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Masters and Mercenaries #16
Close Cover
Remy Guidry doesn’t do relationships. He tried the marriage thing once, back in Louisiana, and learned the hard way that all he really needs in life is a cold beer, some good friends, and the occasional hookup. His job as a bodyguard with McKay-Taggart gives him purpose and lovely perks, like access to Sanctum. The last thing he needs in his life is a woman with stars in her eyes and babies in her future.
Lisa Daley’s life is finally going in the right direction. She has finally graduated from college after years of putting herself through school. She’s got a new job at an accounting firm and she’s finished her Sanctum training. Finally on her own and having fun, her life seems pretty perfect. Except she’s lonely and the one man she wants won’t give her a second look.
There is one other little glitch. Apparently, her new firm is really a front for the mob and now they want her dead. Assassins can really ruin a fun girls’ night out. Suddenly strapped to the very same six-foot-five-inch hunk of a bodyguard who makes her heart pound, Lisa can’t decide if this situation is a blessing or a curse.
As the mob closes in, Remy takes his tempting new charge back to the safest place he knows—his home in the bayou. Surrounded by his past, he can’t help wondering if Lisa is his future. To answer that question, he just has to keep her alive.
Lisa Daley’s life is finally going in the right direction. She has finally graduated from college after years of putting herself through school. She’s got a new job at an accounting firm and she’s finished her Sanctum training. Finally on her own and having fun, her life seems pretty perfect. Except she’s lonely and the one man she wants won’t give her a second look.
There is one other little glitch. Apparently, her new firm is really a front for the mob and now they want her dead. Assassins can really ruin a fun girls’ night out. Suddenly strapped to the very same six-foot-five-inch hunk of a bodyguard who makes her heart pound, Lisa can’t decide if this situation is a blessing or a curse.
As the mob closes in, Remy takes his tempting new charge back to the safest place he knows—his home in the bayou. Surrounded by his past, he can’t help wondering if Lisa is his future. To answer that question, he just has to keep her alive.
424 pages, ebook
First published April 10, 2018
901 people are currently reading
1790 people want to read
About the author
Lexi Blake
182 books6,382 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 223 reviews
April 16, 2018
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Close Cover wasn't a book that I was dying to read; the hero Remy just didn't grab my attention before this, but I'm so happy that I did actually pick it up and read it. This book reminded me of the original Masters and Mercenaries books, which I loved. I enjoyed that this author seemed to be going back to the roots of that series where the stories focus more on the main character than everything going on with various secondary characters.
Remy and Lisa were both very well written characters and I felt like they shared the spotlight equally instead of one having issues that took over the plot line. I think the best part of these characters was Lisa's spirit. She didn't give up when things got tough. She had her pride and didn't want to accept handout but she wasn't too idiotic to not accept help once it was made clear that she needed it. I admired her a lot for that.
Overall, I'm super happy with this story and I would not be mad if there were more books to come from the secondary characters featured *hint hint Ms. Blake*
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Close Cover wasn't a book that I was dying to read; the hero Remy just didn't grab my attention before this, but I'm so happy that I did actually pick it up and read it. This book reminded me of the original Masters and Mercenaries books, which I loved. I enjoyed that this author seemed to be going back to the roots of that series where the stories focus more on the main character than everything going on with various secondary characters.
Remy and Lisa were both very well written characters and I felt like they shared the spotlight equally instead of one having issues that took over the plot line. I think the best part of these characters was Lisa's spirit. She didn't give up when things got tough. She had her pride and didn't want to accept handout but she wasn't too idiotic to not accept help once it was made clear that she needed it. I admired her a lot for that.
Overall, I'm super happy with this story and I would not be mad if there were more books to come from the secondary characters featured *hint hint Ms. Blake*
March 26, 2018
~WRITING - PLOT - PACE~So I'll admit I went into this one with a bit of trepidation. Remy was another of this author's uber whores. At least that is pretty much all I remembered about him (lol). I seem to have the memory of an elephant when it comes to this stuff, unfortunately. In any case, it actually ended up being better than I anticipated. Much better. In fact, I would go so far as to say probably one of the best Masters & Mercenaries books this author has written in AGES. The writing was fantastic. It was a LONG book so I will admit the pace was a little slow in parts. That said, the plot was engaging and kept me turning the pages. I would probably suggest reading this one last out of all the crossover books. Mainly because the prologue and the epilogue take place after all the characters have found their happily ever afters. That is just "MY" suggestion and you won't be lost reading it before the others.
~HERO~
REMY...I went into this one expecting not to love Remy. I am a little over the whole uber manwhore thing. Especially when it is brought up over and over in a book. There was some of that in this one and honestly, most of it was unnecessary (IMO), but it wasn't as over the top as some of this author's previous books. Plus it helped that the heroine's past was thrown a bit in the heroes face when he finds out she slept with LINC her training partner. Anyways...I ended up really liking Remy a lot. He was alpha. He was sweet. He was funny. He spoke French. He recited poetry. He was a bonehead at times. He made mistakes. He apologized for said mistakes. He groveled. Surprisingly, he was a pretty decent hero.
~HEROINE~
LISA...She was a great character as well. She was feisty. She was funny. She was strong. She wore her heart on her sleeve. I loved that she wasn't a doormat. She made Remy work to get her back. She was maybe a TAD overly stubborn, but it was a nice change from the doormat heroines of the last few books for sure. I really liked Lisa a lot.
~FAVORITE QUOTE~
"You should get to the dining room, Remy. We had a bus pull up ten minutes ago. They’re on a swamp tour. Seraphina said it was thirty hungry, ancient people. Like really old. I bet it looks like the walking dead out there."
~SECONDARY CHARACTERS~
This book was jam-packed with excellent secondary characters. We get tons of Ian and some other M&M originals. We get brief appearances from most of the crossover bodyguards. We get glimpses of Remy's family and people from his town in the Bayou <--- PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE tell me we are going to get books (or a series) set in Remy's hometown and featuring his family??!! I was also VAWRY intrigued by Biondo. I *think* maybe he is from another series by a different author? Maybe a paranormal one? I don't know, but I want to read more about this guy for sure.
~HEAT LEVEL~
Medium. This one was fairly hot and had a few BDSM elements. I think we have one club scene and then a few more outside the club sex scenes. It could have used maybe a bit more kink, but I wasn't too bothered by the lack of that in this book.
~ANGST LEVEL~
Medium. This one was fairly angsty for me. Mostly because I knew the other shoe was going to drop at some point because Lisa wasn't privy to some information that she should have been. On top of that, add in some confused feelings, some hurt when the truth comes out, some pushing away, and finally, some groveling and you have the basis for some pretty decent angst. There was also a bit of OW drama in the form of Remy's ex-wife. But OMG I laughed my butt off at that scene. I wouldn't say there was any OM drama, but Remy gets a bit jealous about Linc and Lisa having slept together <--- personally, I was thinking "YAY finally the heroines past getting thrown in the hero's face. *lol*
~IN THE END~
I enjoyed this one WAY more than I thought I would that is for sure. It felt more like the Masters & Mercenaries books of old. The writing (as always) was great. The plot was engaging. It was full of humor and great banter between the characters (both primary and secondary). Both main characters were likable. We got introduced to some great secondary characters. I loved the setting of Remy's hometown and hope we see more books from there. Honestly, I don't have much more to say. I loved it and therefore yours truly is going to be giving this one two very solid thumbs up.
April 9, 2018
4.5 STARS
I'm a sucker for a sexy Cajun, and it just doesn't get any sexier than Remy Guidry. Remy is a great friend, and an even better Dom, but when it comes to affairs of the heart, jaded is an understatement. He doesn't believe in forever anymore and relationships are most definitely a no go. It also doesn't matter that he's unbelievably attracted to Lisa Daley, a previous Sanctum trainee. She's hands off. He doesn't do shy little rich girls. He's had more than his fill of her type in his life.
But when Lisa's life is in danger, he knows no other man can protect her except for him. And it doesn't take him long to realize that Lisa is not at all who he thought she was and just how much he misjudged the little spitfire.
I loved the back and forth dance that these two go through in the beginning. I was just waiting for Remy to finally figure out his mistake and watch that grovel happen. Lisa may be sweet and caring, but she certainly isn't afraid to stand up for herself. I loved that she gave as good as she got with Remy. Unbeknownst to her, the man that she's been lusting after for months that suddenly becomes her neighbor has an ulterior motive for being there. He's actually secretly protecting her from a danger that they're still trying to get to the bottom of.
Of course what would a Masters and Mercenaries book be without a cameo from my ultimate favorite character from the series, Ian freaking Taggard. I will never, ever, get enough of this man and his cutting humor and sarcastic barbs at the expense of his men.
Nothing was more satisfying than watching Remy and Lisa fall harder and harder for each other in the midst of figuring out just who wants her dead. Close Cover offers just the right amount of romance wrapped around a high octane story full of action and suspense. I highly recommend reading the entire Crossover Collection because it was wholly addicting. But nothing hit the spot quite like Remy and Lisa's book.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
You look perfect with my rope your only clothing, nothing between us. Do you want to fly, ma chèrie? Because I will take you there.”
I'm a sucker for a sexy Cajun, and it just doesn't get any sexier than Remy Guidry. Remy is a great friend, and an even better Dom, but when it comes to affairs of the heart, jaded is an understatement. He doesn't believe in forever anymore and relationships are most definitely a no go. It also doesn't matter that he's unbelievably attracted to Lisa Daley, a previous Sanctum trainee. She's hands off. He doesn't do shy little rich girls. He's had more than his fill of her type in his life.
But when Lisa's life is in danger, he knows no other man can protect her except for him. And it doesn't take him long to realize that Lisa is not at all who he thought she was and just how much he misjudged the little spitfire.
I loved the back and forth dance that these two go through in the beginning. I was just waiting for Remy to finally figure out his mistake and watch that grovel happen. Lisa may be sweet and caring, but she certainly isn't afraid to stand up for herself. I loved that she gave as good as she got with Remy. Unbeknownst to her, the man that she's been lusting after for months that suddenly becomes her neighbor has an ulterior motive for being there. He's actually secretly protecting her from a danger that they're still trying to get to the bottom of.
Of course what would a Masters and Mercenaries book be without a cameo from my ultimate favorite character from the series, Ian freaking Taggard. I will never, ever, get enough of this man and his cutting humor and sarcastic barbs at the expense of his men.
Nothing was more satisfying than watching Remy and Lisa fall harder and harder for each other in the midst of figuring out just who wants her dead. Close Cover offers just the right amount of romance wrapped around a high octane story full of action and suspense. I highly recommend reading the entire Crossover Collection because it was wholly addicting. But nothing hit the spot quite like Remy and Lisa's book.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
April 16, 2018
“I’m going to want some fairly kinky things from you.”
I absolutely LOVED Remy and Lisa’s romance! CLOSE COVER is a standalone novella from Lexi Blake’s INCREDIBLE Masters and Mercenaries series. This sexy, suspenseful, and erotic romance is a full length novel, but it’s a quick and heart-pounding read that left me on the edge of my seat on multiple occasions. Lexi Blake is known for her amazing characters and her impeccable writing, and CLOSE COVER acts as a reminder to that fact. She is, and will ALWAYS be, my GO TO for all things romantic suspense. We are headed back to Sanctum folks, and then we’re off to the bayou! Wonderful and exciting destinations that will pull you in and NEVER let go!
There are definite SPARKS flying between Remy and Lisa, but both have their hang-ups. Their journey is NOT to be missed! There’s passion, suspense, eroticism, and sexual chemistry for days! If you are looking for an unputdownable romantic suspense with a sexy BDSM edge, look no further. Lexi Blake has got you covered. You will find no bigger fan than myself when it comes to this writer. I think everyone in the romance community need to experience the greatness that is Ms. Blake and her truly wonderful characters.
I absolutely LOVED Remy and Lisa’s romance! CLOSE COVER is a standalone novella from Lexi Blake’s INCREDIBLE Masters and Mercenaries series. This sexy, suspenseful, and erotic romance is a full length novel, but it’s a quick and heart-pounding read that left me on the edge of my seat on multiple occasions. Lexi Blake is known for her amazing characters and her impeccable writing, and CLOSE COVER acts as a reminder to that fact. She is, and will ALWAYS be, my GO TO for all things romantic suspense. We are headed back to Sanctum folks, and then we’re off to the bayou! Wonderful and exciting destinations that will pull you in and NEVER let go!
There are definite SPARKS flying between Remy and Lisa, but both have their hang-ups. Their journey is NOT to be missed! There’s passion, suspense, eroticism, and sexual chemistry for days! If you are looking for an unputdownable romantic suspense with a sexy BDSM edge, look no further. Lexi Blake has got you covered. You will find no bigger fan than myself when it comes to this writer. I think everyone in the romance community need to experience the greatness that is Ms. Blake and her truly wonderful characters.
April 11, 2018
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
Scintillating! Lexi Blake has done it again as she beautifully masterfully weaves passion, romance and high octane action. Close Cover by Lexi Blake was just everything you could have wanted. Honestly, this book was addicting. The character chemistry and sexual tension was what made this book so realistic and sexy. So if you are looking for one book that will leave you blushing hard then this book is for you.
Scintillating! Lexi Blake has done it again as she beautifully masterfully weaves passion, romance and high octane action. Close Cover by Lexi Blake was just everything you could have wanted. Honestly, this book was addicting. The character chemistry and sexual tension was what made this book so realistic and sexy. So if you are looking for one book that will leave you blushing hard then this book is for you.
April 10, 2018
I’m a huge fan of Lexi Blake’s Masters and Mercenaries series; there’s just something about dominant alpha males who kick bad people’s asses for a living and then let off steam in deliciously decadent and kinky ways.
But what I also like about these heroes is that they aren’t one-dimensional; it’s not all about sex and violence for them…don’t get me wrong, those two things are a significant part of their identity but there’s another side to them and it seems like only their ‘potential’ leading lady can bring it out of them because regardless of their past…their current path in life and their current outlook on what they want in life, once these domineering men allow themselves the one person who seems to be made for them, they can’t help but find a way to claim her, even when they mess up in frustratingly life-altering ways and boy do these guys know how to fuck things up!
I have to admit that I wasn’t sure how Remy Guidry would redeem himself after he messed up so epically when he rejected Lisa Daley’s invitation to play at Sanctum, humiliating her and making any interaction between them extremely awkward. But Blake forces Remy and Lisa to face what happened between them as Remy takes one last job before he heads back to the Bayou, his home, to run the family business, and Lisa just so happens to be his close cover assignment, and while Remy’s a fantastic covert bodyguard, what he feels for Lisa and what he allows himself to get from her spells trouble in very significant ways because not only is he leaving Dallas but he also refuses to accept just how much she means to him, setting both of them up for one hell of a fall amidst the danger that already threatening her.
Despite all of his mistakes and manwhore tendencies, Remy is an extremely likable hero. There’s reasons for the way he has chosen to live his life and Blake helps readers understand Remy’s issues. I really can’t fault Remy for misjudging Lisa’s background and ‘princess’ lifestyle; he thinks he knows her ‘type,’ so his preconceived notions about her are based on stereotypical assumptions, but when he does learn who Lisa is and what her life was like, he admits his mistakes and then finds himself inadequate for her because of where he comes from and what he doesn’t have to offer her that she so obviously deserves.
Lisa may be a submissive in sexual play, but she’s definitely a strong and independent woman outside of Sanctum. She may wear her heart on her sleeve and struggle with demons from her past, but she refuses to be anyone’s doormat, regardless of her attraction to him or her desire to be with him. She’s a sweet, beautiful, and classy woman who deserves the best in life, so when she feels used and burned by the man who initially rejected her, it’s difficult for her to come back from that…to reconsider her anger and give Remy a second chance to make things right, and based on what she endured as a child and the scary situation she’s currently in, she needs to guard herself because everything is too overwhelming and too up in the air for her at the moment, which not only has her at a disadvantage but it also requires her to trust the man who broke her heart twice.
Close Cover is a great read; it has action, suspense, angst, and steam. I loved how Remy and Lisa’s relationship evolved and the way Remy fought for her once he realized just how much she meant to him. The secondary characters complemented the story line well because their insights allowed Lisa to gather much needed information about Remy and find a place where she truly felt she belonged.
4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
But what I also like about these heroes is that they aren’t one-dimensional; it’s not all about sex and violence for them…don’t get me wrong, those two things are a significant part of their identity but there’s another side to them and it seems like only their ‘potential’ leading lady can bring it out of them because regardless of their past…their current path in life and their current outlook on what they want in life, once these domineering men allow themselves the one person who seems to be made for them, they can’t help but find a way to claim her, even when they mess up in frustratingly life-altering ways and boy do these guys know how to fuck things up!
I have to admit that I wasn’t sure how Remy Guidry would redeem himself after he messed up so epically when he rejected Lisa Daley’s invitation to play at Sanctum, humiliating her and making any interaction between them extremely awkward. But Blake forces Remy and Lisa to face what happened between them as Remy takes one last job before he heads back to the Bayou, his home, to run the family business, and Lisa just so happens to be his close cover assignment, and while Remy’s a fantastic covert bodyguard, what he feels for Lisa and what he allows himself to get from her spells trouble in very significant ways because not only is he leaving Dallas but he also refuses to accept just how much she means to him, setting both of them up for one hell of a fall amidst the danger that already threatening her.
Despite all of his mistakes and manwhore tendencies, Remy is an extremely likable hero. There’s reasons for the way he has chosen to live his life and Blake helps readers understand Remy’s issues. I really can’t fault Remy for misjudging Lisa’s background and ‘princess’ lifestyle; he thinks he knows her ‘type,’ so his preconceived notions about her are based on stereotypical assumptions, but when he does learn who Lisa is and what her life was like, he admits his mistakes and then finds himself inadequate for her because of where he comes from and what he doesn’t have to offer her that she so obviously deserves.
Lisa may be a submissive in sexual play, but she’s definitely a strong and independent woman outside of Sanctum. She may wear her heart on her sleeve and struggle with demons from her past, but she refuses to be anyone’s doormat, regardless of her attraction to him or her desire to be with him. She’s a sweet, beautiful, and classy woman who deserves the best in life, so when she feels used and burned by the man who initially rejected her, it’s difficult for her to come back from that…to reconsider her anger and give Remy a second chance to make things right, and based on what she endured as a child and the scary situation she’s currently in, she needs to guard herself because everything is too overwhelming and too up in the air for her at the moment, which not only has her at a disadvantage but it also requires her to trust the man who broke her heart twice.
Close Cover is a great read; it has action, suspense, angst, and steam. I loved how Remy and Lisa’s relationship evolved and the way Remy fought for her once he realized just how much she meant to him. The secondary characters complemented the story line well because their insights allowed Lisa to gather much needed information about Remy and find a place where she truly felt she belonged.
4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
June 7, 2019
Love revisiting the Taggart clan and friends!
April 11, 2018
Yeah... i felt like a moron for a few chapters when i started this book because i was really trying to figure out why in the world Ian Taggart was so angry in the first place when Remy was giving his notice to quit! So after a few chapters, i finally clued in that this book was part of not only the Masters & Mercenaries series, but also a crossover that allowed other authors to pick and choose some of the characters and finally give them their happily ever after as well.
So after getting over my initial confusion, i enjoyed this book. We got a chance to go back in time to find out how these two characters met and how they came to be to explain why Remy's team all suddenly left at the same time. At the same time, we got to see another outlook on this series that i'm not sure that this author would have had a chance to do if it wasn't for the crossover option.
It helped me connect with this story considering i had only read a few of the books from the series here and there in the past year or so. It was full of action and longer than the other books from said series, so you get a two for one - a full length novel in this series while linking them to the other books that are novella length.
I've always been a fan of Lexi Blake's since the first book that i read from her, and this book doesn't change that fact one single bit, rather enforcing it and making me love her writing style more and more as we keep going further into her releases.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books
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July 30, 2020
Accountant Lisa Daley is having a rough year. After reporting her boss to the police for money laundering, she's unemployed, broke, and possibly being targeted by an assassin. Enter Remy Guidry. The McKay-Taggart operative becomes her secret bodyguard, as well as her temporary boyfriend and Dominant. But can their relationship survive when her life is in Texas and he needs to return to Louisiana to save the family business?
In Close Cover, Lexi Blake has created a very good romantic suspense novel, with a few twists. My favorite scene, though, was when Lisa's brother Will (who is secretly paying Remy to be her bodyguard) discovers he's also sleeping with her. Fabulous family drama and a great shovel speech. Overall, another successful installment in the Masters and Mercenaries series.
In Close Cover, Lexi Blake has created a very good romantic suspense novel, with a few twists. My favorite scene, though, was when Lisa's brother Will (who is secretly paying Remy to be her bodyguard) discovers he's also sleeping with her. Fabulous family drama and a great shovel speech. Overall, another successful installment in the Masters and Mercenaries series.
May 4, 2018
This was book 16 in the
"Masters and Mercenaries"
series and I really hope it is not the last book in this series. Lisa Daley’s life is moving in the right direction she got her MBA in accounting she got a job until she called the FBI on her boss for money laundering so now she is out of a job and she is struggling. When her brother Will and her sisters turn to Ian for help he puts Remy on the case. Remy Guidry is a hot sexy Cajun Dom who doesn't do relationships. This book had some funny moments in it and the strip club scene was funny. Remy has always thought he was too good for Lisa he thought that she was a poor little rich girl and he was so wrong. Will took care of himself and his sister's in a trailer park because their mother was a drug addict who was in and out of prison. Lisa's father was a priest who was mentally abusive to her. When an Italian hit comes after her he takes her to his hometown to meet his family. Remy has to return home to save his families business he didn't think that he would be welcomed but her was his family blamed him for all the things that went wrong with them when he came home from the service because he married the wrong woman who Lisa beat up the night they returned. This was a good read that I liked very much. Lisa had to learn to forgive him when she found out that her brother paid him to be her bodyguard. These two had some hot sex Remy is a rope master. The epilogue for this book has me really wanting to read about the crossover about the other bodyguards and the next one I wasn't so sure about how I felt about a paranormal but now I can't wait to read it. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling. I am looking forward to also reading about The Lost Boys. I really hope this isn't the last book in this series I would really miss Ian and all his sarcasm.
March 28, 2018
5 Star Review of Close Cover (Masters and Mercenaries #16) by Lexi Blake
Close Cover is book 16 in Lexi Blake’s Masters & Mercenaries series which is one of my all-time favourite series.
Nobody does romantic suspense books like Lexi Blake. If you like sexy alpha males, some BDSM, smoking hot scenes and characters that will melt your heart and your panties, then look no further.
This is McKay-Taggart operative Remy Guidry and Lisa Daley’s story. Remy doesn’t do relationships, his past marriage has damaged him too much. However there is something about Lisa and the feelings that she brings out in him, he just can’t seen to help himself.
Lisa is a strong and independent woman who is determined to see justice is carried out and because of that her life is now in danger from the mob. Remy is a bodyguard for McKay Taggart and he goes undercover to protect Lisa Daley, all the while telling himself that he can keep it purely professional; he doesn’t count on Lisa and her attraction to him or the feelings that she brings to the surface in him.
Close Cover is filled with suspense, danger, intrigue and the growth of a deep and committed love; one that made my heart pound at times. Lexi Blake always ensure that her characters are never one dimensional or superficial. I was engrossed from the first chapter to the last. As always it was great to see some familiar faces pop into the book.
Close Cover is book 16 in Lexi Blake’s Masters & Mercenaries series which is one of my all-time favourite series.
Nobody does romantic suspense books like Lexi Blake. If you like sexy alpha males, some BDSM, smoking hot scenes and characters that will melt your heart and your panties, then look no further.
This is McKay-Taggart operative Remy Guidry and Lisa Daley’s story. Remy doesn’t do relationships, his past marriage has damaged him too much. However there is something about Lisa and the feelings that she brings out in him, he just can’t seen to help himself.
Lisa is a strong and independent woman who is determined to see justice is carried out and because of that her life is now in danger from the mob. Remy is a bodyguard for McKay Taggart and he goes undercover to protect Lisa Daley, all the while telling himself that he can keep it purely professional; he doesn’t count on Lisa and her attraction to him or the feelings that she brings to the surface in him.
Close Cover is filled with suspense, danger, intrigue and the growth of a deep and committed love; one that made my heart pound at times. Lexi Blake always ensure that her characters are never one dimensional or superficial. I was engrossed from the first chapter to the last. As always it was great to see some familiar faces pop into the book.
April 8, 2018
Remy has his walls up full time. Remy doesn’t do relationships at all and definitely won’t fall for the innocent Lisa he’s protecting. Lisa might want a family but she definitely loves the feistiness of Remy and is slowly tearing down his walls. Very angst romance that has you hating Remy at one point but then you understand why he is the way he is. Very light bdsm scenes it’s mostly just really dirty talk which is totally hot! In the end you fall head over heels for Remy and want more. 4/5 stars ****Reviewed by Sweet & Spicy Reads a voluntarily Advanced Reader Copy of this book ****
March 16, 2018
Remy gets flustered every once in awhile, “I told her I wasn’t interested and walked back to the locker room.” Stumbled in his haste to get away..." You wouldn't believe it, but when his woman brags about him he gets all embarrassed, "...he did buy me a pizza before blowing my mind in bed. Four times.” Remy actually felt himself flush." I really liked this novella Remy was a possessive man.
March 2, 2024
Gosh, I've missed this series. Drama, love, just the right amount of funny. I'm so happy Remy has found love. Lisa is perfect for him to woo with his sweet poetry. Damage, stubbornness, smexiness, humor, lots of love. What more fo you want out of a book?
April 16, 2018
Review to come.
May 16, 2018
Meandering and tame, but it had a good heart.
August 13, 2021
3.5/5 stars
This started out pretty strong, but I felt like the latter half got a bit messy and chaotic, which left a few loose ends both relationship-wise and in terms of B-plot threads that didn't quite work for me.
This started out pretty strong, but I felt like the latter half got a bit messy and chaotic, which left a few loose ends both relationship-wise and in terms of B-plot threads that didn't quite work for me.
April 10, 2018
I think its better to read the earlier books. I could not understand many parts or characters. I also did not agree with the way Remy handled the assignment.
April 10, 2018
4-4.25 stars. This was a really good book! This is Remy and Lisa's story. Lisa is the sister of Will and Laurel Daley, who both had previous books in this series. She is an accountant who discovered that her boss was cooking the books and doing business with the mob. She turned them into the police, but it put her in the limelight and possibly in danger with some very bad guys. Remy works for McKay-Taggart, but will be soon be moving home to Louisiana to buy the family business and hopefully save it from a big corporation. Lisa and Remy have been attracted to each other for awhile, having seen each other around Sanctum. But Remy has some preconceived (wrong) notions about Lisa being a spoiled rich girl, so he rejected her interest in him. Worried about her safety, Lisa's family hires Remy through McKay-Taggart to be Lisa's bodyguard. Quickly he sees that he was wrong about her and they begin to fall for each other as they spend so much time together. There is some sexy times, lots of suspense, some humor and emotional moments as their relationship develops and they head to Remy's hometown to hide out.
I loved Remy and Lisa. They had a strong emotional connection and forever feelings early on in the book. It took them quite awhile to figure out how they could be together long term. Their love was palpable and it was obvious they were meant to be together. I definitely felt their love. They were sexy and sweet. There was so much goodness going on in this book. To me, it was a blend of the suspense Masters and Mercenaries series with the craziness of the Bliss series. Remy's small Louisiana hometown of Papillon was such a fun setting! Cooky townfolk that were intriguing and fun. I hope Ms. Blake decides to make a series around Papillon. There were so many characters introduced that I wanted to know more about.
Overall, I think this might be one of my favorite books from this series. There was not a lot of frustrating pushing away or misunderstandings. There was just Lexi's trademark sexiness, suspense, a strong sense of family and love. I just love this series and can't wait for more from Ms. Blake!
*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*
I loved Remy and Lisa. They had a strong emotional connection and forever feelings early on in the book. It took them quite awhile to figure out how they could be together long term. Their love was palpable and it was obvious they were meant to be together. I definitely felt their love. They were sexy and sweet. There was so much goodness going on in this book. To me, it was a blend of the suspense Masters and Mercenaries series with the craziness of the Bliss series. Remy's small Louisiana hometown of Papillon was such a fun setting! Cooky townfolk that were intriguing and fun. I hope Ms. Blake decides to make a series around Papillon. There were so many characters introduced that I wanted to know more about.
Overall, I think this might be one of my favorite books from this series. There was not a lot of frustrating pushing away or misunderstandings. There was just Lexi's trademark sexiness, suspense, a strong sense of family and love. I just love this series and can't wait for more from Ms. Blake!
*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*
December 3, 2018
This is a novel from the Masters and Mercenaries series (which is a huge one to get into!) and is a crossover novel where authors combine the worlds they have created with those of another author which sounds like a fascinating opportunity for letting the imagination run wild.
Remy Guidry works for McKay-Taggart doing whatever they pay him for and he's made a solid group of friends there with Declan, Riley, Shane and Wade and I enjoyed their banter.
Everyone in the book seems to play at a BDSM club, Sanctum, started by the founding members of McKay-Taggart, although there is only one visit to the club in this book. The Daley family, also members of the club, book Remy to be bodyguard to the youngest of the Daley sisters, Lisa, but she is not to realise that's what he is doing.
This is due to be Remy's final job for McKay-Taggart before he's due to return to Papillon to buy back the family bar.
The problem is that Lisa and Remy have fancied each other from afar for a long time but after Lisa approached Remy months before and was rejected by him, for perfectly valid, and honourable, reasons, things get off to a sticky start. What follows is a series of misunderstandings and problems caused by the usual lack of communication that happens in relationships.
The sex is definitely not behind closed doors and although some may consider it a little close to erotica when it does happen it doesn't dominate the book.
Although this was fine to read as a standalone I did feel a little like I'd walked into a party where everyone already knew each other. Settings and characters were already well established and would probably be familiar to regular readers of Blake's.
This was an enjoyable, easy read with plenty of other books to sink your teeth into if one book is not enough for you.
Remy Guidry works for McKay-Taggart doing whatever they pay him for and he's made a solid group of friends there with Declan, Riley, Shane and Wade and I enjoyed their banter.
Everyone in the book seems to play at a BDSM club, Sanctum, started by the founding members of McKay-Taggart, although there is only one visit to the club in this book. The Daley family, also members of the club, book Remy to be bodyguard to the youngest of the Daley sisters, Lisa, but she is not to realise that's what he is doing.
This is due to be Remy's final job for McKay-Taggart before he's due to return to Papillon to buy back the family bar.
The problem is that Lisa and Remy have fancied each other from afar for a long time but after Lisa approached Remy months before and was rejected by him, for perfectly valid, and honourable, reasons, things get off to a sticky start. What follows is a series of misunderstandings and problems caused by the usual lack of communication that happens in relationships.
The sex is definitely not behind closed doors and although some may consider it a little close to erotica when it does happen it doesn't dominate the book.
Although this was fine to read as a standalone I did feel a little like I'd walked into a party where everyone already knew each other. Settings and characters were already well established and would probably be familiar to regular readers of Blake's.
This was an enjoyable, easy read with plenty of other books to sink your teeth into if one book is not enough for you.
April 15, 2018
***ARC Provided by the Author and InkSlingerPR***
4.5 Stars
Let's just be honest...if it is by Lexi Blake, I am going to enjoy it. If it takes place in the Masters & Mercenaries world? Well, I am going to enjoy it. So, it's no surprise to anyone that I enjoyed this.
Close Cover is the first (although I am not even sure that is totally true) of the crossover books written in the McKay/Taggart world. I say it is the first as I have read all of them, and this is the one with the intro about the crossover. That said, they seem to have pretty simultaneous timeliness, so I don't think this is the one you need to have read first. But, it was one of my favorites (see above for the why, LOL).
Remy is the bodyguard, Lisa is the whistleblower who s just trying to do right in the world and make sure that she carves out her place in it. The problem? She is quickly learning that the place she thought was perfect isn't quite what she wants after all.
Enter Remy, the kind of guy who isn't what Lisa expects...but she wants more from him than just a fling...it's all he is offering, and it is what she settles for, but it is not what she wants. Remy, however, thinks it is all he can offer her, and that his life, the one he is determined to return to, is not one that will work for her.
I loved the way Remy and Lisa resolved this, the way the author made the decisions not only work for the characters but for the couple...I enjoy the books where the resolution of the story is more than "We love each other, it is all going to work out" and actually deals with the issue.
I believed this was a couple who is going to be able to make it work in the long run. I enjoyed this title and I recommend it.
4.5 Stars
Let's just be honest...if it is by Lexi Blake, I am going to enjoy it. If it takes place in the Masters & Mercenaries world? Well, I am going to enjoy it. So, it's no surprise to anyone that I enjoyed this.
Close Cover is the first (although I am not even sure that is totally true) of the crossover books written in the McKay/Taggart world. I say it is the first as I have read all of them, and this is the one with the intro about the crossover. That said, they seem to have pretty simultaneous timeliness, so I don't think this is the one you need to have read first. But, it was one of my favorites (see above for the why, LOL).
Remy is the bodyguard, Lisa is the whistleblower who s just trying to do right in the world and make sure that she carves out her place in it. The problem? She is quickly learning that the place she thought was perfect isn't quite what she wants after all.
Enter Remy, the kind of guy who isn't what Lisa expects...but she wants more from him than just a fling...it's all he is offering, and it is what she settles for, but it is not what she wants. Remy, however, thinks it is all he can offer her, and that his life, the one he is determined to return to, is not one that will work for her.
I loved the way Remy and Lisa resolved this, the way the author made the decisions not only work for the characters but for the couple...I enjoy the books where the resolution of the story is more than "We love each other, it is all going to work out" and actually deals with the issue.
I believed this was a couple who is going to be able to make it work in the long run. I enjoyed this title and I recommend it.
June 16, 2018
This one had a bunch of fun moments, mostly at the start and end and of course Ian was involved. I really like how much Ian had changed, love his unique view of his world and how he parcels out advice.
Remy and Lisa had quite the complicated relationship. It didn't help that Remy didn't think he was good enough for Lisa and turned her away, even though he wanted her. Then when Lisa gets into trouble and her family goes to MT for help things get more complicated as Remy is hired to help protect Lisa. You just knew when Lisa found this out things would be bad and sure enough it was, especially as the two of them had settled into a transitory relationship of a sorts. The back and forth of yes/no drove me nuts. Clearly these two were great for each other, but they had to work out their issues.
I really liked how things changed when they moved to the Bayou. I loved how Remy realized he wasn't hated, loved the conversation Remy had between his cousin, it seemed to clear some old hurts. Loved how enchanted Lisa was by the Bayou. I was glad that the long they stayed the more they worked things out. It especially helped with the action at the end. I liked the surprise ally and was glad when the threat was finally put to rest.
Remy and Lisa had quite the complicated relationship. It didn't help that Remy didn't think he was good enough for Lisa and turned her away, even though he wanted her. Then when Lisa gets into trouble and her family goes to MT for help things get more complicated as Remy is hired to help protect Lisa. You just knew when Lisa found this out things would be bad and sure enough it was, especially as the two of them had settled into a transitory relationship of a sorts. The back and forth of yes/no drove me nuts. Clearly these two were great for each other, but they had to work out their issues.
I really liked how things changed when they moved to the Bayou. I loved how Remy realized he wasn't hated, loved the conversation Remy had between his cousin, it seemed to clear some old hurts. Loved how enchanted Lisa was by the Bayou. I was glad that the long they stayed the more they worked things out. It especially helped with the action at the end. I liked the surprise ally and was glad when the threat was finally put to rest.
April 11, 2018
Close Cover (Masters and Mercenaries #16) by Lexi Blake
4.5 stars
M/F BDSM (light) romance
Triggers: Attempted Murder
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Remy is a tough nut. He is the most stoic character in these cross over books that I've come across, thus far. He is rugged, determined and takes on a lot of responsibility. Despite having dominating tendencies, he was burned very badly by a woman before and he intends to make sure that it doesn't happen again.
Then you have Lisa. She is talented and worked very hard to give herself a great life. She grew up with siblings who care deeply about her and her well-being, but she has always kind of felt a little left out. Money was something that they all aspired to make and when her dream job turned out to be a nightmare in disguise, her family steps in to protect her - something that she doesn't take to lightly.
There is mistrust and communication between Remy and Lisa is terrible. I really felt back for Lisa in a lot of this story because despite her attempts to show people she was more than capable of making decisions for herself, they don't really see her. Remy finally wakes up enough to show her that she is capable, but not before she sees a side of him that makes her question her lust and love for him.
I really enjoyed this story and the chemistry between the two characters were great. You got to see their relationship develop and see how each character worked through the same situation. I can't wait for more!
4.5 stars
M/F BDSM (light) romance
Triggers: Attempted Murder
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Remy is a tough nut. He is the most stoic character in these cross over books that I've come across, thus far. He is rugged, determined and takes on a lot of responsibility. Despite having dominating tendencies, he was burned very badly by a woman before and he intends to make sure that it doesn't happen again.
Then you have Lisa. She is talented and worked very hard to give herself a great life. She grew up with siblings who care deeply about her and her well-being, but she has always kind of felt a little left out. Money was something that they all aspired to make and when her dream job turned out to be a nightmare in disguise, her family steps in to protect her - something that she doesn't take to lightly.
There is mistrust and communication between Remy and Lisa is terrible. I really felt back for Lisa in a lot of this story because despite her attempts to show people she was more than capable of making decisions for herself, they don't really see her. Remy finally wakes up enough to show her that she is capable, but not before she sees a side of him that makes her question her lust and love for him.
I really enjoyed this story and the chemistry between the two characters were great. You got to see their relationship develop and see how each character worked through the same situation. I can't wait for more!
April 20, 2018
Remy and Lisa gave me a wonderfully unexpected read! Two well writing characters, both equally stubborn and filled with pride. Lisa made the book for me. Life continuously slapped her around and she never gave up. The spirit that lies within this woman is amazing. Lisa held her head high with every obstacle that was put in her path. That is the kind of woman you want you want in your corner. Remy was the unexpected factor of Close Cover for me. If you have followed the Masters and Mercenaries series, we know Remy is not the dating kind. He’s been around the block a time or two. Lol! The dedication this man holds within him is remarkable. There is so much more to Remy than meets the eye. He’s hot, commanding and has more passionate than I would have every believe. Just goes to show you that one should never judge a book by its cover.
Lexi Blake kept me more than entertained with Close Cover. Intense, a plot that keeps you wanting more and so flippin hot. The chemistry between Remy and Lisa is so natural and develop into something extremely passionate. Close Cover is a fantastic addition to the Masters and Mercenaries series and a great start for the crossover Books!
A copy of this title was provided for an honest review.
Lexi Blake kept me more than entertained with Close Cover. Intense, a plot that keeps you wanting more and so flippin hot. The chemistry between Remy and Lisa is so natural and develop into something extremely passionate. Close Cover is a fantastic addition to the Masters and Mercenaries series and a great start for the crossover Books!
A copy of this title was provided for an honest review.
April 10, 2018
Final crossover....
This author and my love of the Masters and Mercenaries Series was the main reason why I rushed to read this Crossover Collection....overall I have enjoyed the mixing of the different worlds and meeting new, to me, authors along the way, but this book I have kept to the end as a special treat...I was not disappointed..
Remy is a bodyguard for McKay-Taggart..historically he has been one night stand and leave ‘em kind of guy until that is he meets Lisa, who is strong and independant but has got into a spot of bother with her bosses who happen to be the mob... their slow burning relationship is hot and I loved the push and pull between the two characters...
When I started out reading this collection I thought that there would be much more of the M and M world and finally here it is....characters from the series pop in and out and even more pleasing is that the bodyguards and couples from the other crossover books also make an appearance..in all honesty this book needed to be read last because it does pull everything that comes before it into a neat final epilogue..
As I would expect from the author..this is a skilfully written..enthralling and suspenseful story, which reignited my love for the M and M series and all those who enter the doors of Sanctum.. This book was reviewed for Summer's Eve Reads
This author and my love of the Masters and Mercenaries Series was the main reason why I rushed to read this Crossover Collection....overall I have enjoyed the mixing of the different worlds and meeting new, to me, authors along the way, but this book I have kept to the end as a special treat...I was not disappointed..
Remy is a bodyguard for McKay-Taggart..historically he has been one night stand and leave ‘em kind of guy until that is he meets Lisa, who is strong and independant but has got into a spot of bother with her bosses who happen to be the mob... their slow burning relationship is hot and I loved the push and pull between the two characters...
When I started out reading this collection I thought that there would be much more of the M and M world and finally here it is....characters from the series pop in and out and even more pleasing is that the bodyguards and couples from the other crossover books also make an appearance..in all honesty this book needed to be read last because it does pull everything that comes before it into a neat final epilogue..
As I would expect from the author..this is a skilfully written..enthralling and suspenseful story, which reignited my love for the M and M series and all those who enter the doors of Sanctum.. This book was reviewed for Summer's Eve Reads
April 15, 2018
4 Butterfly Stars
Close Cover is a great read! It's full of sexiness, BDSM, love, emotion and so much more. I promise you it isn't your stereotypical BDSM read. I'm so in love with Remy Guidry and his accent. Growing up close to Louisiana, a real French-Cajun accent is HOTTTT (and fun). There is something so soothing about the Bayou and Lexi does an impeccable job of taking me back to my roots. There were moments I wasn't sure that Remy could recover from the way he treated Lisa, but in true Lexi Blake style, he does it and does it well.
The M-T characters are so full of life it's like being part of a close knit group of friends when you're reading one of their books.
I'm excited to read the others authors who joined into this crossover collection!
Close Cover is a great read! It's full of sexiness, BDSM, love, emotion and so much more. I promise you it isn't your stereotypical BDSM read. I'm so in love with Remy Guidry and his accent. Growing up close to Louisiana, a real French-Cajun accent is HOTTTT (and fun). There is something so soothing about the Bayou and Lexi does an impeccable job of taking me back to my roots. There were moments I wasn't sure that Remy could recover from the way he treated Lisa, but in true Lexi Blake style, he does it and does it well.
The M-T characters are so full of life it's like being part of a close knit group of friends when you're reading one of their books.
I'm excited to read the others authors who joined into this crossover collection!
April 7, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the sixteenth book in the series, and introduces the crossover series that is being released with a number of super talented authors. I am so happy to be reading these books and reviewing them. I am huge M and M fan, and this was a wonderful addition to the series. I love that we have been reading the last few books in preparation for these stories.
Remy is nearly ready to go back to his family business and leave the team. But he takes one more body-guarding job to get the funds together - but looking out for Lisa Daley could be the job to break him. He has been attracted to her for a very long time, but after he rejected her at Sanctum, to protect himself from another mistake, she has been distant to say the least.
This is such a great set up for an emerging love story; what with the mafia involvement in Lisa's case; the bayou business being rescued; the hoodoo and family issues; and the delicious D/s dynamics. I also absolutely loved the humour - some of it is really laugh out loud funny. Ms Blake is such a talented author and has delivered another winning novel - with lots of catch up time with all the team and their families (plus a huge hint as to Dec's future too!)
This is the sixteenth book in the series, and introduces the crossover series that is being released with a number of super talented authors. I am so happy to be reading these books and reviewing them. I am huge M and M fan, and this was a wonderful addition to the series. I love that we have been reading the last few books in preparation for these stories.
Remy is nearly ready to go back to his family business and leave the team. But he takes one more body-guarding job to get the funds together - but looking out for Lisa Daley could be the job to break him. He has been attracted to her for a very long time, but after he rejected her at Sanctum, to protect himself from another mistake, she has been distant to say the least.
This is such a great set up for an emerging love story; what with the mafia involvement in Lisa's case; the bayou business being rescued; the hoodoo and family issues; and the delicious D/s dynamics. I also absolutely loved the humour - some of it is really laugh out loud funny. Ms Blake is such a talented author and has delivered another winning novel - with lots of catch up time with all the team and their families (plus a huge hint as to Dec's future too!)
April 12, 2018
OH EM GEE REMY!!!! Yes, I had to say it that way because it rhymed. And because Remy is just so amazing! I can just imagine his Cajun accent and the French and oh it's magic. But I have a thing for foreign languages and accents anyway. I’m not one for audiobooks but I’d be all over listening to this as an audio book! *hint hint*
This one didn’t strike me as quite as BDSM-y as some of the other McKay-Taggart couples. Maybe just because Lisa was more demure, or so Remy thought. There was some playing at Sanctum but there was a fabulous love story between Lisa and Remy too.
I sorta hope some of Remy’s family might have their own books??? Jean-Claude perhaps?
This one didn’t strike me as quite as BDSM-y as some of the other McKay-Taggart couples. Maybe just because Lisa was more demure, or so Remy thought. There was some playing at Sanctum but there was a fabulous love story between Lisa and Remy too.
I sorta hope some of Remy’s family might have their own books??? Jean-Claude perhaps?
April 15, 2018
4.5 stars. Well, I devoured this one. Love Lexi Blake, her stories always drag me in and make it so that I get nothing done until I have turned the final page.
Appearances by characters from past novels keep the stories cohesive. I have no idea how LB keeps track of the time lines in all of these books. I also love it when Ian shows up to offer his advice and assistance while trying to contain his wild tribe. A bit of fun to keep the books for getting too heavy on the angst. I sometimes forget these are fictional characters!
Appearances by characters from past novels keep the stories cohesive. I have no idea how LB keeps track of the time lines in all of these books. I also love it when Ian shows up to offer his advice and assistance while trying to contain his wild tribe. A bit of fun to keep the books for getting too heavy on the angst. I sometimes forget these are fictional characters!
April 18, 2018
Crossover Goodness
This was pretty damn good. There were, of course, moments I could do without. Times when Lisa got on my last nerve with all her inner dialogue. Her constant pondering if she could trust the man who proved time and time again that he loved her and had her best interests in his heart and mind. But the story was good. The epilogue even better, and filled with nuggets and sneak peaks to future McKay - Taggert happenings. It left me getting the remaining books for this series. They look like they’ll be fun!
This was pretty damn good. There were, of course, moments I could do without. Times when Lisa got on my last nerve with all her inner dialogue. Her constant pondering if she could trust the man who proved time and time again that he loved her and had her best interests in his heart and mind. But the story was good. The epilogue even better, and filled with nuggets and sneak peaks to future McKay - Taggert happenings. It left me getting the remaining books for this series. They look like they’ll be fun!
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