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The Kings: Royal Flush #1
Dealing Him In
Play with fire, and you’ll get burned. Santos “Saint” Cavallero had his life all figured out when he married his high school sweetheart, joined the Navy, and became a SEAL. After years of being deployed, Saint comes home for good, only to discover his wife has fallen for another man. Now divorced and a bodyguard for Four Kings Security, Saint loves his job and his found family. His dating life? A hot mess, until the spark of an unexpected attraction strikes him like lightning, leaving Saint confused. Why is he feeling hot and bothered over the ruggedly handsome Fire Chief?
After twenty years of service, Valentino “Val” Serrano is passing his fire ax on to the next Fire Chief. His retirement starts off with a bang, literally. Val is saved by the young, hot bodyguard he’s been dreaming of for longer than he cares to admit, but Saint is straight, isn’t he? Val and Saint get roped into working on Val’s tavern, but Val is determined not to let Saint get under his skin. He’s been here before, and he’s not about to risk his heart, no matter how hot and flirty Saint is. When a killer sets his sights on Val and puts everyone he cares about in harm’s way, there’s suddenly more at risk than their hearts. If Val and Saint don’t stop the killer, their whole world could burn to the ground, and the possibility of a future together will go up in smoke.
After twenty years of service, Valentino “Val” Serrano is passing his fire ax on to the next Fire Chief. His retirement starts off with a bang, literally. Val is saved by the young, hot bodyguard he’s been dreaming of for longer than he cares to admit, but Saint is straight, isn’t he? Val and Saint get roped into working on Val’s tavern, but Val is determined not to let Saint get under his skin. He’s been here before, and he’s not about to risk his heart, no matter how hot and flirty Saint is. When a killer sets his sights on Val and puts everyone he cares about in harm’s way, there’s suddenly more at risk than their hearts. If Val and Saint don’t stop the killer, their whole world could burn to the ground, and the possibility of a future together will go up in smoke.
292 pages, Paperback
First published August 23, 2023
428 people are currently reading
450 people want to read
About the author
Charlie Cochet
123 books3,555 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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
August 29, 2023
Dnf @45% . Two grown-ass men playing the blushing virgin and whining they can’t be together when there is absolutely NOTHING standing in their way. Such juvenile behavior and dialogues🤦🏻♀️
October 30, 2023
Ok I’ve blacklisted this author. She writes MM romance like they’re chick flicks… who talks like this??
August 12, 2025
This was...alright.
I'm bummed because I was looking forward to Val and Saint's romance. Which, these two were cute. They had a lot of potential.
But a lot of this story...fell flat for me.
I actually didn't feel like a lot was going on - even with the plot of whoever seemed to be going after Val - and then all the sudden everything was happening too fast. Plot wise and relationship wise.
Val was so determined not to give into Saint at first, because he would be the first guy Saint was with. And he'd seemingly been straight before Val. Turns out Saint was just pushing down and ignoring any attraction he had for men for a long time.
But he can't ignore Val. But Val doesn't want to just be an experiment. To give into Saint and then potentially be left broken hearted if Saint realized he wasn't into men or just not into Val.
Which, is understandable. Also understandable that Val can't help but be jealous when Saint almost does try it with another guy and almost does more than some kissing.
But then all the sudden, Val gives in. But he's still a little weary, unsure. But then all the sudden he just kinda goes "fuck it" and gives into a relationship with Saint, and they exchange "I love you's" and everything and then it's full steam ahead.
It felt wait too fast, imo. We didn't get to really seem much build up to the "I love you" and with Val being so resistant for a good portion of this, that abrupt turn was just too fast. It would have been better if he tentatively started things with Saint, wanting to go slow to really trust it before he was all in.
And then all the sudden the plot was full speed ahead as well. There were a few incidents here and there, and they're trying to look into who is doing all of this, who is after Val with no success. Then a few weeks go by with absolutely nothing, and then the villain is full speed ahead.
We also get Leo being hurt in this - not even his and King's book, but we have to focus on that, but we don't get to fully focus on this, which is a little disappointing? King is distraught and angry and upset and we don't really get to see any of that except for a scene here of there. - and I think it should have been Saint or Val instead.
And we do get it, kinda, near the end, but not really. Saint is highly capable, even more capable than the villain. Also when the Kings come together? You have no chance. Unless it was other military guys they were up against, with the same amount of people.
Which definitely isn't the case here.
Which just makes it a little more disappointing. The guy after Val is just...so easily defeated. He doesn't feel as much of a threat as he should be. He only barely gets one up on Saint.
It just was all just kinda...meh in the end.
This gets points for Val and Saint being good together. Their chemistry was there and they were sweet together. But the plot and the pacing of their relationship was just off. Also the sex was just kinda...meh. Very rushed. Very by rote. I know this author can do much better. I was looking forward to their first time and it was just kinda...over and done with really quick. I didn't get to feel their connection translate into the sex. Even the few other times we got sex scenes.
I mean, Val gives Saint a blowjob as the first sexual thing they do, and that was definitely hot. But once it got to penetrative sex it was just meh for me. I wasn't really feeling it between them and it sucked, because I was feeling it outside of the sex between them.
And also despite my problems with this, I did enjoy seeing our past couples who I adore. Also the Boyfriend Collective was so cute and funny. All the boyfriends being little mother hens when one of them is hurt was adorable, and funny at times.
I also would have enjoyed the focus on Leo and King if we actually got to, well, see it. They also
There was just so much potential for this to be better than it was. And I know it can be better. Charlie Cochet is such an amazing author that I know she can do better than this.
Instead it was just kind of...phoned in. For the majority of it. Sad to say, but it is what it is.
I hope for this author's usual quality with Ryden and Jay's romance next. Given that they kinda have a love/hate thing going on, I'm very intrigued. And the little tease we got at the end of this with them was intriguing too.
So, onto the next! 😘
I'm bummed because I was looking forward to Val and Saint's romance. Which, these two were cute. They had a lot of potential.
But a lot of this story...fell flat for me.
I actually didn't feel like a lot was going on - even with the plot of whoever seemed to be going after Val - and then all the sudden everything was happening too fast. Plot wise and relationship wise.
Val was so determined not to give into Saint at first, because he would be the first guy Saint was with. And he'd seemingly been straight before Val. Turns out Saint was just pushing down and ignoring any attraction he had for men for a long time.
But he can't ignore Val. But Val doesn't want to just be an experiment. To give into Saint and then potentially be left broken hearted if Saint realized he wasn't into men or just not into Val.
Which, is understandable. Also understandable that Val can't help but be jealous when Saint almost does try it with another guy and almost does more than some kissing.
But then all the sudden, Val gives in. But he's still a little weary, unsure. But then all the sudden he just kinda goes "fuck it" and gives into a relationship with Saint, and they exchange "I love you's" and everything and then it's full steam ahead.
It felt wait too fast, imo. We didn't get to really seem much build up to the "I love you" and with Val being so resistant for a good portion of this, that abrupt turn was just too fast. It would have been better if he tentatively started things with Saint, wanting to go slow to really trust it before he was all in.
And then all the sudden the plot was full speed ahead as well. There were a few incidents here and there, and they're trying to look into who is doing all of this, who is after Val with no success. Then a few weeks go by with absolutely nothing, and then the villain is full speed ahead.
We also get Leo being hurt in this - not even his and King's book, but we have to focus on that, but we don't get to fully focus on this, which is a little disappointing? King is distraught and angry and upset and we don't really get to see any of that except for a scene here of there. - and I think it should have been Saint or Val instead.
And we do get it, kinda, near the end, but not really. Saint is highly capable, even more capable than the villain. Also when the Kings come together? You have no chance. Unless it was other military guys they were up against, with the same amount of people.
Which definitely isn't the case here.
Which just makes it a little more disappointing. The guy after Val is just...so easily defeated. He doesn't feel as much of a threat as he should be. He only barely gets one up on Saint.
It just was all just kinda...meh in the end.
This gets points for Val and Saint being good together. Their chemistry was there and they were sweet together. But the plot and the pacing of their relationship was just off. Also the sex was just kinda...meh. Very rushed. Very by rote. I know this author can do much better. I was looking forward to their first time and it was just kinda...over and done with really quick. I didn't get to feel their connection translate into the sex. Even the few other times we got sex scenes.
I mean, Val gives Saint a blowjob as the first sexual thing they do, and that was definitely hot. But once it got to penetrative sex it was just meh for me. I wasn't really feeling it between them and it sucked, because I was feeling it outside of the sex between them.
And also despite my problems with this, I did enjoy seeing our past couples who I adore. Also the Boyfriend Collective was so cute and funny. All the boyfriends being little mother hens when one of them is hurt was adorable, and funny at times.
I also would have enjoyed the focus on Leo and King if we actually got to, well, see it. They also
There was just so much potential for this to be better than it was. And I know it can be better. Charlie Cochet is such an amazing author that I know she can do better than this.
Instead it was just kind of...phoned in. For the majority of it. Sad to say, but it is what it is.
I hope for this author's usual quality with Ryden and Jay's romance next. Given that they kinda have a love/hate thing going on, I'm very intrigued. And the little tease we got at the end of this with them was intriguing too.
So, onto the next! 😘
January 4, 2025
This book is available in audio now! I continue to love this series in audio, Greg does such a great job bringing these characters to life. I'm so happy we're getting to see more of the newer characters.
Also. King. LOL. That's all.
Everyone has that comfort read, that they re-read regularly and know the characters backwards and forwards - well, the Kings are mine. I really, really love this series and this whole group of friends and family, and I regularly re-read/listen to the books every year.
Dealing Him In, is the much anticipated (for me at least lol) return to the Kings universe and Saint and Val's story! We've met both of these characters in previous stories, and I had especially been waiting for Saint's story since it would be bi-awakening. OK, first off, I have to say that I love Saint's friendship with Ryden, it's so great to see him settled into working with the Kings.
And now Saint and Val. I loved the chemistry between them! There is initially some push/pull between the two of them being afraid to take that jump from friends to more, but I loved the progression of things. I love how they communicated well for the most part, how well they worked together. EEEE, I love them. They're definitely in the top....5? of Kings couples for me lol.
Also, there is so much action in this one! We have a pretty serious drama going on too, with someone out to get Val. It places everyone at risk, and I felt like it really amped up the danger and tension, especially when someone does get caught in the crossfires.
Also!!? KING. There's a reason he's my top book boyfriend and mmmm, King still has it yall lol.
I love this whole group, all the group interactions and camaraderie. The dogs! The Boyfriend Collective! LEO! LEO AND KING! Ace being Ace! The last quarter of the book is just like a big ol hug lol, and I love it. There are so many things I want to squee over, but they're all spoilers haha.
ALSO, there's a new character - Cas. Already want a story for him LOL. He needs a big ol grump to be paired with!
And now it's FINALLYYYYY Ryden and Jay's time! And boy, does Ryden have some work to do LOL.
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Also. King. LOL. That's all.
Everyone has that comfort read, that they re-read regularly and know the characters backwards and forwards - well, the Kings are mine. I really, really love this series and this whole group of friends and family, and I regularly re-read/listen to the books every year.
Dealing Him In, is the much anticipated (for me at least lol) return to the Kings universe and Saint and Val's story! We've met both of these characters in previous stories, and I had especially been waiting for Saint's story since it would be bi-awakening. OK, first off, I have to say that I love Saint's friendship with Ryden, it's so great to see him settled into working with the Kings.
And now Saint and Val. I loved the chemistry between them! There is initially some push/pull between the two of them being afraid to take that jump from friends to more, but I loved the progression of things. I love how they communicated well for the most part, how well they worked together. EEEE, I love them. They're definitely in the top....5? of Kings couples for me lol.
Also, there is so much action in this one! We have a pretty serious drama going on too, with someone out to get Val. It places everyone at risk, and I felt like it really amped up the danger and tension, especially when someone does get caught in the crossfires.
Also!!? KING. There's a reason he's my top book boyfriend and mmmm, King still has it yall lol.
I love this whole group, all the group interactions and camaraderie. The dogs! The Boyfriend Collective! LEO! LEO AND KING! Ace being Ace! The last quarter of the book is just like a big ol hug lol, and I love it. There are so many things I want to squee over, but they're all spoilers haha.
ALSO, there's a new character - Cas. Already want a story for him LOL. He needs a big ol grump to be paired with!
And now it's FINALLYYYYY Ryden and Jay's time! And boy, does Ryden have some work to do LOL.
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
September 8, 2023
Another solid romantic suspense story from Charlie
3.5*
I'm in two minds over one of the things that happens in this book, I personally don't think the specific person would have behaved the way they did in those circumstances.
But, it's a pretty small niggle in what's a very welcome return to the Four Kings series and I absolutely adored Saint and Val's relationship and romance.
This just made me happy as Saint's bisexual awakening, coupled with Val's fears of him changing his mind, make for a great plotline running alongside the main suspense narrative.
There are a couple of bonus scenes which are worth grabbing. The first covers what happened after Saint got injured and the Boyfriend Collective came and looked after him.
The second is from the POV of the character I mentioned above who I didn't feel would have done what they did.
Having now read it, I still stand by my thoughts. It felt utterly wrong when I read it in the book and it still feels wrong in the bonus scene.
3.5*
I'm in two minds over one of the things that happens in this book, I personally don't think the specific person would have behaved the way they did in those circumstances.
But, it's a pretty small niggle in what's a very welcome return to the Four Kings series and I absolutely adored Saint and Val's relationship and romance.
This just made me happy as Saint's bisexual awakening, coupled with Val's fears of him changing his mind, make for a great plotline running alongside the main suspense narrative.
There are a couple of bonus scenes which are worth grabbing. The first covers what happened after Saint got injured and the Boyfriend Collective came and looked after him.
The second is from the POV of the character I mentioned above who I didn't feel would have done what they did.
Having now read it, I still stand by my thoughts. It felt utterly wrong when I read it in the book and it still feels wrong in the bonus scene.
August 31, 2023
SAINTS BOOK. FINALLY IVE BEEN WANTING THIS.
AUGUST 30.
. . . .
I’m not sure what happened with this one, I was really looking forward to this since meeting Saint in a different book, I was excited for the GFY/OFY aspect but honestly this book just felt like a huge mess to me. 😵💫
There was too much push/pull for no reason? Lots of kissing and touching and then “ no this can’t happen again” until it happens again 🙄
Saint came off as extremely immature. He’s attracted to Val but never voiced his attraction or intent- he did in the hospital while he was medicated but he didn’t remember confessing anything to Val. He goes to a club since he’s questioning his sexuality and let’s some guy rub up and kiss on him and goes with the guy when he’s being led to the back rooms and the chapter ends with him thinking it’s decision time.
Now, I don’t like reading books where the MCs are with others regardless if they aren’t yet ‘together’ but this club scene happened after a cute chapter of Saint trying to kiss Val while he was medicated in the hospital. From Saint’s POV he’s never felt that pull towards anyone but Val so seeing him be into the guy who’s all up on him in the club even going as far as to go with him into the back rooms really rubbed me the wrong way, the fact that they guy was similar-ish to Val and Saint kept wondering what kisses and touching from Val would feel like just made everything worse.
And there’s no decision that Saint makes because Val swoops in to stop Saint from possibly making a bad decision. Bad for who tho? Val doesn’t want to risk his heart by letting Saint experiment with him but stopped Saint from experimenting with someone else 🤷🏻♀️ So I’m just going to assume that Saint was going to go ahead and do sexy things with this random stranger since he wasn’t actually the one to decide to stop 🙃
Then the forced proximity comes into play and that’s when we get the kissing and touching and the pulling back and basically a bunch of stuff EXCEPT an adult conversation.
The book is also filled with mentions / cameos of the couples from the past series (this is a spin off from that ) and Leo gets shot? While Saint is covering him and King makes it seem like Saint is at fault??! Like sure emotions are high but if anyone was to blame it was King for being at work instead of being with Leo at the time 😒 everything was just so immature and the humor wasn’t working for me either.
Overall, this one just didn’t work for me.
My ratings always reflect my enjoyment of the story. ❀
AUGUST 30.
. . . .
I’m not sure what happened with this one, I was really looking forward to this since meeting Saint in a different book, I was excited for the GFY/OFY aspect but honestly this book just felt like a huge mess to me. 😵💫
There was too much push/pull for no reason? Lots of kissing and touching and then “ no this can’t happen again” until it happens again 🙄
Saint came off as extremely immature. He’s attracted to Val but never voiced his attraction or intent- he did in the hospital while he was medicated but he didn’t remember confessing anything to Val. He goes to a club since he’s questioning his sexuality and let’s some guy rub up and kiss on him and goes with the guy when he’s being led to the back rooms and the chapter ends with him thinking it’s decision time.
Now, I don’t like reading books where the MCs are with others regardless if they aren’t yet ‘together’ but this club scene happened after a cute chapter of Saint trying to kiss Val while he was medicated in the hospital. From Saint’s POV he’s never felt that pull towards anyone but Val so seeing him be into the guy who’s all up on him in the club even going as far as to go with him into the back rooms really rubbed me the wrong way, the fact that they guy was similar-ish to Val and Saint kept wondering what kisses and touching from Val would feel like just made everything worse.
And there’s no decision that Saint makes because Val swoops in to stop Saint from possibly making a bad decision. Bad for who tho? Val doesn’t want to risk his heart by letting Saint experiment with him but stopped Saint from experimenting with someone else 🤷🏻♀️ So I’m just going to assume that Saint was going to go ahead and do sexy things with this random stranger since he wasn’t actually the one to decide to stop 🙃
Then the forced proximity comes into play and that’s when we get the kissing and touching and the pulling back and basically a bunch of stuff EXCEPT an adult conversation.
The book is also filled with mentions / cameos of the couples from the past series (this is a spin off from that ) and Leo gets shot? While Saint is covering him and King makes it seem like Saint is at fault??! Like sure emotions are high but if anyone was to blame it was King for being at work instead of being with Leo at the time 😒 everything was just so immature and the humor wasn’t working for me either.
Overall, this one just didn’t work for me.
My ratings always reflect my enjoyment of the story. ❀
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2024
There's a strong chemistry between Val and Saint in a nearly adult kind of cute. Whenever they around each other I almost forgot to roll my eyes because Ms. Cochet liked to add those overused dilemma like being too old or doesn't want to be only an experiment or don't want to hide in the closet again. Suppose there is already a t-shirt for it but again: most of the time I was able to ignore it and was quite okay about their growing-together. The mystery about the assassination attempts helped at first because it added some spice and drive but looking at it from the end it was unbelievable and all the positive effect it had on the story vanished. So it's one of those romances with more promising potential than it could hold in the end.
February 8, 2025
Play with fire, and you’ll get burned. If Val and Saint don’t stop the killer, their whole world could burn to the ground, and the possibility of a future together will go up in smoke.
Val is retiring as Fire Chief, and the King's are in charge of providing the security for his retirement party. Saint is one of the Kings working security that night. He's had an attraction to Val for some time now and that confuses him.
Ryden and Saint's conversations are priceless... Ryden is so funny! Things end in a bang...literally... causing minor injuries to Saint and some others. This leads to Saint being "roped in" to helping Val fix up the tavern that he's opening. Sparks keep flying between them, and it doesn't take long for those sparks to ignite and build a 4-alarm blaze, despite them trying to ignore it.
Both Val and Saint are electrifying together, and you just can't wait for them to finally give in. They have "liked" each other for a long time, but the old "he's too young for me" and "he doesn't know what he wants" keeps rearing its ugly head and getting in the way. Finally, they talk, and they work through things together... which they should have done to begin with, but it would have made the book really short:)
Someone is after Val, and the King's are determined to get to the bottom of it. This gives the story some really good action scenes, and King and the rest of the tram get involved. If you've read any of the 4 Kings series, you won't be surprised that Leo is the hero. As usual, we have Ace being Ace, and Ryden shows how funny he is and how far he's come. I can't wait to read Ryden and Jay's book.
Val is retiring as Fire Chief, and the King's are in charge of providing the security for his retirement party. Saint is one of the Kings working security that night. He's had an attraction to Val for some time now and that confuses him.
Ryden and Saint's conversations are priceless... Ryden is so funny! Things end in a bang...literally... causing minor injuries to Saint and some others. This leads to Saint being "roped in" to helping Val fix up the tavern that he's opening. Sparks keep flying between them, and it doesn't take long for those sparks to ignite and build a 4-alarm blaze, despite them trying to ignore it.
Both Val and Saint are electrifying together, and you just can't wait for them to finally give in. They have "liked" each other for a long time, but the old "he's too young for me" and "he doesn't know what he wants" keeps rearing its ugly head and getting in the way. Finally, they talk, and they work through things together... which they should have done to begin with, but it would have made the book really short:)
Someone is after Val, and the King's are determined to get to the bottom of it. This gives the story some really good action scenes, and King and the rest of the tram get involved. If you've read any of the 4 Kings series, you won't be surprised that Leo is the hero. As usual, we have Ace being Ace, and Ryden shows how funny he is and how far he's come. I can't wait to read Ryden and Jay's book.
June 22, 2024
5 stars for the narration, 3.5/4 stars for the story.
Fun hokum with the Kings and their extended family, expertly narrated by Greg Boudreaux.
The relationship between the group is a highlight and I liked the humour and genuine affection between Val and Saint. Looking forward to the next one.
Fun hokum with the Kings and their extended family, expertly narrated by Greg Boudreaux.
The relationship between the group is a highlight and I liked the humour and genuine affection between Val and Saint. Looking forward to the next one.
August 11, 2025
3.5 stars
It's been many years since I've read this author, so I took a chance. This was better than I expected, if still a bit on the surface level.
It's been many years since I've read this author, so I took a chance. This was better than I expected, if still a bit on the surface level.
September 15, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Dealing Him In is the first book in The Kings: Royal Flush series, a spin-off series in the author’s Four Kings Security universe. While this book would technically work as a standalone, it is heavily tied into both the Four Kings and Wild Cards series, as all the secondary characters are from previous books. While Cochet does explain the history needed for the background of this book in a way that’s organic to the story, it really is best read in order with the rest of the series. Not in the least because we’ve seen both these MCs in background roles at different places throughout, and the author has heavily hinted at their attraction, which makes the payoff of them getting together all the better.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Dealing Him In is the first book in The Kings: Royal Flush series, a spin-off series in the author’s Four Kings Security universe. While this book would technically work as a standalone, it is heavily tied into both the Four Kings and Wild Cards series, as all the secondary characters are from previous books. While Cochet does explain the history needed for the background of this book in a way that’s organic to the story, it really is best read in order with the rest of the series. Not in the least because we’ve seen both these MCs in background roles at different places throughout, and the author has heavily hinted at their attraction, which makes the payoff of them getting together all the better.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
September 2, 2023
Sad to say this book is bad.
The first chapter starts with a long list of characters thrown in who are irrelevant to the chapter, making it hard to follow, then goes off in a bomb that seems not tragic cause I know names of characters and nothing about why I should care for them.
And then we're in the characters are in love phase and but can't talk to each other and just no...
Plus the dialogue feels so novice. people don't talk like this.
This author has many good books out and I was looking forward to one with fire fighters but this isn't one I will finish...
The first chapter starts with a long list of characters thrown in who are irrelevant to the chapter, making it hard to follow, then goes off in a bomb that seems not tragic cause I know names of characters and nothing about why I should care for them.
And then we're in the characters are in love phase and but can't talk to each other and just no...
Plus the dialogue feels so novice. people don't talk like this.
This author has many good books out and I was looking forward to one with fire fighters but this isn't one I will finish...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2025
I thought nothing would top Chip's (and Joker and Gio) book. I was wrong. So wrong. I loved this one to pieces. Starting with the cover, that is totally swoon/drool worthy to the plot and crazy bond family, and all the kicks right in the feels. Dang! So, so good. A perfect addition to the universe.
And with that epilogue, I can't wait for the next one.
And with that epilogue, I can't wait for the next one.
July 25, 2025
3,75 ⭐
Again, I can always trust Miss Cochet with a fun and wacky story with hilarious characters that always has everyone's back 😍
Again, I can always trust Miss Cochet with a fun and wacky story with hilarious characters that always has everyone's back 😍
August 24, 2023
4.5 stars.
There’s plenty of action and drama as another member of the Four Kings found family finds his way to an HEA. Bodyguard and former Navy SEAL Saint begins to question his sexuality as he finds himself becoming very interested in just retired Fire Chief Val.
Having known each other for years but not really spending time alone together, circumstances change and they are constantly with each other. Their attraction between them is undeniable as is the chemistry that constantly sparks between them. Before too long the friendship morphs into more and the heat rises ensuring plenty of steamy moments.
The unexpected villain of the piece does everything possible to destroy Saint and Val but with the help of the Four Kings family the outcome is a well deserved and hard earned HEA for these two very likeable characters.
It was wonderful being back in the Four Kings universe and I can’t wait for the next instalment this spin off series.
There’s plenty of action and drama as another member of the Four Kings found family finds his way to an HEA. Bodyguard and former Navy SEAL Saint begins to question his sexuality as he finds himself becoming very interested in just retired Fire Chief Val.
Having known each other for years but not really spending time alone together, circumstances change and they are constantly with each other. Their attraction between them is undeniable as is the chemistry that constantly sparks between them. Before too long the friendship morphs into more and the heat rises ensuring plenty of steamy moments.
The unexpected villain of the piece does everything possible to destroy Saint and Val but with the help of the Four Kings family the outcome is a well deserved and hard earned HEA for these two very likeable characters.
It was wonderful being back in the Four Kings universe and I can’t wait for the next instalment this spin off series.
September 3, 2023
Loved to revisit this universe and how Saint and Val’s story developed. They deserve all the happiness in the world! The plot was a little unbelievable at times so read it with an open mind.
PS: Leo, you’re always gonna be my cinnamon 💕
PS: Leo, you’re always gonna be my cinnamon 💕
November 16, 2023
The first book in a new series, though it might be a bit difficult to get into if you haven't read Four Kings Security and The Kings: Wild Cards first. While the plot stands alone, the (pretty big) cast is comprised almost entirely out of the Kings & co. and their friends and family, who already have a very particular group dynamic developed over the course of previous books. It makes this book a fun addition to the Kings world, but not the greatest starting point for new readers.
The story follows Saint, one of the Kings' bodyguards, and Val, a newly retired fire chief, as they're trying to figure out their relationship without getting killed in the process. While I did like Saint and Val and how they are together, for me they're definitely not as memorable as the Kings and Wild Cards. To be fair, pretty much each and every one of those characters really is a character and it's hard to beat that, but given the company Saint and Val keep I was hoping for a bit more color. Also, the whole fuss they both made about getting together or not was quite vexing, as there really was no reason for it.
Still, it's a fun read for those who like some action with strong found family vibes and don't mind that some members of said family are fairly certifiable.
ARC provided by the author, I have chosen to read and write an honest review..
The story follows Saint, one of the Kings' bodyguards, and Val, a newly retired fire chief, as they're trying to figure out their relationship without getting killed in the process. While I did like Saint and Val and how they are together, for me they're definitely not as memorable as the Kings and Wild Cards. To be fair, pretty much each and every one of those characters really is a character and it's hard to beat that, but given the company Saint and Val keep I was hoping for a bit more color. Also, the whole fuss they both made about getting together or not was quite vexing, as there really was no reason for it.
Still, it's a fun read for those who like some action with strong found family vibes and don't mind that some members of said family are fairly certifiable.
ARC provided by the author, I have chosen to read and write an honest review..
September 18, 2023
DNF @ 25%. Zero character development. Ridiculous storyline and unbelievable characters. Not worth my time.
August 31, 2023
Ahhh I’m sorry but this book just didn’t do it for me! It makes me so sad to say that because I genuinely like this author. I loved the Four Kings series and Jack and Jokers books as well but if I hadn’t know this author wrote those I would have thought this was a debut book or something. The writing just wasn’t up to par with her other books!
There wasn’t anything with the characters, I liked both of guys, but there was nothing distinguishing between the two. I had to figure out which POV was which because they sounded the same. Also I’m not sure what these guys really look like. It was barely explained.
I wish we had gotten more of a back story of them having feelings for each other. I mean the other books were so long ago I don’t even remember them having much interaction. Maybe once? But their mutual pining came out of no where and Saint went from being confused by liking a guy to being all in. Also there was absolutely no reason they couldn’t be together. There was nothing stopping them!
There was also so many jumps in the book like one minute they were somewhere doing something and then literally in the next sentence they were somewhere else doing something else. That transition wasn’t good at all. Idk this book seemed kind of thrown together!
Also for King to get so mad at Saint and completely treat him like shit because Leo got hurt made absolutely no sense to me at all!!! None. I was like wait wtf is happening? I didn’t get that. And for Saint to leave Val twice while knowing someone was out there trying to kill him? While he’d been up his ass for weeks trying to protect him didn’t make sense to me either.
Some plot holes too like Saint knowing Pete’s name when it was never even mentioned to Saint. Saint had no idea who the guy was yet when he woke up he knew his name?
Just so many things not meshing with this book. Of course I’ll continue to read this series because I do really like this author but this one just didn’t work for me
There wasn’t anything with the characters, I liked both of guys, but there was nothing distinguishing between the two. I had to figure out which POV was which because they sounded the same. Also I’m not sure what these guys really look like. It was barely explained.
I wish we had gotten more of a back story of them having feelings for each other. I mean the other books were so long ago I don’t even remember them having much interaction. Maybe once? But their mutual pining came out of no where and Saint went from being confused by liking a guy to being all in. Also there was absolutely no reason they couldn’t be together. There was nothing stopping them!
There was also so many jumps in the book like one minute they were somewhere doing something and then literally in the next sentence they were somewhere else doing something else. That transition wasn’t good at all. Idk this book seemed kind of thrown together!
Also for King to get so mad at Saint and completely treat him like shit because Leo got hurt made absolutely no sense to me at all!!! None. I was like wait wtf is happening? I didn’t get that. And for Saint to leave Val twice while knowing someone was out there trying to kill him? While he’d been up his ass for weeks trying to protect him didn’t make sense to me either.
Some plot holes too like Saint knowing Pete’s name when it was never even mentioned to Saint. Saint had no idea who the guy was yet when he woke up he knew his name?
Just so many things not meshing with this book. Of course I’ll continue to read this series because I do really like this author but this one just didn’t work for me
September 2, 2023
I will start off by fan girling 🥰 because Charlie Cochet is one of my FAVOURTIE authors! So to receive an ARC for free for a review is an amazing opportunity for me.
4.5 out of 5 ⭐️ I would give this book!
Four kings security is a fantastic series. I love that Charlie is taking it further with adding additional characters in different series, but still bring them all together.
Reading Dealing him in was, as with all Charlie’s books, amazing to read. I was hooked from the beginning.
I love that Charlie brought fourth the struggle it can some times have on a person to be attracted to the same sex, as well as the struggles, past relationships can have on the future ones.
Of course she never leaves out the drama in any of her books and this one had a lot 😆
This books has
-Explosions
-MM romance
-Suspence
-Bi Awakening
-Age gap
-HEA
The only reason I didn’t give this book 5 stars was because, if you hadn’t read the other books in the series it can be a struggle to understand who each character is and their relationship in the book.
I have read all Charlie’s books so I easily was able to know which character was who, but for someone just starting only this series, they wouldn’t have.
It could still be read as a stand alone, but the experience of knowing every character would be a lot better if having read the whole four kings security.
Other than that, I absolutely LOVED the book and cannot wait to see what characters are next in the series 🥰
4.5 out of 5 ⭐️ I would give this book!
Four kings security is a fantastic series. I love that Charlie is taking it further with adding additional characters in different series, but still bring them all together.
Reading Dealing him in was, as with all Charlie’s books, amazing to read. I was hooked from the beginning.
I love that Charlie brought fourth the struggle it can some times have on a person to be attracted to the same sex, as well as the struggles, past relationships can have on the future ones.
Of course she never leaves out the drama in any of her books and this one had a lot 😆
This books has
-Explosions
-MM romance
-Suspence
-Bi Awakening
-Age gap
-HEA
The only reason I didn’t give this book 5 stars was because, if you hadn’t read the other books in the series it can be a struggle to understand who each character is and their relationship in the book.
I have read all Charlie’s books so I easily was able to know which character was who, but for someone just starting only this series, they wouldn’t have.
It could still be read as a stand alone, but the experience of knowing every character would be a lot better if having read the whole four kings security.
Other than that, I absolutely LOVED the book and cannot wait to see what characters are next in the series 🥰
August 27, 2025
Cute, Fun, and the Perfect Comfort Read!
I thought this book was absolutely adorable and so much fun to read! It has the same cozy, predictable charm as watching a Hallmark Channel movie—comforting, engaging, and just what I wanted when I needed something light but enjoyable.
The story of Saint and Val is sweet and heartwarming, with just the right mix of flirty banter, emotional depth, and suspense. Even though the romance follows a familiar path, that’s what makes it so comforting—it’s the kind of story you can sink into knowing you’ll end up smiling at the end.
If you’re looking for a feel-good, easy-to-love read with a mix of action and romance, this one is a great pick. Definitely one of those books I’ll recommend when someone wants a fun, comfort read!
I thought this book was absolutely adorable and so much fun to read! It has the same cozy, predictable charm as watching a Hallmark Channel movie—comforting, engaging, and just what I wanted when I needed something light but enjoyable.
The story of Saint and Val is sweet and heartwarming, with just the right mix of flirty banter, emotional depth, and suspense. Even though the romance follows a familiar path, that’s what makes it so comforting—it’s the kind of story you can sink into knowing you’ll end up smiling at the end.
If you’re looking for a feel-good, easy-to-love read with a mix of action and romance, this one is a great pick. Definitely one of those books I’ll recommend when someone wants a fun, comfort read!
August 31, 2023
3.5
I actually enjoyed this book. There were points in it that made you go “REALLY” but then you are reminded this is fiction so it’s not gonna always make sense. I loved these two who have been circling around each others journey. I love how they finally came together and just how fun their relationship is. Shout out for having a diverse group and POC rep. The thing that made go 👀 was honestly the non romantic plot and how it was handled. If you are looking for a group of trained protection folks who are more life like this ain’t that story. Like I said though it’s fiction so I was ok with that. The smexy was hawt, I’m a big softie for first times. I love the group, while I’m sure it would be great to read about other couples you did not have to.
I actually enjoyed this book. There were points in it that made you go “REALLY” but then you are reminded this is fiction so it’s not gonna always make sense. I loved these two who have been circling around each others journey. I love how they finally came together and just how fun their relationship is. Shout out for having a diverse group and POC rep. The thing that made go 👀 was honestly the non romantic plot and how it was handled. If you are looking for a group of trained protection folks who are more life like this ain’t that story. Like I said though it’s fiction so I was ok with that. The smexy was hawt, I’m a big softie for first times. I love the group, while I’m sure it would be great to read about other couples you did not have to.
August 26, 2023
Dealing Him In is the first book in The Kings: Royal Flush a spinoff series of the Four Kings Security series. This is Val the just retired fire chief and Saint a bodyguard for four kings security. I have been waiting what feels like forever for this story and boy was it worth it. Val and Saint have out of this world chemistry. This book has it all amazing characters, steam, action, and a great plot driven story. I loved watching these two work through all their problems. I loved the epilogue and can't wait for the next book. I would definitely recommend this book.
August 31, 2023
Saint & Val
Man this was such a good read. I loved that both men were circling each other for years. I'm happy they were able to talk things through and make it work.
But, oh boy the drama! I was shocked many times and happy to say I didn't predict anything.
Man this was such a good read. I loved that both men were circling each other for years. I'm happy they were able to talk things through and make it work.
But, oh boy the drama! I was shocked many times and happy to say I didn't predict anything.
September 12, 2023
New Series, Old Friends
While this is the first book in this series it relies heavily on the reader knowing all the characters from the previous Kings series. And it unfortunately relies on the reader’s ability to make sense of the incorrect and misspelled words scattered through the narrative. Apparently editors and editing are no longer important.
While this is the first book in this series it relies heavily on the reader knowing all the characters from the previous Kings series. And it unfortunately relies on the reader’s ability to make sense of the incorrect and misspelled words scattered through the narrative. Apparently editors and editing are no longer important.
September 8, 2023
Okay, you have to have a pretty good suspension of disbelief in these books, but if you can get past the "that can't really happen" then they are fun. Like 3 weeks after having life-threatening surgery on his side, the guy is doing major construction and jumping over fences with nary a wince. And I think had perfectly smooth skin as well. :-)
In this case straight guy Saint finds himself attracted to the retired fire chief who is planning to open a tavern. But it seems someone has it out for the Chief and by connection Saint. i liked that Saint talked out his attraction with friends and didn't totally freak out and that they addressed telling his parents. ALL of the guys from the Kings security agency are in this along with their boyfriends so if you haven't read those, I imagine you would be lost about who is who and their personalities.
So it was a fun adventure read with some bi-discovery, just go with the flow and have fun with it.
In this case straight guy Saint finds himself attracted to the retired fire chief who is planning to open a tavern. But it seems someone has it out for the Chief and by connection Saint. i liked that Saint talked out his attraction with friends and didn't totally freak out and that they addressed telling his parents. ALL of the guys from the Kings security agency are in this along with their boyfriends so if you haven't read those, I imagine you would be lost about who is who and their personalities.
So it was a fun adventure read with some bi-discovery, just go with the flow and have fun with it.
November 6, 2024
I have similar complaints as the other reviewers who gave this title a lower rating, so I won't repeat those gripes.
My main issue with this book is that, as a first-time Charlie Cochet reader, I felt excluded from some secret club. Half of the book, if not more, included side characters that I can only assume originated in other books. They had back stories and previous relationships with the two main characters, of which I was not privy to the details. This book was also the dictionary definition of telling and not showing. Everything, and I mean everything, that happened prior to the current timeline in the book, was told to us. The past was extremely relevant to the present in this book. It would have been nice to have some judiciously used flashbacks.
It seems like this book was written exclusively for the author's existing fan base. I don't like it when authors do this because it is exclusionary. Though I have to say that I have never experienced this type of exclusion to the same extent as I did with this read.
I get that this is a spinoff series, but as this is the first book, it should include enough of a catch-up that readers who didn't read the previous series shouldn't feel like they are missing a huge amount of relevant information. Or, and this is a wild idea, minimize the extent to which old characters appear in the new series.
The writing was okay. It was a little too insta-lusty/lovey for my liking, and the story lacked a lot of substance (because sooooo much page time was devoted to the side characters from previous books). But again, I think it wouldn't have been as bad had we, the readers, been shown some of the interactions between the two main characters that occurred prior to the timeline of this book.
After this experience, I doubt I will read any more from this author.
My main issue with this book is that, as a first-time Charlie Cochet reader, I felt excluded from some secret club. Half of the book, if not more, included side characters that I can only assume originated in other books. They had back stories and previous relationships with the two main characters, of which I was not privy to the details. This book was also the dictionary definition of telling and not showing. Everything, and I mean everything, that happened prior to the current timeline in the book, was told to us. The past was extremely relevant to the present in this book. It would have been nice to have some judiciously used flashbacks.
It seems like this book was written exclusively for the author's existing fan base. I don't like it when authors do this because it is exclusionary. Though I have to say that I have never experienced this type of exclusion to the same extent as I did with this read.
I get that this is a spinoff series, but as this is the first book, it should include enough of a catch-up that readers who didn't read the previous series shouldn't feel like they are missing a huge amount of relevant information. Or, and this is a wild idea, minimize the extent to which old characters appear in the new series.
The writing was okay. It was a little too insta-lusty/lovey for my liking, and the story lacked a lot of substance (because sooooo much page time was devoted to the side characters from previous books). But again, I think it wouldn't have been as bad had we, the readers, been shown some of the interactions between the two main characters that occurred prior to the timeline of this book.
After this experience, I doubt I will read any more from this author.
November 28, 2023
DNF @ 28%
Although this is the first book in a new series, it is not a standalone. Every character in this book is from one of the author’s previous books and it’s assumed you’ve read them and have a working knowledge of all the characters, relationships and settings. Another reviewer was spot on when they said this reads more like fan fiction.
And what up with not giving us a physical description and the ages of our two MCs. I’m assuming those came in a pervious books as well.
Furthermore, Val irked me. I love possessives MCs in books but if you’re not ready to claim your man leave that bs at the door. You don’t want to be Saint’s first same sex experience (understandable) but you don’t want him to have those experiences with someone else. 🙄
Although this is the first book in a new series, it is not a standalone. Every character in this book is from one of the author’s previous books and it’s assumed you’ve read them and have a working knowledge of all the characters, relationships and settings. Another reviewer was spot on when they said this reads more like fan fiction.
And what up with not giving us a physical description and the ages of our two MCs. I’m assuming those came in a pervious books as well.
Furthermore, Val irked me. I love possessives MCs in books but if you’re not ready to claim your man leave that bs at the door. You don’t want to be Saint’s first same sex experience (understandable) but you don’t want him to have those experiences with someone else. 🙄
November 1, 2023
Almost half of the book is about or with characters from other books; it was really hard to fallow; I really don't care; I wanted to read about them and get to know them.
At the end, I don't know their age or what makes them click as a couple because we went through an explosion, some renovations, and after that, they were directly in bed.
Also, the bad guy was just meah; he managed to coordinate several attacks, a lot of money involved, and he was working as a casier.
At the end, I don't know their age or what makes them click as a couple because we went through an explosion, some renovations, and after that, they were directly in bed.
Also, the bad guy was just meah; he managed to coordinate several attacks, a lot of money involved, and he was working as a casier.
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