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Masters & Mercenaries: New Recruits #2.5
The Bodyguard and the Bombshell
From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake comes a new story in her Masters and Mercenaries series…The Bodyguard…Nate Carter left Australia’s elite SASR unit after a tragic accident. Shattered by the experience, he thought taking a job in the States might be a good way to start over. His father’s former employer, McKay-Taggart, has a position for him in the bodyguard unit. He never imagined himself risking his life for celebrities and the wealthy, but it will do for now. It will also give him a chance to reconnect with old friends, including the girl who’d been like a little sis to him ten years before.These days, however, his feelings for Daisy O’Donnell are anything but brotherly.The Bombshell…Daisy O’Donnell is a girl on a mission, and it does not include falling for one of her brother’s best friends. She has plans, and while chaos always seems to follow her, she’s determined to see this through. Daisy finds herself in need of a bodyguard when a job goes terribly wrong. She’s sure her dad will find someone suitable, but she didn’t expect a big, gloriously masculine Aussie to show up ready to take a bullet for her. Maybe spending some time with Nate Carter won’t be so bad after all.An explosive match…Thrown together by danger, Nate and Daisy can’t resist the insane chemistry between them. But when his past and her present collide, they must decide if they can hold it together or go their separate ways forever.**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**
192 pages, Paperback
First published August 6, 2024
334 people are currently reading
403 people want to read
About the author
Lexi Blake
177 books6,360 followersNY Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake lives in North Texas with her husband, three kids, and the laziest rescue dog in the world. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn't until she started writing romance and urban fantasy that she found the stories of her heart. She likes to find humor in the strangest places and believes in happy endings no matter how odd the couple, threesome, or foursome may seem.
Her first novel, Their Virgin Captive: Masters of Ménage, Book 1, was a collaboration with New York Times bestselling author Shayla Black. There are five more books available in the series: Their Virgin's Secret, Their Virgin Concubine, Their Virgin Princess, Their Virgin Hostage, and Their Virgin Secretary. The next book in the series, Their Virgin Mistress, is releasing this April.
In addition to the Masters of Ménage series, she is the author of the Masters and Mercenaries series. There are eight full-length novels and four novellas available now, with more coming in 2015.
In 2013, Lexi also began releasing her urban fantasy series, Thieves. The first five are available now, with Ripper, a spin-off to the series, coming in 2015.
Sign up for Lexi's newsletter at http://lexiblake.net/contact.html#new....
For more information about her books, her appearances and her wacky life visit her Facebook page (http://goo.gl/q2IHnJ) or her website (http://www.lexiblake.net).
Her first novel, Their Virgin Captive: Masters of Ménage, Book 1, was a collaboration with New York Times bestselling author Shayla Black. There are five more books available in the series: Their Virgin's Secret, Their Virgin Concubine, Their Virgin Princess, Their Virgin Hostage, and Their Virgin Secretary. The next book in the series, Their Virgin Mistress, is releasing this April.
In addition to the Masters of Ménage series, she is the author of the Masters and Mercenaries series. There are eight full-length novels and four novellas available now, with more coming in 2015.
In 2013, Lexi also began releasing her urban fantasy series, Thieves. The first five are available now, with Ripper, a spin-off to the series, coming in 2015.
Sign up for Lexi's newsletter at http://lexiblake.net/contact.html#new....
For more information about her books, her appearances and her wacky life visit her Facebook page (http://goo.gl/q2IHnJ) or her website (http://www.lexiblake.net).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
August 6, 2024
This was my first by Lexi Blake and now I want to go back to read the rest of her backlist!
I really enjoyed how the two characters got together! Having them know each other when they were younger made the relationship in this short story feel more developed.
I felt for Daisy and how everything seemed to pile on, but loved that Nate was there to help keep her safe!
I really enjoyed how the two characters got together! Having them know each other when they were younger made the relationship in this short story feel more developed.
I felt for Daisy and how everything seemed to pile on, but loved that Nate was there to help keep her safe!
August 19, 2024
The smut and storyline with the MMC and FMC was brilliant, don't get me wrong ❤
But I found it a little too far the way her family became involved and butted into her decision to partake in the club and in a dom/sub relationship. That was too far.
Other books by the author are quite good, but this book wasn't it for me ❤
But I found it a little too far the way her family became involved and butted into her decision to partake in the club and in a dom/sub relationship. That was too far.
Other books by the author are quite good, but this book wasn't it for me ❤
August 15, 2024
I liked Nate and Daisy, but I think the stuff with Liam and Aidan went a bit too far. Not my favorite of the novellas, but also gets credit for being a book I actually managed to get through, which has felt like a tall order of late. There's something to be said for coming back to familiar worlds.
December 11, 2024
5-star Review The Bodyguard And The Bombshell (Masters and Mercenaries: New Recruits #2.5) by Lexi Blake
After reading the first couple of books in the latest series from Lexi Blake, featuring the children of the original series characters I was excited to read
Daisy O’Donnell and Nate Carter’s story.
It was everything I was expecting and more.
Daisy is in need of a bodyguard and when Nate is tasked with her protection, she has no idea how their lives will change. The chemistry between them is impossible to ignore and when lines are crossed, all bets are off.
Their story was not without its complications but what a wonderful journey it was as they realised how they felt about one another. The camaraderie, banter and interference from both their families had me smiling, laughing and shaking my head at times.
This was a well written, action-packed romantic suspense story with a good balance of romance and suspense. I was on the edge of my seat whilst reading such is Ms. Blake’s writing, she draws you in and will keep you riveted from the first to the last chapter.
After reading the first couple of books in the latest series from Lexi Blake, featuring the children of the original series characters I was excited to read
Daisy O’Donnell and Nate Carter’s story.
It was everything I was expecting and more.
Daisy is in need of a bodyguard and when Nate is tasked with her protection, she has no idea how their lives will change. The chemistry between them is impossible to ignore and when lines are crossed, all bets are off.
Their story was not without its complications but what a wonderful journey it was as they realised how they felt about one another. The camaraderie, banter and interference from both their families had me smiling, laughing and shaking my head at times.
This was a well written, action-packed romantic suspense story with a good balance of romance and suspense. I was on the edge of my seat whilst reading such is Ms. Blake’s writing, she draws you in and will keep you riveted from the first to the last chapter.
August 14, 2024
I really loved Daisy, chaos magnet or not, but man...did I really get pissed at the men in her life as this one went on. Daisy was undermined by her brother and father so much, who then spread their brand of protectiveness that Daisy couldn't even explore what this crew grew up in, BDSM. She was relegated to the locker room to hang with her friends that didn't seem to have those same constrictions. It was great that through this round of chaos, these men were forced to face what they did and realize, in front of the whole group, what they did was wrong and why. They all needed to be bitch slapped so hard!
Due to the limits of Daisy's life, I loved that she took advantage of the masquerade night and spent time with Nate. It could have gone wrong, instead, they discovered they had mad chemistry and Nate was determined to find the one that got away, despite not knowing her name or what her face looked like.
Of course it didn't take long before Nate realized who his mystery woman was and he staked his claim. This ended up being so funny as Liam thought Daisy was as pure as the driven snow and wanted to kill Nate. The funnier thing it didn't just happen once, but again and again, with Daisy and Avery putting Liam in his place. But it turned very funny when towards the end, Liam was ok with Nate and Daisy and kept telling Nate, no takes backies, that Daisy's chaos was all Nate's now.
But the best part of the book was the talk between Avery and Steph as they looked at their shared granddaughter, talking about their past, who was owed what and why that didn't matter. They talked about all the points their lives touched and how if things didn't happen exactly as they did, they wouldn't be looking at the baby. What a great way to sum up so many things in this series and life in general.
Due to the limits of Daisy's life, I loved that she took advantage of the masquerade night and spent time with Nate. It could have gone wrong, instead, they discovered they had mad chemistry and Nate was determined to find the one that got away, despite not knowing her name or what her face looked like.
Of course it didn't take long before Nate realized who his mystery woman was and he staked his claim. This ended up being so funny as Liam thought Daisy was as pure as the driven snow and wanted to kill Nate. The funnier thing it didn't just happen once, but again and again, with Daisy and Avery putting Liam in his place. But it turned very funny when towards the end, Liam was ok with Nate and Daisy and kept telling Nate, no takes backies, that Daisy's chaos was all Nate's now.
But the best part of the book was the talk between Avery and Steph as they looked at their shared granddaughter, talking about their past, who was owed what and why that didn't matter. They talked about all the points their lives touched and how if things didn't happen exactly as they did, they wouldn't be looking at the baby. What a great way to sum up so many things in this series and life in general.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2024
I absolutely love books by Lexi Blake!! The Bodyguard and the Bombshell is the perfect example of why. The characters are unique, quirky, fun, original, and so easy to love! They are characters that you want to read about and want to cheer for and want the best for. Readers will laugh, cry, and go through and whole host of emotions right along side of the characters. There is always lots of drama both the fun, laugh out loud kind and the angsty, tears in your kind!! I love it all. To me, the best authors are the ones who can make you feel it all!! Lexi can definitely do that and so much more with her books. My husband never fails to think I am losing my mind when I read her books, and he always gives me strange looks when I start cracking up laughing in the middle of the night reading because I could not stop reading her book and I just could not contain myself. The bed started shaking when I tried to hold in my laughter, and he asked me what’s going on is something wrong. I just couldn’t hold it in any longer at that point. He just shook his head and went back to sleep. If you have not read any of Lexi Blake’s book before I highly recommend The Bodyguard and the Bombshell, The Masters and the Mercenaries series (any of the spin offs after that, of course), and Lexi Blake as an author!! Any of Lexi’s series are really good but I really recommend starting with her Master and Mercenaries series as most of her series are interconnected and that is one of the first series that starts off with most of the characters mentioned in The Bodyguard and The Bombshell (both Daisy’s and Nate’s parents can be found in the series too). Happy Reading!!
August 4, 2024
The Bodyguard and the Bombshell aka Nate Carter and Daisy O’Donnell was a fabulous addition to the next generation series who are all proving to be chips of the old block with their escapades. Daisy was pure chaos but somehow always managing to land on her feet. When her latest adventure ends up involving drug cartels and leaving her in need of a bodyguard who else you gonna call but McKay Taggart International…. of course it helps she calls most of them family. Nate Carter was looking for his passion in life. He’d thought he’d found it with the army but now he was in Dallas catching up with old friends when he meets Daisy and even though she hid her identity, knew he’d found what he was looking for. Now he just had to keep them both alive. Her from the assassins looking to prevent her testifying and himself from the hands of her irate father.
This is my favourite book in the series by far. Daisy and Nate’s story was a roller coaster of a read filled with danger, suspense, and not forgetting outside interference. From the old guard led by Daisy’s father to the horny Doms of the now that her brother had lifted the embargo on Daisy and of course not forgetting the drug cartel. Of course, none of this stopped Daisy and Nate from getting down and dirty in Ian Taggart’s private room. All this was interspersed with humour, Big Tag, I’m looking at you and your “that’s Axl Rose, you infant!” Nothing like being made to feel old when the response was who? This is one of those series I’m hoping that will run and run for the pure entertainment value it provides
This is my favourite book in the series by far. Daisy and Nate’s story was a roller coaster of a read filled with danger, suspense, and not forgetting outside interference. From the old guard led by Daisy’s father to the horny Doms of the now that her brother had lifted the embargo on Daisy and of course not forgetting the drug cartel. Of course, none of this stopped Daisy and Nate from getting down and dirty in Ian Taggart’s private room. All this was interspersed with humour, Big Tag, I’m looking at you and your “that’s Axl Rose, you infant!” Nothing like being made to feel old when the response was who? This is one of those series I’m hoping that will run and run for the pure entertainment value it provides
August 6, 2024
The Bodyguard and the Bombshell (Masters & Mercenaries: New Recruits #2.5; Masters & Mercenaries, #28,5; Sanctum Nights, #15) by Lexi Blake
4 stars
M/F Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Nate is a man looking for a new purpose. He knows that leaving his home isn't ideal, but he can't help but feel a little lost. When his friend offers him a job, he jumps at it. His best friend lives in the states and it's just a place to start anew.
Daisy is always trying to do the right thing. She has a heart of gold and a soft spot for people. She knows how to read people well and can get things done. However, she also, in the process, finds herself in trouble. Through no fault of her own, her family also doesn't see a grown woman, but a woman in need to protecting.
When Nate is assigned to Daisy's protection, it will be an eye opening experience for all invovled. Daisy will learn that she can be trusted to be herself, Nate will find an anchor and all the family and friends will learn that sometimes, trouble is exactly what you need to move forward.
It's a sweet and spice story about trusting yourself, learning to love and let go of the past and moving forward. You won't be disappointed.
4 stars
M/F Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Nate is a man looking for a new purpose. He knows that leaving his home isn't ideal, but he can't help but feel a little lost. When his friend offers him a job, he jumps at it. His best friend lives in the states and it's just a place to start anew.
Daisy is always trying to do the right thing. She has a heart of gold and a soft spot for people. She knows how to read people well and can get things done. However, she also, in the process, finds herself in trouble. Through no fault of her own, her family also doesn't see a grown woman, but a woman in need to protecting.
When Nate is assigned to Daisy's protection, it will be an eye opening experience for all invovled. Daisy will learn that she can be trusted to be herself, Nate will find an anchor and all the family and friends will learn that sometimes, trouble is exactly what you need to move forward.
It's a sweet and spice story about trusting yourself, learning to love and let go of the past and moving forward. You won't be disappointed.
August 6, 2024
Wow! I absolutely loved this book. Amazing characters and wonderful plot. Very beautifully written and easy to read.
Nate Carter was forced to leave Australia’s elite SASR unit after a tragic accident. He took a job as a bodyguard in the States to start over. It will give him a chance to reconnect with his friends and the girl he thought of as his little sister, Daisy O’Donnell, his best friend’s sister. But now he doesn’t think of her that way. Daisy is in need of a bodyguard, and her father hired Nate to protect her. I loved their chemistry and passion. They were made for each other.
Overall I loved this book very much. If you’re looking for a bodyguard, best friend’s sister, romantic suspense then you’re going to love it.
Nate Carter was forced to leave Australia’s elite SASR unit after a tragic accident. He took a job as a bodyguard in the States to start over. It will give him a chance to reconnect with his friends and the girl he thought of as his little sister, Daisy O’Donnell, his best friend’s sister. But now he doesn’t think of her that way. Daisy is in need of a bodyguard, and her father hired Nate to protect her. I loved their chemistry and passion. They were made for each other.
Overall I loved this book very much. If you’re looking for a bodyguard, best friend’s sister, romantic suspense then you’re going to love it.
August 6, 2024
Lexi Blake at her finest
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I've been a huge Masters and Mercenaries fan for a long time. I've read and reread each book countless times and each time it's like coming back to an old friend. Blake's writing is nothing short of brilliant. How she crafts each story is incredible. A standalone story, individual yet surrounded by so many other storylines and characters. (How she's keeps them all straight I'll never know!) You're 5 pages in and you already want to download the rest of the series. Shes is a literary Queen 👑
'The Bodyguard and the Bombshell' has been my favourite read this year. I was really looking forward to this story. I adored Liam and Avery's and also Brody and Steph's so having their children's story was not only about getting to experience Daisy and Nate's journey but about revisiting all the others. It was so beautifully written and I'm not ashamed to say the epilogue made me cry.
If you want a book that will make you laugh, that has the BEST spice, that has incredible strong female characters and the best dominant men then this book (and all others in the series) is for you! Daisy and Nathan's chemistry would set a wet paper towel on fire! Daisy's personality, her ability to attract trouble where ever is goes is hilarious and her conversations with her Da had me howling with laughter! (As did Ian Taggart's contributions) Nathan's Dom antics had me swooning and I adore how all the McKay-Taggart men are.
Blake's novels, novellas, chapters, I'm betting even her shopping list would never disappoint a reader. You need this book in your life. (You need this series in your life) Thank you so much @authorlexiblake and @valentine_pr_ for the ARC!
#lexiblake #lexiblakeauthor #mastersandmercenaries #romancereads #romancebooks #valentinepr #wildflowereads
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I've been a huge Masters and Mercenaries fan for a long time. I've read and reread each book countless times and each time it's like coming back to an old friend. Blake's writing is nothing short of brilliant. How she crafts each story is incredible. A standalone story, individual yet surrounded by so many other storylines and characters. (How she's keeps them all straight I'll never know!) You're 5 pages in and you already want to download the rest of the series. Shes is a literary Queen 👑
'The Bodyguard and the Bombshell' has been my favourite read this year. I was really looking forward to this story. I adored Liam and Avery's and also Brody and Steph's so having their children's story was not only about getting to experience Daisy and Nate's journey but about revisiting all the others. It was so beautifully written and I'm not ashamed to say the epilogue made me cry.
If you want a book that will make you laugh, that has the BEST spice, that has incredible strong female characters and the best dominant men then this book (and all others in the series) is for you! Daisy and Nathan's chemistry would set a wet paper towel on fire! Daisy's personality, her ability to attract trouble where ever is goes is hilarious and her conversations with her Da had me howling with laughter! (As did Ian Taggart's contributions) Nathan's Dom antics had me swooning and I adore how all the McKay-Taggart men are.
Blake's novels, novellas, chapters, I'm betting even her shopping list would never disappoint a reader. You need this book in your life. (You need this series in your life) Thank you so much @authorlexiblake and @valentine_pr_ for the ARC!
#lexiblake #lexiblakeauthor #mastersandmercenaries #romancereads #romancebooks #valentinepr #wildflowereads
August 13, 2024
I love being back in the M&M world. This novella is absolutely perfect. You get humor, witty banter, danger, action and spice. Daisy and Nate are perfect for each other. I loved their passion and their chemistry was HOT. There are so many laugh out loud moments with the OGs. I loved this book and can't wait for more from the new recruits.
August 13, 2024
Spicy and funny and crazy and everything in between. This story has it all. Nate and Daisy are just so lovable in their own way. Daisy is a walking disaster but she also has the biggest heart. Nate is feeling lost as well and he finds his purpose when he moves for his job. I absolutely adore this crazy makeshift family and I will never tire of reading about them.
July 21, 2024
5 🌟 Lexi knows how to ignite a story, mixing chemistry and danger…
Strap in for another story with the 2nd generation in the exciting Masters and Mercenaries world. The Bodyguard and the Bombshell features Nate Carter and Daisy O’Donnell. Let me say, 🔥 🔥 🔥.
Childhood friends not seeing each other for years. Both in the lifestyle. Bullets flying. And the chaos that follows Daisy is what I expect from Lexi Blake. So satisfying.
Lexi, I ask: When will Tristan, Aiden and Carys finally get their story???
Nate, left the Australian military that he thought would be his career. Feeling adrift, not wanting to work his family’s ranch, he takes the opportunity to work for McKay-Taggert bodyguard division in Dallas. His family has close ties with the founders and he hopes that the change will lead him to where he wants to be.
Daisy O’Donnell, chaos and danger follows her. Whatever she attempts to do, despite her best intentions, she wreaks havoc along the way. Her family is way overprotective. Neither her Dad nor her brother see her as grown woman. She sits in the locker room at her club Hideout since no one will engage with her. Though all her friends are there, she is thinking of leaving. But, she is giving it one last try on Masquerade night. Where everything goes and everyone gets a chance to do what they always wanted. And she heard there was newbie. An Australian that she used to crush on when she was younger.
If you read Lexi before, you know this is just the beginning and exciting stuff happens. Enjoy the story. 😍
Strap in for another story with the 2nd generation in the exciting Masters and Mercenaries world. The Bodyguard and the Bombshell features Nate Carter and Daisy O’Donnell. Let me say, 🔥 🔥 🔥.
Childhood friends not seeing each other for years. Both in the lifestyle. Bullets flying. And the chaos that follows Daisy is what I expect from Lexi Blake. So satisfying.
Lexi, I ask: When will Tristan, Aiden and Carys finally get their story???
Nate, left the Australian military that he thought would be his career. Feeling adrift, not wanting to work his family’s ranch, he takes the opportunity to work for McKay-Taggert bodyguard division in Dallas. His family has close ties with the founders and he hopes that the change will lead him to where he wants to be.
Daisy O’Donnell, chaos and danger follows her. Whatever she attempts to do, despite her best intentions, she wreaks havoc along the way. Her family is way overprotective. Neither her Dad nor her brother see her as grown woman. She sits in the locker room at her club Hideout since no one will engage with her. Though all her friends are there, she is thinking of leaving. But, she is giving it one last try on Masquerade night. Where everything goes and everyone gets a chance to do what they always wanted. And she heard there was newbie. An Australian that she used to crush on when she was younger.
If you read Lexi before, you know this is just the beginning and exciting stuff happens. Enjoy the story. 😍
July 31, 2024
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads, so here is my review.
Daisy O'Donnell is trying to figure out where she fits in. When she gets in over her head she needs a bodyguard and Nate Carter is all too happy to do it.
Daisy and Nate are the perfect couple, she seems to be ditsy and he is the strong one. But Daisy comes out on top when she needs to.
This story is filled with laughter, family, love, and a little chaos, ultimately leaving this novella one of my favorites.
Daisy O'Donnell is trying to figure out where she fits in. When she gets in over her head she needs a bodyguard and Nate Carter is all too happy to do it.
Daisy and Nate are the perfect couple, she seems to be ditsy and he is the strong one. But Daisy comes out on top when she needs to.
This story is filled with laughter, family, love, and a little chaos, ultimately leaving this novella one of my favorites.
August 6, 2024
This has absolutely EVERYTHING you could hope for for a M&M novella. Humour. Ian Taggart. Sarcasm (goes hand in hand with thr former) Spice. Action. All the checks!
The story you didn't know you needed, but can't do without.
Awesome sauce.
The story you didn't know you needed, but can't do without.
Awesome sauce.
July 22, 2024
Lexi Blake never disappoints! Her books always makes me laugh even when I'm crying, even when there when her characters are in danger Lexi Blake makes her readers laughs and this book was no exception. With "The Bodyguard and The Bombshell", we are taken back to book 3 of her Masters & Mercenaries Series "A Dom is Forever" and come full circle with these characters.
Daisy O'Donnell is her father's pride and joy and can do no wrong in his eyes, but whatever she does, she is always getting in trouble just by trying to help someone. She doesn't mean to cause trouble, it just seems to follow her around.
Nate Carter left the service after realizing it just wasn't for him and is now trying to figure out what to do with his life. He decides to leave The Outback and his parents' station or ranch and head to Dallas to work in the bodyguard unit for MT for a change and to get a fresh start. Since his parents are close to the O'Donnells and he and his sister grew up with Aidan and Daisy he is looking forward to reconnecting with them. He is also looking forward to seeing Daisy again since she followed him everywhere when they kids.
Daisy starts a new job and of course trouble follows her and she is in need of a bodyguard to protect her, but can she handle that person being Nate? The sparks fly between these two and Nate sets the record straight with Liam, Daisy's father and Aidan!
The laugh out loud moments are always awesome! The ending is Lexi Blake perfect!!
ARC provided for honest review!!
Daisy O'Donnell is her father's pride and joy and can do no wrong in his eyes, but whatever she does, she is always getting in trouble just by trying to help someone. She doesn't mean to cause trouble, it just seems to follow her around.
Nate Carter left the service after realizing it just wasn't for him and is now trying to figure out what to do with his life. He decides to leave The Outback and his parents' station or ranch and head to Dallas to work in the bodyguard unit for MT for a change and to get a fresh start. Since his parents are close to the O'Donnells and he and his sister grew up with Aidan and Daisy he is looking forward to reconnecting with them. He is also looking forward to seeing Daisy again since she followed him everywhere when they kids.
Daisy starts a new job and of course trouble follows her and she is in need of a bodyguard to protect her, but can she handle that person being Nate? The sparks fly between these two and Nate sets the record straight with Liam, Daisy's father and Aidan!
The laugh out loud moments are always awesome! The ending is Lexi Blake perfect!!
ARC provided for honest review!!
September 14, 2024
Ugh, I knew I would love Nate & Daisy. I think my only complaint is how fast things moved after the masquerade, but honestly it made sense. They’re all crazy. I love them so much.
August 6, 2024
Being that I'm not familiar with/have ever read any of Lexi's Masters and Mercenaries books I appreciated that I could get a feel for them with this novella and not be totally out of the loop.
There were a lot of side characters I found myself intrigued by and would very much enjoy reading their stories.
I also really enjoyed the lifestyle/club elements of this story. That's something I enjoy in many of the books I read, so another great nudge (shove) for me to find the beginning of the Masters and Mercenaries world and give Lexi's backlist my attention.
There were a lot of side characters I found myself intrigued by and would very much enjoy reading their stories.
I also really enjoyed the lifestyle/club elements of this story. That's something I enjoy in many of the books I read, so another great nudge (shove) for me to find the beginning of the Masters and Mercenaries world and give Lexi's backlist my attention.
August 5, 2024
Amazon / Audible November 26
Daisy always manages to find trouble despite her best intentions. This time, she's found one of the deadliest kinds of trouble when her newest job lands her in the crosshairs of the cartel. Yep. So now she needs a bodyguard because her overprotective family (I'm looking at you, dad!) doesn't think she can protect herself. But before that bodyguard makes his appearance, she plans on having some fun at their club, before she's forced into lockdown. When that fun comes in the form of a gorgeous guy with an Aussie accent and she recognizes him as a childhood crush, oh damn she's definitely going to take her pleasure where she can find it, regardless of what tomorrow may bring.
Nathan left Australia's SASR Special Forces and has come back home. But he doesn't want to work on his family's ranch, so has found a new job with McKay Taggart's bodyguard division in the States, and temporarily staying with his friend Aidan O'Donnell. Maybe here he can find a place to belong. But first, he's going to have a fun night at Aidan's club, before he's tasked with his first assignment - protecting Aidan's sister from some trouble she's found herself in.
I've been waiting for Daisy and Nate's story and it definitely did not disappoint! Their chemistry is so freaking hot, what with forced proximity, familiarity, old feelings of pining, and in the here and now their adult selves were simply too much for the other to resist. I wanted to hug Nate as he found a home to belong, and Daisy as she figured out why her dad and brother had blinders on when it came to viewing her as an adult woman with all the feelings adults rightfully have. The og's are along for the ride, taking care of business, and proving to the new generation that just because they're older doesn't mean they've lost any of their fierceness. And there are more mentions of Carys, Aidan and Tristan, making me even more impatient for their story, Sweet Little Spies.
ARC provided by Valentine PR for an honest review.
Ebook also purchased through Amazon.
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August 9, 2024
The Bodyguard and the Bombshell
Lexi Blake is the best author! I loved all the humor and catching up with the OG's. I also loved how she brought this story full circle! I can't wait for the next book. I can't wait to see what comes next for the new generation.
Lexi Blake is the best author! I loved all the humor and catching up with the OG's. I also loved how she brought this story full circle! I can't wait for the next book. I can't wait to see what comes next for the new generation.
August 7, 2024
Check out our full post for THE BODYGUARD AND THE BOMBSHELL on Wicked Reads, which includes an excerpt.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Mary – ☆☆☆☆☆
Daisy O'Donnell is trying to figure out where she fits in. When she gets in over her head, she needs a bodyguard and Nate Carter is all too happy to do it.
Daisy and Nate are the perfect couple, she seems to be ditzy and he is the strong one. But Daisy comes out on top when she needs to.
This story is filled with laughter, family, love, and a little chaos, ultimately leaving this novella one of my favorites.
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is part of the Masters & Mercenaries series, and whilst the 1001 Dark Nights series is to give newbies a chance to taste a series new to them, I do think that one could be a little lost with so many people being in this novella. As an ardent fan, I was absolutely delighted to enjoy the sass and snark from nearly the whole crew!
Nate and Daisy haven't seen each other since they were children, so it is no surprise that he doesn't recognise her with a mask on at The Hideout. But Daisy knew just what she was doing, and even if it were just for one night, she would not miss the opportunity to spend time with him.
Such a great start to this steamy and engaging story. I loved that Liam, Daisy's dad, had to reevaluate his relationship with his daughter and both he and Aidan had to see what damage they were doing to her self-confidence. That she now has Nate at her side, his point in life suddenly revealed to him when he sees her. I love his certainty about his presence in her future.
I am not going to say more about the drama, as it is best read fresh, but it is definitely typical of a Masters & Mercenaries plot, which Liam finds a way to solve, and everyone gathers together to ensure safety and success.
Delicious as always, and every time I read a new one, I am delighted at the mastery shown by Lexi Blake at forging forward with the next generation and giving us such great stories, time and again.
Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆
M/F Romance
Nate is a man looking for a new purpose. He knows that leaving his home isn't ideal, but he can't help but feel a little lost. When his friend offers him a job, he jumps at it. His best friend lives in the states and it's just a place to start anew.
Daisy is always trying to do the right thing. She has a heart of gold and a soft spot for people. She knows how to read people well and can get things done. However, she also, in the process, finds herself in trouble. Through no fault of her own, her family also doesn't see a grown woman, but a woman in need of protecting.
When Nate is assigned to Daisy's protection, it will be an eye-opening experience for all involved. Daisy will learn that she can be trusted to be herself, Nate will find an anchor, and all the family and friends will learn that sometimes, trouble is exactly what you need to move forward.
It's a sweet and spice story about trusting yourself, learning to love, and letting go of the past and moving forward. You won't be disappointed.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
August 6, 2024
4.25stars-THE BODYGUARD AND THE BOMBSHELL is instalment 2.5 in Lexi Blake’s contemporary, adult MASTERS AND MERCENARIES: NEW RECRUITS erotic, romantic suspense series, a spin off, set in the author’s numerous Masters and Mercenaries worlds. This is bodyguard/Dom Nate Carter, and twenty-five year old Daisy O’Donnell’s story line. THE BODYGUARD AND THE BOMBSHELL can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines or series is revealed where necessary. Daisy is the daughter of Liam and Avery O’Donnell (A Dom is Forever: M&M 3).
THE BODYGUARD AND THE BOMBSHELL is a part of the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series.
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise including Dom/sub and BDSM scenarios, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from several omniscient third person perspectives including Nate and Daisy THE BODYGUARD AND THE BOMBSHELL follows the building relationship between Nate and Daisy when Nate assigns himself guardian and protector of our story line heroine. Daisy is a bit of a mess. Everyone considers her one disaster away from exploding but when Daisy witnesses an illegal operation, our heroine will become the target of some powerful men. Needing a new start, Nate Carter begins working for McKay-Taggart, and pushes himself into becomimg Daisy’s security but Daisy is off-limits to everyone including our story line hero, and the men at the family owned $ex club, and in this, our heroine’s self-esteem continues to plummet in the wake of continuous and ongoing rejection. What ensues is the building but forbidden relationship between Daisy and Nate, and the potential fall-out as someone else gets caught in the cross-fire.
The world building follows several paths including the forbidden Dom/sub relationship between our story line couple; and the ongoing protection for and of our story line heroine. Following several attempts on her life, Daisy is brought into protection custody, protected by the man with whom she is falling in love.
The relationship between Nate and Daisy is a brother’s friend to lovers relationship; a Dom/sub partnership in which Daisy is determined to enjoy one night of her life. All of the men have been warned away from our story line heroine but Nate is determined to claim Daisy as his own. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative.
There is a large ensemble cast of familiar and colorful secondary and supporting characters including Ian ‘Big Tag’ Taggart and wife Charlotte; Liam and Avery O’Donnell; Daisy’s brother Aiden; Nate’s parents Brody and Stephanie Carter; Theo and Erin Taggart, and their daughter Devi Taggart, as well as several members of the McKay-Taggart team.
THE BODYGUARD AND THE BOMBSHELL is a fast paced story of secrets and lies, misunderstanding and heart break; family and friendships, relationships and love. The character driven premise is emotional and captivating; the romance is seductive and fated; the characters are determined
www.thereadingcafe.com
copy supplied for review
THE BODYGUARD AND THE BOMBSHELL is a part of the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series.
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise including Dom/sub and BDSM scenarios, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from several omniscient third person perspectives including Nate and Daisy THE BODYGUARD AND THE BOMBSHELL follows the building relationship between Nate and Daisy when Nate assigns himself guardian and protector of our story line heroine. Daisy is a bit of a mess. Everyone considers her one disaster away from exploding but when Daisy witnesses an illegal operation, our heroine will become the target of some powerful men. Needing a new start, Nate Carter begins working for McKay-Taggart, and pushes himself into becomimg Daisy’s security but Daisy is off-limits to everyone including our story line hero, and the men at the family owned $ex club, and in this, our heroine’s self-esteem continues to plummet in the wake of continuous and ongoing rejection. What ensues is the building but forbidden relationship between Daisy and Nate, and the potential fall-out as someone else gets caught in the cross-fire.
The world building follows several paths including the forbidden Dom/sub relationship between our story line couple; and the ongoing protection for and of our story line heroine. Following several attempts on her life, Daisy is brought into protection custody, protected by the man with whom she is falling in love.
The relationship between Nate and Daisy is a brother’s friend to lovers relationship; a Dom/sub partnership in which Daisy is determined to enjoy one night of her life. All of the men have been warned away from our story line heroine but Nate is determined to claim Daisy as his own. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative.
There is a large ensemble cast of familiar and colorful secondary and supporting characters including Ian ‘Big Tag’ Taggart and wife Charlotte; Liam and Avery O’Donnell; Daisy’s brother Aiden; Nate’s parents Brody and Stephanie Carter; Theo and Erin Taggart, and their daughter Devi Taggart, as well as several members of the McKay-Taggart team.
THE BODYGUARD AND THE BOMBSHELL is a fast paced story of secrets and lies, misunderstanding and heart break; family and friendships, relationships and love. The character driven premise is emotional and captivating; the romance is seductive and fated; the characters are determined
www.thereadingcafe.com
copy supplied for review
August 19, 2024
Originally published at Bookishly Ruby
*Disclaimer: I received an e-ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.
The Bodyguard and The Bombshell is the perfect addition to the Masters and Mercenaries world. If you’re in the mood for a “they were always going to end up together” story, then this is what you need to read!
If you’ve read this series from the very beginning you know why this novella is not only great, but one of those “I wish” stories in the world of the Masters and Mercenaries. Because it feels like Daisy and Nate were always meant to be, and considering the history of their parents, I’m very happy they ended up together.
Daisy is a delight to read about. Her life is basically a series of “everything that can go wrong will go wrong” events. And while her antics may seem over the top at times, I was thoroughly entertained. Probably because of who her dad is? Definitely because of who her dad is, just because I did enjoy seeing him completely lose his mind over his girl.
Nate was the perfect match for Daisy. While he is the complete opposite of her, they somehow manage to complete each other perfectly. Nate is calmer, more reserved, though he is very restless. His life is missing something but he doesn’t know exactly what, so when he meets adults Daisy it’s like his life has purpose again. I love how he isn’t afraid of Daisy’s chaos, he actually welcomes it and is excited for being part of it.
Speaking of Daisy’s dad though, I have to say I wasn’t impressed with Liam at all. He was the typical girl dad, the one who wants to keep his little girl safe from the world and forever…well, little. I was not happy with him, BUT it does explain why Daisy is so chaotic and intent on making her own way in life. I loved the talk Ian had with Liam about everything. It’s actually a very interesting topic the way these two old friends approach the upbringing of their daughters in two very different ways. I do hate that the way Liam treated his daughter bled into the way everyone treated Daisy, even people who should have known better and who should have treated her with respect, so I’m glad that was addressed.
As I said before, this story feels like the closing of a circle within the world of the Masters and Mercenaries. Both of Daisy and Nate’s mothers were united by tragedy, and now they’re united by their children finding love in one another. I cannot wait to see what the future will hold for these two.
All in all a really great story and I cannot wait to see what will come next in the world of this giant found family.
*Disclaimer: I received an e-ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.
The Bodyguard and The Bombshell is the perfect addition to the Masters and Mercenaries world. If you’re in the mood for a “they were always going to end up together” story, then this is what you need to read!
If you’ve read this series from the very beginning you know why this novella is not only great, but one of those “I wish” stories in the world of the Masters and Mercenaries. Because it feels like Daisy and Nate were always meant to be, and considering the history of their parents, I’m very happy they ended up together.
Daisy is a delight to read about. Her life is basically a series of “everything that can go wrong will go wrong” events. And while her antics may seem over the top at times, I was thoroughly entertained. Probably because of who her dad is? Definitely because of who her dad is, just because I did enjoy seeing him completely lose his mind over his girl.
Nate was the perfect match for Daisy. While he is the complete opposite of her, they somehow manage to complete each other perfectly. Nate is calmer, more reserved, though he is very restless. His life is missing something but he doesn’t know exactly what, so when he meets adults Daisy it’s like his life has purpose again. I love how he isn’t afraid of Daisy’s chaos, he actually welcomes it and is excited for being part of it.
Speaking of Daisy’s dad though, I have to say I wasn’t impressed with Liam at all. He was the typical girl dad, the one who wants to keep his little girl safe from the world and forever…well, little. I was not happy with him, BUT it does explain why Daisy is so chaotic and intent on making her own way in life. I loved the talk Ian had with Liam about everything. It’s actually a very interesting topic the way these two old friends approach the upbringing of their daughters in two very different ways. I do hate that the way Liam treated his daughter bled into the way everyone treated Daisy, even people who should have known better and who should have treated her with respect, so I’m glad that was addressed.
As I said before, this story feels like the closing of a circle within the world of the Masters and Mercenaries. Both of Daisy and Nate’s mothers were united by tragedy, and now they’re united by their children finding love in one another. I cannot wait to see what the future will hold for these two.
All in all a really great story and I cannot wait to see what will come next in the world of this giant found family.
August 11, 2024
4 STARS
This book was everything I didn't realize I needed and hit every spot I didn't know I had.
If you're looking for a quick but vastly satisfying romance, this one is sure to please.
Now I am not usually a reader who enjoys bumbling, overly quirky heroines. And Daisy O’Donnell taking a selfie as she accidentally walks into a drug ring and posting it to her socials, is definitely on the quirky side. But her father is also Liam O'Donnell and one of my favorites. If you haven't read his book, you must: A Dom is Forever. But I digress. Poor Daisy has grown up in the shadow of her overprotective father and brother and the proof is definitely in the pudding with this one. She's too sweet and too innocent, almost naively so. But she's also so incredibly endearing that I couldn't find it in me to care.
Daisy has also spent her childhood crushing on her brother's best friend, Nate Carter. And now Nate is back in the states and finds himself on bodyguard duty for the gorgeous woman he is suddenly noticing in an entirely different light. And I think what I loved the most about Nate, he doesn't even bat an eye lash at this new revelation nor does he fight it for even a second. He is all in and he will stop at nothing and I loved that for Daisy. While it could feel a bit insta love, it didn't. It was full of chemistry and humor and I enjoyed every page.
I simply adore this series and now I'm desperately anticipating Daisy's brother's book because I need answers!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
The danger’s never over with you, love. I said you needed a keeper. Looks like it’s going to be me.”
This book was everything I didn't realize I needed and hit every spot I didn't know I had.
If you're looking for a quick but vastly satisfying romance, this one is sure to please.
Now I am not usually a reader who enjoys bumbling, overly quirky heroines. And Daisy O’Donnell taking a selfie as she accidentally walks into a drug ring and posting it to her socials, is definitely on the quirky side. But her father is also Liam O'Donnell and one of my favorites. If you haven't read his book, you must: A Dom is Forever. But I digress. Poor Daisy has grown up in the shadow of her overprotective father and brother and the proof is definitely in the pudding with this one. She's too sweet and too innocent, almost naively so. But she's also so incredibly endearing that I couldn't find it in me to care.
Daisy has also spent her childhood crushing on her brother's best friend, Nate Carter. And now Nate is back in the states and finds himself on bodyguard duty for the gorgeous woman he is suddenly noticing in an entirely different light. And I think what I loved the most about Nate, he doesn't even bat an eye lash at this new revelation nor does he fight it for even a second. He is all in and he will stop at nothing and I loved that for Daisy. While it could feel a bit insta love, it didn't. It was full of chemistry and humor and I enjoyed every page.
I simply adore this series and now I'm desperately anticipating Daisy's brother's book because I need answers!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
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July 18, 2024
Ahh, good old Lexi Blake. Like coming home.
As someone who's not close to her extended family at all because they live on another continent and we never see each other, one of the things I love about this series is the sheer amount of characters and side characters who pop up, make a few witty quips, and vanish again. I fully admit that if I weren't a paid-up member of the Blake universe, this would probably be incredibly frustrating and the sheer amount of background knowledge needed to read any of her newer releases must make them unreadable to newcomers. But since I'm not a newcomer and have been reading her books for about ten years, they really do feel like coming home.
I try not to think about the logistics too much - it is IMPOSSIBLE to be willing to die for pretty much all your friends and relatives to the same degree, and you MUST love some of them more than others - but these books are really good at making you feel like such happy things are possible. And that it's possible for groups of young men and women to grow up together with none of them having crushing on each other or having sex with each other unless that's their future forever partner, so there's no messy entanglements and jealousies. Honestly, the fact that Lexi Blake can write series after series set in sex clubs without making it feel sleazy is a real skill.
The charm of the books, to put it bluntly, is the characters and the relationships. In novellas like this one I even skip over the sex scenes, because what I actually love reading about is how Daisy is going to resolve her relationship with her dad, or what Ian's going to say next, and WHAT CARYS/AIDAN/TRISTAN ARE UP TO. I've been waiting for their book for absolutely years, so I'm glad there's not much longer to go.
As someone who's not close to her extended family at all because they live on another continent and we never see each other, one of the things I love about this series is the sheer amount of characters and side characters who pop up, make a few witty quips, and vanish again. I fully admit that if I weren't a paid-up member of the Blake universe, this would probably be incredibly frustrating and the sheer amount of background knowledge needed to read any of her newer releases must make them unreadable to newcomers. But since I'm not a newcomer and have been reading her books for about ten years, they really do feel like coming home.
I try not to think about the logistics too much - it is IMPOSSIBLE to be willing to die for pretty much all your friends and relatives to the same degree, and you MUST love some of them more than others - but these books are really good at making you feel like such happy things are possible. And that it's possible for groups of young men and women to grow up together with none of them having crushing on each other or having sex with each other unless that's their future forever partner, so there's no messy entanglements and jealousies. Honestly, the fact that Lexi Blake can write series after series set in sex clubs without making it feel sleazy is a real skill.
The charm of the books, to put it bluntly, is the characters and the relationships. In novellas like this one I even skip over the sex scenes, because what I actually love reading about is how Daisy is going to resolve her relationship with her dad, or what Ian's going to say next, and WHAT CARYS/AIDAN/TRISTAN ARE UP TO. I've been waiting for their book for absolutely years, so I'm glad there's not much longer to go.
August 21, 2024
I'm super disappointed in this entire series. This book, in particular, makes me sad.
It's difficult to write a "next generation" series. Following Masters and Mercenaries is no easy task. But I don't get what's happened here. The younger generation seems to be a bunch of numbskulls playing at Secret Agent. There's mostly third rate, not funny, yuk-yuk type joking a good deal of the time. None of these younger people have any real personality. They are mostly referred to as "the kids" with helicopter parents hovering, and no real plots are happening.
My biggest pet peeve is the BDSM. Throughout M&M, this was some smoking hot action between adults. In this series, the kids are playing at the idea of sex club activity. Nothing really sexy happens. It's a pale shade of gray. It feels like playacting. I really loved the BDSM aspect of the M&M series. This is just silly and nowhere close to sexy or hot.
This story is about Daisy and Nate. Daisy is presented as a 2 dimensional girl who hovers between a slapstick character, an overprotected child (shades of Lou from a previous book), and a flaky, dim bulb gal in need of constant protection. Her lack of peesonal awareness is frustrating and not charming. She wants to find valuable work but instead ends up in one messy unbelievable event after another. Her deer-in-the-headlights routine lost my interest at about 19% of the story.
Nate is a blank slate who is looking for a place in the world. By his admission, he's drifting, and his lack of a discernable character reflects that. His interest in Daisy is similar to their childish crush behavior from long ago and hard to buy at best.
I pretty much lost interest when it became clear that this was another "protect the silly girl" story. There must have been 20+ pages of talk about Daisy's virginity or lack of, and why her dad and brother had been protecting her. Seriously? She truly thought hanging at a BDSM club for years where no males would hardly speak to her was normal? And she caved and "forgave" her dad and brother in about 8 seconds? This girl, by the way, is in her mid-20s. It's not high school. Where is this girl's backbone?
What i loved about the M&M series was that the women were strong, interesting characters with such personalities and stories. This next generation doesn't have much substance.
It's difficult to write a "next generation" series. Following Masters and Mercenaries is no easy task. But I don't get what's happened here. The younger generation seems to be a bunch of numbskulls playing at Secret Agent. There's mostly third rate, not funny, yuk-yuk type joking a good deal of the time. None of these younger people have any real personality. They are mostly referred to as "the kids" with helicopter parents hovering, and no real plots are happening.
My biggest pet peeve is the BDSM. Throughout M&M, this was some smoking hot action between adults. In this series, the kids are playing at the idea of sex club activity. Nothing really sexy happens. It's a pale shade of gray. It feels like playacting. I really loved the BDSM aspect of the M&M series. This is just silly and nowhere close to sexy or hot.
This story is about Daisy and Nate. Daisy is presented as a 2 dimensional girl who hovers between a slapstick character, an overprotected child (shades of Lou from a previous book), and a flaky, dim bulb gal in need of constant protection. Her lack of peesonal awareness is frustrating and not charming. She wants to find valuable work but instead ends up in one messy unbelievable event after another. Her deer-in-the-headlights routine lost my interest at about 19% of the story.
Nate is a blank slate who is looking for a place in the world. By his admission, he's drifting, and his lack of a discernable character reflects that. His interest in Daisy is similar to their childish crush behavior from long ago and hard to buy at best.
I pretty much lost interest when it became clear that this was another "protect the silly girl" story. There must have been 20+ pages of talk about Daisy's virginity or lack of, and why her dad and brother had been protecting her. Seriously? She truly thought hanging at a BDSM club for years where no males would hardly speak to her was normal? And she caved and "forgave" her dad and brother in about 8 seconds? This girl, by the way, is in her mid-20s. It's not high school. Where is this girl's backbone?
What i loved about the M&M series was that the women were strong, interesting characters with such personalities and stories. This next generation doesn't have much substance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2024
The Bombshell & The Bodyguard
By Lexi Blake
Rating: 3.7/5 stars
In The Bombshell and The Bodyguard, chaos meets calm—and things get steamy when you least expect it. Nate, an ex-military man with nerves of steel, meets his match in Daisy, a walking disaster with a heart of gold. As her bodyguard, Nate’s job is to keep her safe—but with Daisy’s knack for stumbling into danger, it’s easier said than done. Throw in a BDSM subplot involving their local club, and you've got a novella packed with tension and temptation.
Daisy is a character you can’t help but root for—she’s got a heart of gold and an undeniable knack for attracting chaos. Her well-meaning attempts to help often spiral into comical disasters, reminding us that she’s as human as they come. I found myself laughing at her chaotic interactions, but also feeling a deep sympathy for her as she navigates the judgments of those around her. It’s clear she means well, even if things don’t always go according to plan.
Then there’s Nate. From the moment he re-enters Daisy’s life, he’s a force of calm in her storm, instantly recognizing the girl he once knew. His protectiveness kicks in at full throttle, especially when he realizes someone at their BDSM club is trying to keep others away from Daisy. His fierce determination to keep her safe is both endearing and a bit intense, going from 0 to 100 in a flash. While I loved how devoted he was to her, the speed at which these deep emotions developed felt a little unrealistic, but it didn’t detract from their undeniable chemistry.
While the story was engaging, the sheer number of characters introduced in such a short span left me flipping back to figure out who was who. It took me out of the story more than once. If you’re into fast-paced romances with a mix of danger, humor, and a dash of kink, The Bombshell and The Bodyguardwill hit the spot. Just be prepared to keep a character list handy! Daisy might be a walking calamity, but she made me feel like maybe my own chaotic life isn’t so bad after all.”
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
BookIG: @tequilamockingbirdlady
GR profile: mvporter
By Lexi Blake
Rating: 3.7/5 stars
In The Bombshell and The Bodyguard, chaos meets calm—and things get steamy when you least expect it. Nate, an ex-military man with nerves of steel, meets his match in Daisy, a walking disaster with a heart of gold. As her bodyguard, Nate’s job is to keep her safe—but with Daisy’s knack for stumbling into danger, it’s easier said than done. Throw in a BDSM subplot involving their local club, and you've got a novella packed with tension and temptation.
Daisy is a character you can’t help but root for—she’s got a heart of gold and an undeniable knack for attracting chaos. Her well-meaning attempts to help often spiral into comical disasters, reminding us that she’s as human as they come. I found myself laughing at her chaotic interactions, but also feeling a deep sympathy for her as she navigates the judgments of those around her. It’s clear she means well, even if things don’t always go according to plan.
Then there’s Nate. From the moment he re-enters Daisy’s life, he’s a force of calm in her storm, instantly recognizing the girl he once knew. His protectiveness kicks in at full throttle, especially when he realizes someone at their BDSM club is trying to keep others away from Daisy. His fierce determination to keep her safe is both endearing and a bit intense, going from 0 to 100 in a flash. While I loved how devoted he was to her, the speed at which these deep emotions developed felt a little unrealistic, but it didn’t detract from their undeniable chemistry.
While the story was engaging, the sheer number of characters introduced in such a short span left me flipping back to figure out who was who. It took me out of the story more than once. If you’re into fast-paced romances with a mix of danger, humor, and a dash of kink, The Bombshell and The Bodyguardwill hit the spot. Just be prepared to keep a character list handy! Daisy might be a walking calamity, but she made me feel like maybe my own chaotic life isn’t so bad after all.”
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
BookIG: @tequilamockingbirdlady
GR profile: mvporter
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September 7, 2024Peace be upon you all,
I wanted to share my experience, I was in a rut a few years ago, completely submerged in reading these kinds of books and watching movies (some bad some good) and I used to spend hours doing that, that was my life, I was still unhappy even though all I did was chase happiness, I was constantly ungrateful, bad mannered, kept asking myself why wasn't my life like these books, my libido was constantly high because of the stimulus from these books and I was in a toxic cycle, do you know what I mean?? It just becomes this endless cycle of chasing desires and never feeling satisfied. Then I decided one day, enough, I felt as if there was something more I'm meant to do, I decided to start praying (I'm muslim), I don't know why I decided to just pray but I just did, and ever since then my whole life changed for the better, these books no longer consume me, I'm no longer enslaved to my desires, and I also found out that nothing I did went unnoticed, in our belief, everything we do comes back to us, every letter I read was documented by an angel on my shoulder, Allah (God) knows every single thing I did and saw, and on judgment day I will be facing those deeds. I didn't know any of this back then، Allah says in the Quran :[on the Day their tongues, hands, and feet will testify against them for what they used to do]
I had no idea and I wish someone told me. Anyway , sorry for taking so long but if you feel the same way I felt then, I pray you find the deliverance I found, I know it's hard, it's so fun to read and to watch but it's not worth it to lose the afterlife, it's not worth it to even lose this life, I wasted so much time, and I'm hoping you find your way the same way I found mine. Read Quran, it will liberate you, and it is better than any book,any movie, I found much healing in it and it saved me from myself. Allah guides those who want guidance, Keep an open mind, forget all the stereotypes, and don't be daunted by its words, there's an app that explain it too called Bayyinahtv, they explain it in english in a beautiful simplified way.
Again sorry for taking so long, I pray and wish for you all the best.
I wanted to share my experience, I was in a rut a few years ago, completely submerged in reading these kinds of books and watching movies (some bad some good) and I used to spend hours doing that, that was my life, I was still unhappy even though all I did was chase happiness, I was constantly ungrateful, bad mannered, kept asking myself why wasn't my life like these books, my libido was constantly high because of the stimulus from these books and I was in a toxic cycle, do you know what I mean?? It just becomes this endless cycle of chasing desires and never feeling satisfied. Then I decided one day, enough, I felt as if there was something more I'm meant to do, I decided to start praying (I'm muslim), I don't know why I decided to just pray but I just did, and ever since then my whole life changed for the better, these books no longer consume me, I'm no longer enslaved to my desires, and I also found out that nothing I did went unnoticed, in our belief, everything we do comes back to us, every letter I read was documented by an angel on my shoulder, Allah (God) knows every single thing I did and saw, and on judgment day I will be facing those deeds. I didn't know any of this back then، Allah says in the Quran :[on the Day their tongues, hands, and feet will testify against them for what they used to do]
I had no idea and I wish someone told me. Anyway , sorry for taking so long but if you feel the same way I felt then, I pray you find the deliverance I found, I know it's hard, it's so fun to read and to watch but it's not worth it to lose the afterlife, it's not worth it to even lose this life, I wasted so much time, and I'm hoping you find your way the same way I found mine. Read Quran, it will liberate you, and it is better than any book,any movie, I found much healing in it and it saved me from myself. Allah guides those who want guidance, Keep an open mind, forget all the stereotypes, and don't be daunted by its words, there's an app that explain it too called Bayyinahtv, they explain it in english in a beautiful simplified way.
Again sorry for taking so long, I pray and wish for you all the best.
August 7, 2024
I would like to thank Valentine PR and Lexi Blake for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
4.5 ⭐️rounded to 5⭐️ on Goodreads and retail sites. The Bodyguard and the Bombshell is book 2.5 of the Masters and Mercenaries: New Recruits series, a 1001 Dark Nights novella by Lexi Blake. This book is about Daisy O’Donnell, daughter of Liam O’Donnell, who viewed her a pure and perfect despite being her own spectacular brand of chaos. She couldn’t seem to find the place in the world where she fit. She started a new receptionist job with a PI Agency and by the end of the day, she was fired (again) and needed a bodyguard to protect her. At The Hideout, the BDSM club started by the new generation of Masters and Mercenaries, Daisy couldn’t even find a Dom interested in playing with her. Enter Nate Carter. Ex Australian Special Forces, Nate was feeling untethered since leaving the military. He took a job in the bodyguard unit of his father’s old employer, McKay-Taggart, hoping to find the place he belonged and reconnect with childhood friends. Daisy and Nate found themselves thrown together and unable to resist the explosive chemistry between them, but when the danger is over they would have to decide what their futures should look like. I adored this novella. Daisy is a trip and I am totally here for her. She had a knack for landing herself in the most bizarre and dangerous situations without even recognizing she had done so, and she desperately needed someone like Nate in her life. Nate had been looking for a calling and he found it in being by Daisy’s side. Who can resist a big, buff, gorgeous man who is completely dedicated to and delighted by someone like Daisy? There are a lot of threads to unravel in this short book. It dealt with parent-child relationships, a molten lava romance, and finding one’s place in the world after transitioning to adulthood. The book left me with a warm glow that is still lingering almost a week later. Readers who enjoy romantic suspense/romantic comedies, this series, and this book may well be for you. I had such a great time reading it!
4.5 ⭐️rounded to 5⭐️ on Goodreads and retail sites. The Bodyguard and the Bombshell is book 2.5 of the Masters and Mercenaries: New Recruits series, a 1001 Dark Nights novella by Lexi Blake. This book is about Daisy O’Donnell, daughter of Liam O’Donnell, who viewed her a pure and perfect despite being her own spectacular brand of chaos. She couldn’t seem to find the place in the world where she fit. She started a new receptionist job with a PI Agency and by the end of the day, she was fired (again) and needed a bodyguard to protect her. At The Hideout, the BDSM club started by the new generation of Masters and Mercenaries, Daisy couldn’t even find a Dom interested in playing with her. Enter Nate Carter. Ex Australian Special Forces, Nate was feeling untethered since leaving the military. He took a job in the bodyguard unit of his father’s old employer, McKay-Taggart, hoping to find the place he belonged and reconnect with childhood friends. Daisy and Nate found themselves thrown together and unable to resist the explosive chemistry between them, but when the danger is over they would have to decide what their futures should look like. I adored this novella. Daisy is a trip and I am totally here for her. She had a knack for landing herself in the most bizarre and dangerous situations without even recognizing she had done so, and she desperately needed someone like Nate in her life. Nate had been looking for a calling and he found it in being by Daisy’s side. Who can resist a big, buff, gorgeous man who is completely dedicated to and delighted by someone like Daisy? There are a lot of threads to unravel in this short book. It dealt with parent-child relationships, a molten lava romance, and finding one’s place in the world after transitioning to adulthood. The book left me with a warm glow that is still lingering almost a week later. Readers who enjoy romantic suspense/romantic comedies, this series, and this book may well be for you. I had such a great time reading it!
July 30, 2024
When a chaotic bombshell needs a bodyguard
Daisy is a finder of chaos, everywhere she goes. She doesn’t plan to get into tough spots it just always seems to happen to her. This last time she gets tied up with a cartel and needs a full time bodyguard to ensure she’s safe! Enter Nate. Nate has been feeling directionless, like he doesn’t have any idea what he wants to do. He decided to move to the US to be a bodyguard post Australian special forces. He luckily grew up with a whole host of people in Dallas and hopes they will all help him get his mojo back.
Both Daisy and Nate can’t seem to get the other out of their heads after they share a night together but Daisy is determined to let it be. Nate is not for that idea and fights for her. Hard. Some family drama and of course some action later and we are left with a super fun loving, special couple. This book is able to dive into family dynamics, self esteem, familial love, bdsm dynamics, s*x positive familys and so much more in its short pages. All while making us feel how much Daisy and Nate are the perfect balance. Her trouble meets his level head and hard handedness. They are a match made in heaven!
This was a fun, spicy, action filled novella. It was a tiny bit overwhelming how many side characters were in this book. If you haven’t read other LB books or it’s been a while you may have a slightly harder time with this than those that have recently read all of LBs universe! But it is still easy to follow and even easier to fall in love with Daisy and Nate!
•Tropes•
D/s dynamic
Hidden identity
Childhood friends to lovers
Instalove
Curvy fmc
Club scene
Family drama
HEA: yes
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
POV: dual
Standalone: yes
Do I recommend: yes! For anyone who loves steamy books full of lovable, s*x positive characters. Especially if you have read any of Lexi Blake’s past books!
It was such a pleasure reading and reviewing this book!
Daisy is a finder of chaos, everywhere she goes. She doesn’t plan to get into tough spots it just always seems to happen to her. This last time she gets tied up with a cartel and needs a full time bodyguard to ensure she’s safe! Enter Nate. Nate has been feeling directionless, like he doesn’t have any idea what he wants to do. He decided to move to the US to be a bodyguard post Australian special forces. He luckily grew up with a whole host of people in Dallas and hopes they will all help him get his mojo back.
Both Daisy and Nate can’t seem to get the other out of their heads after they share a night together but Daisy is determined to let it be. Nate is not for that idea and fights for her. Hard. Some family drama and of course some action later and we are left with a super fun loving, special couple. This book is able to dive into family dynamics, self esteem, familial love, bdsm dynamics, s*x positive familys and so much more in its short pages. All while making us feel how much Daisy and Nate are the perfect balance. Her trouble meets his level head and hard handedness. They are a match made in heaven!
This was a fun, spicy, action filled novella. It was a tiny bit overwhelming how many side characters were in this book. If you haven’t read other LB books or it’s been a while you may have a slightly harder time with this than those that have recently read all of LBs universe! But it is still easy to follow and even easier to fall in love with Daisy and Nate!
•Tropes•
D/s dynamic
Hidden identity
Childhood friends to lovers
Instalove
Curvy fmc
Club scene
Family drama
HEA: yes
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
POV: dual
Standalone: yes
Do I recommend: yes! For anyone who loves steamy books full of lovable, s*x positive characters. Especially if you have read any of Lexi Blake’s past books!
It was such a pleasure reading and reviewing this book!
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