The Wicked Kiss

Alexa O'Brien, Huntress #2

by Trina M. Lee

Huntress Book 2:

When two men share the heart of the same woman, the drama escalates quickly. Alexa O'Brien's two lovers have been at each other's throats. The fact that one is her wolf mate and the other, a vampire bonded to her by power, only increases the tension. She fears being forced to choose between them, knowing it's something she cannot do.

Due to the bond she shares with her vampire lover, Arys Knight, Alexa has more power than she knows how to handle. Soon, power hungry creatures are drawn to her, including Arys' sire, Harley Kayson. Believing he is entitled to her, Harley makes it his personal mission to get a taste of Alexa for himself, whether she likes it or not. If he doesn't kill her, she just might wish that he had.

Alexa's wolf mate, Shaz Richardson, feels the need to prove his dominance after a nasty dispute with a fellow werewolf. The battle for Alpha Male ensues, a position left unclaimed since the death of the former pack leader. Despite fearing for him, Alexa has no choice but to support the man that has loved her unconditionally, even at her worst.

Alexa feels as if nothing remains within her control, least of all the precarious co-existence between her two men. When she learns of the one potential way to protect herself from Harley, she is faced with the biggest decision yet. This one decision will forever alter her very mortality, but can her lovers put aside their differences when it matters most?

Genres: Paranormal, Vampires, Romance, Urban Fantasy, Werewolves, Fantasy, Paranormal Romance

253 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 9, 2009

About the author

I am the author of the Alexa O’Brien Huntress and the Rebel Heart series. I write urban fantasy that is dark and gritty with a twist of romance and horror but which is ultimately about people in dark places discovering who they are and what they’re made of.

I’ve been writing since the age of 9 when I had a Christmas themed short story published in the local town paper. A lover of rock music, vampires and muscle cars, I’m a dreamer who always secretly wanted to be a rockstar.

I love to hear from readers so don’t hesitate to drop me a line.

Reviews

[Elise ✘ a.k.a Ryder's Pet ✘ · Rating 2 out of 5]

He never even attempted to discourage me from going back like most men would, Arys included. Instead, he offered to face potential danger alongside me rather than tell me what to do. It was just one more thing that set him apart from the rest.

I knew I was going to hate this book when I started reading it, but I couldn't help it, I wanted more Arys. However, I'm so dumb! I need to stop torturing myself with this series!

“I know that, Arys. But, don’t underestimate me. I take out vamps like him all the time.” It irritated me that he spoke to me like I was defenseless.

Omg, I cannot, for the life of me, think of another character that I hate more than Alexa. She's selfish peace of shit. She only think of herself, she is too fucking cocky, too damn high on herself, that I'm ashamed of her. Alexa thinks she is simply the best. No, she doesn't say the exact words, but if you read this book, you will understand what I mean. She is the worst character I have had the un-luck of meeting. Horrible person. I hate, hate, hate her. I hope she dies.

“I want to know what Arys has that I don’t. I want to know what is so important that he is willing to destroy anything that dares to threaten you. Clearly he loves you, yet he chooses not to bond you.”

Alexa's mate, Shaz, is the most boring character I've met. He is so damn naive, and stupid as fuck. I simply don't get him, at all. He lets Alexa get away with too much, hell everyone lets the bitch get away with too much. She need to be put down some notches/knock her down a peg (or two). On the other hand, they kinda deserve each other, simply because of my dislike (hate for Alexa) for them.

“Alexa, I have never been more alive in the past few centuries than I am right now, with you.” He paused, second-guessing himself, and I turned to plant an encouraging kiss in the palm of his hand where it continued to stroke my cheek. “You are the only light in my dark world. All I see … is you.”

I am sorry if I offend people with this review, but I cannot help the hate I feel for the two main characters. I simply don't understand the way they are, nor can I understand people's love for them two. The only people who made this book worth reading (hell who am I kidding, I almost regret reading this one...waste of time) is Arys, Kale and Harly. Harly is a new character we meet in this book He is quite interesting and his past with Arys will be interesting to find out... Kale, cool guy, with a dark and tortures past is a mystery that I want to solve..

“Don’t say it,” he said, placing a finger over my lips. “You love the white wolf.” Knocking his finger away, I rose up on tiptoes to better look him in the eyes. “I do. And, he has his own place within me. As do you.” He wanted to believe me, but Arys didn’t know how to be loved any better than I had just a few months ago.

Arys though..is the main reason I am even considering continuing with this series and that is saying much. Arys is simply amazing. I love his bad side and wicked sense and his sexy mind. I love everything about that vampire, and my heart breaks for him because of the way that stupid bitch, Alexa, treats him. I want to slap her, stab her, torture her.. Fuck, I even want to kill her. Arys should leave her sorry ass and come to me. I'll treasure him as he deserve.

“Arys is notorious in this city for being the kind of guy you tiptoe around if you don’t want to get killed. He has a tendency of making sure everyone weaker than him knows it.”

[keikii Eats Books · Rating 3 out of 5]

Alexa O'brien is stupider and more impulsive than Rachel Morgan.

[Elaine Howlin · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5/5 Not much happening in this one, focuses mainly on Alexa's relationships.

[Kim Chappell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series. Alexa and Shaz are now a mated pair and he is determined to prove is can be her Alpha in the pack. He is very protective over her in this book except towards Arys. He and the vampire seem to come to an understanding about Alexa in this book which is strange because a mated werewolf ususally doesn't share his mate with anyone not even if she is bonded to him in a metaphysical way.

Kalaria was dating Kale the hot vampire for several months and he fell in love with her. She couldn't give him blood like he wanted and she didn't like the fact that he would go to the Wicked Kiss and take blood from donors and have sex instead of just draining assholes like Arys does. But Kale has his reasons for what he does. Even though they broke up she gets worried when he dissappears for a few days a Lex goes looking for him at the Wicked Kiss. She finds him with some girl and he kicks her out and agrees to leave with her. On the way to his house he gets turned on by Lex's smell and power and bites her. Lex knocks him out and takes him home and leaves him. Things get strange between the two of them.

Harley is Arys sire and he showed up at Alexa's work as a client. He was really only their to scare her and to see why Arys hasn't blood bonded her since he is in love with her and her blood is so tantalizing. Harley finally leaves, but Lex is to scared to leave and she left her phone in the car and can't call Shaz. What I don't understand is why not use the office phone to call him or Arys for help. She waits till sun down to leave. When she gets home Shaz is frantic and Arys wants her to call immediately. He says he will she her that night to discuss Harley. Of course when he gets there Shaz and Arys do get in a physcial fight over Alexa about Harley coming after her. He wants her as a toy and to blood bond her since Arys has yet to do this. Kylaria breaks up the fight and Arys leaves and tells Lex she needs to do something with both of them.

Lex can't keep her hands off either of them. She sleeps with Shaz and leaves and goes to Arys and has sex with him too. They both tell her they don't want her to be alone any more, because she is in danger with Harley around and she agrees for the most part.

Alexa is suppose to be the Alpha badass werewolf but gets caught off gaurd in the park by a werewolf and instead of her just turning and kicking its ass she runs. She gets to the bar and tells Shaz what happens. This werewolf is a mate to a shewolf her and Kale took out a few nights ago. As Shaz is getting ice for her back to help clean her up Arys comes in and sees what happened and he is pissed too. They decide to handle to problem together. They take out the werewolf as a team. Shaz takes him down and Arys sucks him dry.

Shaz comes to an understanding of how Alexa needs Arys with the bloodlust cravings. On Halloween Lex shows up to the bar a Sexy Little Red Riding Hood and Shaz in behind the bar and his temp rises when he sees her. Lex's wolf comes out when she sees him in his leather pants and tight shirt. They decide the are going for a quicky in 15 mins out back and Arys comes in dressed sexy and gets her heart pumping to. She makes a comment to him that she has more than she can handle tonight. He takes that as a challenge and laughs. He tells her he dressed in costume just for her. When she sees Shaz waiting for her she goes to him and Arys disappears, they go out back and get it on and the next thing she knows she senses Arys. She turns and he is in the alley with them and he comes up behind her while she is riding Shaz. Shaz actually allows it, he just watches the vampire and seems to get turned on when he bites Lex's neck. Shaz even licks Lex's blood that runs down her neck just inches from Arys's face. She climaxes and they all seperate with nothing said and someone comes out and says a fight is going on in the bar and Shaz is needed.

On the night of the full moon its time for the fight of Alpha of the pack. Shaz takes his submissive role to Alexa with no problem baring his neck to her, but Julian doesn't want to at all. She hopes he choses not to so she can take him out herself. He decides to bare his neck and she lightly bites it and backs away and starts the fight between him and Shaz. Shaz is fired up and Lex and Kalaria are nervous about the whole thing. Lex know Shaz can take him but doesn't want it to go to the point of death but wants everyone to know who the winner is. Shaz kicks Julian's ass and everyone bares their neck to him as the new Alpha of the pack except for Julian. So now he has no protection for the pack. Shaz and Alexa are now the mated Alpha pair.

Lex finally decides that Rouls place is a comfort to her than a place of dread and bad memories. She starts staying there wher Ky and Julian can stay together at the other house. Whats strange is she doesn't just stay at Roul's with Shaz, Arys stays with them.

Lex is dealing with her 2 men, Harley and finds out Kale is dreaming of her which makes things a little strange for her.

I love this book it is full of excitement and passion.

[Theresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this second installment to the series, we see the tension and passion blaze between Alexa, Ayrs, and Shaz...when Alexa falls into danger related to a dangerous man from Ayrs' past, differences must be put aside and life changing decisions made...I enjoyed this read with it's action packed moments and continued secrets revealed about the pasts of our characters...it continues to keep me intrigued as to where this story is leading and how the characters will manage the challenges they are confronted with...however, my own personal struggles is the continued trio relationship (maybe I am just a traditionalist at heart, but I love a "typical" relationship)...I would like to see Alexa choose ( I know who I am rooting for:)); it can grate on me this repeated notion that she has no control over her feelings and needs; I understand that each of these men call to completely different sides of her, but I would like to see a shift in this dynamic (I am not sure I will get my wish:( )...when the book is more focused on the developing storyline, I feel intrigued and interested in the book, I get somewhat deterred when the relationship aspect becomes the focus...still wanting to learn more of the story, I will continue on with the series...4 stars:)

[J.C. Cauthon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this novel. For one, I got to see more of the characters from the first novel in this series, Once Bitten, and we got to delve further into Arys's dirty little past. As wicked as his sire is, he is still a character that was complete. He had his weaknesses and he had his strengths, and he knew how to play off both.

I also got to see more of the vampire side of life, which helped to bring more of the setting and plot into view. As readers, we got to see the ugly side of it as well, with the bar, The Wicked Kiss.

There was conflict, passion, disappointment, and heartbreak at every page turn, so it definitely keeps a reader going. I actually had trouble putting this one down, reading into the wee hours of morning.

I would definitely recommend this book to other readers who love this genre, as it is an unforgettable read.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok - so book 1 got my attention and took me for an action packed ride with an Alpha woman! Book 2 makes me blood boil from all the action and steam coming from the main characters! Yes - there is violence - and it just get's deeper - yes there is sex - and it just get's hotter. I enjoyed the storyline. The writing continues to be excellent as is the editing.

Purchased book 3 before I even finished this one. I'm into the series in a big way!

[Izzy · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a book, it was OK. I really didn't like the love triangle/ménage a trois element but I assumed it would be dealt with soon. I was completely wrong.
I've just read up on spoilers and have decided to abandon the series. For those who're interested, this series soon starts to go down the Anita Blake road.

[Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book in the series :)

[Haylee Tippett · Rating 5 out of 5]

AHHH o my.

I love this series. It is far from dull.
The Characters keep you begging for more.

[Toni ~married to a hunk~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was another great turn in this series. I can't wait to see what will happen with Arys. I love Shaz and wish she could just have him.

[onceuponatimeareview · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great second book. Loved everything about it.

[Nhien H. McCormick · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m getting increasingly sick of Alexa’s immaturity and general stupidity. She decides to waltz into a vampire bar alone, and when Arys comes over rightfully upset and concerned, she blames him. “Don’t tell me what to do” “You should’ve told me about how dangerous the club was and who ran it” and my favourite “it’s your fault, you’re putting me in dangerous situations” when she did it 💀.

Like girl I’m not even halfway through this book and I still can’t stand her. She’s using Arys for his power, and upset that there’s side affects like the bond. She had no hesitation in exploiting Arys’s powers and help when necessary but honestly treats him like shit, when it takes two to tango.

Her stupid mate Shaz is the most boring and naive character ever, he says “pal” in a fight, yeah. It’s giving dumb white boy. He’s basically the one holding Alexa back from exploring her true powers because every time she gets a little power from Arys, it’s always “omg I can’t do this to Shaz”.

Arys, Kale, Jez and Kylarai are the only interesting characters here, it says a lot that the main character isn’t included. She’s self absorbed and exceedingly conceited, not even in a cute way. Just in a dumb blonde, i-place-myself-and-every-one-around-me-in-danger way. I give it two stars because I’m holding up hope that Alexa loses her dumb as shit attitude and becomes an actual badass. She has potential. I also have hopes that Shaz will fuck off somewhere and let Arys and Alexa form an actual interesting relationship, I seriously skip the sex scenes or a lot of dialogue between Alexa and Shaz. It’s so mind numbingly boring.

[Amy Friedentag · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Wicked Kiss is book two in this series, and we continue to dive deeper into Alexa’s world, as new characters emerge and situations arise from previously transpired events. The author has created such an array of secondary characters and plots, adding layers of action, complication and decision-making for Alexa and her gang. Meanwhile, Alexa is still discovering her new found powers from her bond with Ares, while managing feelings for both the vampire, and her wolf mate, Shaz. This book definitely has a lot going on! I love how everything weaved together and look forward to uncovering how all the pieces and players move forward. I enjoyed the insight into Ares’ past and the character growth of Shaz, and after what occured at the end of this installment… we’ll just have to see what’s in store next for this trio of lovers and how they will stand up to their enemies.

Listened to on audio: Sarah Puckett did another amazing job on narration. I’m always delighted with her pace and how well she distinguishes characters for an easy-to-follow and pleasurable listening experience.

#AudiobookObsession

[Shakera · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a little torn about this one... on one hand, I enjoyed the story. I thought some things were a bit repetitive, but that can be overlooked. On the other hand, I really wished this was a harem. Everyone wants a shot at Alexa, and given the description of a couple of them, I'd give them a shot too. The issue I had was I thought if this wasn't going to be a harem, she would pick one... but she doesn't... which is fine, but I was a little thrown with the threesome. I didn't see that coming, given other paranormal books I've read. Vampires and werewolves don't like to share, however... I didn't mind it one bit! That part was spicy! I did enjoy the action with a villain Alexa wasn't sure she could defeat. It felt like it knocked her down a peg. I appreciated the character development of Shaz, also getting more vampire backstory was great. Sarah Puckett was fantastic. I haven't gone wrong yet with a book she's narrated. She really brought this to life. All of this is what makes this a 4 star!

[Amy Dexter · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the second book I’ve read by this author. I chose to read this author as it has loads of books in the series and I love to read several books one after another to really get into the characters and stories. These are lengthy books which is a good but equally not sure whether I’m loving this series. Loads of really good characters - I’m just not swooning over it. Like Alexa as the main werewolf/vampire hybrid- like Shaz (other than his name) the alpha and also Arys the vampire, making this little trio quite sweet!!! Not so sure that’s the look we want though is it? It is very YA which possibly is stopping me from getting into series. Will try next book - hoping it’ll be a little bit grittier. Don’t let this put you off though - as it’s not my usual genre to read. Ones I’ve read similar in the past, have had a bit more to them - more edgie and dark.

[Courtney Walker · Rating 2 out of 5]

I can’t anymore

Okay so not trying to be mean but come on... there is no actual character development happening here! The idea with the mcs was a good one but it isn’t going anywhere and the plot is jumping around so much that I don’t really want to keep up with it because nothing feels important enough to do so. I can’t anymore with this fake bad ass chick character either. The author has given us the hint of the mc as a “independent kick ass heroine” when really she’s a confused, scared baby who sticks her head in the sand when it comes to her problems and throws temper tantrums when she’s scared instead of actually doing anything. Come on. I could only get to 34% I can’t anymore.

[bluepits73 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to the audiobook version of this book.

Can be read as a standalone but would be best if you read or listen to Once Bitten first. I love that this series is entirely unique. Alexa is a one of a kind being and I love how strong she is as a female main character. This book in the series seemed way more suspenseful to me than book 1, there is a lot of action that force our love triangle to ban together. It doesn't really end on a cliffhanger, but this you'll definitely be wanting more. It does have some very steamy scenes thrown in the mix and overall it is well written. 

Sarah Puckett gives us another phenomenal performance, as usual. I love her ability to distinguish voices and keep us captivated with just the right amount of dramatization. 

[Brianna Belbin · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Wicked Kiss was just as good as the first! I loved the character development for Shaz because he really grew up between these two books. The relationship between the trio also developed (mainly for Alexa’s safety and protection) and got steamier as a whole. I thought it was great that this book focused a little more on the vampire world and Arys’ past. I can’t wait to see what’s coming next!
Once again, Sarah did an amazing job with her narration! I really do enjoy how much passion she puts into her performance to give it life.
*I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
@AudiobookObsession

[Megan (BookWifeReviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great continuation of the series. Alexa and Ayrs have their vampire bond thing going on and Shaz(sp?) is her mate. I just finished this book and I’m sitting here trying to explain what all happens... and stuff happens but o also feel like it isn’t a significant amount of things. Ayrs sire is in town and he wants Alexa. This book is pretty much about that.. her relationships with the two guys grow and that’s about it. Don’t get me wrong I enjoyed this book very much but it also felt kind of like a filler.

#audiobookobsessionreviewerw

[Amanda- LateNightReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second audiobook of the Alexa O'Brien Huntress Series really was amazing. I enjoyed the first book, but it was the second book that really made me interested in reading/listening to the rest of the series. I'm actually halfway done with the 3rd book already. I really hope the author continues to make these books into audio. Sarah Puckett did an amazing job with the narration, as usual. (She's my fav!). I can't wait for more!
~This book was given to me at my request (Thank you AudiobookObession, you guys are amazing!) I am providing an honest and voluntary review.

[Ally reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

SPOILER ALERT!!!!

Just as good, if not better than the first book in this series. The author has a way of making the characters feel so real; as if you actually know them. I find myself rushing home from work to read about their latest adventures. My heart was pounding and I had butterflies in my stomach when I read about Alexis seeing Shaz and Arys on Halloween night at Lucy's lounge. I felt like I was right there with them. What an amazing author, I LOVE this series!!!

[Jutta · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love that due to Sarah Puckett's narration all the characters are easily recognisable and I felt immediately comfortable listening to this the second book in this series.

I have to say I enjoyed this book much more than the first and I'm not quite sure why. I loved watching the relationships between the characters as they grow and work things out. And the messes they get themselves into and out of. A great second book and I'm eagerly looking forward to the next book.

[Anla Gisclair-Etheridge · Rating 3 out of 5]

The author didn't describe her hair every time her hair was mentioned in this book. which was great. So I was already less annoyed by that. I didn't like this one as much as book one. I felt there were plot holes. There were things that dragged on. There were things that were rushed. Not a favorite.

[Penny · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wicked Kiss - Alexa O'Brien

When they talked about the wicked kiss I knew Alexa was going to be bonded to Arya. Why Harley is obsessed with Arya is beyond me? I only see that Alexa has too much power for one so young in supernatural years.

[Sue MacKenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shows you that it pays to think outside the square

Wow. Just as good as the first one. Curious to see where Alexa goes from here. This series has been well worth my time and will be well worth yours.

[Alisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book. I think loving two men is sexy. I give this book a five stars.

Because it was a really good book. And I would tell my friends about the book so they can start reading it.

[Brooke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Extending the story of the first book in this series, we get so much more depth of the characters and how they all fit together so perfectly (even if not willingly). I enjoyed this book and it has left me looking for more in the next.

[DMA · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant!

What a superb second book in this series. Compelling, complex and combative - Alexas life gets more difficult with every breath she takes and simple relationships are not in her wheel house. She is just trying to roll with the punches.
Not to be missed.

[Debs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fab read

Another fab read in this collection. Alexa's vampire mate and wolf mate are beginning to accept each other but there is another who want Alexa all to himself. Hot read.