin to Prague, not to mention the lavish wealth, the clothes, and hotel rooms. Then there's the spy craft, the highest quality fake ids, excellent tech, disguises, storage units, safe-houses, and so much more. There are heists and hits, and everything else you can dream of in a spy world. Cass was very detailed oriented with this book so I had a very vivid picture playing in my head. It's the small things that make the story whole and Cass didn't miss a single detail. There's one moment, at the masquerade that has me wondering if this is set in a world with supernaturals and humans just don't know.
Bloodthirsty was freaking epic. It blew all expectations out of the water with fantastic world-building, excellent writing, and bad guys I couldn't help but love. All throughout this book the stakes were high and the drama was captivating, between heists, explosions, heart-pounding risks, and daredevil moves, I was completely captivated. The story ended with a snarky comment and a big cliffhanger, the wait for the next book is gonna be a rough one.
All of these characters are highly intelligent, I mean genius-level. The way their brain works, to be fifty steps ahead, see all the angles, the skill set they have, it's impressive. I love Remy so much, she has so much fire and amazing skills to back it up. She's really good at her job but she's lonely, the woman literally has no one she can trust and with her background I totally understand. The most enduring thing about Remy was her commentary, the woman has little snippets with herself that I can't help but laugh at.
The guys that used to be Remy's are a hot mess. They haven't gotten over her "death" and it's affecting all of them, they are jerks to each other and haven't been a real team since. Mo denies his feelings, Jinx is charming but doesn't take off the mask, Coda uses his fame to lose himself, Raz is emotionally punishing himself and Dwyn is a psycho who takes too many risks. I like the guys even if they're a mess. Something has changed because not only are Remy and the guys running in the same area they are steadily drawn to each other in the wildest game of cat and mouse.
This book kinda reads like a badass spy novel except for them being assassins, hackers, thieves, and more. There's a bunch of criminal syndicates, dead drops, open markets, and other cool stuff. Seriously, the background is constantly moving from country to country at different locations from Paris to Berlin to Prague, not to mention the lavish wealth, the clothes, and hotel rooms. Then there's the spy craft, the highest quality fake ids, excellent tech, disguises, storage units, safe-houses, and so much more. There are heists and hits, and everything else you can dream of in a spy world. Cass was very detailed oriented with this book so I had a very vivid picture playing in my head. It's the small things that make the story whole and Cass didn't miss a single detail. There's one moment, at the masquerade that has me wondering if this is set in a world with supernaturals and humans just don't know.
Bloodthirsty was freaking epic. It blew all expectations out of the water with fantastic world-building, excellent writing, and bad guys I couldn't help but love. All throughout this book the stakes were high and the drama was captivating, between heists, explosions, heart-pounding risks, and daredevil moves, I was completely captivated. The story ended with a snarky comment and a big cliffhanger, the wait for the next book is gonna be a rough one.
June 2, 2023
Intriguing & Fast-Paced! Great Narration🎧
Bloodthirsty
Villains & Vixens, Book 1
By: Cassandra Featherstone
Narrated by: Kayden Lukakis, Michelle Price
This intriguing and fast-paced romantic suspense grabbed my attention right from the start and held it the entire time. Remy is a trained assassin, grifter, spy and wears many other hats, she is also a ghost, literally, since everyone she was once close to think she is dead. Everyone being colleagues she trained with, Jinx, Dwyn, Coda, Raz and Mo, training started at an early age and they are all expert criminals like herself, each one has their own expertise, except her, she has them all. She works alone, they work together, she hasn’t run into any of them since that dreadful day, but with her latest assignment she eventually runs into all of them, even saving their butts, which reveals two of her most prominent identities to them, the Guillotine and the Countess. There is never a dull moment in this book, the story is cleverly plotted with plenty of drama, angst, twists and turns, action, thrilling suspense, and slow burn romance. This first book of the series ends with a bang and leaves you wanting more, also need to learn more about each one of them and what really went down, definitely need to know more about that and who was behind it all and who were they really after. The next book can not come out fast enough. Cassandra Featherstone, thank you for this terrific story and wild ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the fantastic narration, Kayden Dukakis and Michelle Price did an amazing job bringing these characters to life and did so with a complete understanding of who they were portraying, giving each their own distinct voice and personality. I loved how they took each role, ran with it, making it their own and sounding believable in every role they played. Michelle Price nailed it as Remy and her different personas, voicing each one differently and fittingly, accents included. Kayden Lukakis was just as fantastic with his character voices, too, and the various accents. They set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the characters’ emotions and had you feeling every single one. These entertaining storytellers are a versatile voice artists and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another amazing listen.
Bloodthirsty
Villains & Vixens, Book 1
By: Cassandra Featherstone
Narrated by: Kayden Lukakis, Michelle Price
This intriguing and fast-paced romantic suspense grabbed my attention right from the start and held it the entire time. Remy is a trained assassin, grifter, spy and wears many other hats, she is also a ghost, literally, since everyone she was once close to think she is dead. Everyone being colleagues she trained with, Jinx, Dwyn, Coda, Raz and Mo, training started at an early age and they are all expert criminals like herself, each one has their own expertise, except her, she has them all. She works alone, they work together, she hasn’t run into any of them since that dreadful day, but with her latest assignment she eventually runs into all of them, even saving their butts, which reveals two of her most prominent identities to them, the Guillotine and the Countess. There is never a dull moment in this book, the story is cleverly plotted with plenty of drama, angst, twists and turns, action, thrilling suspense, and slow burn romance. This first book of the series ends with a bang and leaves you wanting more, also need to learn more about each one of them and what really went down, definitely need to know more about that and who was behind it all and who were they really after. The next book can not come out fast enough. Cassandra Featherstone, thank you for this terrific story and wild ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the fantastic narration, Kayden Dukakis and Michelle Price did an amazing job bringing these characters to life and did so with a complete understanding of who they were portraying, giving each their own distinct voice and personality. I loved how they took each role, ran with it, making it their own and sounding believable in every role they played. Michelle Price nailed it as Remy and her different personas, voicing each one differently and fittingly, accents included. Kayden Lukakis was just as fantastic with his character voices, too, and the various accents. They set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the characters’ emotions and had you feeling every single one. These entertaining storytellers are a versatile voice artists and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another amazing listen.
November 10, 2022
favourite line : "I knew saving that dick in Paris was going to get me killed."
I knew this was going to be a good one when I read the "author ramblings". I love it when an author really goes all in on researching stuff for their books.
This series has a connection to a different series, I haven't read the other series and did not feel like I was missing anything or that I got spoilers for the other series. So feel free to start reading this book immediately!
Only reading the blurb left me pretty clueless when I started the book.
We have someone named the guillotine and a professor and an Academy for the invisible?
But the blurb is really accurate, she does need to choose between her targets and her vengeance. I think that's a big part of this first book.
Okay so we have Remy, I dont know her past entirely, but I also think that she doesnt either so..
Remy grew up in the typical academy for future hitman and assassin's, typical because so far it's similar to what I've read in other books. She doesn't have parents and all the students kind of get put against each other. The students all get 'training', I'm pretty sure they have a Hell week from the navy seal training every month. It all sounded horrible.
The book starts when Remy is already a bit older and she has escaped from the academy, somehow making everyone think that she died. She pretty much 'forgot' (not really though) about the group of guys that she formed a friendships with, until they betrayed her. Until she suddenly crosses paths with one of them, and then another and so on.
This book is really still the intro, we get introduced to who Remy is and who the guys are. A large part is about what Remy does. She -as the guillotine- gets a new assignment that will make her cross paths with one of the guys, and because of that she has a difficult decision to make.
Besides the guys, there is also a lot of mystery going on. Does someone know who she is? Who is the person behind the assignment?
I think this book is really well thought out, and I'm hoping the entire series will be as well.
plus I loved the humor in it
ps. was there a hidden quote from SHIELD? Tahiti, its a magical place
I knew this was going to be a good one when I read the "author ramblings". I love it when an author really goes all in on researching stuff for their books.
This series has a connection to a different series, I haven't read the other series and did not feel like I was missing anything or that I got spoilers for the other series. So feel free to start reading this book immediately!
Only reading the blurb left me pretty clueless when I started the book.
We have someone named the guillotine and a professor and an Academy for the invisible?
But the blurb is really accurate, she does need to choose between her targets and her vengeance. I think that's a big part of this first book.
Okay so we have Remy, I dont know her past entirely, but I also think that she doesnt either so..
Remy grew up in the typical academy for future hitman and assassin's, typical because so far it's similar to what I've read in other books. She doesn't have parents and all the students kind of get put against each other. The students all get 'training', I'm pretty sure they have a Hell week from the navy seal training every month. It all sounded horrible.
The book starts when Remy is already a bit older and she has escaped from the academy, somehow making everyone think that she died. She pretty much 'forgot' (not really though) about the group of guys that she formed a friendships with, until they betrayed her. Until she suddenly crosses paths with one of them, and then another and so on.
This book is really still the intro, we get introduced to who Remy is and who the guys are. A large part is about what Remy does. She -as the guillotine- gets a new assignment that will make her cross paths with one of the guys, and because of that she has a difficult decision to make.
Besides the guys, there is also a lot of mystery going on. Does someone know who she is? Who is the person behind the assignment?
I think this book is really well thought out, and I'm hoping the entire series will be as well.
plus I loved the humor in it
ps. was there a hidden quote from SHIELD? Tahiti, its a magical place
October 18, 2022
"The Guillotine will rise from her ashes and be reborn."
Holy wowwww. Bloodthirsty is my first book by Cassandra Featherstone and I am definitely intrigued. The plot of this book was so intricate and intense and now left with that cliffhanger, I need to know how book two is going to go down!!!
Remy (aka The Duchess aka The Guillotine)...is dead. Or so everyone thinks. With a past full of trauma, death and love - no one would know because she keeps that locked tighter than Fort Knox. While getting intel for a new job, she realizes her newest mark is an old ghost. For the first time ever, she decides to not complete the job, but continues on for the mere intellect she can gather.
Now, someone is watching her every move. No corner is safe. No dark hall is secret. Everything she does, she feels someone watching her but she cant pinpoint from where or who! Officially back on the infamous 5 radars, Raz, Dwyn, Jinx, Mo, Coda - are looking for their mystery girl. They have 0 clue who she might be. But little things here and there are starting to click. Could that be whos stalking her?
Even the steam in this is anonymous and with years apart and plastic surgery done, no one can tell who is who anymore. I hope this aspect picks up a but more in book two, but pshhhh was I here for it now. lol.
The author did an amazing job with the backstory. Throughout the book, the reader was able to pick more up about their "history." Your heart hurts for Remy, but also we want her to have the HEA she deserves. I wanted so much more with them altogether, but that is probably just the sloww burn talking. lol.
This book is FULL of twists and turns and I loved it! The mystery man who hired The Guillotine is on to her and I feel a conspiracy theory coming on. She might have led him right to what they wanted most! (duh duh duhhhhh) I wanted more, but am hopeful for book two. I cant wait to see how this story continues now they all know who is who.
...Long live the Six... *fingers crossed*
*Overall 4/5
*Heat? 3/5
*Slow Burn
*Multiple first person POV
*MMFMMM Romance
*Ends on cliffhanger!
Holy wowwww. Bloodthirsty is my first book by Cassandra Featherstone and I am definitely intrigued. The plot of this book was so intricate and intense and now left with that cliffhanger, I need to know how book two is going to go down!!!
Remy (aka The Duchess aka The Guillotine)...is dead. Or so everyone thinks. With a past full of trauma, death and love - no one would know because she keeps that locked tighter than Fort Knox. While getting intel for a new job, she realizes her newest mark is an old ghost. For the first time ever, she decides to not complete the job, but continues on for the mere intellect she can gather.
Now, someone is watching her every move. No corner is safe. No dark hall is secret. Everything she does, she feels someone watching her but she cant pinpoint from where or who! Officially back on the infamous 5 radars, Raz, Dwyn, Jinx, Mo, Coda - are looking for their mystery girl. They have 0 clue who she might be. But little things here and there are starting to click. Could that be whos stalking her?
Even the steam in this is anonymous and with years apart and plastic surgery done, no one can tell who is who anymore. I hope this aspect picks up a but more in book two, but pshhhh was I here for it now. lol.
The author did an amazing job with the backstory. Throughout the book, the reader was able to pick more up about their "history." Your heart hurts for Remy, but also we want her to have the HEA she deserves. I wanted so much more with them altogether, but that is probably just the sloww burn talking. lol.
This book is FULL of twists and turns and I loved it! The mystery man who hired The Guillotine is on to her and I feel a conspiracy theory coming on. She might have led him right to what they wanted most! (duh duh duhhhhh) I wanted more, but am hopeful for book two. I cant wait to see how this story continues now they all know who is who.
...Long live the Six... *fingers crossed*
*Overall 4/5
*Heat? 3/5
*Slow Burn
*Multiple first person POV
*MMFMMM Romance
*Ends on cliffhanger!
October 23, 2022
BLURB:
Severing my connections to l’Academie d’Invisible was harder, but eventually, I escaped and built a reputation of my own. Infamy suits me, and the harsh lessons of my childhood have served me well. I’m untouchable, undetectable, and untraceable. My targets are dead from the moment my name is whispered. I am The Guillotine, and I work alone. That is, until five criminals from my past reappear like unwanted phantoms, and I'm forced to choose between my targets and my vengeance.
Remy has rebuilt her life from the ashes working as one of the most sought-after Assassins in the world the Guillotine. A woman who moves through the shadows and changes disguises in the blink of an eye.
No matter how you try to re event yourself the past always find a way to resurface. This book was nonstop action and suspense. Remy’s life has been twisted on its axis when the men from her past Coda, Raz, Dwyn, Jinx and Mo resurface after a decade.
Over the past decade the members of the Five have been morning the loss of Remy when she “died” years ago as a result of their betrayal. Nothing can prepare them for coming face to face with the ghost of their past.
Remy must find a way to do her job, remain in the shadows without blowing her cover as the Guillotine as well as leave the past behind. Someone wants members of the five dead as well as Remy. Can Remy and her guys move past the events that happened over a decade ago that torn them apart and work together to put an end to the assassination attempts on their lives or will they continue to live a life of regret and pain.
On a side note, I would like to point out the mockery of Alpha Kappa Alpha which is the FIRST African American Sorority established in 1908 and it literally rubbed me the wrong way how the FMC was disrespectful in wearing and disregarding the paraphernalia of the organization when she disguised herself as a blonde college student from Texas. Everything about that whole scene was cringeworthy. I don’t expect most to understand but those who are familiar with the sorority would understand my ire.
Severing my connections to l’Academie d’Invisible was harder, but eventually, I escaped and built a reputation of my own. Infamy suits me, and the harsh lessons of my childhood have served me well. I’m untouchable, undetectable, and untraceable. My targets are dead from the moment my name is whispered. I am The Guillotine, and I work alone. That is, until five criminals from my past reappear like unwanted phantoms, and I'm forced to choose between my targets and my vengeance.
Remy has rebuilt her life from the ashes working as one of the most sought-after Assassins in the world the Guillotine. A woman who moves through the shadows and changes disguises in the blink of an eye.
No matter how you try to re event yourself the past always find a way to resurface. This book was nonstop action and suspense. Remy’s life has been twisted on its axis when the men from her past Coda, Raz, Dwyn, Jinx and Mo resurface after a decade.
Over the past decade the members of the Five have been morning the loss of Remy when she “died” years ago as a result of their betrayal. Nothing can prepare them for coming face to face with the ghost of their past.
Remy must find a way to do her job, remain in the shadows without blowing her cover as the Guillotine as well as leave the past behind. Someone wants members of the five dead as well as Remy. Can Remy and her guys move past the events that happened over a decade ago that torn them apart and work together to put an end to the assassination attempts on their lives or will they continue to live a life of regret and pain.
On a side note, I would like to point out the mockery of Alpha Kappa Alpha which is the FIRST African American Sorority established in 1908 and it literally rubbed me the wrong way how the FMC was disrespectful in wearing and disregarding the paraphernalia of the organization when she disguised herself as a blonde college student from Texas. Everything about that whole scene was cringeworthy. I don’t expect most to understand but those who are familiar with the sorority would understand my ire.
November 7, 2022
Holy wowwww. Bloodthirsty is my first book by Cassandra Featherstone and I am definitely intrigued. The plot of this book was so intricate and intense and now left with that cliffhanger, I need to know how book two is going to go down!!!
Remy (aka The Duchess aka The Guillotine)...is dead. Or so everyone thinks. With a past full of trauma, death and love - no one would know because she keeps that locked tighter than Fort Knox. While getting intel for a new job, she realizes her newest mark is an old ghost. For the first time ever, she decides to not complete the job, but continues on for the mere intellect she can gather.
Now, someone is watching her every move. No corner is safe. No dark hall is secret. Everything she does, she feels someone watching her but she cant pinpoint from where or who! Officially back on the infamous 5 radars, Raz, Dwyn, Jinx, Mo, Coda - are looking for their mystery girl. They have 0 clue who she might be. But little things here and there are starting to click. Could that be whos stalking her?
Even the steam in this is anonymous and with years apart and plastic surgery done, no one can tell who is who anymore. I hope this aspect picks up a but more in book two, but pshhhh was I here for it now. lol.
The author did an amazing job with the backstory. Throughout the book, the reader was able to pick more up about their "history." Your heart hurts for Remy, but also we want her to have the HEA she deserves. I wanted so much more with them altogether, but that is probably just the sloww burn talking. lol.
This book is FULL of twists and turns and I loved it! The mystery man who hired The Guillotine is on to her and I feel a conspiracy theory coming on. She might have led him right to what they wanted most! (duh duh duhhhhh) I wanted more, but am hopeful for book two. I cant wait to see how this story continues now they all know who is who.
...Long live the Six... *fingers crossed*
*Overall 4/5
*Heat? 3/5
*Slow Burn
*Multiple first person POV
*MMFMMM Romance
*Ends on cliffhanger!
October 27, 2022
Bloodthirsty by Cassandra Featherstone is a dark and thrilling slow-burn romance. Remy is a highly paid professional assassin known as the Guillotine. Once a member of the six, a top group of operatives from the clandestine organization known as Les Invisibles. Years ago, she barely escaped the organization with her life, learning a valuable lesson in trusting others. When her new client knows more than he should and the men from her past keep popping up, she finds herself questioning the real identity of her new client and their true agenda. As things begin to close in on her from all sides she has some decisions to make, either disappear again or take a chance and let some people in.
This book blew my mind. There was so much going on in this book including non-stop action as Remy travels across Europe constantly changing identities. Unique and interesting characters add to the drama as they follow her, unknowingly nplaying cat and mouse. Readers are granted first row seats to the resulting trauma from abuse and loss. I really wanted to get to the end to see if they are all reunited but the ride was so enjoyable that I couldn't skip a step. Despite the story being dark and filled with murder, I found myself laughing almost non-stop. The characters were wild and unpredictable with antics that when pictured made me laugh. There was such a degree of realism to this story like I could almost imagine some famous wild and crazy hit-man or woman cut a deal with the government, then wrote their auto-biography.
I rate Bloodthirsty 5 out of 5 stars. The fascinating characters combined with the fabulous fast-paced plot caught and held my interest. I enjoyed getting to know this group's past, which knows each other inside and out, probably more than most families know. This book is for adults only due to the violence and graphics $ex. If you have triggers, I suggest reading the content warning since there are quite a few in this book. If you enjoy thrilling dark romance
This book blew my mind. There was so much going on in this book including non-stop action as Remy travels across Europe constantly changing identities. Unique and interesting characters add to the drama as they follow her, unknowingly nplaying cat and mouse. Readers are granted first row seats to the resulting trauma from abuse and loss. I really wanted to get to the end to see if they are all reunited but the ride was so enjoyable that I couldn't skip a step. Despite the story being dark and filled with murder, I found myself laughing almost non-stop. The characters were wild and unpredictable with antics that when pictured made me laugh. There was such a degree of realism to this story like I could almost imagine some famous wild and crazy hit-man or woman cut a deal with the government, then wrote their auto-biography.
I rate Bloodthirsty 5 out of 5 stars. The fascinating characters combined with the fabulous fast-paced plot caught and held my interest. I enjoyed getting to know this group's past, which knows each other inside and out, probably more than most families know. This book is for adults only due to the violence and graphics $ex. If you have triggers, I suggest reading the content warning since there are quite a few in this book. If you enjoy thrilling dark romance
October 18, 2022
Only a man could show up, destroy years of hard work, and need to be rescued from their own ego.
I want to start this review with a suggestion to all readers: when you open this book and it doesn't start at the title page, scroll back all the way to the very beginning and start reading there. This author is marvellous at writing dedications that set the tone even before you start reading the first chapter. Even the warnings always have a note of humor in them I can really appreciate.
Bloodthirsty is the first contemporary RH series by this author, but it is still easy to recognize her personal writing style throughout the entire book. C.F. is one of the few authors who make me scroll back while reading to see if I really read what I thought I did. She has a way of surprising me with dialogue, or tiny little twists along the way, and going back to read it again always makes me laugh a second time.
I absolutely loved the balance in this book. There are a lot of dark elements involved, but the lightness in the dialogue and the humor along the way make this a very pleasant read. The different characters all have multiple layers to their personality, and the character building is done really well. Remy is a total badass, but there is a vulnerable side to her as well, and it makes her really likeable. Even though these characters are twisted and (slightly) crazy, you can't help but like them and want them all to find happiness along the way. Dwyn really stole my heart; he's my favorite so far, but there is potential for the other four men as well.
I'm sad to have to say goodbye to these characters until the next book arrives. I highly recommend reading this book, and join me in regularly checking when the second book will arrive!
I want to start this review with a suggestion to all readers: when you open this book and it doesn't start at the title page, scroll back all the way to the very beginning and start reading there. This author is marvellous at writing dedications that set the tone even before you start reading the first chapter. Even the warnings always have a note of humor in them I can really appreciate.
Bloodthirsty is the first contemporary RH series by this author, but it is still easy to recognize her personal writing style throughout the entire book. C.F. is one of the few authors who make me scroll back while reading to see if I really read what I thought I did. She has a way of surprising me with dialogue, or tiny little twists along the way, and going back to read it again always makes me laugh a second time.
I absolutely loved the balance in this book. There are a lot of dark elements involved, but the lightness in the dialogue and the humor along the way make this a very pleasant read. The different characters all have multiple layers to their personality, and the character building is done really well. Remy is a total badass, but there is a vulnerable side to her as well, and it makes her really likeable. Even though these characters are twisted and (slightly) crazy, you can't help but like them and want them all to find happiness along the way. Dwyn really stole my heart; he's my favorite so far, but there is potential for the other four men as well.
I'm sad to have to say goodbye to these characters until the next book arrives. I highly recommend reading this book, and join me in regularly checking when the second book will arrive!
June 7, 2023
l’Academie d’Invisible is the world’s most dangerous secret. It’s a lethal academy where orphaned children are trained, and raised to be thieves, hackers, spies, and assassins. Remy was once a star pupil, a member of The Six. But then she was betrayed, killed and The Six became The Five. Their lives were never the same after losing their heart. Remy went on to infamy as The Guillotine. It was only a matter of time in the circles they moved before they would cross paths on a job. Remy saved one of her childhood friends in a moment of nostalgic weakness, setting them all on a collision course. As each of The Five has a brush with one of her identities, they become more obsessed. They haven’t felt this way since ‘she’ died. Now if they can all stay alive long enough to figure out the mystery of their perfect women.
This is an over-the-top spy-thriller with a bada** femme-fatale, plenty of disguises and gadgets, lots of cat-and-mouse games, several near-deaths, and a touch of sex. It might be a little ridiculous but it’s a lot of fun. The characters, main and side, are all compelling and the action is non-stop. The focus on Remy as one of the deadliest assassins in the world, not to mention her other personas made the book for me. She was the star, not a sidekick or prop, and I hope once she reconnects with her boys, she doesn't lose her fierceness. I love the intricate intrigues. The setups, disguises, planning, and detailing all create a fun story. I can't wait for the next book. I hope Remy stays true to herself. Remember, girl, these guys betrayed you, got you 'killed'. I know you're lonely but hold a grudge. Make them work for you. Clearly, we want The Six together again but only once they are worthy of you.
This is an over-the-top spy-thriller with a bada** femme-fatale, plenty of disguises and gadgets, lots of cat-and-mouse games, several near-deaths, and a touch of sex. It might be a little ridiculous but it’s a lot of fun. The characters, main and side, are all compelling and the action is non-stop. The focus on Remy as one of the deadliest assassins in the world, not to mention her other personas made the book for me. She was the star, not a sidekick or prop, and I hope once she reconnects with her boys, she doesn't lose her fierceness. I love the intricate intrigues. The setups, disguises, planning, and detailing all create a fun story. I can't wait for the next book. I hope Remy stays true to herself. Remember, girl, these guys betrayed you, got you 'killed'. I know you're lonely but hold a grudge. Make them work for you. Clearly, we want The Six together again but only once they are worthy of you.
October 18, 2022
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "BLOODTHIRSTY" OMG!!! What a rush this story hooks from start to finish full of intrigue, suspense, danger, murder, violence, action, mystery, steam, twists that make for a very addicting read you can't put down.
Remy Arsine Benoit aka The Guillotine learned her skills as an assassin from I'Academie des Invisibles taken at a young age either from Orphanages or Foster Care, escaping them she no longer will be controlled by the whims of a Shadowy Criminal Organization.
Remy has no friends she changes identities after each target the only people she relates to are the ones trained to lie, cheat, steal, maim, kill or con their way through life, she doesn't know how to be human she puts on the skin of a person & plays a role then kills them off that's why she's never been caught The Guillotine rises from the Ashes &
re-born again.
Remy recognized Coda Ramone from the bad boys she knew from before she escaped, he was at the Club where she took out her target, did he recognize her, he's the only who can do his job out in the open being a famous rock star, things are about to change for her & maybe not in good way.
I definitely recommend to get this phenominally well written story, Remy running into her ex-BF'S, dealing with death threats, crazy clients what will happen next, after that cliffhanger I can't get the next book "RUTHLESS" soon ENOUGH.
EXCELLENT MINDBLOWING, RIVITING, INTENSE, STORY!!!!!
Remy Arsine Benoit aka The Guillotine learned her skills as an assassin from I'Academie des Invisibles taken at a young age either from Orphanages or Foster Care, escaping them she no longer will be controlled by the whims of a Shadowy Criminal Organization.
Remy has no friends she changes identities after each target the only people she relates to are the ones trained to lie, cheat, steal, maim, kill or con their way through life, she doesn't know how to be human she puts on the skin of a person & plays a role then kills them off that's why she's never been caught The Guillotine rises from the Ashes &
re-born again.
Remy recognized Coda Ramone from the bad boys she knew from before she escaped, he was at the Club where she took out her target, did he recognize her, he's the only who can do his job out in the open being a famous rock star, things are about to change for her & maybe not in good way.
I definitely recommend to get this phenominally well written story, Remy running into her ex-BF'S, dealing with death threats, crazy clients what will happen next, after that cliffhanger I can't get the next book "RUTHLESS" soon ENOUGH.
EXCELLENT MINDBLOWING, RIVITING, INTENSE, STORY!!!!!
October 24, 2022
I absolutely loves this book, couldn't put it down and cannot wait to see where the story goes in book 2.
Remy grew up in l'Academie, where children are turned into criminal masterminds the hard way. She manages to escape and turn herself into The Guillotine, a highly sought after assassin, but a recent job has put her into the path of five guys from her past she never thought she'd see again.
Remy was a really interesting character, she was so good at her job, and the lengths she went to protect her identity, and although she was a loner she was also easy to like, but I could really feel her loneliness.
The guys were definitely all completely different to each other, and I enjoyed the banter between them.
The story line takes us on a wild adventure, following Remy as she completes jobs, moving from country to country and all the things she has to do to get the job done. However when she is asked to complete a job that intrigues her, but there is so much more going on and the other things she comes across, including the guys from her past, just can't be a coincidence anymore. I enjoyed the way the story played out, we were given little bits of information throughout and as the book progressed they all started to come together.
I cannot wait for book 2 after that cliffhanger ending!
Remy grew up in l'Academie, where children are turned into criminal masterminds the hard way. She manages to escape and turn herself into The Guillotine, a highly sought after assassin, but a recent job has put her into the path of five guys from her past she never thought she'd see again.
Remy was a really interesting character, she was so good at her job, and the lengths she went to protect her identity, and although she was a loner she was also easy to like, but I could really feel her loneliness.
The guys were definitely all completely different to each other, and I enjoyed the banter between them.
The story line takes us on a wild adventure, following Remy as she completes jobs, moving from country to country and all the things she has to do to get the job done. However when she is asked to complete a job that intrigues her, but there is so much more going on and the other things she comes across, including the guys from her past, just can't be a coincidence anymore. I enjoyed the way the story played out, we were given little bits of information throughout and as the book progressed they all started to come together.
I cannot wait for book 2 after that cliffhanger ending!
August 20, 2025
2.5, round up
This was, at best, ok. The writing seems readable (as best I can tell in an audiobook), and the narrators did a fine job. But, lord, was I bored, and the book is just the same thing over and over and over again. The FMC tells us how awesome she is, what disguise she's using, and something about her past at l’Academie d’Invisible. The book then cuts to one of the MMC who will tell us how his and his brothers' trauma from losing her is destroying them before cutting back to her, a new disguise, etc. There are five men. They all do this. It's agonizingly repetitive. Add to that the author's tendency to forget injuries such as the FMC appears to heal at supernaturial speeds, and the fact that this is a slow-burn. So, ultimately, there's no real payoff at the end.
Also, as a side note. I know one doesn't read this sort of book for the feminism. But I found it seriously irritating to have the men written to give lip service to it, commenting on equal opportunity, and women's capabilities, etc. But then, the author uses the same misogynistic tropes of reducing women to disposable "pussy," etc. This is super common in the genre. I get that, annoying as it is, once you become aware of it. But it played worse than usual to have male characters who are theoretically mindful but also enact the same old misogynistic games. I wanted to be like, 'Choose a lane.'
This was, at best, ok. The writing seems readable (as best I can tell in an audiobook), and the narrators did a fine job. But, lord, was I bored, and the book is just the same thing over and over and over again. The FMC tells us how awesome she is, what disguise she's using, and something about her past at l’Academie d’Invisible. The book then cuts to one of the MMC who will tell us how his and his brothers' trauma from losing her is destroying them before cutting back to her, a new disguise, etc. There are five men. They all do this. It's agonizingly repetitive. Add to that the author's tendency to forget injuries such as the FMC appears to heal at supernaturial speeds, and the fact that this is a slow-burn. So, ultimately, there's no real payoff at the end.
Also, as a side note. I know one doesn't read this sort of book for the feminism. But I found it seriously irritating to have the men written to give lip service to it, commenting on equal opportunity, and women's capabilities, etc. But then, the author uses the same misogynistic tropes of reducing women to disposable "pussy," etc. This is super common in the genre. I get that, annoying as it is, once you become aware of it. But it played worse than usual to have male characters who are theoretically mindful but also enact the same old misogynistic games. I wanted to be like, 'Choose a lane.'
October 20, 2022
This is the first book I’ve read of Cassandra Featherstone’s books. To say I’m not disappointed is an understatement. Not only did I get sucked into the book, but it was more of a trip and fall head first not being able to put it down.
🔪strong smart sassy FMC
🔪 mystery
🔪slow burn why choose romance
🔪 contemporary spy romance
🔪 🌶🌶spice
We meet Remy, our FMC, at the beginning of the story and she is not one to be messed with. The confidence and snark that she exudes is just fantastic. Is she a bit OCD? Yes. Does she live by a strict set of rules? Of course. In her line of work, you won’t live long if you don’t. During this journey, she runs into several men that plunge her back unwillingly into memories of her past that she’s tried to forget. Coda, Rez, Mo, Dwyn, and Jinx all are just trying to live and move forward when their jobs keep pushing them back into Remy’s path. And within all of that is another mysterious player that keeps pulling strings. Will they all get out of their own ways to work together? Or will the mystery player take them all out?
Like I said before, this story gripped me from the beginning and didn’t let go. And yes, this story did end on a crazy cliff hanger. And I am counting down until I can get my hands on the next book to see what happens next.
🔪strong smart sassy FMC
🔪 mystery
🔪slow burn why choose romance
🔪 contemporary spy romance
🔪 🌶🌶spice
We meet Remy, our FMC, at the beginning of the story and she is not one to be messed with. The confidence and snark that she exudes is just fantastic. Is she a bit OCD? Yes. Does she live by a strict set of rules? Of course. In her line of work, you won’t live long if you don’t. During this journey, she runs into several men that plunge her back unwillingly into memories of her past that she’s tried to forget. Coda, Rez, Mo, Dwyn, and Jinx all are just trying to live and move forward when their jobs keep pushing them back into Remy’s path. And within all of that is another mysterious player that keeps pulling strings. Will they all get out of their own ways to work together? Or will the mystery player take them all out?
Like I said before, this story gripped me from the beginning and didn’t let go. And yes, this story did end on a crazy cliff hanger. And I am counting down until I can get my hands on the next book to see what happens next.
October 23, 2022
Remy, aka the Guillotine, is presumed dead. However, she's still very much alive and working toward her new targets. A blast from the past has her choosing not to complete her mission, but still gather info. Now someone is stalking her, and she made need some help in order to figure out who.
The steam in this book was fantastic. I loved Remy's connection to her men, and how they treat her when they're together. They don't necessarily have the most typical start to romance, but they definitely have the chemistry to make up for it.
The plot was interesting, and I liked the fact that Remy was such a mystery to everyone. It made her perspective a lot more investing, and made me want to know more about her. The author gives us pieces of information about her back story, and let me tell you, you're heart will just break for her. She's been through so much already and while its saddening to learn about it, you appreciate her growth and current character a lot more.
This is book one, but it felt like we were missing a book. The plot somewhat drops you into a story that already feels started rather than if it were just starting. Even with the bits and pieces on everyone's back story, I still felt like I was missing a lot of information.
Overall rating
3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
4 🌶🌶🌶🌶
The steam in this book was fantastic. I loved Remy's connection to her men, and how they treat her when they're together. They don't necessarily have the most typical start to romance, but they definitely have the chemistry to make up for it.
The plot was interesting, and I liked the fact that Remy was such a mystery to everyone. It made her perspective a lot more investing, and made me want to know more about her. The author gives us pieces of information about her back story, and let me tell you, you're heart will just break for her. She's been through so much already and while its saddening to learn about it, you appreciate her growth and current character a lot more.
This is book one, but it felt like we were missing a book. The plot somewhat drops you into a story that already feels started rather than if it were just starting. Even with the bits and pieces on everyone's back story, I still felt like I was missing a lot of information.
Overall rating
3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
4 🌶🌶🌶🌶
October 20, 2022
I was immediately hooked when I read the blurb for Bloodthirsty. I love that the FMC Remy is the mysterious, dangerous character, everyone also assumes she's dead. She has not a great past, but she keeps that under lock and key, so no one knows what she's gone through. She is currently working on a new job, and she realizes that their an old ghost. So instead of of completing the job, she wants to see what information she can collect.
Cassandra did an amazing job with this story, you're drawn in from the start and want to keep reading to see what happens! Remy is no longer safe, but from who she's not sure of at all. It could be the infamous 5, or it could be the mystery man who hired her. It could possibly be neither of those two options and someone we have no idea about!
We get to learn about their characters and their history / back stories which I always love to have in a book. There is also plenty of humor and other lightness in this book that makes it an overall enjoyable read. Remy is a great FMC and her "men" ;) are also great in their own ways, even though they're all a little bit twisted and a smidge crazy.
Can't wait to see where book 2 takes us.
Cassandra did an amazing job with this story, you're drawn in from the start and want to keep reading to see what happens! Remy is no longer safe, but from who she's not sure of at all. It could be the infamous 5, or it could be the mystery man who hired her. It could possibly be neither of those two options and someone we have no idea about!
We get to learn about their characters and their history / back stories which I always love to have in a book. There is also plenty of humor and other lightness in this book that makes it an overall enjoyable read. Remy is a great FMC and her "men" ;) are also great in their own ways, even though they're all a little bit twisted and a smidge crazy.
Can't wait to see where book 2 takes us.
October 23, 2022
Very intriguing.
This book is very dif from most other books with a series of love interests. It has multiple POV’s, which I loved. I love being able to see inside a characters head and learning how they all just tick together. I wasn’t a huge fan of how parallel the characters were. The only time where they worked together was at the end. Otherwise she would meet one by one at dif points of the book and they were all dying to meet her again so their obsession with her became very real. Instead of doing their real jobs they are stalking her. I wasn’t a fan of how separate their stories were which is the only reason I rated it a 4*. Otherwise the writing was flawless and all the emotions felt natural to what was going on. I didn’t find any spelling errors, I loved how Cassandra had foot notes that when you click on the link it actually tells you what they meant where so many other books the links don’t work and the reader has no idea what’s going on. I’ll definitely be reading book 2 when it comes out now that the cat is out of the bag. They all know who each other is now and it’s gonna be interesting when she tells them all about the hit on Raz and Jinx.
This book is very dif from most other books with a series of love interests. It has multiple POV’s, which I loved. I love being able to see inside a characters head and learning how they all just tick together. I wasn’t a huge fan of how parallel the characters were. The only time where they worked together was at the end. Otherwise she would meet one by one at dif points of the book and they were all dying to meet her again so their obsession with her became very real. Instead of doing their real jobs they are stalking her. I wasn’t a fan of how separate their stories were which is the only reason I rated it a 4*. Otherwise the writing was flawless and all the emotions felt natural to what was going on. I didn’t find any spelling errors, I loved how Cassandra had foot notes that when you click on the link it actually tells you what they meant where so many other books the links don’t work and the reader has no idea what’s going on. I’ll definitely be reading book 2 when it comes out now that the cat is out of the bag. They all know who each other is now and it’s gonna be interesting when she tells them all about the hit on Raz and Jinx.
November 4, 2022
Remy is a trained assassin, a professional in changing identities and disappearing, also having several personas in the world of crime for hire, yet her signature persona is and always will be the Guillotine. Escaping the l'Academie d'Invisibles under extraordinary circumstances, she cannot deny being an elite even though she is not part of the six anymore - yet the ways of her and the other five are intersecting again, and there might be fireworks (eh, explosions) coming when that happens..
Fascinating and thrilling story of a confident woman who knew her strengths and assets and how to use them to reach her goals, thrown into a (sort of) flashback and pushed to her limits to deal with the challenges on her way, including mortal danger and being hunted. Remy is truly a complex and intriguing character, fully adaptive to her role of impersonating her own creations and discarding them when there is no use for disguise anymore or it poses a risk. I was also fascinated by the men forming the other five elite Invisibles, as well as the carefully and in detail crafted world of crime and violence. Dramatic and magnetic, I was super excited reading the book.
Fascinating and thrilling story of a confident woman who knew her strengths and assets and how to use them to reach her goals, thrown into a (sort of) flashback and pushed to her limits to deal with the challenges on her way, including mortal danger and being hunted. Remy is truly a complex and intriguing character, fully adaptive to her role of impersonating her own creations and discarding them when there is no use for disguise anymore or it poses a risk. I was also fascinated by the men forming the other five elite Invisibles, as well as the carefully and in detail crafted world of crime and violence. Dramatic and magnetic, I was super excited reading the book.
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