Assassin by Accident

Carnival of Mysteries

By: E.J. Russell

Narrated by: Greg Boudreaux

If a megalomaniacal earth mage kidnaps your little sister, do you:

A) Kill him

B) Kill him

C) Kill him

D) Magically indenture yourself to him to ensure her safe return

Welsh water horse Nevan Quirke would have happily opted for A, B, or C but had no idea where his sister was hidden—so, option D it is. He’s not a fool, though. He made sure to limit his obligation to a single task.

Unfortunately, he neglected to nail down a few tiny details before the geas brand was seared into his skin, and now:

A) He can’t shift

B) He can’t swim

C) He can’t drink

D) If he fails, he’ll be bound to the mage for eternity

Oh, and that task? Assist in an assassination.

If only he weren’t so thirsty.

And if only his partner for the heinous job weren’t the most appealing man Nevan has seen in his entire thousand-year life.

Assassin by Accident takes place in E.J. Russell’s Mythmatched universe and is part of the multiauthor Carnival of Mysteries series. Each book stands alone, but each one includes at least one visit to Errante Ame’s Carnival of Mysteries, a magical multiverse traveling show full of unusual acts, games, and rides. The Carnival changes to suit the world it’s on, so each visit is unique and special. This book features grumpy sunshiny, hurt comfort, mistaken identity, opposites attract, unexpected derring-do, and of course an HEA—no matter how little the men in question think they deserve it.

©2023 E.J. Russell (P)2023 E.J. Russell

complex and fun

Greg Boudreaux's Nevin is drool- worthy! When I first read it, I could not hear Nevin's accent but this was amazing.
For a book that starts out as practically a comedy of errors.. if a rather dark comedy, the story and characters are very rich, but that is to be expected in this world that Russell has created. This world is complex and flushed out and filled with fascinating and in depth people. If you have read more in this world you may recognize many of the characters Seb and Neven run into but if you haven't you the story is not lessened for it.
Seb and Neven's story was so much fun and filled with action. Neven completely deserves someone who will care and live him as he is.

Magical

As with all of Russell’s books in this wondrous magical universe she’s brought us- this book is fun, romantic and beautifully written. And with Greg’s insane talent and amazing voice it only brings more magic to the series! Love so much! Can’t wait for more ❤️

Mistaken identity leads to love and saving the day

E. J. Russell delivers a fun, amusing, endearing couple with an ensemble of side characters - both old favorites and new acquaintances. Greg Boudreaux brings the world to life, with accents, heartstrings and humor. The story is a lighthearted adventure to stop a villain and save a child, with love along the way. Enjoyed every minute of it.

Another fun mythical m/m romance from Russell

I’ve enjoyed every story from E.J Russell and this is no exception. I rate this a 4 of 5 because it is best enjoyed if you’ve read or listened to the 9 other stories which introduce the tertiary characters. Some readers my find it challenging or confusing if they read this as a ‘stand alone’ but then are introduced to something like 20 other characters.

This story is a bit of a love letter to E.J. Russell fans- you get a tiny update on characters you fell in love with in past stories. For new readers, I recommend checking out the authors other stories, starting with ‘Cutie and the Beast’.

Fabulous Folklore Fun!

There is so much intricate mythology and world building in this series. In this one we actually get appearances from some of E.J. Russell's other audibles as well as weaving into the Carnival of Mysteries series. If you get the chance even though you can listen or read this one as a standalone romance, I highly recommend listening to all of the series in order for enhancement of the fun and character understanding. Seb and Nevan are such sweeties, and it is a fun adventure as they grow close and start trust and love each other! Greg as always brought out all the special voices and accents of these unique characters!