Spy With Me

Masters & Mercenaries: New Recruits #5

by Lexi Blake

Zach Reed had two objectives when he joined the CIA team led by Ian and Charlotte Taggart. First, he needed to get close to Cooper McKay. Second, he needed to sideline or dismantle their operation. Getting to know Cooper was even better than he expected, but amongst the team he discovered a family he’d always dreamed of and a woman he wanted to spend his life with. Caught between his mission and his friends, his secrets are exposed, and his only choice is to run. He hopes someday he can make it up to the team and the young woman he’s fallen hopelessly in love with.

Devi Taggart thought she finally found the man of her dreams. Spending a long weekend with Zach filled her soul and satisfied all her deepest desires. But dreams turned to nightmares when she discovered he betrayed his team, including her brother. When Zach disappears, Devi swears to turn her back on the man forever. Unfortunately, the real bad guys have figured out she is Zach’s weak spot, which makes her a major target.

With Devi in real danger, Zach takes the situation into his own hands and offers her a place to stay with him. An offer he’s not about to let her refuse. As they navigate a criminal underworld, Zach is committed to showing Devi he’s the right man for her. If only they can survive his family.

Genres: BDSM, Romantic Suspense, Romance, Action, Second Chance Romance, Suspense, Found Family

348 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 16, 2025

About the author

NY 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).

Reviews

[Nadine Bookaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this book has a whole lot going on.

I have been dying to get my hands on Zach's story since the beginning, when there was something a little off about him. Was he a double agent? Was he a son of one of the Taggarts, and they didn't know? Oh, so many questions, and now we finally get all the answers we have been waiting for.

Devi Taggart and Zach are great together; their chemistry is sizzling, but will that be enough for Devi to forgive Zach when he pulled a disappearing act after their unforgettable weekend together? Well, she may not have a chance to protest when he shows up again because some horrible people know about her, and he is going to do everything in his power to protect her.

𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewSWM05



**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here: Nadine Bookaholic's Links

[Wildflower Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gah Lexi Blake you are a genius woman with an amazing mind! I FRIGGIN loved this book! 'Spy With Me', is Zach and Devi's story and it most definitely does not disappoint!

Zach Reed, who originally joined the new recruits CIA Team to get close to the Taggart's and Cooper McKay, discovers something unexpected: camaraderie, loyalty, and a family he never had but always wanted. He also falls fast and hard for Devi Taggart. Devi, meanwhile, believing she found the man of her dreams, discovers his betrayal. Furious and heartbroken, she turns her back on him. When Zach disappears, Devi tries to move on — only to be kidnapped into the mission, D/s style 😊 As the danger escalates, Zach re-emerges and offers Devi a safe haven — under his roof, which is not without its own complications given his work, secrets, and family. Together they must navigate covert threats, secrets, and whether their love can survive the fallout of betrayal.

Blakes writing is *chefs kiss* and she is known for mixing erotic romance with suspense, and Spy With Me continues that balance. The spy/espionage element gives the plot urgency, while the romance provides emotional stakes. For readers who enjoy high-stakes romantic suspense, this is likely to deliver. You will not be disappointed 😊

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read!

This is Zach and Devi's story. If you've been reading this series, the last book ended with Zach rescuing Devi from Dr. Huisman's clutches. But it really was a kidnapping. Devi was being reckless with her safety and Huisman was trying to use Devi as bait to bring Zach in, then use Zach as bait to bring in his mom, Shannon. Because he wants his mom. She's the "bombmaker."

Zach and Devi dated for one whole week before the team went to Canada and Zach slipped up with Tristan about "The Jester" ops. After that, he knew that he would never be able to return home and would never see Devi again.

About a month after Zach disappeared, he had someone watch Devi. She was taken by Huisman's people along with her cousin, Kala. So Zach showed up to help rescue her and his team wasn't surprised. He grabbed Devi and Lacey, his friend, drugged her, they drove to a small airport, got on a plane, and flew to the UK.

Devi woke up the next day mad at him for many things. Most of all for the assumption that she had acted out for his attention. He's the reason why she's in this mess in the first place. They're in Wales on a farm that's a safe haven for abused animals. They'd plan on staying for 6 weeks. By the second week, Devi's anger melted away. She talked to her family a lot. She just didn't tell them where she is.

In week three, Lacey and Devi go into the small town to get some supplies. They split up so Lacey can do some spy stuff alone. Devi goes to a bar to have a drink and read a book until Lacey is done. There's a creepy man who refused to leave her alone. When she made up an excuse to go to the bathroom, he slips a drug into her drink. Another patron in the bar walked over to her and tells her what just happened and Devi panics. That's when Lacey shows up.

Later that day, the power is shut down. Zach starts to panic. Before Devi can go hide, she hears her cousin's voice. The Team showed up! Huisman's up to something that isn't good. He needs Zach's mom, Shannon, to help him accomplish that goal. Zach's father is now working with Huisman. Shannon is afraid of his dad.

The guy in the bar who tried to drug Devi? That was Zach's father!

A must read!

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spy with Me, book five in the Masters and Mercenaries: New Recruits has all the action, crazy banter and the feel and of family that I have come to expect from Ms. Blake’s stories. This book focuses on the relationship between Zach Reed, Cooper McKays brother and Devi Taggart and I for one loved their story.
Zach was having trouble finding where he fit in since he was working for two teams but he knew the team he wanted to end up on. It just took him a while to finally find his place with the team and for him to realize that the Taggart team cared about him too. Devi is definitely not in the spy game but living amongst them certainly taught her some important skills and when she was pushed to her limit she definitely pulled out all the stops. In the end they both found the happiness and love they both deserved. It was the journey that was unpredictable and dangerous.

[Abby · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed how the beginning of this book started out with Zach’s perspective on things we’ve seen in a previous book. It was also a good recap of what happened. Zach has wanted Devi but she didn’t show signs of interest. Things change and Zach gets his chance with her. The chemistry between them is explosive and he knows just what she needs. I enjoyed how they balanced each other out and once things settled down, they learned to work together. Life may have been crazy, but they were good for each other!

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved reading Zach and Devi's story.
They are perfect together but with Huisman still after Zach's mother no one is safe especially someone Zach is in love with.
Will they be able to get their hea when nothing goes as planned.
A must read.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be still my beating heart. Not sure that I can add too much to what others are saying about this book, but here goes.

What i love about this one is the real feel of family that you get from it. Ian, for all his sarcasm is a family man at heart.

This is Zach and Devi's story, but shows the power of the team

[Ang C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved it but Devi was extremely frustrating most of the time. Zach, Lucy, Ian and Kala saved the story for me. The epilogue was emotional and beautifully written.

[Serenechaosnyc · Rating 5 out of 5]

As always, Lexi Blake keeps me engaged and fixated on the story. It is difficult to start on this book because while all the couples are specific to each book, there is an underlying story and arc that will be difficult to understand without having read the others in the series. Also returning characters from her whole world that spans dozens of books. But the humor, action, romance and sub dom play are worth it. Smart humor, banter and laughs are big among this cast of fantastic characters. Zach and Devi have been in prior stories so we know of them but watching them grow into their selves to accept the love and happiness they deserve was a great way to spend a few hours.

[Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lexi’s Store / Amazon / Apple / Nook / Kobo / Google / Audiobook Pre-order



Devi had her heart broken by the man she thought was one person, but ended up being someone completely different. Now they're stuck together and she's trying to wrap her head (and heart) around everything that's revealed. Is Zach the man she thought he was? The Dom she thought he was? Or is he the villain she's been told he is? All she knows is that she's in love with him, and he lied to her. It's going to take a lot of making up to do before Devi ever trusts Zach with her heart again.



Zach always meant to tell Devi the truth, tell the woman he was in love with, all his secrets. But he didn't get the chance. Now though? He's going to tell her while they're stuck together, and hope to hell she'll forgive him. He knows he doesn't deserve her forgiveness, doesn't even deserve any part of her, but he can't let her go. He'll have her back no matter what, sacrifice anything and anyone, to keep her safe, and that includes himself.



I love sassy Devi and spy Zach. They perfectly complemented each other in every way, physically, emotionally, everything. Devi may not be a spy like her love or most of the rest of her family, but she's learned a lot from being raised in the business, and it comes in handy when she needs it. Of course she doesn't do it alone, she's got a whole protective, badass family to come help rescue her, and not the least, her one and only love, Zach. Speaking of Zach...I do so love a complicated man with lots of issues, and Zach perfectly embodies this. He had a hard childhood and it informed his behavior, but with some love from his newfound family, and his Devi, he finally did some healing and growth, in time for he and Devi to end up with the happiness they deserved. Don't think the overarching suspense thread is done, though, because it's not, not by a long shot, and I'm itching with impatience to find out how Lexi will weave it into the next story featuring Ben and Kenzie.



ARC provided by Valentine PR for an honest review.

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[Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 STARS

I know,” he replied, his voice going low. “And I’m not letting you go this time. I should have done this weeks ago.”
“Done what?”
“Kidnap you.”

Oh Captain Zach, the way I have been waiting for your book. Le swoon.

Do yourself a favor and read this series in order. Trust me on this. While it's a standalone in an interconnected series, there's so much here that wouldn't be appreciated the right way without the context of the previous books, and you'll especially appreciate certain cameos if you've read the Nights in Bliss series. But I digress.

We initially meet Zach as a secondary character in Love the Way You Spy. And then we learn of his budding relationship with Devi in No More Spies. And while Zach is a newly introduced character, Devi is the daughter of the power couple Erin and Theo from Submission is Not Enough. But that's enough backstory, let's get into the book.

We get a few chapters on how these two get together, and 90% of the book is set in the 'after the fall out' phase. When Zach's duplicity comes to light and everyone is dealing with the fallout. Admittedly, I do wish that we got to spend more time with them in the beginning because their connection just felt too insta-lovey for me. Not unrealistic by any means, but just not as satisfying. I get why Lexi did that, because the book may have been double the length otherwise, but I can't help the way I feel either.

The majority of the story deals with the fallout when the truth of who Zach really is comes out. Zach was prepared to leave it all behind, knowing the only way out for him eventually is death or prison. But when Devi lands in danger, there is no one else he trusts but himself to get her out. And he's prepared to do anything to get back into her heart, even knowing that there's no future for him with his dream woman. If you love a pining MMC, you'll love Zach.

Devi works through a lot of insecurity because of Zach's prior connection to her cousin and his duplicity. At times it was almost too much, but I do love that she finally works through it, even though I wanted to shake her at times.

There is a lot of plot happening here and the suspense had me turning the pages well into the night, eager to see how everything plays out. We were blessed with a little preview of Ben and I'm so excited that his book is next. This book answered so many questions while the danger of the villain remains and I can't wait to see what the next book will bring.


ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review

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[Sandy S · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5stars-SPY WITH ME is the fifth instalment in Lexi Blake’s contemporary, adult MASTERS AND MERCENARIES: NEW RECRUITS erotic, Dom/sub , second generation romance series, set in the author’s numerous interconnected series: Master and Mercenaries: Texas Sirens/ Nights in Bliss (written as Sophie Oak). This is CIA operative, deep ops agent Captain Zach Reed, and fashion designer Devi Taggart’s story line. Devi is the daughter of Theo and Erin Taggart. SPY WITH ME can be read as a stand alone but for back story and cohesion, I recommend reading the series in order as there is an ongoing premise throughout. Some of the events cross over with, and run parallel to some of the events of the previous two instalments.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise including Dom/sub situations and spanking, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from omniscient third person perspective SPY WITH ME follows the building but acrimonious relationship between CIA operative, deep ops agent Zach Reed, and fashion designer Devi Taggart’ Months earlier Zach Reed found himself the Dom to Devi’s sub but one weekend together ended with Devi’s discovering what she thought was the truth, and weeks later finds herself a virtual prisoner of the man with whom she will fall in love. Zach Reed’s life is not what everyone believes, and in this, our heroine has been targeted for who she is, and her relationship with our story line hero. Hiding in the countryside of England, Zach and Devi struggle with issues of low self esteem, perceived betrayal, guilt, secrets and lies but once again, the team at McKay-Taggart comes in ‘hell bent for fury’ with secrets of their own, hoping to protect our story line couple. Zach’s past refuses to let go, pulling everyone into a potential for a world at war.

The world building continues to focus on the undercover operations, and deep op assignments, often off book, as Zach Reed goes in search of the people who are trying to destroy the lives of the people he loves but Zach has not been honest,and finds himself struggling with the reality that places everyone in the direct line of fire.

The relationship between Zach and Devi is a Dom/sub; one of mutual attraction but one in which, Zach was once attracted to Devi’s sister. Devi struggles with the possibility of Zach betraying everyone she loves, including his team of agents, and the family who have always had everyone’s back. The $ex scenes are erotic, provocative and intense with situations of Dom/sub and spanking.

There is another large ensemble cast of familiar, energetic and determined secondary and supporting characters including most of the previous story line couples: Dev’s parents Theo and Erin (Submission is Not Enough) and siblings, and their significant others: Zach’s brother Cooper; Big Tag aka Ian Taggart, his daughter’s Kala and Kenzie; Canadian operative Ben Parker, chemist Shannon Reed; Henry and Nell Flanders, and their daughter Lucy (Nights in Bliss), Ray White, and Dr. Emmanuel Huisman.

SPY WITH ME is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, madness and mayhem, family and friendships, relationships and love. The character driven premise is detailed,complex and dramatic; the romance is fated and passionate; the characters are desperate, determined, charismatic and powerful.


copy supplied for review

[Kay Daniels (Kay Daniels Romance) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lexi Blake has written another suspenseful, emotional, well plotted book!! Spy With Me hit me right in the feels, over and over again. Zach Reed may be a spy, but oh my goodness, did he break open my emotional heart. 😢 Plus, there is a great twist that I did not see coming and I loved everything about it!!

Operative Zach Reed and designer Devi Taggart fell hard and fast for one another after a hot and heavy week together. While Zach was hoping to come clean about his duplicitous orders from the CIA, it only took one mission for everything to fall apart and to not only lose the love of his life, but the family he's always dreamed of being a part of. Now he's a wanted man in several countries, laying low from everyone he knows, but still holding out hope that he can make amends with the woman who holds his heart.

Devi...I loved her and all her sassiness, ❤️ she’s grown up around her spy cousin's, and everyone who is involved in that aspect of the world. So it would seem perfectly normal to know things and understand why Zach did what he did, but remember most everyone in her life is also a spy sooooo...😂 Devi isn't exactly naive about what her family does, but there is a lot that she doesn't know, if that makes sense. As much as I love everyone in this world, I love even more when members of the Taggart-McKay clan aren't actually spies, like Devi and Daisy for instance, but even more so end up with one because the storylines are so much fun.😍

"She might not be getting an Agency paycheck, but she was definitely Agency adjacent. Shouldn't that come with privileges?"

Devi constantly cracked me up 😂....She also falls hard for Zach, and even when he messes everything up, she still likes him, it just takes a bit to dust off her bruised heart from everything that happened because of it. Devi is also the family member who continually gets kidnapped. I think her total adds up to four...I mean it's so much that eventually she just starts joking about it. 😂 "As kidnappings went this one wasn't terrible. At least the accommodations were pretty good." Like I said, she's sassy and I adored her. ❤️

I'm so torn between Devi and Daisy as my favorite woman in this second generation. They are both part of this non-spy group and honestly they both have the best outlooks, even in the face of danger, or multiple kidnappings. They also seem to keep their sunny dispositions, even when up against the bad guys. Best of all, they love their crazy, large family with their whole hearts, and no matter what they have faith in them, especially when it comes to a rescue, like when someone is kidnapped. That's extra helpful. 😂

Speaking of those large families, I kept bawling 😭 when Zach would get emotional, and I'm stating that for a scary spy, that man was emotional a lot. 😂 I have a feeling that once Theo gets over his "don't touch my little girl" feelings, he and Zach will get along just fine. 😏

[bluetyfloreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️
I’ve been waiting to read this book for a while, and it was definitely what I was expecting… but also not really.

Instead of picking up right where the previous book left off, we take a short trip into the past, to the moment Zack and Devi’s relationship became more than just acquaintances. When they finally acted on their mutual attraction and played with fire. Obviously, if you’ve read the previous book, you know how all of that went to hell with Zack’s betrayal, which ended with Devi’s kidnapping by Huisman, and Zack sacrificing himself to “keep her safe.” So now we follow them on the run, while also digging deeper into the mystery of Zack’s family, trying to hide, and uncovering Huisman’s plans… all while facing the painful truth about their relationship. Was what they had real, or just built on lies? And even if it was real, could they possibly have a future together?

I feel like with each book in this series we’re leaning more and more into the mystery/suspense genre and less into the romance. Normally, I don’t mind that shift, but here I felt the romance was lacking. Zack came across as a tragic hero racing against the clock, clinging to the only happiness he wanted, Devi. Meanwhile, Devi carried so much bitterness from his betrayal, which only deepened her insecurities. She was frustrating at times, but I understood her need to lash out when she felt out of control. And while their moments together were chef’s kiss, charged, emotional, perfect, I just wish we had more of them.

On the plus side, I loved how much the other characters in the series showed up in this book. Seeing them interact, seeing how far they’ve come since the beginning, it gave me all the found-family feels. Also, special shoutout to Lucy, who absolutely stole the show. This is my official petition for her to get her own book!!

That said, I did feel the whole Huisman chase arc was dragged out too long. I kind of saw where things were going thanks to glimpses in Taggart Family Values, and the pacing slowed down a lot for me in the second half because of it.

Still, I really enjoyed this one. While not my favorite in the series, it’s absolutely worth reading, especially if you’re in the mood for a spy-themed second chance romance with a meddling found family, and a whole lot of action.
👗 Spy Romance
👗 Second Chance (the “first chance” too)
👗 Found Family (this whole universe feels like one big family)
👗 Fifth Book in an Interconnected Standalone Series (but you should read the earlier ones)
👗 Third Person POV

*ARC provided through ValentinePR*

[Isabella Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

“𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆, 𝒃𝒓𝒂𝒕…𝑰’𝒗𝒆 𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”

Oh my my my...Lexi Blake does it again! This is the 5th book in the New Recruits series...and while this is slated as an interconnected stand alone, I recommend reading the previous books before diving into this one...there is a lot of back story that is explained in previous books and we get a lot of appearances from previous characters, and I personally feel like you understand the chaos going on when you thoroughly know all the players.

Now, this book centers around our FMC Devi...fashion designer and daughter of the notorious Tagarts...and Zach...our super spy MMC who has been brought into the family but is hiding a wealth of secrets. When the book starts we are thrown into the aftermath of Devi and Zach colliding months before...for one weekend they give into their desires and delve into the Dom/Sub world in a blaze of passion that left them both wanting more. But, Zach disappears....leaving Devi feeling confused and betrayed...and also vulnerable to his enemies....

Devi is kidnapped and this is where the chaos really begins. We see Zach fighting with everything that he has been trying to keep hidden. He is living a double life but not of his own choice...forced to betray the ones he loves and cares about...ultimately putting Devis life in risk. And even though he knows he shouldn't, he is determined to save her even if it means the end of his life.

We see Zach keeping her captive for her own protection and it is a truly heart wrenching and TENSE situation. While they are in hiding, the secrets between them both are bubbling to the surface...the betrayal that Devi feels leads to her insecurities intensifying...she doesn't know if she wants to kill or kiss Zach...she doesn't know if anything they shared was real or if it was all part of his plan to betray her and her family.

The private moments between the two are HOT...full of spice and intense lust that leaves you sweating and fanning yourself in a way that only Lexi Blake can do. And while the physical and emotional connection is still burning hot between the two, that lingering feeling of betrayal and mayhem is still there...clouding both of their minds and keeping them from bringing their walls down.

This book is full of enough suspense to keep you flipping through your kindle deep into the night...I found myself hooked and needing to know more with each page I read. There is a lot more to the story...twists and turns, secrets and lies...love and lust...but you need to dive in head first to really figure out what the truth is. 💚

Thank you so much to Lexi Blake for the opportunity to ARC read this amazing book! 💚

💚Romantic Suspense
❤️‍🔥Second Gen Series
💚Found Family
❤️‍🔥Dom/Sub
💚Fashion Designer FMC
❤️‍🔥Double Agent MMC
💚Spy Romance
❤️‍🔥Second Chance
💚3rd Person POV
❤️‍🔥Forced Proximity
💚Kidnapping
❤️‍🔥On the Run
💚SARCASM
❤️‍🔥Insta-Love
💚Chaos & Mayhem
❤️‍🔥Secrets & Lies

Follow Me 🩷

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

The underlying plot is gathering pace in Spy With Me, the fifth book in the Masters and Mercenaries Next Gen series with their associate Zach Reed on the run not only from his former colleagues but from the megalomaniac Dr Emmanuel Huisman who has his own reasons for wanting Zach. To make matters worse Zach has ‘kidnapped’ Devon Taggart after falling for her and realising he’d revealed to his enemy that she was his one weakness, put a massive target on her back.

Nobody writes romantic suspense quite like this author. Her books come with laden all the drama and danger, secrets and lies and yes more kidnapping you could possibly want but also a healthy dose of humour to break up the tension, The overall action-filled plot is complex with the books seeming to overlap slightly and I would recommend reading them in release order as the storyline involving the Bond-worthy villain arcs across the series. Zach is the kind of character you just want to cuddle. Everything he does is for good even though he had not one but two ulterior motives for joining the team. The first went against everything he believed in, spying on Big Tag with the intention of his removal, but the more important aspect, to get close to Cooper, his brother, not that he knew who Zach really was. All Zach really wanted was to be part of a family and with the team he’d found it till things exploded in his face. After initially crushing on Tasha, he’d fallen hard and fast for Devi but Devi her confidence already at a low point with her non existent career, when she found out about Tasha decided she wasn’t going to be anyone’s second choice. With a couple of laugh out loud moments, in this case mostly provided by TJ and his bottomless pit of a stomach, between being chased by a goose and then finding out he was stuck somewhere where the only food available was vegan. It’s safe to say he wasn’t having an easy time. New characters were introduced, Lacey a particular favourite and her interactions with Kala once her true identity was revealed have left me hoping we haven’t heard the last of her. Another high point were the group dynamics, their banter, squabbling and antics as they teased each other with the familiarity of growing up together brought their characters to life.

[ravenblackbird74 · Rating 5 out of 5]

📚 Spy with Me (Masters and Mercenaries: New Recruits Book 5)
🖋 Authors ~ Lexi Blake
🖋 Features: Military romance, romantic suspense
⭐️ Rating: 5/5

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Devi & Zach
🪡 Bodyguard
🚁 On-the-Run
🪡 Close Proximity
🚁 Alpha Here
🪡 Found Family
🚁 D/s Relationship

Devi ~ She was calm and cool and steady. She was Erin and Theo Taggart’s daughter. She was Devi Taggart, the sum of all those parts, but her own person. She was made from everything that happened to her and how she handled it. She was made from love, but she was her own person.

I love the Taggarts. They are the ultimate spy family that just keeps growing, adopting wayward agents along the way. Zachary Reed is one of the lucky ones. While seemingly working both sides, Zach's main goal is to protect the ones he loves. Unfortunately, the odds are forever stacked against him, and he usually has both hands tied behind his back. Taking down a dangerous criminal will put their family and friends at risk. But Zach and Devi are willing to do what it takes to finally end it, even learning who they are and who they want to be to each other along the way.

This fifth book is a great edition full of love and emotion, drama, turmoil, and adventure. The suspense keeps the pages turning, and the spice turns up the heat. Humor and sarcasm give the characters realism that makes me want to be a part of their expanding group of friends and lovers.

🖋 Enjoyment: 5. Readability: 5. Writing: 5.
🖋 Setting: 5. Plot: 5. Characters: 5.

💌 Favorite Moments:

🖇 He held her and for a moment felt like he had a place in the world.

🖇 She had definitely realized that where she belonged wasn’t a place. It was a mindset. It was how she felt, not where she was.

🖇 “My darling girl, you’ve described every narcissist I’ve ever met. And there were so many of them.”

#writer #editor #reviewer #bookstagrammers #bookreviewer #MustRead #bookclub #booktok #currentlyreading #brokenwingbookreviews #ravenblackbird74 #LexiBlake #MastersandMercenariesseries #NewRecruits #militaryromance #NoMoreSpies #romanticsuspense

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG, this series...

I knew I was going to love Zach and Devi's story, and it absolutely did not disappoint!

Ms Blake threw us right into the middle of this series' drama from page one, when Zach and Devi first came together at The Hideout (earlier books showed bits of their relationship from the outside, we finally get all the details here!) We see Zach's motivation for joining the team, and feel how torn he is about what he wants and what he needs to do. We get inside Devi's head and start to understand the unique blend of confidence and insecurity she constantly tries to balance. And of course we witness the hot AF chemistry they share, inside and out of the club.

Almost before we stop fanning ourselves, we're all thrown into the suspense plot--and get ready to hang on, because this is one book that hardly gives anyone a breather from that point on. We do get a few breaks here and there--some rescue animals raise some havoc, more sexytimes are had, banter and teasing is exchanged among the other spy kids and their friends, families, and partners--but by the time we're at the final third of the book my stress levels were off the charts. How would they save the world AND get all of our favorite characters out of this situation in one piece???

(Spoiler; they do! But the big bad guy is still on the loose, so...we know what that means. Book 6!)

Because this series has an overarching suspense plot that still isn't resolved at the end of this one, I have to say that reading this series in order is really a must. You've got time before the release of Love and Let Spy in March '26, though, so plenty of time to get caught up if you need it! :)

Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoy this series - the characters found and real family, sassy banter, steamy and sizzle, danger and suspense.

The start to this book (approx. first 25%) the book runs concurrently with previous books, but from the perspective of Zach and Devi. It shows their meeting and initial relationship on page, but compared to other books in the series it is much more an explanation of what was happening between these two without much ‘storytelling’ more a narrative.

Then Part 2 kicks off and the Lexi Blake storytelling lands with full octane suspense, humor, sass, and steam. Devi’s brat attitude and her bruised ego lands her in danger as she is kidnapped (took place in previous book) and Zach risks his life and freedom to save her. He whisks her away to Wales with the help of Lacey Rook to a bucolic animal sanctuary. Devi acts like a spoiled brat until Lacey forces her to open her eyes to Zach and his feelings for her.

The continuation of the Huisman storyline is suspenseful and brings Kala/Cooper, Lou/TJ to Wales to ‘rescue’ Devi. The combination of all these 2nd generation characters is always entertaining. The action part of the storyline is intense, and we get the unexpected romance between two secondary characters who grabbed their chance at the spotlight.

I’m thrilled Lexi Blake brought us this extra book in the series. The ending of this book leaves us waiting for the exciting conclusion to Manny Huisman’s destructive and disruptive intentions.

Zach goes through a lot of heartache in his romance with Devi before the chance for a HEA seems possible. Devi’s bratty and frankly obnoxious attitude had me questioning whether she deserved Zach. When she finally gets over herself, their romance is still fraught with uncertainty due to Zach’s secret past and his secret role with the team.

I received a free ARC from the author and Valentine PR; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.

[Claire Purkis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to start with how much I love this series. The new recruits bring something else to the table and its fun reading the original characters and how they realise their children are now adults and in the real world although its a dangerous spy one!
This book is the turn of Zach Reed and Devi Taggart. Having been introduced to these characters in previous books its their turn to shine. Zach is the agent sent in to dish the dirt on Ian Taggarts team however he found a family that he now finds difficult to report back on and a woman who he admits to loving. Devi is the niece of Ian and although not a spy given her family ties she gets dragged into the life. Devi has a crush on Zach and cant believe he likes her. Just when things start to go right Zach ups and leaves breaking her heart in the process.

Zach, having heard bad news decides to leave Devi to keep her safe, gives no explanation however their two worlds collide again and Zach kidnapps her to keep her safe but in this world no one or nothing stays hidden for long.

There is the storyline continuation that starts in Love The Way You Spy and more pieces are put into place. I love Zach's growth and realisation that Devi is a woman who can fend for herself but also be a great lover to him. Devi is learning to look over Zach's faults and mend her heart after they both realise they can't live without each other.

This is a tale of love, heartbrake, posessiveness, family values and betrayal that you can really follow and relate to. I love the epilogue, it shows a softer side to the characters we know and love. Great book can't wait for the next one!

I received this as an ARC and am leaving my own review

[D. L. Foley | My Last Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️.5

In Short: I have yet to meet a Lexi Blake novel I didn't love. And this one was no different. Think Bond, James Bond, but with a lot more spicy stuff and a lot more bad FMCs who are not just sex objects or love interests.

General Impressions: Lexi Blake is quickly becoming an auto-read author for me. She's written so many good gems. I don't think I've rated one of her books less than 4 stars, and I've read dozens of books by her. Somehow, every single time I finish one of her books, I'm dying to read the next in the series, and every time, it doesn't disappoint. I don't know what kind of magic that is. I become invested in every couple and every book.

Zach and Devi's story was one I've been wanting to read for a while. It was so good. I loved Zach and Devi. This book was everything I needed. Fun, romantic, swoony, funny. And super enjoyable.

I received a review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks to the author and Valentine PR.

Reading Order: Lexi Blake's Masters & Mercenaries series is not new. It's been around for awhile. The New Recruits part of this series follows the children of the characters in the original book series. So there are a lot of cameos of older characters. But you could jump in with this portion of the series. They are all interconnected standalone, so you can jump in a lot of places. I would jump in at least at the start of New Recruits personally.

Spice Meter: ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥

Romantic Tropes and Things:
-dual POV
-spies
-action/adventure romance
-BD SM

You can also find me on Insta @mylastromancenovel.

[Julianna K · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lexi Blake does it again.

I’ll admit, when I started this book, I could barely remember the details of Zach and Devi’s relationship—but thankfully, the recap at the beginning was exactly what I needed. It grounded the story and made the emotional moments land even harder.

What really sets Spy With Me apart is the character growth. Both Zach and Devi are forced to confront their past mistakes and take a hard look at themselves. They each go on their own journey of self-awareness before finding their way back to each other, and when they finally reconnect, it feels earned. Their chemistry has always been electric, but it’s their emotional evolution that truly makes this book shine. And the cameos? SO GOOD. I didn’t realize how much I missed certain characters until they showed up—and when they did, their scenes brought so much depth, nostalgia, and fun.

The final chapters tie beautifully into the Taggart Family Values novella, offering a fresh perspective on Kenzie and Ben’s story. I was literally kicking my feet with glee seeing it all unfold again from this angle.

And then there’s the epilogue. Wow. Hearing Theo reflect on the future of his children? An emotional gut punch—in the best possible way. It was heartfelt, hopeful, and the perfect way to close the story. Plus, the tease about what’s coming next? I’m counting down the days until the final book.

In true Lexi Blake fashion, I knew I was going to love Zach and Devi’s story. She writes messy, complicated love with so much heart—and this one was no exception. Another unforgettable addition to one of my all-time favorite series.

[Lisa Cahill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am really enjoying all the new recruits. As I have read every book in the Masters and Mercenaries series, reading about all my favorite characters kids is awesome!!
If you are the daughter of Erin and Theo Taggert you had better be a bad ass. Unfortunately that is not who Devi is. She is a fashion designer looking for a fashion house to buy her designs and move to LA or NYC to start her career. No luck so far, so she is designing fet wear for her friends at her BSDM club, The Hideout and also wedding dresses for her cousins. She plays at the club but not often as she is usually just hanging out with her besties. When a hot Dom named Zach asks her to play she second guesses herself and declines. She is so happy when she changes her mind and has the best night of her life. This has the opportunity to be a lot more and hopeful for a wonderful relationship!!!
Zack is a spy. Bottom line. Zack is a spy! He is working with the McKay Taggert team to take down the evil Huisman. Devi's friends and family. Zack has an ugly past and a horrible childhood. But he loves his new friends and wants to settle down in Texas and work for Ian Taggert's team. Especially now that he has found the love of his life, Devi. The mission goes to hell and he has to leave her to protect her.
The story was EXCELLENT!!! The romance, laughs, suspense, action and oh yes the naughty times!!! Lexi is the queen of writing epic novels that will keep you turning pages like crazy!! My old favorite characters and the new!!!

[Dee❤️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fifth installment in Lexi Blake’s Masters and Mercenaries: New Recruits Series, Spy with me is love story between Zach and Devi. The story involves betrayal, heartbreak and hidden agendas, Zach Joins Cooper team with hidden secrets that nobody knew and he was doing it well until he fell for Devi Taggart. After one hot weekend Devi thought that Her and Zach's bonding will become stronger but betrayal seeps in deep when she finds out that Zach has ran away.

Zach’s mission gets harder when he falls for Devi and bonds with the team. When his secrets come out, he runs away, leaving Devi hurt and angry. But when Devi is threatened because of him, Zach returns to protect her and give their relationship another try. As the danger grows, they face criminals, emotional pain, and Zach’s family problems, hoping for love and a fresh start.

When I used to read about Zach's character in previous book of the series, I did find him little fishy and his book confirmed everything but at the end I started liking his character and Devi is queen, like all Lexi Balke female characters, Devi is also unique likeable kickass and I love her but Kala still remains my favorite Lexi Balke Fmc. Like All Lexi Balke books, I really loved and enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more from her future books.

Zach and Devi have amazing chemistry and their story is hot, adventurous and very engaging, Action and all the suspense up to the end leaves reader hooked up to this story and I love this about her books.

[Lisa Spofford · Rating 5 out of 5]

(4.5 rounded to 5 stars when necessary) I am voluntarily writing this honest review after reading a free ARC of this novel via Valentine PR. SPY WITH ME is book 5 in the MASTERS AND MERCENARIES: NEW RECRUITS series by Lexi Blake. I’ve been glued to this series since book 1 and Lexi hasn’t disappointment me yet! This book features Zach Reid and Devi Taggart. Zach, a military attachment to the McKay-Taggart CIA team, was originally assigned to the team for CIA oversight, but over time he had become a full fledged member of the team. However, due to the revelations in Books Three and Four, his secrets were out and his efforts to protect his mother, The Bombmaker, had been exposed. Zach had been on the run, but Devi wasn’t taking her safety seriously, so he took her with him. He had her tucked away with him in a safe house, but his team wasn’t willing to stop until they insured that both he and Devi were doing ok. Among the ragtag residents of an animal sanctuary, the couple had time to work out their own relationship, but would Devi forgive Zach for disappearing from her life when he went on the run? What kind of future did they have if Zach was destined for death or jail? Again, Lexi Blake knocked it out of the park with this most recent addition to the series. This book was full of plenty of laughs and crazy antics mixed in among the spy operations and spicy interludes. Simultaneously, the main characters showed vulnerability, emotion, and genuine connection. This third person, dual POV, spicy, open door, contemporary romantic comedy/suspense included tropes such as bodyguard, on the run, close proximity, found family, BDSM, and alpha hero. I adore the found family feel to this entire series and the hilarity of so many close relations working on a CIA team together. It is amazing to realize just how large the overarching Masters and Mercenaries series is, and I especially enjoy the next generation stories that we are getting in the New Recruits sub series. I definitely recommend this book (and series) to readers who enjoy romcom spy stories with BDSM storylines.

[Amber Lou Loves reading and now it's cool · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get ready to fall in love with Lexi Blake’s latest in the Masters and Mercenaries: New Recruits series. While this book can be read as a standalone, it’s best enjoyed as part of the full series to fully appreciate the deep, exciting world Blake has created with both the new generation and enough of the original characters.
​The author’s plotting and character development are on point, and the story’s pace is just right—a perfect balance of enough detail to immerse you in the story without slowing it down. I never once felt like a chapter was pointless; every moment builds towards the satisfying conclusion.
​This romance is packed with some of our favorite tropes, including who fell first, putting the brakes on, forced proximity, I would die for you, and I can't live without you. The bedroom scenes are on page, spicy, and perfectly capture the chemistry between the main characters.
​Our female main character struggles with her self-worth and doubts about her relationship, trying to protect her heart from being hurt. Meanwhile, our main male character is the ultimate golden retriever—a protector who's a little misguided in thinking he must sacrifice himself to keep his loved ones safe.
​The plot begins earlier in the series and continues to develop throughout this novel. Although the story doesn't end here, Blake masterfully creates a happy-ever-after for these two characters—a clever feat I've come to love her for across all her books.

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 out of 5 for Spy With Me is an action-packed romantic suspense that hooked me from the first chapter. Lexi Blake does a fantastic job blending high-stakes espionage with genuine emotional depth, and it made for such a fun, fast-paced read. The tension between the main characters is electric, their chemistry practically crackles off the page, even when they’re at odds with each other.
I loved the banter between them; it lightened the darker, more dangerous moments and kept the story feeling balanced. The plot is filled with twists, secret missions, and just enough danger to keep the adrenaline going without ever feeling overwhelming. The spy world Lexi Blake created felt exciting and immersive, with enough details to make it believable while still keeping it accessible and entertaining.
The pacing was strong overall, and I flew through the chapters because I always wanted to know what would happen next. There were a few moments where I wished certain emotional beats had been explored a bit more deeply, but it didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment.
This book has just the right mix of romance, suspense, and intrigue to keep you invested from start to finish. It’s the kind of story that plays like a movie in your head while you’re reading, which I loved.
If you enjoy spy thrillers with sizzling romance, snappy dialogue, and a dose of danger, Spy With Me is a must-read. I’ll definitely be picking up more from Lexi Blake!

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's so much going on in this book, and we're bounced from past to present and I'm second guessing whether I knew stuff or if I missed a book and honestly...I confused myself!
I really need(ed) to slow my reading down when I'm reading an M&M book, but more so during the New Recruits series. Because not only am I dealing with the intertwining of the next gen's relationships/parents/siblings, I've got some of "the olds" thrown in there as well. And that phrase..."the olds" tickles me so very much!!
If you've read the previous book in this series, you know some of Zach's secrets, are aware of the trouble Devi has been in and who the "big bad" is in the story. But, obviously, things have been expanded to give us more of Zach and Dev. I have mixed feelings about the duo, honestly. Zach to me, for the talk of him being a Dom, to me was a dom..lower case on purpose. Maybe he's dom-lite? Idk, Devi is, in my opinion, is the stronger character. But she's also in her head a lot. I liked them, I really did. But I also blame their story for making me miss out on a more fulfilling epilogue, I guess we'll call it, for another couple (who I adore!!) Eh, I'm a tiny bit bitter!
But, whatever. I figured out some stuff, before it was revealed, which always makes me proud, lol. And of course I love to see the original generation! So, I'm still firming in my M&M era and cannot wait (March is a lonnnng was away) for the next book to come out!

[Oleta Blaylock · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am not sure I can write much about this book and not give way some of the intrigue and suspense that the author would like you the reader to discover on your own. So be cautious reading the review. This is Zach's story. It provides more of his background and I have a much better understanding of what motivates him. Zach wants a family. He longs to be part of a group like the Taggarts and Mckays. These men and women have formed a tight knit group that looks out for each other. They are really one big family that spans two countries. The kids have picked up on that and are heading head long into to form those same bonds.

Which of the daughters has attracted Zach's attention. It is Devon Taggart, the daughter of Theo and Erin Taggart. Zach is a very brave man. I am not sure I would tangle with Erin Taggart. Devi and Zach go through a lot of emotional and physical trauma. Mostly because Devi is more than a little spoiled and not use to all the intrigue and secrets that goes with being spies. Plus the team is still dealing with Huisman and is megalomania. The author adds in Zach biological father and that just adds more drama than anyone person should have to deal with.

The team has to save Zach's mom, Devi and keep a bomb of modified anthrax from being delivered. There is a new member that shows up this one is from Bliss and she brings her sister and parents with her. Fun and games with McKay-Taggart.

[Krystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been a fan of Lexi Blake since Masters & Mercenaries: Reloaded. I did go back obviously to read some of the origin series. now, we are up to second generation of Taggarts and McKays. All of these stories are interconnected and have an underlying plot that weaves throughout the series.

Spy with Me is Devi and Zach’s story. Their story goes through the ringer. Man, Devi has a penchant of finding herself kidnapped. Devi is the non spy of the family and wants to be a fashion designer. Devi does grows throughout the story. She’s a work in progress and adapts with the situation she funds herself in.

Zach is hiding a secret. If you have been reading the series, you know at least some of it. That secret definitely comes out in such a shake your head kind of way. Zach just wants to stay in this family he found. He also grows with the help Big Tag and you just want to join in on the hug.

This story has action, suspense, and of course romance. It also has that sarcasm and humor typical from any and all of the Taggart family members. The epilogue just pulls at your heart and leaves a smile on your face.

Thank you to Valentine PR for the advance reader copy. I reviewed an advance copy of this book freely and voluntarily. I received no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.