Assassin's Honor by Monica Burns

Title: Assassin’s Honor

Author: Monica Burns

Series: The Order of the Sicari (Book #1)

Next in series: Assassin’s Heart

My rating: 4.5 Stars

Synopsis: Emma Zale is an archeologist with the uncanny ability to "see" the past upon touching ancient relics. Now she is in danger as two separate secret societies are under the mistaken impression that she is in possession of an ancient artifact. In order to survive, she must rely on a deadly assassin who is as much a danger to her heart as a threat to her life.

Review: This is a tremendously entertaining book. The plot revolving around archeological findings and secret societies is excellent. It would have been even better with additional detail in this area but hopefully it will be forthcoming in the next book – gives readers something to look forward to.

The characterization is brilliant as Ares and Emma’s backgrounds and motivations come to life on the pages. Emma’s sarcasm and stubbornness may be off putting to some readers but I found it very much in line with her personality and past experience. The supporting characters are just as well developed, especially Lysander, the tortured hero who will appear in the next book. I am just dying to find out about his past relationship with Phaedra.

The amalgamation of the historical, paranormal and contemporary elements is fluid and contributes to the unique sub-culture within the book. The language and dialogue are intelligent and witty, and I enjoyed the inclusion of words in Latin and Italian (don't worry, their meaning is quite clear from the text and there is always Google Translate). This element adds authenticity to the world Burns has created. My one small nitpick, however, is with the writing style as some of the descriptions of the characters internal thoughts are repetitive.

Overall, a definite must read for lovers of romance of any kind.