The Bodyguard and the Bombshell by Lexi Blake Release Blitz

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake comes a new story in her Masters & Mercenaries series…

The Bodyguard…

Nate Carter left Australia’s elite SASR unit after a tragic accident. Shattered by the experience, he thought taking a job in the States might be a good way to start over. His father’s former employer, McKay-Taggart, has a position for him in the bodyguard unit. He never imagined himself risking his life for celebrities and the wealthy, but it will do for now. It will also give him a chance to reconnect with old friends, including the girl who’d been like a little sis to him ten years before.

These days, however, his feelings for Daisy O’Donnell are anything but brotherly.

The Bombshell…

Daisy O’Donnell is a girl on a mission, and it does not include falling for one of her brother’s best friends. She has plans, and while chaos always seems to follow her, she’s determined to see this through. Daisy finds herself in need of a bodyguard when a job goes terribly wrong. She’s sure her dad will find someone suitable, but she didn’t expect a big, gloriously masculine Aussie to show up ready to take a bullet for her. Maybe spending some time with Nate Carter won’t be so bad after all.

An explosive match…

Thrown together by danger, Nate and Daisy can’t resist the insane chemistry between them. But when his past and her present collide, they must decide if they can hold it together or go their separate ways forever.

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

Don’t miss our reviews of other Masters & Mercenaries Sanctum Nights novella!
For book #8, Protected, click HERE.
For book #11, Treasured, click HERE.
For book #13, Delighted, click HERE.
For book #14, Tempted, click HERE.

Click HERE to peruse our reviews of other books in the Masters & Mercenaries Universe!

 

 

Book 28.5
Buy Links

Amazon US  ~  Amazon UK  ~  Amazon Au  ~  Amazon Ca
Paperback (US)

Audiobook (US)
Releases November 26th
Narrated by Ryan West

 

 

“I was helping out a client,” she began.

“Uhm, Mr. Taggart, I would like to make it clear we didn’t hire Daisy as a private investigator.” Her bosses were here, too. Harlow and Ruby sat at the opposite end of the table, and Harlow seemed to be the one who wanted to set the record straight.

“She was supposed to answer the phones.” Ruby frowned her way.

She was going to have to soothe her bosses. Things had done what they so often did in Daisy’s life. They had gone awry.

To top things off, her brother was somewhere in the building. Aidan had been the one to drive her up, and he’d told her he needed to go talk to his newest roommate.

Nathan Carter. Big, gorgeous Nathan Carter, who’d barely known she’d existed past being his friend’s obnoxious sister.

She hadn’t seen Nate in years. Was he still stunning? He probably had a girlfriend.

“Daisy?” Her mother’s voice brought her out of her reverie. “Uncle Ian asked you a question.”

Of all the grave faces around the table, it was her aunt and uncle who broke the mold and looked highly amused.

“I asked how you went from answering the phones to taking down a drug cartel,” Uncle Ian said, his lips curling up. He leaned in like he was ready for this story.

 

 

 

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Mary – ☆☆☆☆☆
Daisy O'Donnell is trying to figure out where she fits in. When she gets in over her head, she needs a bodyguard and Nate Carter is all too happy to do it.

Daisy and Nate are the perfect couple, she seems to be ditzy and he is the strong one. But Daisy comes out on top when she needs to.

This story is filled with laughter, family, love, and a little chaos, ultimately leaving this novella one of my favorites.


Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is part of the Masters & Mercenaries series, and whilst the 1001 Dark Nights series is to give newbies a chance to taste a series new to them, I do think that one could be a little lost with so many people being in this novella. As an ardent fan, I was absolutely delighted to enjoy the sass and snark from nearly the whole crew!

Nate and Daisy haven't seen each other since they were children, so it is no surprise that he doesn't recognise her with a mask on at The Hideout. But Daisy knew just what she was doing, and even if it were just for one night, she would not miss the opportunity to spend time with him.

Such a great start to this steamy and engaging story. I loved that Liam, Daisy's dad, had to reevaluate his relationship with his daughter and both he and Aidan had to see what damage they were doing to her self-confidence. That she now has Nate at her side, his point in life suddenly revealed to him when he sees her. I love his certainty about his presence in her future.

I am not going to say more about the drama, as it is best read fresh, but it is definitely typical of a Masters & Mercenaries plot, which Liam finds a way to solve, and everyone gathers together to ensure safety and success.

Delicious as always, and every time I read a new one, I am delighted at the mastery shown by Lexi Blake at forging forward with the next generation and giving us such great stories, time and again.


Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆
M/F Romance

Nate is a man looking for a new purpose. He knows that leaving his home isn't ideal, but he can't help but feel a little lost. When his friend offers him a job, he jumps at it. His best friend lives in the states and it's just a place to start anew.

Daisy is always trying to do the right thing. She has a heart of gold and a soft spot for people. She knows how to read people well and can get things done. However, she also, in the process, finds herself in trouble. Through no fault of her own, her family also doesn't see a grown woman, but a woman in need of protecting.

When Nate is assigned to Daisy's protection, it will be an eye-opening experience for all involved. Daisy will learn that she can be trusted to be herself, Nate will find an anchor, and all the family and friends will learn that sometimes, trouble is exactly what you need to move forward.

It's a sweet and spice story about trusting yourself, learning to love, and letting go of the past and moving forward. You won't be disappointed.

 

 

 

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author LEXI BLAKE lives in North Texas with her husband and three kids. Since starting her publishing journey in 2010, she’s sold over three million copies of her books. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn’t until she started writing romance that she found success. She likes to find humor in the strangest places and believes in happy endings.

Connect with Lexi Blake!

Facebook  ~  Twitter  ~  Instagram  ~  TikTok  ~  Website  ~  Goodreads
Facebook Group: Lexi’s Literary Universe

 

 

For more information about the 1,001 Dark Nights releases, follow them at:

Facebook  ~  Instagram  ~  TikTok  ~  Website & Newsletter Sign-Up

Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of The Bodyguard and the Bombshell (Masters & Mercenaries #28.5; Sanctum Nights #15; New Recruits #2.5) by Lexi Blake to read and review.

Tempted by Lexi Blake Release Blitz

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake comes a new story in her Masters & Mercenaries series…

When West Rycroft left his family’s ranch to work in the big city, he never dreamed he would find himself surrounded by celebrities and politicians. Working at McKay-Taggart as a bodyguard and security expert quickly taught him how to navigate the sometimes shark-infested waters of the elite. While some would come to love that world, West has seen enough to know it’s not for him, preferring to keep his distance from his clients—until the day he meets Ally Pearson.

Growing up in the entertainment world, Ally was always in the shadow of others, but now she has broken out from behind the scenes for her own day in the spotlight. The paparazzi isn’t fun, but she knows all too well that it’s part of the gig. She has a good life and lots of fans, but someone has been getting too close for comfort and making threats. To be safe, she hires her own personal knight in shining armor, a cowboy hottie by the name of West. They clash in the beginning, but the minute they fall into bed together something magical happens.

Just as everything seems too good to be true, they are both reminded that there was a reason Ally needed a bodyguard. Her problems have found her again, and this time West will have to put his life on the line or lose everything they’ve found.

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

Don’t miss our reviews of other Masters & Mercenaries Sanctum Nights novella!
For book #8, Protected, click HERE.
For book #11, Treasured, click HERE.
For #13, Delighted, click HERE.

Click HERE to peruse our reviews of other books in the Masters & Mercenaries series!

 

 

Book 26.5
Buy Links

Amazon US  ~  Amazon UK  ~  Amazon Au  ~  Amazon Ca
Audiobook (US)  ~  Paperback (US)

 

 

Soft music was playing. It was folksy but modern. Not at all what he would expect. And she wasn’t in front of the TV. She sat at the dining table which was covered in… Were those puzzle pieces?

“Hey,” he said. “I’m here for the rest of the night and through tomorrow. Was Tessa okay?”

Her head came up, and she damn near took his breath away. She was in pajama bottoms and a tank top, her face scrubbed free and hair piled on top of her head. She was every bit as gorgeous this way. “She was great. I liked her a lot.”

“But you didn’t like Matt?”

Her lips turned down. “Well, now I like Tessa less.”

He set down his duffel on one of the chairs and set the grocery bag on the table away from the numerous puzzle pieces. She’d started working on the edges, and it looked like she was a sorter. “Don’t. It’s literally my job to make sure you’re okay. She’s going to give me any information I need.”

“Did she tell you I thought you were an asshole?”

For some reason, that made him smile. “She did. And I was. And if Matt does anything at all to make you uncomfortable, I expect you to tell me. Ally, I had a job go weird a couple of weeks ago. I know men are supposed to want any pretty woman who comes their way…”

She sat up, her expression turning distinctly sympathetic. “Someone tried to sex you up when you didn’t want to?”

That was one way of putting it. “She was very aggressive, and it bothered me more than I realized. I think I took a little of that out on you today, and for that, I am truly sorry.”

“Did she look like me or something?”

“Not even close,” he said with a huff. “Like she wasn’t as… No, she didn’t look like you. But she was something of a celebrity. She was a European royal.”

“Please tell me it was Kate.” Her eyes had gone super wide like this would be the best gift ever.

She would so get along with his brother and Martin. “It was not. She’s a minor royal but a major pain in my ass. I’m sorry. I hope you’ll give me a second chance.”

She stared for a moment as though assessing the situation. “Are those Flamin’ Hot Cheetos?”

“My brother’s fiancé swears you like them. His name is Martin, and he’s a big fan.”

Her shoulders relaxed, and he would have sworn that girl… woman… glowed. “That’s so nice. If he has any time, he could come up to the set and have lunch with us. And he’s right. Gimme. I love them, but the camera adds five pounds and…”

“You always have four cameras on you.” He handed her the chips and sat down. It would be a much quieter night than he’d counted on, but he kind of liked that.

She opened them and had one of those suckers in her mouth very quickly. She sighed, obviously content. “Not now I don’t. All right, Rycroft, we start again. And Matt’s probably fine. You’ll know he’s done something wrong if he has to go to the hospital because I kicked him in the balls. Pass me that blue piece. I think it goes here.”

He handed her the piece, and they got on with their first night.

 

 

 

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Mary – ☆☆☆☆☆
Growing up in Hollywood, Ally Pearson is tired of being in the shadows and is ready to begin her breakout role. But her latest stalker, or a new one, has struck again and her stepfather thinks it is time to get her personal security. That is where McKay-Taggart comes in.

West Rycroft grew up on a ranch in a small Texas town and knew it was time to leave when his twin brother left. He would always support his twin and he needed the change too. Now he is working at McKay-Taggart and has realized that protecting the rich and famous is not for him, until he meets Ally.

West and Ally click from their first meeting, whether they disagree on her safety or the sizzling touches, they are meant to be together. Will her lifestyle tear them apart? Will West finally see what his life is supposed to be? Can Ally and West make their relationship work?

I loved the banter between Ally and West from the beginning. I was trying to figure out who her stalker was, but I kept coming up with wrong guesses until it was obvious who it was. I love the way this author has of making this series where you are invested from the beginning, even when it is a novella like this one, but you have to know how the story ends. I hope there will be more to Ally and West's story in the future.


Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆☆
4.5 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Click HERE to see Avid Reader’s review on Goodreads for trigger warnings.

West is enjoying his life. Moving to the city was something he had to do in order to support his twin, yes, but West also needed to get out of his small town for him too. Now working security, West is trying to find his place in the world. After a protection duty that had him fending off the person he was supposed to be protecting, the last thing that West wants is another "entitled princess" to watch. But duty calls.

Ally is young and wanting to make her own mark on the movie world. She's coming from a past that has denied her the right to prove herself. Now that she's landed a real part, Ally wants to show everyone that she can act and that her reality show – or rather her sister's show – isn't what defines her and that Ally is more than the spoiled brat she portrays.

With someone stalking Ally, her family wants to make sure that she's safe. When West is hired to protect Ally, neither pulls any punches. Their meet-cute is anything but. Tempers flare, words are slung, and then they're off to the races.

As they get to know each other, their pasts come to light, their true selves are revealed, and the danger lurks closer and closer.

You won't be disappointed in this novella. It's a quick read that shows how first impressions aren't always right, everyone can change, and sometimes, finding yourself is the best way through.


Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is one of the wonderful 1001 Dark Nights series – and one of my favourites – Masters & Mercenaries Sanctum Nights. I long for a time when I can go back to the goodness of book one and read them all in one go – binge reading at its finest!

Here we find West, straight off his horrendous princess bodyguard stint and very reluctant to now work for a reality TV/acting princess. Fortunately, he is made to realise the error of his assumptions as he gets to know Ally better... a lot better!

I loved Ally's sharing of her inner thoughts with us, and her groundedness given the crazy upbringing she has had. When West and she start to gel, it is magic and well deserved by both. I love that this book enables West to think hard about what he really wants, rather than what worked at the time, and Ally gets the chance to do exactly the same – and so the impossible becomes the possible.

Delicious, could have read on another 1001 pages, love all these characters, so many lovely vignettes and poignant moments. Thank you, Lexi Blake, for another great installment.

 

 

 

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author LEXI BLAKE lives in North Texas with her husband and three kids. Since starting her publishing journey in 2010, she’s sold over three million copies of her books. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn’t until she started writing romance that she found success. She likes to find humor in the strangest places and believes in happy endings.

Connect with Lexi Blake

Facebook  ~  Twitter  ~  Instagram  ~  TikTok  ~  Website  ~  Goodreads
Facebook Group: Lexi’s Literary Universe

 

 

For more information about the 1001 Dark Nights releases, follow them at:

Facebook  ~  Instagram  ~  TikTok  ~  Website & Newsletter Sign-Up

Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of Tempted (Masters & Mercenaries #26.5; Sanctum Nights #14) by Lexi Blake to read and review.

Delighted by Lexi Blake Blog Tour

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake comes a new story in her Masters & Mercenaries series…

Brian “Boomer” Ward believes in sheltering strays. After all, the men and women of McKay-Taggart made him family when he had none. So when the kid next door needs help one night, he thinks nothing of protecting her until her mom gets home. But when he meets Daphne Carlton, the thoughts hit him hard. She’s stunning and hardworking and obviously in need of someone to put her first. It doesn’t hurt that she’s as sweet as the cupcakes she bakes.

Daphne Carlton’s life revolves around two things—her kid and her business. Daphne’s Delights is her dream—to take the recipes of her childhood and share them with the world. Her daughter, Lou, is the best kid she could have hoped for. Lula’s got a genius-level intelligence and a heart of gold. But she also has two grandparents who control her access to private school and the fortune her father left behind. They’re impossible to please, and Daphne worries that one wrong move on her part could cost her daughter the life she deserves.

As Daphne and Boomer find themselves getting closer, outside forces put pressure on the new couple. But if they make it through the storm, love will just be the icing on the cake because family is the real prize.

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

Click HERE to peruse our reviews of other books in the Masters & Mercenaries series!

 

 

Book 24.5
Buy Links

Amazon US  ~  Amazon UK  ~  Amazon Au  ~  Amazon Ca
Audiobook (US)  ~  Paperback (US)

 

 

“It was a rough day. I could use a hug, if you don’t mind,” she said, trying to hold back tears. “The oven is going to die soon, and I don’t have the money to fix it, and I’m going to fail.”

His arms came around her, and she breathed him in. He smelled clean and crisp, like a spring wind. Her brain knew it had to be soap, but she associated the smell with him, and it soothed her.

“It’s okay.” He rocked her a little. “I’ve got a friend who is good with appliances. I can ask her to look at it. Don’t worry, Daph. It’s going to be all right. Lou’s good here. I promise. Lou’s good, and you’re going to be okay. I can’t let you go under or Big Tag would get mad at me. He really likes lemon cupcakes.”

They stood there for a moment, his warmth melting some of the ice that had built up over the last several years.

She tilted her head up, and that gorgeous man was staring down at her like he could eat her up, and warm was no longer the word she would use.

Hot. Desire flooded her system like a flash fire, and she wanted nothing more than to go up on her toes and kiss those magnificent lips of his.

Those lips belonged to another woman, and that woman was in the building. What the hell was she thinking? He was a nice man. He didn’t want to kiss her. He was being kind.

She stepped back, wiping her eyes. “Thank you, Boomer. And if you do have someone who can take a look at the oven, I would so appreciate it. You get all the cupcakes. What kind does MaeBe like? Would she be okay with the hugging thing?”

He frowned, like he was trying to figure something out. “I hug Mae a lot. At least I used to. She’s not so huggy these days. She likes anything chocolate.”

Boomer had looked sad when he’d said Mae didn’t hug him much anymore. She hated the thought of this big cuddly god of a man being in a cold relationship, but she wasn’t going to be the reason they broke up.

“Then I will make her something chocolate, and the lemon ones for your boss,” Daphne promised. She had to get these crazy urges under control or she would need to find Lou another place to stay, and she got the feeling Lou would object. “So where is the lounge? Or the gulag. That one kind of scares me.”

“Kala? Oh, that proves you have excellent instincts.” Boomer turned to walk back down the hall.

Those heads were back up above their cubicle walls, and she also noticed the doors to a whole bunch of offices were open.

“Is there a reason everyone is watching us?” She hurried down the hall to catch up with him.

“Because they’re all nosy bastards, and I can’t even complain,” Boomer replied. “I was a nosy bastard, too. We’re a weird family, and everyone is always in everyone else’s business, but it’s not a bad thing. The kind of people who would take advantage get weeded out very quickly around here. Big Tag takes care of them, and there’s usually a lawsuit, but that’s what Mitch is for. Hey, we also have a criminal defense attorney on call. Her name is Lea, and she’s really scary. Now if she had been working the reception desk when we invaded, we might have had trouble.”

She loved listening to him talk. His voice was deep, but every word was tinged with the humor he seemed to have for the world around him. The positive light he exuded was always there in his words.

If only the man weren’t attached…

She shoved aside the thought because he was totally out of her league. They weren’t even playing the same game.

But maybe they could be friends.

 

 

 

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Mary – ☆☆☆☆☆
I love visiting the worlds of Masters & Mercenaries and Sanctum. Each time is so different, but you feel as if the same because there are so many of the same characters from previous books that it feels as if you stepped into a family reunion.

Brian “Boomer” Ward is the caregiver, he takes in strays. When the kid next door needed help one night, Boomer was all too happy to help until her mom got home. Needless to say, he fell head over heels in love with Daphne the minute he saw her.

While Boomer doesn't want to push her, Daphne thinks he has a girlfriend, she is content having him as a friend, something she doesn't have. When she finds out that MaeBe isn't his girlfriend, she is ready to take things to the next step.

As they get closer, it seems someone is out to get Daphne. But what the person or persons don't know is that they do not want to mess with the folks at McKay-Taggart. And Daphne knows what she wants and will not let anyone stand in the way of getting what is best for her and her daughter.

I loved this story and I think it might be my favorite so far. It is filled with fun, flirty, family, suspense, a talking bird, a genius 12-year-old, and an all-around great story. I look forward to the next book in the series.


Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆☆
This is identified as book 24.5 of the series – and yet you could read this fresh and enjoy every minute... but I defy you to not want to go back and enjoy the whole series!

Boomer is such a good guy, and yet his slowness at school has cast a long shadow over his life in terms of considering himself worthy. He is so innately intelligent, and such a good man, that it is incredibly frustrating and also unfair. I loved that he found someone who finally got him and gave him everything too. A truly heartwarming and engaging story, which I loved from the very beginning.

Daphne was just the perfect person to understand the value of what Boomer was offering, and her super bright daughter was completely on board with him being a precious addition to their family.

I loved catching up with the gang and once again we get insight into how the next generation are going to be able to offer us another run of fabulous stories... perfection!


Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆☆
4.5 stars
M/F Romance

Boomer is a softy at heart. He wants everyone to be safe and cared for. He has a plethora of pets and now that his good friend is staying with him, he is also making sure she’s taken care of too. But when his neighbor’s daughter comes knocking on his door, he can’t turn her away either. Someone was following the young girl and despite her incredible intelligence, she was still nervous and sought him out.

Daphne is doing her best to run a successful business and raise an incredibly intelligent, smart, sweet child. Her daughter is her whole world. When she realizes that her very sexy neighbor has helped her daughter out, Daphne can’t help but swoon just a little. But with obligations breathing down her neck and in-laws who hold the purse strings for her daughter’s education, a romantic entanglement isn’t in the cards.

As Boomer watches how hard Daphne works and knows that he can ease her burden, at least a little, he has to gauge how involved to become since it seems that Daphne isn’t quite sure about him.

These two have to learn to trust and know that if either of them fall, the other one will catch them. It’s fun to watch Daphne blossom and gain confidence in her own abilities. Boomer has always been a fun character to watch. He’s quiet and confident too.

You’ll fall in love with this small family, and the extended family are still so much fun! You won’t be disappointed in these short stories that Blake has for this amazing set of characters.

 

 

 

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author LEXI BLAKE lives in North Texas with her husband and three kids. Since starting her publishing journey in 2010, she’s sold over three million copies of her books. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn’t until she started writing romance that she found success. She likes to find humor in the strangest places and believes in happy endings.

Connect with Lexi Blake

Facebook  ~  Twitter  ~  Instagram  ~  Website  ~  Goodreads

 

 

For more information about the 1,001 Dark Nights releases, follow them at:

Facebook  ~  Instagram  ~  Website & Newsletter Sign-Up

 

 

Hosted by

Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of Delighted (Masters & Mercenaries #24.5; Sanctum Nights #13) by Lexi Blake to read and review.

Treasured by Lexi Blake Blog Tour

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake comes a new story in her Masters & Mercenaries series…

David Hawthorne has a great life. His job as a professor at a prestigious Dallas college is everything he hoped for. Now that his brother is back from the Navy, life seems to be settling down. All he needs to do is finish the book he’s working on and his tenure will be assured. When he gets invited to interview a reclusive expert, he knows he’s gotten lucky. But being the stepson of Sean Taggart comes with its drawbacks, including an overprotective mom who sends a security detail to keep him safe. He doesn’t need a bodyguard, but when Tessa Santiago shows up on his doorstep, the idea of her giving him close cover doesn’t seem so bad.

Tessa has always excelled at most anything she tried, except romance. The whole relationship thing just didn’t work out for her. She’s not looking for love, and she’s certainly not looking for it with an academic who happens to be connected to her boss’s family. The last thing she wants is to escort an overly pampered pretentious man-child around South America to ensure he doesn’t get into trouble. Still, there’s something about David that calls to her. In addition to watching his back, she will have to avoid falling into the trap of soulful eyes and a deep voice that gets her heart racing.

But when the seemingly simple mission turns into a treacherous race for a hidden artifact, David and Tess know this assignment could cost them far more than their jobs. If they can overcome the odds, the lost treasure might not be their most valuable reward.

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

Don’t miss our reviews of other books in the Masters & Mercenaries series!
Click HERE.

 

 

Book 22.5
Buy Links

Amazon US  ~  Amazon UK  ~  Amazon Au  ~  Amazon Ca
Audiobook (US)  ~  Paperback (US)

 

 

What the hell was she doing?

Tessa glanced down at her watch. She was standing in front of her building ten minutes early, and there was a big part of her that wanted him to be late. Really late. Annoyingly late.

There had to be something about the man that wasn’t perfect beyond his connection to her employer.

She’d come down when she realized if she stayed inside one minute more she was going to decide to change again. Because she’d been halfway to convincing herself that she could do a fine job as a bodyguard in that curve-hugging dress that gave her so much confidence. Lots of bodyguards wore four-inch heels and a push-up bra. Yeah, sure they did.

Coming down here had saved her so much discomfort because in her line of business, slacks, a sensible shirt and shoes, and a blazer were the only way to go. The blazer hid her shoulder holster in a way that off-the-shoulder sex dress never would. And she didn’t care that Hollywood assassins could stuff any number of weapons between their thighs. Hers did not work that way.

It’s not a big deal.

The words David had said haunted her. What did that mean? It’s not a big deal. It had felt like a big deal. Not texting that smart hottie back had been a big fucking deal to her. She’d agonized over it, and he’d just kind of let it wash over him. He’d taken his shot and moved on. She had thought of nothing but him for weeks.

Or he was saving face by playing it cool and she was being ridiculous. The man was making this easy on her and she was inwardly complaining that he wasn’t making it harder. It was perverse, but then she had deeply conflicted feelings about David.

Feelings she could maybe work out over the course of this week. She could get to know him and then she would see he wasn’t as perfect as he seemed to be. Most men showed their true colors when a woman spent too much time with them. He wouldn’t be as patient as he seemed. His charm would wear off when she took charge and he got annoyed.

Yes, this could be exactly what she needed.

Especially if he was late.

 

 

 

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is book 22.5 of the Masters & Mercenaries series – and if you have never read them, then I highly recommend you get started! This would be a fun place to start, with just enough drama and plenty of sexy romance.

Tessa is feeling a little vulnerable now that she has called off her engagement to Michael, and her work life is a bit more complicated – hence, she has been taking more overseas assignments. Then she sits in a bar and meets a guy who unsettles her, in the very best of ways. Until she finds out that he is related to her boss and, therefore, completely out of bounds too. Of course, fate means that they are now going on a trip together, with her as his bodyguard.

I loved the mystery of the island and the opportunity that they had to get to know each other better – even if Tessa insisted that it was only for the time they were on the island... I think we all knew that she was kidding herself, as the chemistry between her and David was off the charts. I am looking forward to the next book, to see how they assimilate into the Masters & Mercenaries family. I did have to laugh when he explained that he did not go to Sanctum, given his mum did, haha!

A very enjoyable catch up with the gang and a happy ending for Tessa, who deserved to find the right one – even if it did knock down Charlotte's success figures.


Mary – ☆☆☆☆
I love this series, it has a little mystery, a little dom/sub action, and a lot of chemistry between Tessa and David.

David is the stepson of Sean Taggart and the son of Grace. He is a college history professor and needs a bodyguard to go with him on a trip. Tessa is that bodyguard; she met David at a party a few weeks before and the sparks between them were off the charts. She has to keep her mind on the job and not on what could happen between them.

While staying on the island of a family friend to get the information he needs to finish the book he is working on, things seem to turn. People on the island seem suspicious of Tessa, but David is covering for her as they pretend she is his girlfriend.

Can they pull it off and find what he is looking for and escape the island with more than just their lives? Will Tessa give the chemistry between them a chance to grow?

This is a great addition to the Masters & Mercenaries series and I can't wait for more.


Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆
M/F Romance
Triggers: Click HERE to see Avid Reader’s review on Goodreads for trigger warnings.

Tessa is amazing at her job. What she doesn't feel amazing at is the rest of her life. When she calls off her engagement, she knows she made the right choice, but seeing her ex-fiancé at work is tough. When she needs to get away from the happy almost family, she heads to the bar. It's there that she meets Professor David.

David loves his job. He knows that his mom is happy and that also makes him happy. What he isn't thrilled about it having to take security with him in order to finish his book. But since he doesn't want his mom to worry and knows that there isn't much danger, he relents.

While David and Tessa figure out whether or not they can make a go of their relationship off island (I mean, come on, Tessa is just kidding herself if she thinks she can turn off her attraction to David.), the mystery behind David's book and its prior inhabitants comes to light.

With a mystery to solve and lives at stake, it'll take David's wits, Tessa's smarts, and their combined strengths to figure this out.

It's a quick read with a fun story. You won't be disappointed.

 

 

 

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author LEXI BLAKE lives in North Texas with her husband and three kids. Since starting her publishing journey in 2010, she’s sold over three million copies of her books. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn’t until she started writing romance that she found success. She likes to find humor in the strangest places and believes in happy endings.

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Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of Treasured (Masters & Mercenaries #22.5; Sanctum Nights #11) by Lexi Blake to read and review for this tour.

Protected by Lexi Blake Blog Tour

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake comes a new story in her Masters and Mercenaries series…

A second chance at first love

Years before Wade Rycroft fell in love with Geneva Harris, the smartest girl in his class. The rodeo star and the shy academic made for an odd pair but their chemistry was undeniable. They made plans to get married after high school but when Genny left him standing in the rain, he joined the Army and vowed to leave that life behind. Genny married the town’s golden boy, and Wade knew that he couldn’t go home again.

Could become the promise of a lifetime

Fifteen years later, Wade returns to Broken Bend, Texas for his brother’s wedding and walks into a storm of scandal. Genny’s marriage has dissolved and the town has turned against her. But when someone tries to kill his old love, Wade can’t refuse to help her. In his years after the Army, he’s found his place in the world. His job at McKay-Taggart keeps happy and busy but something is missing. When he takes the job watching over Genny, he realizes what it is.

As danger presses in, Wade must decide if he can forgive past sins or let the woman of his dreams walk into a nightmare…

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

Book 16.5
Buy Links

Amazon US  ~  Amazon UK  ~  Amazon Au  ~  Amazon Ca
Coming to other retailers October 29, 2018

“Don’t. Don’t tell me how to feel. I know you’ve worked through this, but I don’t know how to.”

“It helps to admit that we were all children back then.”

“My mother wasn’t.” He needed to talk about this with her.

“No, but she wasn’t the same after your dad died. She was lost and I’ve forgiven her,” she replied quietly. “You can’t spend your life being angry.”

“You’re angry with me.”

For a moment he thought she would ignore him. Then she turned to him, her eyes shining in the moonlight. “Maybe. It’s hard to figure out how I feel about you. For a long time, I dreamed about you at night. You were the only man I ever loved. Brock killed that. I think he might have killed the part of me that can love someone other than my son. I didn’t feel a lot when my father passed. But then he was the one who told me to suck it up. I went to him after Brock hit me the first time. He told me to not make my husband mad.”

“Genny, he should have killed him. I would have. God, I should have.” That sorrow that had been building inside him threatened to spill over. Anger was there, but it was overshadowed by the terrible pain he felt at the thought of her being alone and afraid.

“It’s funny,” she said, studying him in the silvery light. “I went over pretty much every possible scenario I could, and this wasn’t the way I thought you would handle it. It’s why it took forever for me to talk to you. I thought you would either not care at all or that you would be so angry you went after everyone. I hesitated because I thought I might unleash a beast.”

He could give her this. Since the moment he’d learned the truth, he’d genuinely forced himself to think about how he reacted. It would be selfish to act out in anger when she needed him to be calm, to think about what was best for her. The drive from Broken Bend to Dallas with Ash had made that clear to him. They needed someone who would thoughtfully protect them, not a raging animal who fed his own needs. “You’ve had enough anger in your life. It’s there. God, it’s there, but I swear I won’t act on it because I won’t do anything that could hurt you. I’ll try to handle him in every legal way I can and if I have to take him out, I’ll do it in a way that can never come back on any of us. You don’t need my rage. You do need me though.”

“I don’t want to.”

“Because you think I’ll let you down again.” It wasn’t a question.

“Because I don’t want to love anyone again,” she admitted.

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆
M/F Romance – second chance
Triggers: Click HERE to see Avid Reader’s review on Goodreads for trigger warnings.

Geneva and Wade were so in love as teenagers. They knew that their love would last a lifetime. Geneva was going to wait for Wade. Wade was going to serve his country. If only it had been that simple.

Geneva's dad was a piece of work and not in a good way. I really wish that there had been some kind of retribution for her through him. Geneva lived a hard life. She was a pawn in a much larger scheme and there was no way that she was going to allow someone else to help.

Wade lived a lifetime with anger and hatred in his heart towards the one woman that he ever loved. Geneva betrayed him in the most basic way and whenever he found himself having to be in town, he avoided her at all costs. However, when he's home for his brother's wedding, Geneva is also in attendance and Wade sees something in her eyes that he can't quite figure out.

Geneva is in desperate need of Wade's help – she needs to protect her son. When she turns to Wade, right away she knows this could be a huge mistake. Wade has hated her most of their life. But Geneva is willing to endure his hatred if it means that her son will be protected. She, on the other hand, has a score to settle.

When the truth is revealed, loyalties will be tested and lines will be drawn. Whether or not Geneva will take a risk on Wade is a question that can only be answered in this story. It is a story about heartbreak, love, and sacrifice.

I want to see what happens next – will there be healing? Or just more pain?


Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆☆
All Masters and Mercenaries fans will surely ADORE this book – full of our old friends, catching up on just where they are right now, with wonderful hints at how they are still as in love and happy as they were when they first got together... which is six or seven years ago now! And yet, a new reader would only get the slightest hints of what that all means, and hopefully be enticed to start at the beginning and find out... and I almost envy them finding it all out new! Without a doubt this is a series which is always on my reread list, as each story is so good, and the whole is just perfect.

This particular story is heartbreaking, asks many questions of both leads and in particular of the actions of Wade's family. It may have all happened 15 years ago, but it is all new to Wade, and the way it is told means that we too are as hurt and confused as him. Being along for the ride as he and Genny come to terms with the past, and try and imagine a brighter future is incredibly moving. And then we have her son, Ash. He is possibly the coolest teenager I have ever read in a book – just so positive, so funny, and so grown up. Distressing as his childhood has been, he has been shown the very best of love by his mum, and has a way of living which can only make Wade love him from the beginning.

Really, just read this, and get ready to go through every emotion – teary, laughing, hot, sad, happy, and hopeful to name but a few. I keep thinking of little touches which make me smile, and how important the team was in helping these two people reach the place that we all wanted them to be. Delicious from page one to the very end. *sigh*

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake lives in North Texas with her husband, three kids, and the laziest rescue dog in the world. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn’t until she started writing romance and urban fantasy that she found the stories of her heart. She likes to find humor in the strangest places and believes in happy endings no matter how odd the couple, threesome, or foursome may seem.

Connect with Lexi

Facebook  ~  Twitter  ~  Instagram  ~  Website  ~  Goodreads

Hosted by

Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of Protected (Masters & Mercenaries #16.5; Sanctum Nights #8) by Lexi Blake to read and review for this tour.