5/5
A must read!
Thank you NetGalley for the eARC. This book put me on my path to Sam Crescent so thank you. This book was so good ! I loved it! I love the action and the entire storyline! A must read!
Killer of Kings, 1
Viper has always been a bastard, a nightmare, death for hire. He's known for his swift kills, so he isn't surprised when he's offered seven figures for a new hit. It’s supposed to be a quick find and eliminate. When his mark turns out to be an innocent twenty-year old with big blue eyes, he shouldn’t care one way or another—but he does. Viper wants to keep her for himself.
Pepper’s step-father killed her mother, and she’s been on the run ever since. When a hitman shows up on her doorstep, covered in ink, and strapped with heat, she expects to be his next victim. But she’s wrong. Viper keeps her safe from the mercenaries hoping to cash in on the world-wide contract on her head. He’s everything she’s not, but she still finds herself falling hard for her captor.
With the odds against them, and death waiting around every corner, can they find true love in each other? Or is Viper only interested in taking her innocence?
Be Warned: anal sex, spanking
Excerpt:
Pepper was a hot mess. She was overly tired, stressed, scared, and her self-esteem was at an all-time low. Not to mention her unacceptable attraction for Viper was growing stronger. When Lola had touched Viper at the hotel, something burned inside of Pepper. It was jealousy, white, hot, and potent. It didn’t help that Lola had a figure fit for magazine covers, and Pepper was plain and pudgy. God, she wanted Viper to want her. As stupid as it sounded, it was all-consuming. When he started telling her how perfect she was, it stung. If anyone was perfect, it was the muscled Adonis staring down at her like she was a problem to solve. Pepper was anything but perfect, so he was either being an asshole or wanted to steal her virginity.
“For God’s sake, Pepper…”
“Get off of me!”
“How the hell am I mocking you? By telling you you’re perfect?”
“Yes, because we both know it’s a lie.”
She could barely struggle, his rock-hard body sandwiching her with the car. He secured both her wrists in his iron fists at the sides of her head. Her breasts were thrust up, creating mountainous cleavage at the top of her dress. He waited for her to lose steam. Part of her expected him to hit her like her stepfather had. How could a killer be so composed?
“Listen, I’m wet, I’m muddy, and it’s taking all my self-control not to fuck you right here, right now. I’m trying to be a gentleman, but you have no idea the things I’d like to do to you, starting with these gorgeous tits of yours.” His cock pressed against her stomach, a testament to his words.
Pepper froze, his dirty words replaying over in her head. He was so unapologetic and no holds barred. And those black, evil eyes watched her like she was something to eat, and she liked it.
This time he released her hands and leaned low to whisper in her ear. “I’ve been with a lot of women. They meant nothing to me.” He took a deep breath at the base of her neck. “You. You drive me crazy. And I hate being out of control.”
“Viper…”
He licked the trails of rain water off her cheek, and she trembled, resting her hands on his biceps. Even through his leather coat, she could feel the hardness of his muscles. “If you think I was attracted to Lola, you’re wrong. I’m a big man—I need curves, and you have more than enough to keep me satisfied.”
She gasped.
Viper ran his hand into her slick hair, then secured a handful, tucking her head to the side. He ran his tongue over his teeth, a feral need in his eyes. “I’ve never kissed a woman.”
“How’s that possible?”
“It’s too intimate. I only fuck.”
Would she be different? Could he change for her? Even a mercenary had to crave love. Didn’t everyone? Pepper knew there was evil in the world, but she saw goodness in Viper. He might not admit it, but she saw something inside him worth saving.
“Maybe you should change that.” She wanted him to kiss her, her entire body braced in anticipation. His lips were thick, his rough scar making him appear dangerous and unbelievably sexy. His reluctance only made her crave him more.
He released his hold on her hair, tracing the pad of his thumb along the moisture of her bottom lip. “You don’t know what you’re asking.”
- Series:
- /series-killer-of-kings/
Product Reviews
4/5
Fun
A big thank you to NetGalley and Evernight Publishing for the eARC. I am voluntarily reviewing this book. This is the first in a new series. I truly didn't like the names of the people-that was my biggest gripe. I get that he is an assassin and that is not his real name but really Viper? and Boss? I didn't know what to think of Pepper as she seemed clueless and unable to help herself. Her stepdad was horrible. This was not my usual read so I think I am not sure what to think. I did enjoy it and I did yell in my head at the characters, so I guess I was invested. This is truly pretty unbelievable but what do I know. It was still fun. 4 stars
5/5
5 stars
Loved reading the engaging and captivating story by the fabulous duo authors, Sam Crescent and Stacey Espino. Viper, one of the Killer of Kings, is hired to murder a beautiful, young woman, Piper, but he ends up protecting her. Read the highly recommended, wonderfully written full of romance and action, and a must read love story. Can't wait to read the next book in the series! I just reviewed Taking Her Innocence by Sam Crescent, Stacey Espino. #TakingHerInnocence #NetGalley
4/5
4 stars
Taking Her Innocence by Sam Crescent, Stacey Espino is the First book in the Killer of Kings Series. This is the story of Pepper and Viper. Viper is a heartless hit-man who doesn't do emotions. But when he is hired to kill a Pepper she clicks something inside of him. This was a quick hot read.
4/5
4 stars
Taking Her Innocence by Sam Crescent, Stacey Espino is the First book in the Killer of Kings Series. This is the story of Pepper and Viper. Viper is a heartless hit-man who doesn't do emotions. But when he is hired to kill a Pepper she clicks something inside of him. This was a quick hot read.
4/5
4 stars
This is a fast paced, high octane read with lots of steam, and some serious bad guys who might actually be good. Quick hot sexy read. Viper is a killer for hire and his newest job is to kill Pepper. Yet one look at her and he's hooked. Pepper has never met a man like Viper and he's now her only hope of survival from the bounty on her head. There's plenty of action, passion, angst, and wet panties to keep the reader entertained. Overall, a quick read that will give you an hour or two of a steamy getaway.
4/5
4 stars
This is a fast paced, high octane read with lots of steam, and some serious bad guys who might actually be good. The heroine is larger than most and this fact is brought up several times throughout the book. The usual pitfalls of such occur and I did find it taking me out of the story a time or two. She’s obviously innocent but she shines with strength before the end of the book. Viper is an assassin and while the inevitable happens, he doesn’t instantly go soft and gooey towards his mark. There were a time or two that he was a bit rough in how he spoke to her. He does show some great protective instincts and when you add in his dirty talking style, he was pretty hot. Overall, a quick read that will give you an hour or two of a steamy getaway.
4/5
4 stars
This is a fast paced, high octane read with lots of steam, and some serious bad guys who might actually be good. The heroine is larger than most and this fact is brought up several times throughout the book. The usual pitfalls of such occur and I did find it taking me out of the story a time or two. She’s obviously innocent but she shines with strength before the end of the book. Viper is an assassin and while the inevitable happens, he doesn’t instantly go soft and gooey towards his mark. There were a time or two that he was a bit rough in how he spoke to her. He does show some great protective instincts and when you add in his dirty talking style, he was pretty hot. Overall, a quick read that will give you an hour or two of a steamy getaway.
4/5
4 stars
Entertaining for the most part. Good characters and dialogue helped make the story better. Lots of heat in the book.
4/5
4 stars
Viper, a contract killer falls for his mark and protects here from those coming to kill her. I liked this as it was a big grittier than some of her works. It wasn't quite insta love but close. Lots of spicy, sexy times and some violence as Piper tries to stay alive after her stepfather puts a contract out on her life. Pepper was sweet but had a spine which I liked and Viper was a hardened criminal who didn't realize that he wanted love in his life. A very enjoyable read.
4/5
4 stars
I enjoyed the plot and spice quite a bit, but felt the MMC and FMC could have had more chemistry and more lead up.
5/5
5 stars
Taking Her Innocence by Sam Crescent, Stacey Espino. Killer of Kings Book 1. Viper has always been a bastard, a nightmare, death for hire. He's known for his swift kills, so he isn't surprised when he's offered seven figures for a new hit. It’s supposed to be a quick find and eliminate. When his mark turns out to be an innocent twenty-year old with big blue eyes, he shouldn’t care one way or another—but he does. Viper wants to keep her for himself. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Read In one sitting. I loved Pepper and Viper grew on me. I'm looking forward to the next book. 5*.
5/5
Killer of kings series
I have had this series since it first started. Love it!!!! But its not finished. The Boss needs a woman too.
5/5
Shockingly Surprised
A quick read with a great story, interesting characters, and some steamy sex scenes. Definitely reading Book #2 which looks like Bains story.
5/5
Four Stars
Great read, check it out.
4/5
Good read
Not my typical genre, but it was still a good book. Lots of twists and turns and action and kept my attention.
5/5
Great new series!
Love the Killer of Kings series! Anxiously awaiting Killian's story next!
4/5
Excitement
A great first book in this new series. Not all dark souls are lost forever, some are redeemable. Viper and Pepper's story is a great start. Hope Boss & Bain can find a little bit of light in their dark souls.
5/5
Good story
I enjoyed this story. It was a little different then what I usually read. I thought the heroine was strong but was still realistic given her situation. Naturally our hero was hot, hot, hot. I can't wait for the next book!!
4/5
Interesting read
This is definitely different but it was pretty decent. I enjoyed this book and can't wait for Bains story. I do recommend this book
5/5
Woooooooo!
I'm in love with this book! The sex, The violence, is HOT! You ladies did a great job! Now, I'm about to read the 2nd book, i can't wait! Keep 'em coming! I Love You Sam Crescent❤❤❤
5/5
best damn book ever
Best damn book I ever read taking her innocence. What a book I was on the edge of my seat had the best time reading this book and getting to know Sam done an amazing job can't wait to be the next one killer of a king's love it
5/5
A must read for sure
Wow What a book!!!! When you think there is no hope left there is always this one ray of sunshine that finds its way thru. Oh man I can't wait for the next book to come out!!! It is a book that will keep you on your toes for sure!!! I loved every minute of this book!! I hope that you will love it as much as I did!!! I could not put it down!! Once I started the book I had to know what happened next.
5/5
Love this combination of this authors
Love it.The only let down that I have is that it was not that dark of a read for me anyway but in all of this it was a very good read a Hitman falling for his target just wonderful him doing his best on protecting her in his best way he knows. It was a wonderful read this combination of this two authors. I will definitely keep read this series now I'm to my next.
4/5
4 Stars
Taking Her Innocence is an wild ride with a hitman turned body guard and a virgin billionaire running for her life. Viper is the male lead he is a dark alpha with head to toe tats and is know for his ruthless work. Pepper the leading lady is his next job but the assignment will take a different turn which takes their relationship to a whole new level. This story has it all sexy time that will leave you breathless, action scenes that will keep you on the edge of your seat and an HEA. So if you haven't read Taking Her Innocence then I highly recommend you giving it a go. This is a dark romance and I loved it!!! Happy Reading!!!
5/5
New writing Duo is super!
I like this new series. Great writing by Sam Crescent and Stacey Espino. For fans who love Sam and Jenika Snow writing together or separate you will like the writing duo of these two as well. I liked the story of a hit man falling for his target. The story flowed so well I couldn't stop reading. I liked Viper and Pepper's chemistry and how she helped him find a sweetness and love in his life and Viper gave her strength. I can't wait for Bain and Boss to have their stories.
5/5
Gotta love a bad boy.
Fast, sexy romantic read. I like the characters, even the 'bad' ones. Photo is how I envision Pepper.
5/5
Action!
This novel is non-stop action! Viper is a professional mercenary and one of the best. He works for Killer Of Kings. Boss gives him an assignment and of he goes. Viper doesn't expect to fall for his assignment but something about Pepper peaks his interest. This is a fast paced no so that will definitely keep the reader's attention with a well developed plot and characters.
4/5
4 Stars
Taking Her Innocence is an wild ride with a hitman turned body guard and a virgin billionaire running for her life. Viper is the male lead he is a dark alpha with head to toe tats and is know for his ruthless work. Pepper the leading lady is his next job but the assignment will take a different turn which takes their relationship to a whole new level. This story has it all sexy time that will leave you breathless, action scenes that will keep you on the edge of your seat and an HEA. So if you haven't read Taking Her Innocence then I highly recommend you giving it a go. This is a dark romance and I loved it!!! Happy Reading!!!
5/5
Coffee Time Romance
Viper has been hired to kill so many times before, but for the first time it does not feel right and he makes it a point to never feel. What do you do when a woman looks their killer in the eye and says she is not afraid to die? Then what do you do with a mark who turns around and saves your life instead? Pepper cannot believe the first man she is attracted to is being paid to end her life. When she flips the script on him, he does not expect anything to change, but reality is different than Pepper could ever believe. Viper is now wanted dead by a man because he saved Pepper from certain death; Pepper is still marked for death by her stepfather, but she has a plan. The question is will Viper and Pepper live through her plan or will it lead to their death? The bigger question is can Viper and Pepper find a lifetime with each other for however long they should live? Viper was a scary guy and the reader will begin wondering how could Viper and Pepper ever make this work. The author pulls the reader in and invites them along for a fight to the death or life. Viper’s story is truly insane and the fact he can truly feel anything for anyone is amazing. Pepper and Viper’s story is an amazing adventure from death to salvation no one should miss. If you love a bad boy, then Viper is for you, even if he is a work in progress for Miss Pepper.
4/5
Long and Short Reviews
Viper was part of an elite team “Killer of Kings”. Usually an assassin, if the price was right, Viper would do whatever to whomever he was asked. It was just business. Pepper knew she was in a world of trouble, but when she opened her door to the assassin her life changed forever. Will he take just her innocence, or much more? I found this to be a fast-paced, action-orientated erotic romance. I was a little nervous in the beginning as I found some of Pepper’s thoughts were a bit strange – for example when she’s attacked by another assassin, when Viper comes upon them and she finds out he’s there to kill her as well, she decides to throw her lot in with him because he hadn’t *actually* hurt her the instant he saw her. I know there needed to be a reason she found herself on Viper’s side rather than the other character – but I really felt there needed to be a bit more thought and a more understandable/logical reason behind it. I was grateful that the action and pacing moved quickly enough this small bump didn’t detract from my enjoyment either of Pepper or Viper’s characters or voices and I promptly found myself swept up in their story and carried quite willingly along with them both. I also really liked the small twists that happened throughout the plot – in particular the reason why Viper didn’t kill Pepper immediately was refreshing and an excellent plot-turn to my mind. There is plenty of steamy sex between Viper and Pepper and I really enjoyed it. Nothing was too envelope pushing – just some delightfully steamy sex between two very willing parties. The action and plot twists kept the feel of the story moving along at a good clip and with regular intimate scenes I felt this story had a really good balance. With excellent, layered and generally well thought-out plotting, vibrant and interesting characters and a great, fast paced series of events, I really feel this is an excellent blending of action and steamy romance. I am eagerly waiting for more books in this series.
5/5
The Romance Reviews
With a contract out on her life, Pepper is on the run when she comes face to face with Viper, a deadly paid assasin. She's no match for the tattooed bad boy, but some quick thinking buys her some time. Authors Sam Crescent and Stacey Espino team up for TAKING HER INNOCENCE, the first installment in the Killer of Kings series. It's a powerful combination of suspense and heat as Viper and Pepper try to flush out the bad guys. Meanwhile, the chemistry between them grows until it flames out of control. I loved every bit of this story, especially the solid back story that shaped Viper into a cold-blooded killer. I'm looking forward to exploring more in this series. The snappy dialog works well in building the tension between Pepper and Viper. Secondary characters are a definite asset, giving the reader a solid foundation for future installments.
5/5
Night Owl Reviews
Stacey Espino and Sam Crescent practically set my ereader on fire with this red hot adventure. Viper is one of the most attractive heroes I've ever come into contact with. His history and who he has become endeared him to me. He was by no means what you could consider a good man but I think he was far from being a bad man. His reaction to Pepper in his heart not just his pants made this so much more than a sexy read. It was a fiery passionate adventure full of emotion and depth. I absolutely love well-written, curvy heroines who show off that size is just a number. Pepper is such a kindhearted soul and she's found herself in a load of trouble through no fault of her own. There's just a light to her, a goodness but also a strength even she doesn't realize she has. And while the situation was almost unrealistic the skill in which the story is told transported me into a thoroughly unfamiliar atmosphere that held me enthralled. I can't say how stoked I am that this is the first in a series and I get to read more with these fascinating characters. The Story: Viper is a stone cold killer and when his latest has a payout fit for kings he is definitely on board. However when Viper finds he isn't the only hired gun things quickly change. He is now her protector but how's going to protect Pepper from him?
4/5
Interesting read
This is definitely different but it was pretty decent. I enjoyed this book and can't wait for Bains story. I do recommend this book
5/5
A MUST READ
I couldn't put this one down. It has a lot of action both in and out of the bedroom. All of it very hot and exciting. Viper is as dark as Pepper is to light . Together they heal each other's hearts and souls. Perfect for each other. A fabulous book written by two fabulous women . Thank you Sam Crescent and STACEY Espino !!
5/5
The TBR Pile
This is the second book of the series and I received this book in exchange for an honest review. Natalie is at it, trouble seems to find her no matter where she goes. Natalie calls Eddie when she finds a package of photos of her and him. Little does she know that another drug dealer is after her and Eddie. Natalie and Eddie get closer in this book and I like how their relationship is developing. Poor Natalie gets kidnapped multiple times in this book. You see Natalie, grow homesick at times and you see how close she is with her dad. This book ended with a cliffhanger and I am wondering how it will all connect there was hint that there is a huge story behind these two books. I can’t wait to find out what it is either! Book Blurb: Where do you run when there’s nowhere to hide? After barely surviving a dangerous school project, Natalie Mancini is relieved to have her normal life back. Until she’s terrorized by a vengeful associate of the drug trafficker she helped arrest. Along with Eddie and the FBI, Natalie fights to save herself from an opponent more powerful than the last. But outrunning the watchful eyes of her new enemy may prove impossible. Natalie and Eddie grow close as they struggle to escape danger once again. And details begin to surface about why they were put together for their school assignment. Was their pairing more than just coincidence?
5/5
Five Stars
Amazing book
4/5
Quick hot action packed read
Quick hot sexy read. Viper is a killer for hire and his newest job is to kill Pepper. Yet one look at her and he's hooked. Pepper has never met a man like Viper and he's now her only hope of survival from the bounty on her head. There's plenty of action, passion, angst, and wet panties to keep the reader entertained. Sam Crescent is a automatic 1-click for me and now that she's teamed up with Stacey Espino I'm looking forward to more from them both.
5/5
Great Book!
Loved it from start to finish. Loved Viper, but was a bit unsure of Pepper's character as she came across as this weepy, needy, naive heroine and didnt think she was a fit for our hero. But as I read on I started to like her character more to a certain point though. Cant wait for either BOSS's book or Bains.
5/5
Awesome start to a new series!
Wow! I have always loved Sam's stories and while I've read some of Stacey's stories in the past, I was thrilled to see these two had teamed up for a new series! The characters are crude and rough and I loved it! This is Viper's story and from the first page, I was hooked. I can't wait to see who's story is next ( either Bain or Boss will work for me).
5/5
Love it!!
Viper is the ultimate bad boy turned good for his perfect girl!! Viper is such a sweetheart even with his darkness!! Pepper and Viper's chemistry is deliciously explosive!! I could not put this book down... So excites to see what else Sam and Stacey bring us!!
5/5
a piece of art
a wonderful story, hope to read about Boss, Bain, Maurice. I loved it.
5/5
Plot. Tortured hero. Sex. Danger. What more to ask for?!
I absolutely loved this!! The scenes were amazing, the hero's past & his humanity peeking through really pulled me in. I also like how the heroine, Pepper, wasn't someone who sat by idly & did nothing. I liked her immensely! I hope there's a book on Bain, & Boss coming out next!!
5/5
Great beginning to new series!
This was a great collaboration between Sam Crescent and Stacy Espino. This first book of the series had everything in its, from love, sex, murder, and intrigue. All of the characters were really well developed and Viper and Pepper were a really great couple. Even though the love came fast and hot their feelings were well developed. Looking forward to the next entry in this Killer of Kings Series.
4/5
LOOKING FORWARD FOR MORE
This is awesome start in new series. I was hooked from the first page until the end. And the more I read, the more I loved Viper. He just fascinated me. Viper is deadly. One of the most dangerous men in the world. But knowing about his life, his past, I couldn't help but feel empathy and wishing for him to have more in his life. Because Viper wasn't living. He was like a shadow. You know its exist, but without light you can't see it, or even touch it. Pepper on the other hand... I have mixed feelings about her. On one moment I'm liking her and proud, but then there will be moments, when I want to smack her. Viper for sure needs to spank her a** to teach her some lessons. Sometimes I though, that Pepper wasn't a girl for him and would do a favor leaving him. But the idiot fall for her and wouldn't be able to function without Pepper. And in a way she is what he needs. Her light and innocence in his dark and rough life. I'm really looking forward for the next book. And I really hope it's Boss's story. Or Bains. They both so intrigued me.
5/5
addictive
This has to be my favorite Sam Crescent book so far!!! I want Bain's book NOW!!!!
5/5
Favorite
OMG! best book ever. I can't wait for more from Sam and Stacey's series!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
