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The Kings: Wild Cards #1
Stacking the Deck
Ex-Special Forces Communications Sergeant Jacopo “Jack” Constantino knows a thing or two about communications technology. As head of Cyber Security at Four Kings Security, Jack spends his days working with high-tech systems. Life for Jack is pretty uneventful—despite working with his brothers-in-arms—and he finds himself longing for a little excitement.
Be careful what you wish for.
Two years ago, Fitz Harlow captured Jack’s heart and walked away with it. Now he’s back.
Fitz spent the last two years picking up the pieces of his life after a disastrous end to a ten-year relationship. After much therapy, and ice cream, Fitz leaves the fashion world behind and returns home to St. Augustine to open his own high-end salon, Hair Comes Trouble. Two years later, Fitz finally has the quiet, peaceful life he’s wanted for so long. There’s only one thing missing, or rather, one man missing, but Fitz has his doubts. With Jack, he’s not just gaining a boyfriend, he’s gaining a boyfriend, his family of mischief-magnet ex-Green Berets, and one highly opinionated Belgian Malinois.
Fitz and Jack discover their connection has only grown stronger over time, thanks in part to meddling friends, but just as they start to pick up where they left off, someone takes objection to their reunion. Danger hides in the shadows, a stalker determined to keep Fitz out of Jack’s life, no matter the cost. With the odds stacked against them, can Jack and Fitz win a battle against an unknown enemy, or will Jack lose Fitz forever?
The Kings: Wild Cards series is a spin-off of the Four Kings Security series.
Be careful what you wish for.
Two years ago, Fitz Harlow captured Jack’s heart and walked away with it. Now he’s back.
Fitz spent the last two years picking up the pieces of his life after a disastrous end to a ten-year relationship. After much therapy, and ice cream, Fitz leaves the fashion world behind and returns home to St. Augustine to open his own high-end salon, Hair Comes Trouble. Two years later, Fitz finally has the quiet, peaceful life he’s wanted for so long. There’s only one thing missing, or rather, one man missing, but Fitz has his doubts. With Jack, he’s not just gaining a boyfriend, he’s gaining a boyfriend, his family of mischief-magnet ex-Green Berets, and one highly opinionated Belgian Malinois.
Fitz and Jack discover their connection has only grown stronger over time, thanks in part to meddling friends, but just as they start to pick up where they left off, someone takes objection to their reunion. Danger hides in the shadows, a stalker determined to keep Fitz out of Jack’s life, no matter the cost. With the odds stacked against them, can Jack and Fitz win a battle against an unknown enemy, or will Jack lose Fitz forever?
The Kings: Wild Cards series is a spin-off of the Four Kings Security series.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 28, 2020
489 people are currently reading
980 people want to read
About the author
Charlie Cochet
122 books3,542 followersStep into a world of romance, humor, and heart-pounding action with Charlie Cochet, the international bestselling author behind the captivating THIRDS series. Embrace a fusion of Cuban flair and American charm as you dive into her stories with unforgettable characters and a dash of delightful mayhem.
Fueled by a love for classic rock and Cuban lattes, Charlie resides in Central Florida with her rascally Doxiepoo and a very opinionated German Shepherd. When she isn’t writing, she’s losing herself in a whirlwind of books and movies.
Charlie’s stories will stir your imagination and ignite your passion. So grab your favorite coffee, turn up the music, and prepare for your next adventure.
Website: http://www.charliecochet.com
Patreon: http://www.thirdshq.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/charliecochet
Join Charlie's FB fan group
Fueled by a love for classic rock and Cuban lattes, Charlie resides in Central Florida with her rascally Doxiepoo and a very opinionated German Shepherd. When she isn’t writing, she’s losing herself in a whirlwind of books and movies.
Charlie’s stories will stir your imagination and ignite your passion. So grab your favorite coffee, turn up the music, and prepare for your next adventure.
Website: http://www.charliecochet.com
Patreon: http://www.thirdshq.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/charliecochet
Join Charlie's FB fan group
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 307 reviews
July 30, 2020
Love the previous series and this spin-off. Charlie Cochet can do no wrong :P
Of course, Joker and his buddy Chip are my faves and I bet we will have to wait until the last book to get his story :(
Full review to come... soonish..
Of course, Joker and his buddy Chip are my faves and I bet we will have to wait until the last book to get his story :(
Full review to come... soonish..
October 9, 2024
4 Stars
Kicking off a new spin-off series, Stacking the Deck continues to expand the world of The Kings and their closest friends, colleagues, and significant others, many of whom work (in some capacity or another) at Four Kings Security. (As such, I do NOT consider this a standalone and recommend readers start with the original series for full continuity).
Here, we follow the inevitable romance between ex-special forces communications operative and current Four Kings cyber security expert Jacopo “Jack” Constantino and renowned salon owner Fitz Harlow, who have been circling each other for two long years (since they met in a high intensity situation back in Be Still My Heart).
The attraction and emotional connection shared between Jack and Fitz upon meeting was instantaneous, but due to extenuating personal circumstances Fitz has spent a long time avoiding getting too close to Jack, knowing full well that he had to be in a better place mentally, emotionally, and even professionally, before he could give a new relationship a chance.
Now, with his ducks finally in a row and with their large group of mutual friends playing unsubtle matchmakers, Fitz can no longer deny the mounting attraction he and Jack undoubtedly share, or the potentially amazing relationship they would likely be able to build together if they both wanted it badly enough—which they do!
The developing romance between Jack and Fitz was easy and breezy, with little in the way of internal drama. They were hot together, too, sharing incredible physical chemistry that was a believable extension of their deep emotional connection. Although they took two years to get together, I still felt like their romance was a bit insta-lovey, but given the overall series and the other themes of the book—what with all the action and excitement surrounding Jack’s potentially dangerous stalker—I was okay with the fast pace of their relationship and how it played out.
As is probably obvious by now, these stories are full ensemble affairs, featuring characters both new and old, all rich with personality and fighting for decent page time. This group of badass ex-military-men-turned-security-experts (and their growing list of significant others) comprise a makeshift family built on loyalty, friendship and respect, and I essentially love all of them, for which there are many—especially when you include the previous Four Kings and their partners AND all the characters and potential couples set up here (who will assumedly get their own books later in the Wild Cards series). I particularly enjoy the group dynamics and the boisterous interactions these men share, finding myself endlessly entertained with their man-child antics and their ridiculous, but often LOL funny, inner circle bets and pranks. .
With that said, I also feel that the sheer number of characters and personalities present here was almost too overwhelming to keep track of at times—and I’m saying that as someone who has a strong memory for details and generally adores extended series that feature many interconnected romances. I feel like the large cast is simultaneously this series biggest strength AND its biggest weakness, for all the reasons stated above, but I guess I wouldn’t change a damned thing because I don’t want less page time with old favourites and I eagerly anticipate getting to read about all the newer characters and their upcoming romances.
This story was a helluva lot of fun, I’ll give it that! I was 100% entertained throughout, even when things got a bit mental towards the end there. I mostly just enjoyed being back in the world of The Kings, amused by these funny, badass, heart-throb characters, who somehow continually manage to find (and keep) true love in the midst of being heroes and catching bad guys. What’s not to love about that!?!
Kicking off a new spin-off series, Stacking the Deck continues to expand the world of The Kings and their closest friends, colleagues, and significant others, many of whom work (in some capacity or another) at Four Kings Security. (As such, I do NOT consider this a standalone and recommend readers start with the original series for full continuity).
Here, we follow the inevitable romance between ex-special forces communications operative and current Four Kings cyber security expert Jacopo “Jack” Constantino and renowned salon owner Fitz Harlow, who have been circling each other for two long years (since they met in a high intensity situation back in Be Still My Heart).
The attraction and emotional connection shared between Jack and Fitz upon meeting was instantaneous, but due to extenuating personal circumstances Fitz has spent a long time avoiding getting too close to Jack, knowing full well that he had to be in a better place mentally, emotionally, and even professionally, before he could give a new relationship a chance.
Now, with his ducks finally in a row and with their large group of mutual friends playing unsubtle matchmakers, Fitz can no longer deny the mounting attraction he and Jack undoubtedly share, or the potentially amazing relationship they would likely be able to build together if they both wanted it badly enough—which they do!
The developing romance between Jack and Fitz was easy and breezy, with little in the way of internal drama. They were hot together, too, sharing incredible physical chemistry that was a believable extension of their deep emotional connection. Although they took two years to get together, I still felt like their romance was a bit insta-lovey, but given the overall series and the other themes of the book—what with all the action and excitement surrounding Jack’s potentially dangerous stalker—I was okay with the fast pace of their relationship and how it played out.
As is probably obvious by now, these stories are full ensemble affairs, featuring characters both new and old, all rich with personality and fighting for decent page time. This group of badass ex-military-men-turned-security-experts (and their growing list of significant others) comprise a makeshift family built on loyalty, friendship and respect, and I essentially love all of them, for which there are many—especially when you include the previous Four Kings and their partners AND all the characters and potential couples set up here (who will assumedly get their own books later in the Wild Cards series). I particularly enjoy the group dynamics and the boisterous interactions these men share, finding myself endlessly entertained with their man-child antics and their ridiculous, but often LOL funny, inner circle bets and pranks. .
With that said, I also feel that the sheer number of characters and personalities present here was almost too overwhelming to keep track of at times—and I’m saying that as someone who has a strong memory for details and generally adores extended series that feature many interconnected romances. I feel like the large cast is simultaneously this series biggest strength AND its biggest weakness, for all the reasons stated above, but I guess I wouldn’t change a damned thing because I don’t want less page time with old favourites and I eagerly anticipate getting to read about all the newer characters and their upcoming romances.
This story was a helluva lot of fun, I’ll give it that! I was 100% entertained throughout, even when things got a bit mental towards the end there. I mostly just enjoyed being back in the world of The Kings, amused by these funny, badass, heart-throb characters, who somehow continually manage to find (and keep) true love in the midst of being heroes and catching bad guys. What’s not to love about that!?!
January 1, 2024
3.5 Spinoff Stars
Basically, this is a part of the Four Kings series, and it’s highly recommended to read that first before delving into this quasi-spinoff which focuses on team member Jack. Obviously, this is by no means a stand-alone in my opinion.
What makes this latest entry a success is actually falling back on the 4 previous books that came before it. Cochet knows how to handle a large cast of characters, making this group of friends, business partners, brothers in arms, a FAMILY. This dynamic is what she excels at, and I had a lot of fun revisiting everyone and their respective romantic partners (which might be daunting to some and admittedly, taxed my poor old brain at times) in and amongst telling the love story between Jack and Fitz.
Again, good ole fun with some intense action filled suspense, where the enemy never wins and the guy always gets his guy!
Original Series - Four Kings Security
0.5. Beware of Geeks Bearing Gifts - 2.5 Stars
1. Love in Spades - 3.5 Stars
1.5. Ante Up - 4 Stars
2. Be Still My Heart - 3 Stars
3. Join the Club - 3.5 Stars
4. Diamond in the Rough - 4 Stars
4.5. In the Cards - 3.5 Stars
The Kings: Wild Cards
1. Stacking the Deck - 3.5 Stars
2. Raising the Ante - 3 Stars
3. Sleight of Hand - 3.5 Stars
The Kings: A Treemendous
1. Not So Silent Night - 3.5 Stars
2. Sleigh It Ain’t So - 3.5 Stars
3. Home for the Howlidays - 4 Stars
4. Rebel Without a Claus - 4 Stars
Basically, this is a part of the Four Kings series, and it’s highly recommended to read that first before delving into this quasi-spinoff which focuses on team member Jack. Obviously, this is by no means a stand-alone in my opinion.
What makes this latest entry a success is actually falling back on the 4 previous books that came before it. Cochet knows how to handle a large cast of characters, making this group of friends, business partners, brothers in arms, a FAMILY. This dynamic is what she excels at, and I had a lot of fun revisiting everyone and their respective romantic partners (which might be daunting to some and admittedly, taxed my poor old brain at times) in and amongst telling the love story between Jack and Fitz.
Again, good ole fun with some intense action filled suspense, where the enemy never wins and the guy always gets his guy!
Original Series - Four Kings Security
0.5. Beware of Geeks Bearing Gifts - 2.5 Stars
1. Love in Spades - 3.5 Stars
1.5. Ante Up - 4 Stars
2. Be Still My Heart - 3 Stars
3. Join the Club - 3.5 Stars
4. Diamond in the Rough - 4 Stars
4.5. In the Cards - 3.5 Stars
The Kings: Wild Cards
1. Stacking the Deck - 3.5 Stars
2. Raising the Ante - 3 Stars
3. Sleight of Hand - 3.5 Stars
The Kings: A Treemendous
1. Not So Silent Night - 3.5 Stars
2. Sleigh It Ain’t So - 3.5 Stars
3. Home for the Howlidays - 4 Stars
4. Rebel Without a Claus - 4 Stars
December 15, 2024
ETA 2: Doing a re-listen of the king since Charlie's new book is coming out soon and there are so many hilarious moments in this - from King hearing things he shouldn't, to Jack breaking, to totally melting when the guys are with King's niece, I just love this group so much.
ETA: Listening to the audiobook of this and it's SO SO wonderful to hear these guys again! Greg does a superb job, as always, narrating this series and all of the characters. I love Ace and his shenanigans and how stern King still tries to be with the guys, and I love that we got more of Leo and Laz and Colton. So very happy this is out in audio!
The Kings are BACK! This is one of my most anticipated reads of the year and I'm SO happy that it didn't disappoint at all!
This is the first book in a new series that is a spin-off of the Four Kings Security series. While you probably could start with this one, I really think the reading experience would be more meaningful if you read the other four books first. There is so much interaction with Ace and Colton, Lucky and Mason, Red and Laz, and King and Leo in this one, that you'd enjoy it more. I absolutely love this family unit of green berets and their boyfriends and family. I love seeing how happy the OG couples are, with Ace and Colton planning their wedding and King SMILING. I just love these guys so much.
Fitz and Jack met back in the second book of the Four Kings series, and although there was interest, Fitz didn't feel ready to try a new relationship. Since then, the two have kept up with the others' life thanks to meddling friends, which I loved. And now that things are more settled for Fitz, maybe it's finally time for him to go after who he wants. Unfortunately, there is someone trying to keep Fitz and Jack from reaching their HEA.
Charlie writes such great characters. The antics between Ace and the guys, and all the interactions like at the office are just hilarious. I just loved so many moments between the group. Fitz and Jack had such great chemistry together, I loved them getting to really know each other and seeing just how much fun they had together. I love that we're getting to know more about these characters that we met back in the first series but who were off to the side.
I also love that we got the groundwork for the other couples coming up in this series - Frank and Joshua, Ryden and Jay, and Joker and Gio. The beginning sparks between all three couples literally have me not sure of who I want next LOL, they are all THAT GOOD. I think the next book is for Frank and Joshua, and I can't wait.
SO happy the Kings are back and just as funny, witty, brave, and sexy as ever!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
ETA: Listening to the audiobook of this and it's SO SO wonderful to hear these guys again! Greg does a superb job, as always, narrating this series and all of the characters. I love Ace and his shenanigans and how stern King still tries to be with the guys, and I love that we got more of Leo and Laz and Colton. So very happy this is out in audio!
The Kings are BACK! This is one of my most anticipated reads of the year and I'm SO happy that it didn't disappoint at all!
This is the first book in a new series that is a spin-off of the Four Kings Security series. While you probably could start with this one, I really think the reading experience would be more meaningful if you read the other four books first. There is so much interaction with Ace and Colton, Lucky and Mason, Red and Laz, and King and Leo in this one, that you'd enjoy it more. I absolutely love this family unit of green berets and their boyfriends and family. I love seeing how happy the OG couples are, with Ace and Colton planning their wedding and King SMILING. I just love these guys so much.
Fitz and Jack met back in the second book of the Four Kings series, and although there was interest, Fitz didn't feel ready to try a new relationship. Since then, the two have kept up with the others' life thanks to meddling friends, which I loved. And now that things are more settled for Fitz, maybe it's finally time for him to go after who he wants. Unfortunately, there is someone trying to keep Fitz and Jack from reaching their HEA.
Charlie writes such great characters. The antics between Ace and the guys, and all the interactions like at the office are just hilarious. I just loved so many moments between the group. Fitz and Jack had such great chemistry together, I loved them getting to really know each other and seeing just how much fun they had together. I love that we're getting to know more about these characters that we met back in the first series but who were off to the side.
I also love that we got the groundwork for the other couples coming up in this series - Frank and Joshua, Ryden and Jay, and Joker and Gio. The beginning sparks between all three couples literally have me not sure of who I want next LOL, they are all THAT GOOD. I think the next book is for Frank and Joshua, and I can't wait.
SO happy the Kings are back and just as funny, witty, brave, and sexy as ever!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
October 15, 2020
Audio 5+++ Stars
Story....3.5 Stars
Story....3.5 Stars
July 22, 2025
Perfect start to this spin-off from the Four Kings series.
While I did guess the bad guy pretty early on, it never stopped me from enjoying what turned out to be a thrilling, heart-pounding pitch perfect romantic suspense.
At times I was gasping out loud and at others I was laughing my head off and that's what puts Charlie's books onto my favourites shelf.
Jack and Fitz were so cute together but also so incredibly connected from the start. They just click and the emotional levels they reach are powerfully intimate.
The rest of the gang are obviously all around and it's great to see they're all as loved up and I'm stoked to see where the series is going next.
I'm betting Charlie is going to be a big meanie and leave Joker until last though 😁
Brilliant book, read the Four Kings Security books first as it'll help with all the jokes and relationship dynamics.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
While I did guess the bad guy pretty early on, it never stopped me from enjoying what turned out to be a thrilling, heart-pounding pitch perfect romantic suspense.
At times I was gasping out loud and at others I was laughing my head off and that's what puts Charlie's books onto my favourites shelf.
Jack and Fitz were so cute together but also so incredibly connected from the start. They just click and the emotional levels they reach are powerfully intimate.
The rest of the gang are obviously all around and it's great to see they're all as loved up and I'm stoked to see where the series is going next.
I'm betting Charlie is going to be a big meanie and leave Joker until last though 😁
Brilliant book, read the Four Kings Security books first as it'll help with all the jokes and relationship dynamics.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
October 31, 2022
3.25*** stars 🃟🂼
It was sooo nice to being back at Four Kings Security with all my fav characters and couples *sigh
I was not the biggest fan of Jack’s and Fitz’s story, but well… plotwise there was nothing really new and it felt like we’ve had this story before somewhere in the other books. If there wasn’t something to do while I was listening to the audio I probably would’ve dnf’d from boredom.
Even if I wasn’t impressed I’m looking forward to the remaining novella and the book for Joker & Gio especially. It sounds delicious and a bit ominous.
************
The Kings: Wild Cards Series:
Book 1 - Stacking The Deck - 3.25 stars
Book 2 - Raising The Ante - 3.5 stars (novella)
Book 3 - Sleight Of Hand - 4 stars
Four Kings Security Series:
Book 1 - Love in Spades - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Be Still My Heart - 3.5 stars
Book 3 - Join the Club - 4.25 stars
Book 4 - Diamond in the Rough - 4.25 stars
It was sooo nice to being back at Four Kings Security with all my fav characters and couples *sigh
I was not the biggest fan of Jack’s and Fitz’s story, but well… plotwise there was nothing really new and it felt like we’ve had this story before somewhere in the other books. If there wasn’t something to do while I was listening to the audio I probably would’ve dnf’d from boredom.
Even if I wasn’t impressed I’m looking forward to the remaining novella and the book for Joker & Gio especially. It sounds delicious and a bit ominous.
************
The Kings: Wild Cards Series:
Book 1 - Stacking The Deck - 3.25 stars
Book 2 - Raising The Ante - 3.5 stars (novella)
Book 3 - Sleight Of Hand - 4 stars
Four Kings Security Series:
Book 1 - Love in Spades - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Be Still My Heart - 3.5 stars
Book 3 - Join the Club - 4.25 stars
Book 4 - Diamond in the Rough - 4.25 stars
April 29, 2021
I love Charlie Cochet's brand of humor and the way her men are eclectic and different.
RTC
RTC
July 22, 2025
Safety info, content warnings and tropes down below.
I enjoyed most of this a lot! I really enjoyed the not-quite-a-second-chance missed connection type situation, where the character have met previously and were obviously into each other, but it wasn’t the right time for something to start. I think the little bit of angst that was related to that and the pining did wonders for the story. The main characters had amazing chemistry and I definitely bought into their romance. I also appreciated that the reality of being in a relationship with someone in the military/security wasn’t glossed over like it is in many similar stories. It’s not for everyone, and it’s not smooth sailing to be with someone who risks their lives (or takes the lives of others).
Four Kings security and this series are obviously connected, but I didn’t love just how connected literally everything was. There are so many characters and I think if you haven’t read all or at least most of the other books, you’ll be really lost. I have read 3/4 books in the original series, and even though this is the first book in this series, I was still a bit lost at times. I do not recommend starting with this series. There is one super important character at the end that it felt like I was expected to know and I’ve literally never heard of them.
Onto a bit of a pet peeve of mine — and this probably goes hand in hand with how we’re supposed to know everyone super well already — is the lack of character descriptions. I have no clue what either main character looks like or how old they are. Well, I know they’re the same height, but that is it.
Obviously quite big issues, at least on paper, but I did enjoy most of this. Promise, lol.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Tech specialist
Private security
Geeky MC
Found family
Pining
Makeup
Suspense plot
⚠️ Spice menu ⚠️
Fast burn
Great chemistry
Helicopter sex
Hands-free orgasm
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Alcohol consumption
MC cheated on by ex (past)
MC drugged off page (on-page intoxication)
Minor character trying to take advantage of drugged MC
Mention of suicidal ideation (past)
Some details of death of military team members (past)
Mention of death of pet dog (past)
Use of homophobic slur (multiple times)
Mentions of homophobic slur
MC physically abused by parent (past)
MCs injured in car accident
MC briefly refused medical treatment due to bigotry
Arson (some damage of MC’s property)
Themes of domestic abuse (SC victim)
MC and SCs —including child— attacked on page by abuser (verbal and physical, no injury)
Verbal on-page homophobia aimed towards child and MC
Graphic violence
Gun violence
MCs stalked
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: Yes, minor and brief
POV: 3rd person, dual
Genre: Romantic suspense
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: Not specified
Series: Interconnected standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 298
Happy ending: Yes
Joker blinked at him. “Why the fuck would I not be thinking about sex? Look me in the eye and tell me you’re not thinking about boning Fitz right now.” Jack grunted. “I’m not… that’s not how I would put it.” “Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t realize you were such a delicate flower. How about, are you thinking of taking Fitz into the folds of your manly bosom and making love to him in his pink fluttering passage?”
Destiny was a drag queen he’d met in a club in London, not some mysterious power controlling his future.
Joker clapped Jack on the back. “That’s the spirit! You go in there, rescue your man, and have babies with beautiful hair.” “Pretty sure that’s not how it works, but I appreciate your enthusiasm.”
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
I enjoyed most of this a lot! I really enjoyed the not-quite-a-second-chance missed connection type situation, where the character have met previously and were obviously into each other, but it wasn’t the right time for something to start. I think the little bit of angst that was related to that and the pining did wonders for the story. The main characters had amazing chemistry and I definitely bought into their romance. I also appreciated that the reality of being in a relationship with someone in the military/security wasn’t glossed over like it is in many similar stories. It’s not for everyone, and it’s not smooth sailing to be with someone who risks their lives (or takes the lives of others).
Four Kings security and this series are obviously connected, but I didn’t love just how connected literally everything was. There are so many characters and I think if you haven’t read all or at least most of the other books, you’ll be really lost. I have read 3/4 books in the original series, and even though this is the first book in this series, I was still a bit lost at times. I do not recommend starting with this series. There is one super important character at the end that it felt like I was expected to know and I’ve literally never heard of them.
Onto a bit of a pet peeve of mine — and this probably goes hand in hand with how we’re supposed to know everyone super well already — is the lack of character descriptions. I have no clue what either main character looks like or how old they are. Well, I know they’re the same height, but that is it.
Obviously quite big issues, at least on paper, but I did enjoy most of this. Promise, lol.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Tech specialist
Private security
Geeky MC
Found family
Pining
Makeup
Suspense plot
⚠️ Spice menu ⚠️
Fast burn
Great chemistry
Helicopter sex
Hands-free orgasm
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Alcohol consumption
MC cheated on by ex (past)
MC drugged off page (on-page intoxication)
Minor character trying to take advantage of drugged MC
Mention of suicidal ideation (past)
Some details of death of military team members (past)
Mention of death of pet dog (past)
Use of homophobic slur (multiple times)
Mentions of homophobic slur
MC physically abused by parent (past)
MCs injured in car accident
MC briefly refused medical treatment due to bigotry
Arson (some damage of MC’s property)
Themes of domestic abuse (SC victim)
MC and SCs —including child— attacked on page by abuser (verbal and physical, no injury)
Verbal on-page homophobia aimed towards child and MC
Graphic violence
Gun violence
MCs stalked
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: Yes, minor and brief
POV: 3rd person, dual
Genre: Romantic suspense
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: Not specified
Series: Interconnected standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 298
Happy ending: Yes
Joker blinked at him. “Why the fuck would I not be thinking about sex? Look me in the eye and tell me you’re not thinking about boning Fitz right now.” Jack grunted. “I’m not… that’s not how I would put it.” “Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t realize you were such a delicate flower. How about, are you thinking of taking Fitz into the folds of your manly bosom and making love to him in his pink fluttering passage?”
Destiny was a drag queen he’d met in a club in London, not some mysterious power controlling his future.
Joker clapped Jack on the back. “That’s the spirit! You go in there, rescue your man, and have babies with beautiful hair.” “Pretty sure that’s not how it works, but I appreciate your enthusiasm.”
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
July 30, 2020
The highly anticipated spin-off series for the Kings is here!
This one is about Jack and Fitz, who briefly met in the previous series and who we definitely saw a connection with.
Since they first met on the beach, Fitz has been pretty much avoiding Jack for two years because he had just gotten out of a bad ten-year relationship and needed time to heal his heart.
But with some nudging from their friends, and seeing each other for more than probably a few seconds - and with the help of a handy date gifted to them by Colton during a bachelor auction, they reconnect and try to give a relationship a try.
But there's something - someone - throwing a wrench in the works. First it starts with them secretly drugging Fitz to make it seem like he's with a guy when he was going to be with Jack - to make Jack think Fitz doesn't want him, but Jack can tell something is not right.
After that, they continue to date, but things keep happening, and someone obviously doesn't want them to be together.
This was good, I enjoyed getting back into these stories, I love these characters so much. I did enjoy these two as well, but I gave this four stars because while I liked these two and enjoyed them, they didn't wow me, I didn't love them together. They were good and enjoyable, but there was just that something missing between them, ya know? Like we got a little bit of Joker and Gio - who we won't even get until the 4th book of this series - and I felt a ton of chemistry between just their short, barely there interactions on page, then I did with these two.
Not that it wasn't there, just that it wasn't scorching like others to make me love this and give this 5 stars.
They were also very sweet though, and adorable together. The plot was also interesting and intriguing to all come together for me to give this 4 stars.
I'm still so excited for this series and overall this was a fairly strong start to the series - it just couldn't have been better, in my opinion.
Still definitely worth a read, especially if you read the Kings series. I definitely recommend it! :)
This one is about Jack and Fitz, who briefly met in the previous series and who we definitely saw a connection with.
Since they first met on the beach, Fitz has been pretty much avoiding Jack for two years because he had just gotten out of a bad ten-year relationship and needed time to heal his heart.
But with some nudging from their friends, and seeing each other for more than probably a few seconds - and with the help of a handy date gifted to them by Colton during a bachelor auction, they reconnect and try to give a relationship a try.
But there's something - someone - throwing a wrench in the works. First it starts with them secretly drugging Fitz to make it seem like he's with a guy when he was going to be with Jack - to make Jack think Fitz doesn't want him, but Jack can tell something is not right.
After that, they continue to date, but things keep happening, and someone obviously doesn't want them to be together.
This was good, I enjoyed getting back into these stories, I love these characters so much. I did enjoy these two as well, but I gave this four stars because while I liked these two and enjoyed them, they didn't wow me, I didn't love them together. They were good and enjoyable, but there was just that something missing between them, ya know? Like we got a little bit of Joker and Gio - who we won't even get until the 4th book of this series - and I felt a ton of chemistry between just their short, barely there interactions on page, then I did with these two.
Not that it wasn't there, just that it wasn't scorching like others to make me love this and give this 5 stars.
They were also very sweet though, and adorable together. The plot was also interesting and intriguing to all come together for me to give this 4 stars.
I'm still so excited for this series and overall this was a fairly strong start to the series - it just couldn't have been better, in my opinion.
Still definitely worth a read, especially if you read the Kings series. I definitely recommend it! :)
April 24, 2024
The Wild Cards series is supposedly a spin off of the Four Kings Security series, but in my opinion it reads more like a continuation instead. If you read Stacking the Deck without having read the previous series, you are going to feel like you are missing something. All of the characters from that series play a role in this story and already knowing who everyone is as well as how they relate to each other goes a long way in making this story enjoyable . It was a lot of fun seeing these guys being their usual goofy selves around each other, and I laughed more while reading this story than I did reading any of the previous books. I love their camaraderie and banter and this author portrays it so well.
Jack and Fitz met each other in book 3 of the previous series and you just knew from listening to Red talk about their initial encounter that they were going to be together. I wasn’t sure if I’d be interested in reading Jack’s story since I only viewed him and Joker as side characters but Fitz made me change my mind. He is a feistier version of Laz and I really liked their friendship. Laz went through a devastating breakup and I wanted to see him happy again, and if it was with Jack, so be it.
Their romance wasn't as exciting or romantic as those of the previous couples, but I still enjoyed reading it. I’m ngl though, even though I know I was supposed to be focusing on them, I kept searching for snippets of whatever was going on between Joker and Gio. I’m actually looking forward to reading their story next. 3.5 stars
Four Kings Security
Love in Spades - 3.25 stars
Be Still My Heart - 2.5 stars
Join the Club - 3.5 stars
Diamond in the Rough - 3.75 stars
In the Cards - 3 stars (short story)
The Kings: Wild Cards
Stacking the Deck - 3.5 stars
Raising the Ante - not interested
Sleight of Hand - 3.5 stars
Jack and Fitz met each other in book 3 of the previous series and you just knew from listening to Red talk about their initial encounter that they were going to be together. I wasn’t sure if I’d be interested in reading Jack’s story since I only viewed him and Joker as side characters but Fitz made me change my mind. He is a feistier version of Laz and I really liked their friendship. Laz went through a devastating breakup and I wanted to see him happy again, and if it was with Jack, so be it.
Their romance wasn't as exciting or romantic as those of the previous couples, but I still enjoyed reading it. I’m ngl though, even though I know I was supposed to be focusing on them, I kept searching for snippets of whatever was going on between Joker and Gio. I’m actually looking forward to reading their story next. 3.5 stars
Four Kings Security
Love in Spades - 3.25 stars
Be Still My Heart - 2.5 stars
Join the Club - 3.5 stars
Diamond in the Rough - 3.75 stars
In the Cards - 3 stars (short story)
The Kings: Wild Cards
Stacking the Deck - 3.5 stars
Raising the Ante - not interested
Sleight of Hand - 3.5 stars
October 12, 2020
5++++ stars audio
4 entertaining stars story
4 entertaining stars story
September 12, 2023
I enjoyed this much more than the previous series, yet I still feel like something’s missing. It’s probably my sour mood. Of course, it’s Charlie + Greg. There is no way I won’t read/listen.
February 6, 2025
Ex-Special Forces Communications Sergeant Jacopo “Jack” Constantino heads the cybersecurity department at Four Kings Security, working with his tech-savvy team to provide clients with state-of-the-art security systems. But life for Jack is pretty uneventful—despite the exploits with his brothers-in-arms—and he finds himself longing for a little more excitement.
Be careful what you wish for.
I just couldn't get enough of the guys from The Four King's Security and was more than happy to see some of the side characters in that series was going to get to shine in this one. Charlie Cochet did a wonderful job of bringing out Fitz and Jack in this the first book in this spin-off series.
This is the story for our ex-special force's communication sergeant Jack Constantino and Fitz Harlow, a now retired model who's living his life the way he always wanted to...and is very happy doing it. He owns his own hair salon, is currently single, after having recently moved on from an abusive relationship. He's been picking up the pieces of his life and gradually putting his heart back together. There's is still one thing missing from his life, and he hopes to soon correct that when he works up the courage to approach Jack, showing him a brand-new self, and hoping that Jack will give him that second chance. It's been two years since they first met, and Fitz still has Jack's heart and he's hoping that Jack will accept his newly healed heart in return.
If you've read the "King Security" series, then you know it's not going to be as simple as it sounds; there's going to be something out there trying to stop them from picking up where they left off. With the odds stacked against them, Jack welcomes the excitement and will do anything to protect the possibility of him and Fitz being "more". The only question is Fitz willing to give him a chance.
This story is a slow burn, second chance romance. It has all the quirks, comedy, action and love as "the Four Kings Security" series, but with a heart all of its own. I loved the characters in the other series, and these are just as warm and wonderful, snarky and fun. Reading the "Four Kings Security" series first would be helpful but not really necessary.
Be careful what you wish for.
I just couldn't get enough of the guys from The Four King's Security and was more than happy to see some of the side characters in that series was going to get to shine in this one. Charlie Cochet did a wonderful job of bringing out Fitz and Jack in this the first book in this spin-off series.
This is the story for our ex-special force's communication sergeant Jack Constantino and Fitz Harlow, a now retired model who's living his life the way he always wanted to...and is very happy doing it. He owns his own hair salon, is currently single, after having recently moved on from an abusive relationship. He's been picking up the pieces of his life and gradually putting his heart back together. There's is still one thing missing from his life, and he hopes to soon correct that when he works up the courage to approach Jack, showing him a brand-new self, and hoping that Jack will give him that second chance. It's been two years since they first met, and Fitz still has Jack's heart and he's hoping that Jack will accept his newly healed heart in return.
If you've read the "King Security" series, then you know it's not going to be as simple as it sounds; there's going to be something out there trying to stop them from picking up where they left off. With the odds stacked against them, Jack welcomes the excitement and will do anything to protect the possibility of him and Fitz being "more". The only question is Fitz willing to give him a chance.
This story is a slow burn, second chance romance. It has all the quirks, comedy, action and love as "the Four Kings Security" series, but with a heart all of its own. I loved the characters in the other series, and these are just as warm and wonderful, snarky and fun. Reading the "Four Kings Security" series first would be helpful but not really necessary.
Read
August 20, 2020A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Stacking the Deck is the first in The Kings: Wild Cards series, a spin off of Charlie Cochet’s Four Kings Security series. While this story technically starts a new series focusing on Kings side characters (rather than the original Kings themselves), it does read like part of one long series and you will definitely get more enjoyment here if you are familiar with the original series. All the gang is here in this book, so I think it would be a lot of side characters to manage if you didn’t have at least a passing familiarity with the other books. That said, this story is a standalone and plot-wise you can jump in here with no problem.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Stacking the Deck is the first in The Kings: Wild Cards series, a spin off of Charlie Cochet’s Four Kings Security series. While this story technically starts a new series focusing on Kings side characters (rather than the original Kings themselves), it does read like part of one long series and you will definitely get more enjoyment here if you are familiar with the original series. All the gang is here in this book, so I think it would be a lot of side characters to manage if you didn’t have at least a passing familiarity with the other books. That said, this story is a standalone and plot-wise you can jump in here with no problem.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
July 11, 2023
3.5 rounded up
I was really excited for this one since getting a brief mention of them in a previous book but unfortunately I wasn’t the biggest fan.
I know, I know, I’m still working on managing my expectations.
I think one of my biggest complaint about this was the amount of characters involved, I understand there’s a lot of interconnected characters from other series and maybe including stuff about them is the authors way of trying to entice readers to read the other books if they haven’t already? It just felt like too much, there was too much other stuff going on and it took away from the focus on the couple.
I really liked Jack’s character and in some spots he reminded me a little bit of Leo when he would just run his mouth but it was fine because I loved Leo!
I was excited for Fitz because I really love stories when one MC has been cheated on/has been in a bad relationship and they find someone who cherishes them but Fitz wasn’t my favorite. I think out of all the MCs, including the other books, he’s my least favorite.
This one just kinda seemed all over the place but it was still enjoyable.
Ranking
Main Guys
Red (Maybe it’s cos he’s my first introduction to this world🥰)
King (stern/scary towards everyone but his person🥺 )
Jack ( he’s smitten right away )
Joker
Boyfriend Squad
Leo
Gio
Laz
Fitz
My ratings always reflect my enjoyment of the story. ❀
I was really excited for this one since getting a brief mention of them in a previous book but unfortunately I wasn’t the biggest fan.
I know, I know, I’m still working on managing my expectations.
I think one of my biggest complaint about this was the amount of characters involved, I understand there’s a lot of interconnected characters from other series and maybe including stuff about them is the authors way of trying to entice readers to read the other books if they haven’t already? It just felt like too much, there was too much other stuff going on and it took away from the focus on the couple.
I really liked Jack’s character and in some spots he reminded me a little bit of Leo when he would just run his mouth but it was fine because I loved Leo!
I was excited for Fitz because I really love stories when one MC has been cheated on/has been in a bad relationship and they find someone who cherishes them but Fitz wasn’t my favorite. I think out of all the MCs, including the other books, he’s my least favorite.
This one just kinda seemed all over the place but it was still enjoyable.
Ranking
Main Guys
Red (Maybe it’s cos he’s my first introduction to this world🥰)
King (stern/scary towards everyone but his person🥺 )
Jack ( he’s smitten right away )
Joker
Boyfriend Squad
Leo
Gio
Laz
Fitz
My ratings always reflect my enjoyment of the story. ❀
August 6, 2020
5 Beauty and the Geek stars
It has been a LONG wait for this one to be released, it has been eighteen months since I read and loved the Four Kings Security series and the waiting time for Stacking the Deck.
I forgot how much I love all these guys, they are all hilarious with all the banter and shenanigans and the bond between them all completes the story for me the romance comes in second, let's see if I remember them all
Ace & Colton
Red & Laz
Lucky & Mason
King & Leo
Jack & Fitz
Joker & Gio (super excited for this one)
Frank & Joshua - next book
This is Jack and Fitz adventure and it certainly had some heartstopping moments, jeepers poor Fitz all he wanted was a quiet life with his man but no someone had other plans for them.
Jack has been pining away for Fitz for two years and thanks to an auction, meddling friends, Jack and Fitz end up going on a date and oh what a date.
This was a fun ride I enjoyed every moment spent with all the guys and OMG how could I have forgotten to include Chip in the above list, the only threesome in this series LOL
Joker, Chip & Jack, after all they did sleep together AND I mean SLEEP, no cheating.
It has been a LONG wait for this one to be released, it has been eighteen months since I read and loved the Four Kings Security series and the waiting time for Stacking the Deck.
I forgot how much I love all these guys, they are all hilarious with all the banter and shenanigans and the bond between them all completes the story for me the romance comes in second, let's see if I remember them all
Ace & Colton
Red & Laz
Lucky & Mason
King & Leo
Jack & Fitz
Joker & Gio (super excited for this one)
Frank & Joshua - next book
This is Jack and Fitz adventure and it certainly had some heartstopping moments, jeepers poor Fitz all he wanted was a quiet life with his man but no someone had other plans for them.
Jack has been pining away for Fitz for two years and thanks to an auction, meddling friends, Jack and Fitz end up going on a date and oh what a date.
This was a fun ride I enjoyed every moment spent with all the guys and OMG how could I have forgotten to include Chip in the above list, the only threesome in this series LOL
Joker, Chip & Jack, after all they did sleep together AND I mean SLEEP, no cheating.
March 2, 2021
3 for the story, 5 for the narration
Daft and fluffy but fun -with (of course) an excellent performance from Mr. B.
Daft and fluffy but fun -with (of course) an excellent performance from Mr. B.
July 29, 2020
I can never get enough Charlie Cochet who delivers every time with her groups of close-knit teams of men who have become brothers, whether by past military experience or by current occupation. This one is no different and also offers the fun aspect of book titles and character nicknames all having meaning. In the initial series, The Four Kings, we met the main players (Ace, King, Lucky and Red), all who have earned their nicknames through their military team experience. They are all partners in Ward Security run by Kingston Ward, aka King, appointed leader of the group. In this spinoff series, we have the no less important members, Jack, Joker, etc.
In this installment, with a little push and shove from friends, Jack is reunited with Fitz. They met two years prior when Fitz was wrapped up with his bff, Laz, who is now paired with Red. Fitz had to take some time to get his life together after ending a 10 year relationship which explained why he tried to avoid starting anything with Jack until now. Just as things start to get rolling, however, there are incidents that start putting up red flags. Is someone after Fitz or are they after Jack? Either way, it puts into perspective what life would be like being involved with Jack due to his career and background and something which Fitz is unsure he is able to handle.
Thankfully, those same friends help out again and help get them all through the issues. Throw in some betrayal (not between Jack and Fitz) and a little excitement when things come to a head, and you have another solid piece to the Kings/Wild Cards puzzle. One of my favorite things in this, and in any book really, is good banter and comradery, and Ms. Cochet delivers that in spades. The pairing theme of badass special forces guys falling head over heels for twinky geeks does get a little tiresome, but there is enough of everything else to make up for it. We did get a glimpse at the future couples, and while I’m not super excited about the next one with Frank and Joshua or Ryden and Jay, I cannot wait for Joker and Gio. There is a lot of backstory with Joker and we already know Gio is capable of pushing Joker’s buttons. Bottom line, I definitely recommend checking this out and while this can be read as it’s own, you would really be missing out by not reading the initial series.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
November 17, 2021
Reread
Same rating as before. I just love Greg Boudreaux soooo gotta just listen to his books that he narrates haha
3.5-4 stars
this was better than book one of the last series, but i am still thinking Mason and Lucky are my favorite so far.... but we will see I can't wait to see how Joker and Gio's book plays out. AND CHIP!!
Same rating as before. I just love Greg Boudreaux soooo gotta just listen to his books that he narrates haha
3.5-4 stars
this was better than book one of the last series, but i am still thinking Mason and Lucky are my favorite so far.... but we will see I can't wait to see how Joker and Gio's book plays out. AND CHIP!!
December 22, 2020
1.4 stars.
-such a disappointment, see one of my status updates : Too much too fast & it feels hella fake 😒😬😑🙅🏻♀️
-I disliked Fitz very much
-The last like 15% or so was the best part
-my favorite scene was that whole calling King “daddy” joke 🤣🤣🤣🤣
-on a side note, I’ve never read any of the Four Kings Security Series
-such a disappointment, see one of my status updates : Too much too fast & it feels hella fake 😒😬😑🙅🏻♀️
-I disliked Fitz very much
-The last like 15% or so was the best part
-my favorite scene was that whole calling King “daddy” joke 🤣🤣🤣🤣
-on a side note, I’ve never read any of the Four Kings Security Series
December 17, 2023
Re-read December 2023
October 17, 2022
Po serii o byłych więźniach po prostu musiałam sięgnąć po drugą serię The Kings: Wild Cards. Panowie z agencji bezpieczeństwa, jak zwykle nie zawiedli. Jack i Fitz od razu przypadli mi do gustu. Jack, ochroniarz w jednej z najlepszych agencji, były zielony beret i Fitz, kiedyś model, teraz fryzjer. Oczywiście nie zabrakło wątku kryminalnego, szybkiej akcji i burzy uczuć. Po roku nic się nie zmienia, nadal bardzo lubię pióro Charlie Cochet :)
November 12, 2021
This was SO ridiculously HORRIBLE!! What the author was thinking goodness only knows! I will elaborate later this week, I’ve got quite a bit to say!! I will say in the meantime that this author is absolutely spectacular when it comes to the THIRDS and by extension, the TIN series (which I will definitely be auto buying no matter what), but when it comes to this one, it feels like an entirely different author is writing this book and is doing a horrible horrible horrible job of it! So for this series, I will only ever use Kindle Unlimited, because this book was an absolute waste of money, Well I’m willing to give the next book a try, Kindle Unlimited is the only way to go for this one!!
October 29, 2020
DNF at 12% - returned for a refund. Why do I do it? I get suckered into reading the book just from the synopsis; and then remember all the reasons why I hate the author. From the formulaic, paint-by-numbers plot and characters to the stilted, sightly unnatural dialogue ; when will I learn?
July 30, 2020
Look, I didn’t mind this, but I was ten times more interested in what was going on with Gio and Joker. Now THAT is a dynamic I can get behind.
October 15, 2020
Jack is the tech guy for Kings. Fitz is his long time crush. Lil bit of ust, and Charlie's usual humor. A little less engaging than the earlier books, but still a fun bit of escapism.
October 16, 2020
Book Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2020/10/16/...
Rating: 4 Stars – minor quibbles but I loved it to bits
Rating: 4 Stars – minor quibbles but I loved it to bits
November 13, 2020
Jack and Fitz work well together ... can't wait to get my hands on Jokers book
August 14, 2021
This series is a spin off of the four kings security series. That means that if you, like me, haven't read that series, you're going to miss a lot of background. And I do mean a lot. I'd even say this is book 5 in the four kings security series instead of 1 in the kings: wild cards series. That's how much it depends on the other books. Read those first!
While I plan to get the previous series and start at book one to see if I catch whatever I missed, the story was good. Fitz is a really cool guy, and Jack is really sweet, and they make a lovely couple. It had that "action book" balance between comfortable everyday and chase and gunshot scenes, which gave the overall story a nice rhythm.
I'm planning to go back to this series once I catch up with the first four. It's intriguing for sure!
While I plan to get the previous series and start at book one to see if I catch whatever I missed, the story was good. Fitz is a really cool guy, and Jack is really sweet, and they make a lovely couple. It had that "action book" balance between comfortable everyday and chase and gunshot scenes, which gave the overall story a nice rhythm.
I'm planning to go back to this series once I catch up with the first four. It's intriguing for sure!
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