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Masters and Mercenaries #6.5
Dungeon Games
Obsessed
Derek Brighton has become one of Dallas’s finest detectives through a combination of discipline and obsession. Once he has a target in his sights, nothing can stop him. When he isn’t solving homicides, he applies the same intensity to his playtime at Sanctum, a secretive BDSM club. Unfortunately, no amount of beautiful submissives can fill the hole that one woman left in his heart.
Unhinged
Karina Mills has a reputation for being reckless, and her clients appreciate her results. As a private investigator, she pursues her cases with nothing holding her back. In her personal life, Karina yearns for something different. Playing at Sanctum has been a safe way to find peace, but the one Dom who could truly master her heart is out of reach.
Enflamed
On the hunt for a killer, Derek enters a shadowy underworld only to find the woman he aches for is working the same case. Karina is searching for a missing girl and won’t stop until she finds her. To get close to their prime suspect, they need to pose as a couple. But as their operation goes under the covers, unlikely partners become passionate lovers while the killer prepares to strike.
Derek Brighton has become one of Dallas’s finest detectives through a combination of discipline and obsession. Once he has a target in his sights, nothing can stop him. When he isn’t solving homicides, he applies the same intensity to his playtime at Sanctum, a secretive BDSM club. Unfortunately, no amount of beautiful submissives can fill the hole that one woman left in his heart.
Unhinged
Karina Mills has a reputation for being reckless, and her clients appreciate her results. As a private investigator, she pursues her cases with nothing holding her back. In her personal life, Karina yearns for something different. Playing at Sanctum has been a safe way to find peace, but the one Dom who could truly master her heart is out of reach.
Enflamed
On the hunt for a killer, Derek enters a shadowy underworld only to find the woman he aches for is working the same case. Karina is searching for a missing girl and won’t stop until she finds her. To get close to their prime suspect, they need to pose as a couple. But as their operation goes under the covers, unlikely partners become passionate lovers while the killer prepares to strike.
185 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 6, 2014
346 people are currently reading
2338 people want to read
About the author
Lexi Blake
183 books6,370 followersNY 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.
Her first novel, Their Virgin Captive: Masters of Ménage, Book 1, was a collaboration with New York Times bestselling author Shayla Black. There are five more books available in the series: Their Virgin's Secret, Their Virgin Concubine, Their Virgin Princess, Their Virgin Hostage, and Their Virgin Secretary. The next book in the series, Their Virgin Mistress, is releasing this April.
In addition to the Masters of Ménage series, she is the author of the Masters and Mercenaries series. There are eight full-length novels and four novellas available now, with more coming in 2015.
In 2013, Lexi also began releasing her urban fantasy series, Thieves. The first five are available now, with Ripper, a spin-off to the series, coming in 2015.
Sign up for Lexi's newsletter at http://lexiblake.net/contact.html#new....
For more information about her books, her appearances and her wacky life visit her Facebook page (http://goo.gl/q2IHnJ) or her website (http://www.lexiblake.net).
Her first novel, Their Virgin Captive: Masters of Ménage, Book 1, was a collaboration with New York Times bestselling author Shayla Black. There are five more books available in the series: Their Virgin's Secret, Their Virgin Concubine, Their Virgin Princess, Their Virgin Hostage, and Their Virgin Secretary. The next book in the series, Their Virgin Mistress, is releasing this April.
In addition to the Masters of Ménage series, she is the author of the Masters and Mercenaries series. There are eight full-length novels and four novellas available now, with more coming in 2015.
In 2013, Lexi also began releasing her urban fantasy series, Thieves. The first five are available now, with Ripper, a spin-off to the series, coming in 2015.
Sign up for Lexi's newsletter at http://lexiblake.net/contact.html#new....
For more information about her books, her appearances and her wacky life visit her Facebook page (http://goo.gl/q2IHnJ) or her website (http://www.lexiblake.net).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 236 reviews
June 10, 2017
Love this series. I've only read the first three books (e-book price issues again). Got this novella plus two others in this series for $0.99. (Guess what I'm reading next)
Derek and Karina were hot together. Great chemistry no matter where they were. Serial killer to catch. Lots of the previous peeps make appearances and help out. I just want to hate his ex-wife but she's hilarious in all her nastiness.
Derek and Karina were hot together. Great chemistry no matter where they were. Serial killer to catch. Lots of the previous peeps make appearances and help out. I just want to hate his ex-wife but she's hilarious in all her nastiness.
November 22, 2015
4.5 'trust means everything'stars
“I’m worried that you won’t love me when I tell you my story, and I love you so much I think I’ll die if you can’t love me back.”
Blurb...
Obsessed
Derek Brighton has become one of Dallas’s finest detectives through a combination of discipline and obsession. Once he has a target in his sights, nothing can stop him. When he isn’t solving homicides, he applies the same intensity to his playtime at Sanctum, a secretive BDSM club. Unfortunately, no amount of beautiful submissives can fill the hole that one woman left in his heart.
Unhinged
Karina Mills has a reputation for being reckless, and her clients appreciate her results. As a private investigator, she pursues her cases with nothing holding her back. In her personal life, Karina yearns for something different. Playing at Sanctum has been a safe way to find peace, but the one Dom who could truly master her heart is out of reach.
Enflamed
On the hunt for a killer, Derek enters a shadowy underworld only to find the woman he aches for is working the same case. Karina is searching for a missing girl and won’t stop until she finds her. To get close to their prime suspect, they need to pose as a couple. But as their operation goes under the covers, unlikely partners become passionate lovers while the killer prepares to strike.
Keepin' it short...
This is such a great story. So much emotion and passion and sexual chemistry & tension packed into this novella! And all the awesome characters whose stories have already been told... I'll have to go back and read the entire series!
One of the best quotes, ever....
“I will love you until I can’t breathe anymore. And long after. I believe, Karina. I believe there is a heaven and if I go first, I will wait for you. Don’t say you can’t go there. God is greater than we make him. Bigger than we think he is.”
April 8, 2015
4.5 Stars
So this was quite the scrumptious little nugget.
In fact, now that I'm done, I must go download all the other books in this series.
Stat.
Because even though my kindle is full, I can alwaysjust buy another one make room for more.
So this was quite the scrumptious little nugget.
In fact, now that I'm done, I must go download all the other books in this series.
Stat.
Because even though my kindle is full, I can always
November 18, 2019
Short and to the point.
Dungeon Games is just another novella I devoured in the 1001 Dark Nights series. In it, you will meet Derek and Karina. Just like in every other novella in this series, these two had great chemistry. I mean, it would suck donkey balls if they didn't right?
Now I never knew about the Master and Mercenaries series... and after diving into this little novella - I might find this thing out. It was pretty interesting to see these too try to catch a serial killer because I have a weird obsession with murder mysteries (so sign me up!). Overall, it was a surprise and I think my favorite character might've been the one we were supposed to hate the entire time? Eh, oh well!
Dungeon Games is just another novella I devoured in the 1001 Dark Nights series. In it, you will meet Derek and Karina. Just like in every other novella in this series, these two had great chemistry. I mean, it would suck donkey balls if they didn't right?
Now I never knew about the Master and Mercenaries series... and after diving into this little novella - I might find this thing out. It was pretty interesting to see these too try to catch a serial killer because I have a weird obsession with murder mysteries (so sign me up!). Overall, it was a surprise and I think my favorite character might've been the one we were supposed to hate the entire time? Eh, oh well!
June 3, 2014
How is it that this novella turned into one of the best in the series?
We've met Derek Brighton and Karina Mills a couple of books prior to this with the suggestion that they seem to be each other's adversary with sexual tension simmering underneath.
After Derek's marriage crumbled, he's pretty sure what he needed this time--a 24/7 D/s relationship. Karina is not the type who would give up control... except during playtime. Despite the sexual tension between them, they try to stay away from each other as much as possible.
Until a killer is on the lose and is revealed that his next target is Karina. The two work together to catch the killer. Derek would do everything to protect her. Posing as a D/s couple, this way they can get the sexual tension out of the way and get on their own merry ways... or not.
I enjoyed reading this book more than a couple of the previous books! It hit the right spots.
Fast-paced and very entertaining, Dungeon Games provided everything I want to read in a book: humor, action, smut (duh) and suspense. A little bit predictable but I love the buildup of Derek and Karina's relationship.
We've met Derek Brighton and Karina Mills a couple of books prior to this with the suggestion that they seem to be each other's adversary with sexual tension simmering underneath.
After Derek's marriage crumbled, he's pretty sure what he needed this time--a 24/7 D/s relationship. Karina is not the type who would give up control... except during playtime. Despite the sexual tension between them, they try to stay away from each other as much as possible.
Until a killer is on the lose and is revealed that his next target is Karina. The two work together to catch the killer. Derek would do everything to protect her. Posing as a D/s couple, this way they can get the sexual tension out of the way and get on their own merry ways... or not.
I enjoyed reading this book more than a couple of the previous books! It hit the right spots.
Fast-paced and very entertaining, Dungeon Games provided everything I want to read in a book: humor, action, smut (duh) and suspense. A little bit predictable but I love the buildup of Derek and Karina's relationship.
June 10, 2016
The suspense was pretty weak as it was obvious very early on who was the killer and was and plot was very predictable....but I didn't read it for the suspense so that didn't cause me a problem ;)
March 13, 2022
God this was good. Especially for a Novella. It was FAF in places. I loved Karina & how strong she was. She was resilient. Damn what she went thru in her young life was tough. I loved how she got revenge on people who wronged her & didn't put up with crap. I also loved her teasing Mr. Grumpy clean freak.
& Derek... Man! when that guy goes all in. he goes ALL IN! 😍😍😍
& Derek... Man! when that guy goes all in. he goes ALL IN! 😍😍😍
August 9, 2015
I jumped over all the other books in this series. It may have helped a little to know about the other characters in this series, but it doesn't make this book less understandable. Derek is a dominant who needs to protect and care for a submissive. When he can't control everything, he isn't happy. Derek's got issues, least of all his crazy ex-wife Maia.
When a case comes to him where his private life crosses his work life as a cop, all hell breaks loose. There is a killer out for submissives and the next one to be targeted is one wants, Karina.
The BDSM is very light in this book, almost non-existent. Blink and it will past you by. The characters are interesting which is why I'm reading the series. I've missed reading Ms. Blake's books when she writes as Sophie Oak. I think I like her Sophie books better. I didn't feel as connected to these characters although I really do want to know more about Maia. Recommended as a Gateway to BDSM book.
When a case comes to him where his private life crosses his work life as a cop, all hell breaks loose. There is a killer out for submissives and the next one to be targeted is one wants, Karina.
The BDSM is very light in this book, almost non-existent. Blink and it will past you by. The characters are interesting which is why I'm reading the series. I've missed reading Ms. Blake's books when she writes as Sophie Oak. I think I like her Sophie books better. I didn't feel as connected to these characters although I really do want to know more about Maia. Recommended as a Gateway to BDSM book.
December 11, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. I liked the enemies to lovers theme along with the BDSM.
April 18, 2025
My Review:
This might be my least favorite of the series. I honestly wasn't sure how I thought about these two together, especially with the interactions that we have seen of them throughout the series. I enjoyed the story as a whole and it definitely had more plot building than I expected for a novella. But really her novella's are actually very good and actually have....I don't know...a story in it and its not just erotica which I love with this author, she writes good depth no matter the length of the book.
This story was hard to enjoy, mostly because of the angst that is between these two. I honestly still don't know how I feel about this pairing to be completely honest. I feel like it was a bit too rushed in the end and would have loved to see more exploration of the type of couple that they would be in the end. They have very different expectations for the future and I would have enjoyed just a bit more focus on that as it didn't feel as resolved as I would have preferred. But it was still well done. The actual plot was fabulous. Definitely kept me on edge and even though I suspected the villain....I actually didn't see it until close to the reveal so bravo to this author to really digging into the mystery of it.
Overall I had a good time with this one and now onto Simon and Chelsea's book and man I am crossing my fingers so hard that one will be good cause I am nervous as a hatter for Chelsea's story.
This might be my least favorite of the series. I honestly wasn't sure how I thought about these two together, especially with the interactions that we have seen of them throughout the series. I enjoyed the story as a whole and it definitely had more plot building than I expected for a novella. But really her novella's are actually very good and actually have....I don't know...a story in it and its not just erotica which I love with this author, she writes good depth no matter the length of the book.
This story was hard to enjoy, mostly because of the angst that is between these two. I honestly still don't know how I feel about this pairing to be completely honest. I feel like it was a bit too rushed in the end and would have loved to see more exploration of the type of couple that they would be in the end. They have very different expectations for the future and I would have enjoyed just a bit more focus on that as it didn't feel as resolved as I would have preferred. But it was still well done. The actual plot was fabulous. Definitely kept me on edge and even though I suspected the villain....I actually didn't see it until close to the reveal so bravo to this author to really digging into the mystery of it.
Overall I had a good time with this one and now onto Simon and Chelsea's book and man I am crossing my fingers so hard that one will be good cause I am nervous as a hatter for Chelsea's story.
May 22, 2021
3.5*
This is part of the Masters and Mercenaries series. I haven't read any books in this one yet (full disclosure- I have the 1st 3, but haven't read them yet). I didn't feel like I was missing anything. Karina is a sub. Derek is a dom. This is a serial targeting submissives and it appears Karina may be next.
Derek and Karina are teamed together. This had the right amount of angst/suspense. I could believe them as a couple. When Derek finally got over his issues, it was nice. I didn't like that he seemed to always assumed the worst of Karina. Karina was pretty awesome for what she had to overcome in her life.
This is part of the Masters and Mercenaries series. I haven't read any books in this one yet (full disclosure- I have the 1st 3, but haven't read them yet). I didn't feel like I was missing anything. Karina is a sub. Derek is a dom. This is a serial targeting submissives and it appears Karina may be next.
Derek and Karina are teamed together. This had the right amount of angst/suspense. I could believe them as a couple. When Derek finally got over his issues, it was nice. I didn't like that he seemed to always assumed the worst of Karina. Karina was pretty awesome for what she had to overcome in her life.
April 18, 2015
Originally Reviewed For: Tea and Book
I have become a fan of the 1001 Dark Nights Series of novellas. It's a great way for authors to share their series with and a wonderful way to find new authors, Win/Win.
For those of you who are unaware of the concept.. here is the basic explanation:
1001 Dark Nights, inspired by The Arabian Nights: Tales from 1001 Nights.
In the original, Scheherazade desperately attempts to entertain her husband, the King of Persia, with nightly stories so that he will postpone her execution.
We’re unique spin on the premise and creating sexy, romantic stories that a modern day Scheherazade might tell. Some are paranormal, some erotic. All are compelling and page turning.
I think this was supposed to be a short lived concept but it has grown to epic proportions!
So far I have mostly read authors I am familiar with but today.. I am checking out Lexi Blake, an author that I have heard oodles about and yet, this is my first foray into her books.
Dungeon Games is book 6.5 in Lexi Blakes, Masters and Mercenaries Series and yes this too is centered around a BDSM Club. But to me that was this secondary aspect. In all honestly it was more of a yes we are into this and we all attend this club and we are all Dominants or Submissives but that doesn't play a huge part in this book. It's more like background information, like hey he has black hair and she has a goatee *grins* or maybe the other way around. And yet it's very important to who these characters are.
Karina Mills is so not the girl next door. She's tough as nails, a private investigator, and a submissive. She likes to play and scene but she never commits. To give that much of herself is just too hard for her. But she has this well of compassion that is just as much a part of her as her tough as nails personal. So when she discovers that girls interested in BDSM are disappearing Karina wants to help. When she discovers her name is on the list... she is more than willing to become bait. But that means she has to submit to the one man she really doesn't want to. The one man who could change her life.
Derek Brighton is a good cop. A really good cop. It's more than a job to him. The only other place he feels comfortable is at the private BDSM club he is a member of but when the Feds call him in he is sure he is about to be outed and his career is over. Only that's not the case. They want him on the task force that is trying to find the man/people who are killing off submissives.. And when he discovers that Karina is next on the list. All of his protective bells go off. Karina is special.
I liked this book because it was different from the other BDSM series I read. Not that I don't love those books but this one? It was more action and intensity. Passion and power. I wouldn't call this book erotica, or really even a BDSM book, which makes it very interesting. Because there is the Dominance factor in there. And it sizzles.. steam rises from the pages.
The relationship between Derek and Karina grows with time. It has to find ways around obstacles, some created by their own misconceptions and others from the very case they are trying to solve.
Each has a past that plays into who and what they are. That hardened them both, in different ways but it's there.
It's really well written and I will be reading more from Ms. Blake, that's for sure.
Shauni
I have become a fan of the 1001 Dark Nights Series of novellas. It's a great way for authors to share their series with and a wonderful way to find new authors, Win/Win.
For those of you who are unaware of the concept.. here is the basic explanation:
1001 Dark Nights, inspired by The Arabian Nights: Tales from 1001 Nights.
In the original, Scheherazade desperately attempts to entertain her husband, the King of Persia, with nightly stories so that he will postpone her execution.
We’re unique spin on the premise and creating sexy, romantic stories that a modern day Scheherazade might tell. Some are paranormal, some erotic. All are compelling and page turning.
I think this was supposed to be a short lived concept but it has grown to epic proportions!
So far I have mostly read authors I am familiar with but today.. I am checking out Lexi Blake, an author that I have heard oodles about and yet, this is my first foray into her books.
Dungeon Games is book 6.5 in Lexi Blakes, Masters and Mercenaries Series and yes this too is centered around a BDSM Club. But to me that was this secondary aspect. In all honestly it was more of a yes we are into this and we all attend this club and we are all Dominants or Submissives but that doesn't play a huge part in this book. It's more like background information, like hey he has black hair and she has a goatee *grins* or maybe the other way around. And yet it's very important to who these characters are.
Karina Mills is so not the girl next door. She's tough as nails, a private investigator, and a submissive. She likes to play and scene but she never commits. To give that much of herself is just too hard for her. But she has this well of compassion that is just as much a part of her as her tough as nails personal. So when she discovers that girls interested in BDSM are disappearing Karina wants to help. When she discovers her name is on the list... she is more than willing to become bait. But that means she has to submit to the one man she really doesn't want to. The one man who could change her life.
Derek Brighton is a good cop. A really good cop. It's more than a job to him. The only other place he feels comfortable is at the private BDSM club he is a member of but when the Feds call him in he is sure he is about to be outed and his career is over. Only that's not the case. They want him on the task force that is trying to find the man/people who are killing off submissives.. And when he discovers that Karina is next on the list. All of his protective bells go off. Karina is special.
I liked this book because it was different from the other BDSM series I read. Not that I don't love those books but this one? It was more action and intensity. Passion and power. I wouldn't call this book erotica, or really even a BDSM book, which makes it very interesting. Because there is the Dominance factor in there. And it sizzles.. steam rises from the pages.
The relationship between Derek and Karina grows with time. It has to find ways around obstacles, some created by their own misconceptions and others from the very case they are trying to solve.
Each has a past that plays into who and what they are. That hardened them both, in different ways but it's there.
It's really well written and I will be reading more from Ms. Blake, that's for sure.
Shauni
July 9, 2016
I love reading Lexi Blake her books are always well written and full of action. I have been waiting for awhile for a book about Derek Brighton the war and his ex-wife Maia really messed him up he has trust issues. I liked him two books ago I think he showed up in Ian and Charlie's book along with Karina both of them had some issues she was a drug addicted teen who turned tough PI. Derek and Karina are thrown together when a serial killer targets submissives from the local BDSM scene ( bad clubs not Ian's) in Dallas. Derek and Karina have been dancing around their attraction to each other for quite awhile. Derek is brought in on the serial killer case because of his BDSM background, and finds out that Karina has been targeted as the killer’s next victim. Derek volunteers to become her Dom and together, they work to draw out the killer, while working out their own issues with each other. Derek thinks she has had sex with his friends because she has done a scene or two with them and she was close to Liam. Derek made it clear that he was looking for a 24/7 relationship his perfect sub and Karina knows that he doesn't want her as the case goes on Derek realize that he has fallen in love with Karina and doesn't think that she would want him and she feels the same thinking that he wouldn't want her. What I love about this series is that each operation the person running it has found love and they are a close knit family and Derek and Karina are the same. Derek's ex who cheated on him used sex to get a head in her profession knew that he was in love with Karina and was willing to let him go. This was a great read and I can't wait to find out what's in store for Chelsea and Simon and I am wondering if Jessie will be getting his own book.
June 11, 2014
Sweet little gem here even if the villain was not a myster from the very start... but hey I loved it.
Karina is a great PI with more heart than money and she lives to help her customers. And when she becomes the next victim of serial killer there is one cop ready to help her and protect her. He incidentally is also a Dom and Karina is a sub, what a coincidence! LOL
Karina is really a great character while Derek is more an acquired taste with his fanatic hate for germs and his need to control everything and everyone. I loved her.
Really a great story
Karina is a great PI with more heart than money and she lives to help her customers. And when she becomes the next victim of serial killer there is one cop ready to help her and protect her. He incidentally is also a Dom and Karina is a sub, what a coincidence! LOL
Karina is really a great character while Derek is more an acquired taste with his fanatic hate for germs and his need to control everything and everyone. I loved her.
Really a great story
August 16, 2015
This might just be my favourite story in the Masters and Mercenaries Series...so far.
I know Dungeon Games was only some short Novella part of the series, but for me it felt very well rounded and the pacing was right all around; I loved getting to know Derek and Karina as well as seeing some old friends again.
I just missed one thing...Ian. :D
So, now we have to wait again, right? August needs to be here, asap!
I know Dungeon Games was only some short Novella part of the series, but for me it felt very well rounded and the pacing was right all around; I loved getting to know Derek and Karina as well as seeing some old friends again.
I just missed one thing...Ian. :D
So, now we have to wait again, right? August needs to be here, asap!
May 14, 2014
3.5 stars
Probably my least favourite of the series but still an enjoyable read. I really missed Ian and his snarky humour. Looking forward to the next book.
Probably my least favourite of the series but still an enjoyable read. I really missed Ian and his snarky humour. Looking forward to the next book.
October 24, 2019
This book is 6.5 in the Masters and Mercenaries series. These should be read in order to get the full effect of the characters.
I loved this book and to think I almost didn’t read it. The last few books I’ve read have been in the order that I found on LexiBlake.net. I finished Dungeon Royale and wanted to move onto A View to a Thrill. I am so glad that I didn’t. I am glad that I went in order that Lexi suggests.
This book was suspenseful. It had me guessing the whole time. I kind of figured out who I thought the killer was but there was a little twist, which I liked. We know that Lexi’s books are HEA so I’m not spoiling anything stating that Derek and Karina end up together. I was so happy that they MC’s didn’t beat around the bush about how they felt about each other. This doesn’t mean that they didn’t have rough patches but there wasn’t all of the second guessing like in her other books.
Once again, I was invested in the characters. I was rooting for them to get together and I love to read how everyone is friends and they look out for each other.
I'm definitely will keep going in the order that Lexi suggests.
I loved this book and to think I almost didn’t read it. The last few books I’ve read have been in the order that I found on LexiBlake.net. I finished Dungeon Royale and wanted to move onto A View to a Thrill. I am so glad that I didn’t. I am glad that I went in order that Lexi suggests.
This book was suspenseful. It had me guessing the whole time. I kind of figured out who I thought the killer was but there was a little twist, which I liked. We know that Lexi’s books are HEA so I’m not spoiling anything stating that Derek and Karina end up together. I was so happy that they MC’s didn’t beat around the bush about how they felt about each other. This doesn’t mean that they didn’t have rough patches but there wasn’t all of the second guessing like in her other books.
Once again, I was invested in the characters. I was rooting for them to get together and I love to read how everyone is friends and they look out for each other.
I'm definitely will keep going in the order that Lexi suggests.
February 18, 2018
I was coming out of my high from reading Dungeon Royale (Book #6) and didn't think any book could top that but boy was I wrong. I think I love this book better than book #6. Yes, it is just a novella but it packed a wallop! I still am in love with Damon but Derek is right up there next to him.
When I came across Karina a couple of books back, I didn't think I was going to like her as much as I do. I thought her to be a petulant character and an unworthy sub but Lexi Blake proved me wrong. Karina's back story just broke my heart and she is such a strong female character. Oh and I really like Queen Bitch Maia, she's a wee bit psychotic I think!
This series just keep getting better and better with each book. Please don't let the next book suck!
When I came across Karina a couple of books back, I didn't think I was going to like her as much as I do. I thought her to be a petulant character and an unworthy sub but Lexi Blake proved me wrong. Karina's back story just broke my heart and she is such a strong female character. Oh and I really like Queen Bitch Maia, she's a wee bit psychotic I think!
This series just keep getting better and better with each book. Please don't let the next book suck!
January 11, 2018
I listened to the audio book of Dungeon Games This one was very good the only thing that I didn't like was that I wanted more! I loved the narration on this one and his Irish accent for O' Donnell was spot on lol I loved that
Would Derek be my book boyfriend ? He'll yes I'm a bad girl officer now cuff me and take me to bed #Claimed
Would Derek be my book boyfriend ? He'll yes I'm a bad girl officer now cuff me and take me to bed #Claimed
October 27, 2019
I forgot I had this! Derek is dreamy. That is all.
March 27, 2020
Decent
The only reason for the stars is that I figured out who the bad guy was when first appeared in the story. I loved the karma she dealt out it was great.
The only reason for the stars is that I figured out who the bad guy was when first appeared in the story. I loved the karma she dealt out it was great.
February 25, 2018
Awesome 😊
It was easy to figure out who the bad guy was, but I just loved Derek and Karina and everyone else so much that I can't even care about that.
It was easy to figure out who the bad guy was, but I just loved Derek and Karina and everyone else so much that I can't even care about that.
July 19, 2019
4.5 stars
May 21, 2014
Lexi has brought the inner Sanctum to the forefront once again with Derek and Karina. The demons that Derek and Karina have faced in their lives will tug on your heart strings. They are truly a couple that needs BDSM in order to function in their everyday lives. Karina is dealing with her dark past and finds comfort in getting into her sub space where nothing else matters. She does not need to have sex with a Dom and has not made love to anyone in over 5 years.
Derek was in Afghanistan and is dealing with PTSD and a horrible cheating ex-wife. He needs BDSM for the control aspect. He needs control and no long term commitments because he was burned the last time he tried that. These two characters come from a law enforcement background and are stubborn as hell.
My favorite part about the subs in this series are their bratty mouths. Karina can dish it out and can also take it.
"All right, Detective. You've got me alone. You want to tell me what crawled up your ass and died an obviously slow and painful death?"
The funniest part of this story for me is what she does to Derek's ex-wife Maia after Maia tries to brow beat her and make her feel bad about herself. Bad idea Mrs. Brighton to be messing with one of Lexi's subs. They don't get mad they get even.
Karina makes Derek crazy and I loved reading every minute of it. Here you have a serial killer on the loose with Karina in his sights and Karina being a the stubborn pain in Derek's ass that she is likes to make sure that the killer takes the bait. Of course this just about gives Derek a heart attack.
I find that really outstanding authors have a gift for taking sub plot characters from a series that I could really care less about and turning them into these amazing hero's and heroines that I could never imagine would not have had their own story in the series from the very beginning. Lexi Blake is a master at introducing us to the inner sanctum and making us fall in love all over again. I started to read really slowly at the end because I did not want it to be over. I did not want to see the story end and I am just barely holding on until A View To A Thrill comes out. Simon Weston is swoonalicious.
If you could take James Bond, and put him in some leathers, give the man some ropes, a paddle, and a spanking bench you would have yourself one of the many hot Doms from the Masters and Mercenaries Series. No one writes BDSM like Lexi Blake.
Derek was in Afghanistan and is dealing with PTSD and a horrible cheating ex-wife. He needs BDSM for the control aspect. He needs control and no long term commitments because he was burned the last time he tried that. These two characters come from a law enforcement background and are stubborn as hell.
My favorite part about the subs in this series are their bratty mouths. Karina can dish it out and can also take it.
"All right, Detective. You've got me alone. You want to tell me what crawled up your ass and died an obviously slow and painful death?"
The funniest part of this story for me is what she does to Derek's ex-wife Maia after Maia tries to brow beat her and make her feel bad about herself. Bad idea Mrs. Brighton to be messing with one of Lexi's subs. They don't get mad they get even.
Karina makes Derek crazy and I loved reading every minute of it. Here you have a serial killer on the loose with Karina in his sights and Karina being a the stubborn pain in Derek's ass that she is likes to make sure that the killer takes the bait. Of course this just about gives Derek a heart attack.
I find that really outstanding authors have a gift for taking sub plot characters from a series that I could really care less about and turning them into these amazing hero's and heroines that I could never imagine would not have had their own story in the series from the very beginning. Lexi Blake is a master at introducing us to the inner sanctum and making us fall in love all over again. I started to read really slowly at the end because I did not want it to be over. I did not want to see the story end and I am just barely holding on until A View To A Thrill comes out. Simon Weston is swoonalicious.
If you could take James Bond, and put him in some leathers, give the man some ropes, a paddle, and a spanking bench you would have yourself one of the many hot Doms from the Masters and Mercenaries Series. No one writes BDSM like Lexi Blake.
June 12, 2015
In this novella set in Ms. Blake’s Masters and Mercenaries ‘verse, Derek Brighton and Karina Mills are thrown together when a serial killer targets submissives from the local BDSM scene in Dallas. Derek and Karina have been dancing around their attraction to each other for quite a while in Ms. Blake’s books. Derek is brought in on the serial killer case because of his BDSM background, and finds out that Karina has been targeted as the killer’s next victim. Derek volunteers to become her Dom and together, they work to draw out the killer, while working out their own issues with each other.
The Good
Derek and Karina have intrigued me for a long time, and I was eager to see when they would get their chance to be front and center. I wasn’t disappointed. Their scenes are fraught with tension but their connection was apparent from the start. The dialogue flowed well, with good humor and showcased the relationships that have been established between all the characters. The smexy times - yeah, Ms. Blake has never had a problem with that, and she certainly comes through with Derek and Karina. There’s a good balance between the sex and the emotional scenes, and it doesn’t overwhelm.
The Just Ok
The “mystery” of who the killer is, really isn’t. But if I want a mystery, I’ll go read Agatha Christie.
I don’t think it functions well as a standalone. I could easily see it becoming confusing for someone unfamiliar with the ‘verse and all its players to follow the action since there are appearances from many former heroes/heroines.
This also affects the believability of the HEA - I’ve read this series from the beginning and I know there’s a history between Derek and Karina but if I wasn’t, the condensed timeline works against this.
The Bottom Line
As a fan of this series, I really enjoyed it and would definitely recommend to those already familiar with this ‘verse. If you’re not, I wouldn’t think this is the place to start.
The Good
Derek and Karina have intrigued me for a long time, and I was eager to see when they would get their chance to be front and center. I wasn’t disappointed. Their scenes are fraught with tension but their connection was apparent from the start. The dialogue flowed well, with good humor and showcased the relationships that have been established between all the characters. The smexy times - yeah, Ms. Blake has never had a problem with that, and she certainly comes through with Derek and Karina. There’s a good balance between the sex and the emotional scenes, and it doesn’t overwhelm.
The Just Ok
The “mystery” of who the killer is, really isn’t. But if I want a mystery, I’ll go read Agatha Christie.
I don’t think it functions well as a standalone. I could easily see it becoming confusing for someone unfamiliar with the ‘verse and all its players to follow the action since there are appearances from many former heroes/heroines.
This also affects the believability of the HEA - I’ve read this series from the beginning and I know there’s a history between Derek and Karina but if I wasn’t, the condensed timeline works against this.
The Bottom Line
As a fan of this series, I really enjoyed it and would definitely recommend to those already familiar with this ‘verse. If you’re not, I wouldn’t think this is the place to start.
August 15, 2016
The big problem with short stories like these is that they're...short, much too short!
Derek and Karina have been definitely not attracted to each other at all, nope! No lust here folks, just keep moving. Karina's an itch he badly wants to scratch, but she's reluctant to get involved with anyone, especially Derek. However, someone is murdering subs, so they agree to work together on a police op to try and identify the killer.
Both of these characters are great. Karina's had a troubled past, but she's strong, smart, and competent. I loved how she really was able to take care of herself without being abrasive or scarily aggressive. But you can sense how lonely she is, and how she craves emotional connection with others. Derek's a great hero, and a great match for Karina. At times Derek could be a overbearing, but he is so careful with her...and was able to dominate her without being too heavy-handed (pardon my pun!).
We meet some interesting new characters: Maia, Derek's ex, who's so awful, but intriguing. I can't wait to see if she gets her own story. And..my favorite, Clayton Hill, Texas Ranger....Mmmm........
It wasn't too hard to figure out the villain, but there was some action and suspense to move the plot along. And I loved seeing other characters from the series!
Really a great story -- just wished there'd been more of it!
Derek and Karina have been definitely not attracted to each other at all, nope! No lust here folks, just keep moving. Karina's an itch he badly wants to scratch, but she's reluctant to get involved with anyone, especially Derek. However, someone is murdering subs, so they agree to work together on a police op to try and identify the killer.
Both of these characters are great. Karina's had a troubled past, but she's strong, smart, and competent. I loved how she really was able to take care of herself without being abrasive or scarily aggressive. But you can sense how lonely she is, and how she craves emotional connection with others. Derek's a great hero, and a great match for Karina. At times Derek could be a overbearing, but he is so careful with her...and was able to dominate her without being too heavy-handed (pardon my pun!).
We meet some interesting new characters: Maia, Derek's ex, who's so awful, but intriguing. I can't wait to see if she gets her own story. And..my favorite, Clayton Hill, Texas Ranger....Mmmm........
It wasn't too hard to figure out the villain, but there was some action and suspense to move the plot along. And I loved seeing other characters from the series!
Really a great story -- just wished there'd been more of it!
September 20, 2014
My only complaint about the book was that it was too short. One of the best books in this series imo.
Derek comes across as a judgmental ass but I think he was allowed a few issues after his piece of work ex Maia and going through a terrible experience in Afghanistan. He's battle wary in more ways than one, which presents the challenge of making a real connection with women, especially Karina.
And then there's Karina who's facing her own demons as well as having feelings for Derek but not wanting to forget her love for he ex-husband, Kevin and being disloyal to him.
I loved how they two end up coming together to catch a killer and fall for each other on the one. The best scenes for me in this book wasn't even the BDSM stuff (honestly found their first love scene more hot than anything else after his nightmare) and found myself falling in love with his inner turmoil about her not allowing him to call her "baby" because after all that is what she was, his. Also the ending was just about perfect for these two.
Derek comes across as a judgmental ass but I think he was allowed a few issues after his piece of work ex Maia and going through a terrible experience in Afghanistan. He's battle wary in more ways than one, which presents the challenge of making a real connection with women, especially Karina.
And then there's Karina who's facing her own demons as well as having feelings for Derek but not wanting to forget her love for he ex-husband, Kevin and being disloyal to him.
I loved how they two end up coming together to catch a killer and fall for each other on the one. The best scenes for me in this book wasn't even the BDSM stuff (honestly found their first love scene more hot than anything else after his nightmare) and found myself falling in love with his inner turmoil about her not allowing him to call her "baby" because after all that is what she was, his. Also the ending was just about perfect for these two.
May 16, 2014
I love this series..... These books and novella are like cake, one piece is not enough....I need to devour it all in one sitting..... I loved Derek and Karina's story.....These 2 have had some sexy intense tension for a few books now, so it was great to finally see them get their story and their HEA!!!!
Love, love, loved it.....Thanks Lexi Blake for always delivering....
Cant wait for Simon's story...:)
Love, love, loved it.....Thanks Lexi Blake for always delivering....
Cant wait for Simon's story...:)
September 25, 2014
Great addition to the series
I thought this was a great addition to the Masters and Mercenaries. I have read a the others and this could be read as a standalone too.
I loved the connection between Derek and Karina. despite their differences they we perfect for each other. he needed to be needed and she needed to serve.
The book also had a great plot. I found it difficult to put down once I started.
I even liked Maia. she was one tough cookie.
I thought this was a great addition to the Masters and Mercenaries. I have read a the others and this could be read as a standalone too.
I loved the connection between Derek and Karina. despite their differences they we perfect for each other. he needed to be needed and she needed to serve.
The book also had a great plot. I found it difficult to put down once I started.
I even liked Maia. she was one tough cookie.
January 7, 2024
Derek Brighton is a Dom who needs to be needed. Karina Mills is a tough, independent woman who is a sub mostly on her terms. Thrown together on an op, they get a chance to finally act on their attraction for one another. Both of them have scarred pasts that are keeping them from moving on. Can they build enough trust in one another to reveal their truths and build their feelings into a relationship? Can a neat freak and a slob find happiness?
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