Touch

by K. Marie Smith

The world I grew up in was not for the faint of heart. As much as I'd like to say it was hard work and determination that got me through it all, in hindsight I believe only the luckiest survive the kind of crap I've been through. All that I have endured has forged my body and trained me to fight and never give up. My reward for all those efforts was getting myself a position in the Mercenary guild. I'm not saying everyone in there are all lions with hearts of gold, but they're not a bad group of people; I could've fallen into a worse crowd by far.
My early life has certainly been a rocky road, but it was one still worth living once I got into a good groove--a real treat after the hardcore crap I had to go through to get to that point. But as fate would have it, my hard-earned world and lifestyle came to a crashing halt in a blaze of politics, fine silks, a handsome face, and lots and lots of Fae.
When I got the posting from the Master, a very high-paying noble job, I didn't ask questions for many reasons. Do the research, survey every angle, plot the approach, and execute the plan. It had been a mantra of mine for four years of working for him and it worked.
I should've asked questions.
So I researched the Duke of Eddington, the youngest Prince to the Imperial King. I studied his habits, his hobbies, his interests, and his political maneuvers. Surveilled his movements, watched him make his plans for his Duketon, his private moments of weakness, his social coalition even. I knew it all. Hell, I even knew what foods he didn't like and why.
Yet when I had finally set the plan into motion, everything went completely awry. I should've known it was a ploy from the start. And now, I'm running for my life from Nobles and Fae, dragging a Duke with me and trying to figure out who set me up.

246 pages, Paperback

Published October 21, 2022

Reviews

[Stevie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing book. I absolutely love this book and the book cover. Zera is a badass that take on jobs as well as fights to end the slave trade she previously escaped. Thierry is a prince on a mission as well. Their world collides when thing get very serious. I can relate to Zera’s hate for morning. She is just way more badass than me. Thierry gives off sweet boyfriend vibes but also seems like he will do whatever it takes to protect those he cares about. That is something they have in common. They find out things aren’t as they seem. With more things coming to light, more things become complicated. They way this book ends just warmed my heart. I love it but I need to find out what happens next. It is so so good. There are a few characters from this book that I absolutely hate. I think we all can agree on who those are. 10/10 recommend this book.

[Natasha Wall · Rating 5 out of 5]

K. Marie Smith hit it out of the park with her debut novel. Touch has everything you can ask for. Action, adventure, romance, comedy, and so much more. I cannot tell you how many times I laughed OUT LOUD at Zera’s quick wit. I love that K. Marie Smith shared her experiences through fictional characters (which makes them relatable). Strongly suggest reading this one!

[Erin Graves · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was on the list of Advanced Readers and this book had me hanging on for more at every turn! Well written, fast paced without seeming rushed, we'll fleshed out characters, it had everything I was looking for in a novel! And to hear that it is going to be part of a series that isn't going to take years to get to the next book makes it even better!

[Shirley Binkley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is by far one of the best I’ve read in quite awhile. I highly recommend it. I am super excited for the next books. The plot is beautifully written and kept me waiting to know what’s next. I haven’t read a book so fast in years. All the props to the author she did a fantastic job.

[Becki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love being immersed in a new world, and this book delivers! The author's writing allows you to get lost in her world. Zera's strength gives readers strength while working through her own traumas. I am excited to see where this story leads!

[Shirley Binkley]

Amazing book with a great story line. It hooks you in and I couldn’t put it down. By far one of the best I’ve read in a long time 10 out of 10 highly recommend.

[Natheerah Lucas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved it can't wait for Sight super excited!!!!

[Amanda Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. A string FMC that overcomes her trauma and becomes a badass with some romance thrown in. Can’t wait to read more from this author.

[Elaine Schulte · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic story by a new author. It's full of action, magic, humor, a little romance, and a woman healing from abuse and rising above her circumstances to be pretty badass. All around, it's an awesome book and I can't wait to read the next one.

[Barbra Forth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can't pass up on a woman who stands up and chooses to no longer be a victim and goes all out revenge. With the added magic makes for a fun ride.

[Brooke · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was fantastic! It was the first time I've read a Fae book and K. Marie Smith made me an instant fan. This book had suspense and spice. I loved it. Can't wait for book 2!

[Jay myrandomspace2023 · Rating 3 out of 5]

So, this has A LOT of over description to me, and yes I know it's needed for world building. However, I feel like it eclipsed the actual story which had amazing potential.