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Olympia the Bounty Hunter #1
Kissed the Mark
A fairy bounty hunter stumbles into a vampire conspiracy and gets more than she bargained for…
Olympia Carter is the fourth-best bounty hunter in the supernatural town of Mayfair, Missouri, which isn’t exactly an accomplishment she’s proud to take home to her Unseelie fairy parents.
Enter Leandra, a vampire who’s high up on the vampire food chain. She has a proposition for Olympia that could make her a ton of money, if the target is even real…
And if it isn’t, what is Leandra plotting?
This F/F fairy/vampire urban fantasy is the first in a new trilogy by indie author Lila Gwynn.
Olympia Carter is the fourth-best bounty hunter in the supernatural town of Mayfair, Missouri, which isn’t exactly an accomplishment she’s proud to take home to her Unseelie fairy parents.
Enter Leandra, a vampire who’s high up on the vampire food chain. She has a proposition for Olympia that could make her a ton of money, if the target is even real…
And if it isn’t, what is Leandra plotting?
This F/F fairy/vampire urban fantasy is the first in a new trilogy by indie author Lila Gwynn.
219 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 28, 2022
42 people are currently reading
1008 people want to read
About the author
Lila Gwynn
12 books138 followersLila Gwynn is a lesbian author (and avid reader) of sapphic fantasy fiction. In her free time, she can be found binge-reading indie books, casually playing video games, or occasionally writing. She lives with her wonderful butch girlfriend and their many cats.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
April 8, 2022
What a fun urban fantasy read! A Fae Bounty Hunter and a Vampire getting into supernatural shenanigans, with sexy and frustrating scenes together, while a larger conspiracy looms!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09...
Olympia is just trying to survive as a Fae in the human world as the fourth-best top bounty hunter locally. She lives in a small supernatural community that polices itself for the most part. She often crosses paths with other supernatural entities locally. None more frustrating to her than second to the Vampire Queen, Leandra. Leandra is sexy and savvy and somehow has a way of getting Olympia involved in her schemes.
The over-arching schemes and their hilarious interim results were thoroughly entertaining to me. Olympia is badass and no nonsense, cut off from her feelings and the Fae world she comes from. Leandra while being a strong vampire of high standing and over 124 years old, has a vulnerable and emotional side she shows to Olympia, which thoroughly confuses her and her emotions. She's leaving certain information out, which got a bit frustrating, but at the same time I couldn't help myself from finding her utterly endearing.
There's some sexy scenes, and even some touching moments being said and also left unsaid. It's both frustrating and yet filled with anticipation, because you know these two get each other, and would do anything for one-another - yet Olympia mainly just needs to recognize their spark as more than physical attraction. It ends with a Cliff-Hanger (Although wraps up nicely to a degree) I just desperately want to read the next installment(s) to find out what happens next to these awesome, savvy, infuriating characters!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09...
Olympia is just trying to survive as a Fae in the human world as the fourth-best top bounty hunter locally. She lives in a small supernatural community that polices itself for the most part. She often crosses paths with other supernatural entities locally. None more frustrating to her than second to the Vampire Queen, Leandra. Leandra is sexy and savvy and somehow has a way of getting Olympia involved in her schemes.
The over-arching schemes and their hilarious interim results were thoroughly entertaining to me. Olympia is badass and no nonsense, cut off from her feelings and the Fae world she comes from. Leandra while being a strong vampire of high standing and over 124 years old, has a vulnerable and emotional side she shows to Olympia, which thoroughly confuses her and her emotions. She's leaving certain information out, which got a bit frustrating, but at the same time I couldn't help myself from finding her utterly endearing.
There's some sexy scenes, and even some touching moments being said and also left unsaid. It's both frustrating and yet filled with anticipation, because you know these two get each other, and would do anything for one-another - yet Olympia mainly just needs to recognize their spark as more than physical attraction. It ends with a Cliff-Hanger (Although wraps up nicely to a degree) I just desperately want to read the next installment(s) to find out what happens next to these awesome, savvy, infuriating characters!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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January 12, 2022This is my debut sapphic urban fantasy release! I'm always interested in the urban fantasy genre but I've found myself bogged down by all the m/f pairings in them, so this is my take; note that this is not a romance! I'm working on the second book presently and it should be out some time in April. Cheers!
April 29, 2022
This was sooooo freaking fun.
And, why did I, for the love of God, missed a fact this is written in a series? I want more.
I will not get into the plot, it is fairly well written, the setup is great, especially the supernatural aspect. Still, it was a bit hard to swallow the fact (don't get me wrong, it was not spoiling my impression) that the story is placed within the current timeline. I am not sure why, maybe it is me.
I will keep this author on the radar. 4.4
And, why did I, for the love of God, missed a fact this is written in a series? I want more.
I will not get into the plot, it is fairly well written, the setup is great, especially the supernatural aspect. Still, it was a bit hard to swallow the fact (don't get me wrong, it was not spoiling my impression) that the story is placed within the current timeline. I am not sure why, maybe it is me.
I will keep this author on the radar. 4.4
January 28, 2022
Damn good debut book from the author. A twisty tale with intrigue, back-stabbing, spite and heat and well co-mingled characters. The leads are Olympia, a lowly fae bounty hunter and Leandra, a high ranked vampire. What a plot! Werewolves, vampires, fae, the town of Mayfair won't know what hit it. I was quickly immersed in the storyline and can't wait for book 2.
I rec'd a copy through Booksprout and this review is voluntary and unbiased.
My thumbs (in particular) haven't been working too well for the past few weeks so my reviews will be short and delayed for a little while
I rec'd a copy through Booksprout and this review is voluntary and unbiased.
My thumbs (in particular) haven't been working too well for the past few weeks so my reviews will be short and delayed for a little while
March 21, 2022
I did not expect this much entertainment from this book! The world build is fantastic, and it just made me realize how I love urban fantasy. Kudos for those quirky humor and hilarious banter; it delights my day! I can’t wait for book 2 to release
February 22, 2022
This was such a fun read that kept me on my toes. Get on it, folks!
September 21, 2025
I almost called it quits with this one because I wasn't sure what was going on a good chunk of the way through. At times, it was a little rough, the pacing being something that sticks out. There were some mystery elements, but I felt like I was kept quite in the dark until reveals happened.
I dont know if the two leads had very good chemistry, but I am a sucker for a chaotic love interest. I definitely am rooting for them in future books.
There were some hidden gem moments, but overall, it was a little too fast-paced to savor some of the moments I liked best. If you like paranormal fantasy, you may want to give it a try.
I dont know if the two leads had very good chemistry, but I am a sucker for a chaotic love interest. I definitely am rooting for them in future books.
There were some hidden gem moments, but overall, it was a little too fast-paced to savor some of the moments I liked best. If you like paranormal fantasy, you may want to give it a try.
June 8, 2024
Really confusing
This book has layers on layers. And they just got in the way of each other. And the trial scene was bullshit. Considering everything Olympia knew about the golem and the werewolf and she didn't say a thing in her defence? This was awful story telling If I'm honest.
This book has layers on layers. And they just got in the way of each other. And the trial scene was bullshit. Considering everything Olympia knew about the golem and the werewolf and she didn't say a thing in her defence? This was awful story telling If I'm honest.
November 29, 2023
I kept dropping my jaw while reading this, there are always unexpected turns around the corner and I loved it!
January 22, 2022
Really liked the f/f focus in this book. I read in two sittings and it kept my attention and didn’t want to put down. Love the fae/vampire focus, were a few unseen twists as well.
Overall, definitely would recommend!!!
Overall, definitely would recommend!!!
January 23, 2022
The story flowed pretty well. I was motivated to keep reading. The spicy bits were well written. The potential for more stories with some of the different community members is great.
February 12, 2024
Looking for an indie book about fae, vampires, werewolves, witches, and angry ghosts all living in one tiny community with lots of infighting? Kissed the Mark may be for you!
I love mythical fantasy creatures and was intrigued by the concept of a bounty hunter fae and vampire working together, but a lot of the plot decisions and some of the elements of Gwynn’s writing style made this a flop for me. I wasn’t sure who I was actually supposed to root for besides the main character (who I only rooted for because she was the main character). The relationship between her and Leandra was flimsy and not fleshed out. The community’s government was more fleshed out than their relationship.
Idk, I think me giving this three star is generous.
I love mythical fantasy creatures and was intrigued by the concept of a bounty hunter fae and vampire working together, but a lot of the plot decisions and some of the elements of Gwynn’s writing style made this a flop for me. I wasn’t sure who I was actually supposed to root for besides the main character (who I only rooted for because she was the main character). The relationship between her and Leandra was flimsy and not fleshed out. The community’s government was more fleshed out than their relationship.
Idk, I think me giving this three star is generous.
February 5, 2023
File this one under 'Books I Didn't Expect To Finish in One Night'. I'll be honest here, it started off rather mediocre, and I wasn't expecting much out of it, and then it took a sharp left turn out of nowhere into some weird territory and, I admit, it got me. When I mean weird, I mean vampire geese and time travel kind of weird. It also doesn't follow the kind of formula that most other books of its ilk follow.
One of the things that I really like is that the main character doesn't come off as somebody who always makes all the right, intelligent choices. She's the fourth best bounty hunter for a reason. Throughout the book, she follows her heart and makes really bad choices that she kind of knows are bad, but does them anyway. I like that in the end, she does something somewhat selfish which, again, isn't something I expected.
The only thing I didn't really like is that this is set in this podunk little town off the edge of St. Louis, which is filled with all manner of supernatural creatures. That wasn't the part that bothered me. Rather, it was the size of it was inconsistent. The way it describes the small city is that it's about the size of a college town (around 30,000 people or so) but everything is within walking distance. I've lived in a town that size and... no. Not really. Biking distance, sure, but walking everywhere would be a pain in the ass.
Still, that's just a bit of a nitpick. Overall, I rather enjoyed this book and will probably pick up the rest of the series. Four stars.
One of the things that I really like is that the main character doesn't come off as somebody who always makes all the right, intelligent choices. She's the fourth best bounty hunter for a reason. Throughout the book, she follows her heart and makes really bad choices that she kind of knows are bad, but does them anyway. I like that in the end, she does something somewhat selfish which, again, isn't something I expected.
The only thing I didn't really like is that this is set in this podunk little town off the edge of St. Louis, which is filled with all manner of supernatural creatures. That wasn't the part that bothered me. Rather, it was the size of it was inconsistent. The way it describes the small city is that it's about the size of a college town (around 30,000 people or so) but everything is within walking distance. I've lived in a town that size and... no. Not really. Biking distance, sure, but walking everywhere would be a pain in the ass.
Still, that's just a bit of a nitpick. Overall, I rather enjoyed this book and will probably pick up the rest of the series. Four stars.
February 17, 2022
Book 2 Can’t Come Fast Enough
What an awesome adventure from start to finish! There’s no shortage of urban fantasy books out there, but this one shines in a way that any fan of the genre (or any reader) will love. This story really has it all: a super-fun lead protagonist who has a razor-sharp personality and the fighting skills to match; a meticulously crafted setting that breathes new life into tired supernatural tropes and even draws in some less-known ones (the attention on Faerie-world and beings is particularly interesting, since the main character is part faerie); plus, a well-written plot that keeps the reader engaged until the very last word.
The author has stipulated that this is not a romance book. However, the incredible chemistry between bounty hunter Olympia and the vampire Leandra WILL make you feel things. They’re a duo that brims with Sapphic energy, and while the plot is not defined by their deepening relationship, it’s certainly enhanced. I don’t want to spoil anything, but the last page will leave you desperate for more just like I am.
What an awesome adventure from start to finish! There’s no shortage of urban fantasy books out there, but this one shines in a way that any fan of the genre (or any reader) will love. This story really has it all: a super-fun lead protagonist who has a razor-sharp personality and the fighting skills to match; a meticulously crafted setting that breathes new life into tired supernatural tropes and even draws in some less-known ones (the attention on Faerie-world and beings is particularly interesting, since the main character is part faerie); plus, a well-written plot that keeps the reader engaged until the very last word.
The author has stipulated that this is not a romance book. However, the incredible chemistry between bounty hunter Olympia and the vampire Leandra WILL make you feel things. They’re a duo that brims with Sapphic energy, and while the plot is not defined by their deepening relationship, it’s certainly enhanced. I don’t want to spoil anything, but the last page will leave you desperate for more just like I am.
March 23, 2023
I have been reading sapphic romance book for a long time, and in the past few years I have gotten into sapphic fantasy. I truly have read much of the genre. My only issue is that I usually end up skipping a lot of the plot that's unrelated to the romance itself because I find it uninteresting. This is the first book (and the first series in general), that I have diligently read every single word. It was just perfect for me.
The romance was fantastic, because it was real. It was not love at first sight, and not even lust at first sight. It took time to build, and it was imperfect, but it was always hot (like super fucking hot). I am also a huge fan of femme/femme, and this book delivered perfectly!
The characters was beautifully written, and I even read all of the side plots, which never happens!! I literally loved every side character and their contribution to the plot line.
The plot was fascinating and always surprising, the world building was great and I simply loved it all.
Again - this never happens, I have never managed to truly enjoy the fantasy and plot part of the book without the romance, and here I did. So I HIGHLY recommend this book to everyone who likes to mix urban fantasy and romance, and I cannot wait to see what this author will write next!
The romance was fantastic, because it was real. It was not love at first sight, and not even lust at first sight. It took time to build, and it was imperfect, but it was always hot (like super fucking hot). I am also a huge fan of femme/femme, and this book delivered perfectly!
The characters was beautifully written, and I even read all of the side plots, which never happens!! I literally loved every side character and their contribution to the plot line.
The plot was fascinating and always surprising, the world building was great and I simply loved it all.
Again - this never happens, I have never managed to truly enjoy the fantasy and plot part of the book without the romance, and here I did. So I HIGHLY recommend this book to everyone who likes to mix urban fantasy and romance, and I cannot wait to see what this author will write next!
September 1, 2023
This book reminds of one of my favourite shows; Killjoys, with the bounty hunting, witty comebacks and the anti-heroes. I loved the antagonist hate/love relationship and banter between Olympia and Leandra. It was cute.
It took me about 9 chapters in to understand the world building, stakes and the plot. The story is self aware and bizarre, although the murder mystery aspect was a bit lacking because there wasn’t much detail given or any suspense built. The fantasy is kinda a hotchpotch of multiple supernatural, religious and mythical creatures, from Jewish folklore, Celtic stories and more popular urban fantasy stables like vampires, witches and werewolves. And on top of all that there was time travel. I will say the plot was unique and I can’t wait to read the next book.
It took me about 9 chapters in to understand the world building, stakes and the plot. The story is self aware and bizarre, although the murder mystery aspect was a bit lacking because there wasn’t much detail given or any suspense built. The fantasy is kinda a hotchpotch of multiple supernatural, religious and mythical creatures, from Jewish folklore, Celtic stories and more popular urban fantasy stables like vampires, witches and werewolves. And on top of all that there was time travel. I will say the plot was unique and I can’t wait to read the next book.
June 22, 2023
A fairy bounty hunter and a vampire with a strange request. An unusual team, but all it not what it seems, and things very quickly get complicated. Olympia and Leandra do make a great pair, though.
Well written and engaging, there is a lot going on, and lots of twists as the story unfolds. Details of the world are revealed as the story progresses, showing a rich and interesting setting, and the tale very much draws you in.
What can I say? I really enjoyed the story, and regret not having read it earlier. I pretty much devoured it in a day, absorbed in the story, wanting to see what happened next and how the situations would resolve. A great start to the first part of the trilogy.
Well written and engaging, there is a lot going on, and lots of twists as the story unfolds. Details of the world are revealed as the story progresses, showing a rich and interesting setting, and the tale very much draws you in.
What can I say? I really enjoyed the story, and regret not having read it earlier. I pretty much devoured it in a day, absorbed in the story, wanting to see what happened next and how the situations would resolve. A great start to the first part of the trilogy.
January 10, 2023
I'm not too familiar with fairy lore and the only other thing I know of that has a lot of fae stuff is the Lost Girl TV series. The goofiness of this book reminds me of that. Full of nonsensical hijinks and millennial references. It was funny at times and frustrating at others. Olympia is quite incompetent and her relationship with Leandra doesn't really go into full swing. I like the potential of this series though so will be looking into the sequel.
April 7, 2024
This wasn't great, but I kinda liked the oddly whimsical of the main vampire character, and I was hopeful there would be more pining and sex, so I kept reading. Then I read the next two, also. There's more adventure here than romance; I would have preferred more romance/angst/sex, but, whatever. It was OK.
April 30, 2022
very enjoyable
I was pleasantly surprised by this book and I have grown very attached to the characters! There’s adventure, sex(not quite romance-at least not yet) and many undertones that make for a fun filled ride. I’m already looking out for the sequel!
I was pleasantly surprised by this book and I have grown very attached to the characters! There’s adventure, sex(not quite romance-at least not yet) and many undertones that make for a fun filled ride. I’m already looking out for the sequel!
March 26, 2023
I had so much fun with this book! It was funny, twisty, sexy and gripping. Olympia was likable, even when she wasn't making the best decisions, and Leandra was very mysterious and intriguing. Will read the sequel soonish.
March 4, 2024
I love fae, I love sapphic stories, and I enjoy vampires. This book covered all bases. The world building was solid, the mystery kept me going, and Olympia’s banter with Leandra had me snickering often.
Fun read.
Fun read.
June 7, 2022
Fantasy
This book is fantasy with all the usual wolves, fairies and such but such a different twist. More darker and better. I won this book on #goodreads giveaways
This book is fantasy with all the usual wolves, fairies and such but such a different twist. More darker and better. I won this book on #goodreads giveaways
February 26, 2023
the very beginning is a lot of exposition, but it really sucked me in after that
March 5, 2023
3.5
book is rated as being “dark” on storygraph and the darkest thing about this book is that everyone is nocturnal 😐
book is rated as being “dark” on storygraph and the darkest thing about this book is that everyone is nocturnal 😐
December 18, 2023
Unpleasant people being petty and nasty to each other for no apparent reason. I don’t mind enemies to lovers, but they should at least have some sort of wary respect. None of that here.
February 7, 2025
Carter and Leandra are so cute. Vampire-hunter is so cute
April 24, 2023
It's cute, dark, mysterious, and has quite a lot of surprisingly good comedic and cultural references in it. I forgot to leave a review when I first read it, but here it is now. I can't wait to read the next one.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews