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Masters and Mercenaries #8
You Only Love Twice
Librarian's note: See alternate cover edition of ASIN B00M8LWHVO here.
A woman on a mission
Phoebe Graham is a specialist in deep cover espionage, infiltrating the enemy, observing their practices, and when necessary eliminating the threat. Her latest assignment is McKay-Taggart Security Services, staffed with former military and intelligence operatives. They routinely perform clandestine operations all over the world but it isn’t until Jesse Murdoch joins the team that her radar starts spinning. Unfortunately so does her head. He’s gorgeous and sweet and her instincts tell her to trust him but she’s been burned before, so he’ll stay where he belongs—squarely in her sights.
A man on the run
Since the moment his Army unit was captured by jihadists, Jesse’s life has been a nightmare. Forced to watch as those monsters tortured and killed his friends and the woman he loved, something inside him snapped. When he’s finally rescued, everyone has the same question—why did he alone survive? Clouded in accusations and haunted by the faces of those he failed, Jesse struggles in civilian life until McKay-Taggart takes him in. Spending time with Phoebe, the shy and beautiful accountant, makes him feel human for the first time in forever. If someone so innocent and sweet could accept him, maybe he could truly be redeemed.
A love they never expected
When Phoebe receives the order to eliminate Jesse, she must choose between the job she’s dedicated her life to and the man who’s stolen her heart. Choosing Jesse would mean abandoning everything she believes in, and it might mean sharing his fate because a shadowy killer is dedicated to finishing the job started in Iraq.
A Masters and Mercenaries Novel by Lexi Blake
A woman on a mission
Phoebe Graham is a specialist in deep cover espionage, infiltrating the enemy, observing their practices, and when necessary eliminating the threat. Her latest assignment is McKay-Taggart Security Services, staffed with former military and intelligence operatives. They routinely perform clandestine operations all over the world but it isn’t until Jesse Murdoch joins the team that her radar starts spinning. Unfortunately so does her head. He’s gorgeous and sweet and her instincts tell her to trust him but she’s been burned before, so he’ll stay where he belongs—squarely in her sights.
A man on the run
Since the moment his Army unit was captured by jihadists, Jesse’s life has been a nightmare. Forced to watch as those monsters tortured and killed his friends and the woman he loved, something inside him snapped. When he’s finally rescued, everyone has the same question—why did he alone survive? Clouded in accusations and haunted by the faces of those he failed, Jesse struggles in civilian life until McKay-Taggart takes him in. Spending time with Phoebe, the shy and beautiful accountant, makes him feel human for the first time in forever. If someone so innocent and sweet could accept him, maybe he could truly be redeemed.
A love they never expected
When Phoebe receives the order to eliminate Jesse, she must choose between the job she’s dedicated her life to and the man who’s stolen her heart. Choosing Jesse would mean abandoning everything she believes in, and it might mean sharing his fate because a shadowy killer is dedicated to finishing the job started in Iraq.
A Masters and Mercenaries Novel by Lexi Blake
360 pages, ebook
First published February 17, 2015
454 people are currently reading
2031 people want to read
About the author
Lexi Blake
182 books6,380 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 320 reviews
July 15, 2015
5 Stars
I've been a huge fan of this series since the very first book. Now eight books in and it's still going strong. I think this may have been my favorite of the Masters and Mercenaries. I've been curious about Jesse's story since we first meet him earlier in the series. He's always been such a broken and tortured soul, that you couldn't help but crave a HEA for him. This is a man that's truly known suffering and needed a HEA that was truly worthy of the type of person he is, and boy did Lexi Blake deliver on that. She really gave it justice with this book.
Phoebe has always been the super shy, clumsy and unassuming accountant for Taggart McKay. But looks can be deceiving and it her case, deadly. Having lost the love of her life in a mission gone terribly wrong, Phoebe is determined to bring those responsible for his death to justice...even if it means going deep undercover.
Jesse has been half in love with the quiet and shy Phoebe, but when he finds out who she really is, his world gets flipped. He wants her heart, but her heart belongs to a dead man.
This is probably the most emotional book in the series, or at least it was for me. Having tidbits of Jesse's problems in the earlier books, you know that his problems run deep. He lives a waking nightmare with the PTSD and the memories of a voice that tortured and almost broke him. He finally thought he found his redemption when he met Phoebe, but he knows that he can never have her.
I really don't want to give too much away, because this is simply a book you need to experience for yourself without any major details. But I will say that I absolutely loved it. There is nothing better than a kick ass heroine for me, and Phoebe was definitely that. But she also had a broken side to her that balanced out the tough operative persona. She can handle herself in the field, but her soul was broken with the death of her husband that she adored. I appreciated that Lexi Blake never diminished her love for her husband and yet made the reader truly see what her connection to Jesse was and make it real. It didn't feel like settling, which I was afraid of. The connection between them was tangible...and not to mention super sexy
My other concern was how Jesse would come off as a Dom. He's such a tortured soul that I was afraid he may come off as almost too broken, but that never happened. When he finally got his shit together, the man was truly a top. But he always maintained this vulnerable edge to him which was so incredibly endearing that you couldn't help but completely fall for him.
I really wouldn't recommend reading this book as a standalone as there is a story ARC that continues throughout the series. While you wouldn't necessarily feel lost, you would appreciate this story and all secondary characters and the MCs that much more if you read it in order. Of course it wouldn't be a Masters and Mercenaries book without Ian and his banter...
You also finally get a true peak into the enigma that is Tennessee Smith, and you just KNOW that his book is bound to be a fantastic one.
I don't think there was anything about this book that I didn't love. It was action-packed, emotional, filled with heart-pounding suspense and oh so sexy. I adored Phoebe and Jesse together. Their story will equal parts break your heart and absolutely melt it.
Of course I also loved all the secondary characters (including some new faces). Did I already mention Ian and Charlie?
I can't wait to get my hands on Ten's book next and hopefully Ian's brothers will be getting theirs soon after. If you like sexy espionage and BDSM all in one action packed book, this series is a definite must read!
For more reviews visit
He'd fought and fought to live and now he was going to stand here and let her do her worst.
He didn't want to live in a world where she betrayed him. He simply didn't.
I've been a huge fan of this series since the very first book. Now eight books in and it's still going strong. I think this may have been my favorite of the Masters and Mercenaries. I've been curious about Jesse's story since we first meet him earlier in the series. He's always been such a broken and tortured soul, that you couldn't help but crave a HEA for him. This is a man that's truly known suffering and needed a HEA that was truly worthy of the type of person he is, and boy did Lexi Blake deliver on that. She really gave it justice with this book.
Phoebe has always been the super shy, clumsy and unassuming accountant for Taggart McKay. But looks can be deceiving and it her case, deadly. Having lost the love of her life in a mission gone terribly wrong, Phoebe is determined to bring those responsible for his death to justice...even if it means going deep undercover.
Jesse has been half in love with the quiet and shy Phoebe, but when he finds out who she really is, his world gets flipped. He wants her heart, but her heart belongs to a dead man.
This is probably the most emotional book in the series, or at least it was for me. Having tidbits of Jesse's problems in the earlier books, you know that his problems run deep. He lives a waking nightmare with the PTSD and the memories of a voice that tortured and almost broke him. He finally thought he found his redemption when he met Phoebe, but he knows that he can never have her.
Remember every second that you could have had a man who worshipped you with his body and soul."
I really don't want to give too much away, because this is simply a book you need to experience for yourself without any major details. But I will say that I absolutely loved it. There is nothing better than a kick ass heroine for me, and Phoebe was definitely that. But she also had a broken side to her that balanced out the tough operative persona. She can handle herself in the field, but her soul was broken with the death of her husband that she adored. I appreciated that Lexi Blake never diminished her love for her husband and yet made the reader truly see what her connection to Jesse was and make it real. It didn't feel like settling, which I was afraid of. The connection between them was tangible...and not to mention super sexy
My other concern was how Jesse would come off as a Dom. He's such a tortured soul that I was afraid he may come off as almost too broken, but that never happened. When he finally got his shit together, the man was truly a top. But he always maintained this vulnerable edge to him which was so incredibly endearing that you couldn't help but completely fall for him.
I really wouldn't recommend reading this book as a standalone as there is a story ARC that continues throughout the series. While you wouldn't necessarily feel lost, you would appreciate this story and all secondary characters and the MCs that much more if you read it in order. Of course it wouldn't be a Masters and Mercenaries book without Ian and his banter...
You also finally get a true peak into the enigma that is Tennessee Smith, and you just KNOW that his book is bound to be a fantastic one.
I don't think there was anything about this book that I didn't love. It was action-packed, emotional, filled with heart-pounding suspense and oh so sexy. I adored Phoebe and Jesse together. Their story will equal parts break your heart and absolutely melt it.
Of course I also loved all the secondary characters (including some new faces). Did I already mention Ian and Charlie?
She rolled her pretty eyes and sighed. "They're your girls so they're probably slightly demonic."
I can't wait to get my hands on Ten's book next and hopefully Ian's brothers will be getting theirs soon after. If you like sexy espionage and BDSM all in one action packed book, this series is a definite must read!
For more reviews visit
February 15, 2015
Lexi Blake gives us another incredible installment of the Masters and Mercenaries series, with this heart pounding, nail-biting, and breath catching romance. Sexy and emotional to the max, Jesse and Phoebe's love story brought me to my knees and absolutely warmed my heart. There were so many passionate moments that just kicked me in the gut, leaving me gasping for air. I couldn't have asked for a more fitting happily ever after for these two amazing characters.
A woman full of guilt, grief, and sorrow gets a second chance at love. A man with his own demons wants to conquer her heart, mind, body, and soul. A couple brought together by fate, but the past is determined to keep them at arm's length. In this installment of the highly suspenseful Masters and Mercenaries series, we learn that you have to let go of the past in order to have a future free of guilt and regret. Like the old poem says, "Tis better to have loved and lost, than never to have loved at all." This is a story about a woman who lost the love of her life, and it left her broken, incapable of opening up her heart to another. When the jig is up, and all is out in the open, Jesse tends to be the man to break her, to mend her heart, and to wedge himself right in the center of it, not matter what it takes.
Phoebe and Jesse are two of the strongest characters that Ms. Blake has ever created. The messages embedded in the story, the storyline that had me on the edge of my seat, and the electric, intense connection between the two characters, made You Only Love Twice, one of my favorites of the series!
Just as a side note - the next book in the series was set up PERFECTLY in this book! I already have a million scenarios going through my mind right now. I'm giddy just thinking about it! I have a feeling the next one will take my breath away!
With more classic and hilarious Ian moments, and me falling in love with every new character that comes around in this series, I just don't know how I find the time to read anything else!
Read more of my reviews at Shayna Renee's Spicy Reads!
*Gifted copy provided by the series in exchange for an honest review*
A woman full of guilt, grief, and sorrow gets a second chance at love. A man with his own demons wants to conquer her heart, mind, body, and soul. A couple brought together by fate, but the past is determined to keep them at arm's length. In this installment of the highly suspenseful Masters and Mercenaries series, we learn that you have to let go of the past in order to have a future free of guilt and regret. Like the old poem says, "Tis better to have loved and lost, than never to have loved at all." This is a story about a woman who lost the love of her life, and it left her broken, incapable of opening up her heart to another. When the jig is up, and all is out in the open, Jesse tends to be the man to break her, to mend her heart, and to wedge himself right in the center of it, not matter what it takes.
Phoebe and Jesse are two of the strongest characters that Ms. Blake has ever created. The messages embedded in the story, the storyline that had me on the edge of my seat, and the electric, intense connection between the two characters, made You Only Love Twice, one of my favorites of the series!
Just as a side note - the next book in the series was set up PERFECTLY in this book! I already have a million scenarios going through my mind right now. I'm giddy just thinking about it! I have a feeling the next one will take my breath away!
With more classic and hilarious Ian moments, and me falling in love with every new character that comes around in this series, I just don't know how I find the time to read anything else!
Read more of my reviews at Shayna Renee's Spicy Reads!
*Gifted copy provided by the series in exchange for an honest review*
September 19, 2016
I've been looking forward to making it to Jesse and Phoebe's gut-wrenching, sexy and sweet story!
Phoebe Graham was devastated when her husband and love of her life Jamie was killed after being captured in Iraq. Raised as a covert spy, Phoebe is now in deep cover with McKay-Taggart Security, but she's gone soft. She genuinely likes the men and women who put their lives on the line to protect others, but shockingly, it's the one person who survived the hell that her husband died in, Jesse Murdoch, who makes her question her orders.
Something smells in Texas, and with every plot they uncover, the stench grows. Someone wants Jesse, the tool they tried to create with torture and mind games, and they're ready to stop at nothing to get him back.
YOU ONLY LOVE TWICE is the 8th book in the excellent Masters and Mercenaries series and one I was really looking forward to. Jesse got totally fucked by the government after surviving as a POW for months with hostile jihadists. As positive of a person as he is, he had seriously skewed self confidence, but kept bouncing back with an unwavering devotion to Phoebe and his McKay-Taggart family.
The thing I had a hard time with was when he switched to Dom mode. It was like a personality transplant instead of a natural transition. And Phoebe's reactions to him also were so varied depending on the personality he took on. Was he the kicked puppy? The muscle but not the brain for missions? Was he the broken POW whose government screwed him? Was he the Dom in charge who exuded confidence and ego? I don't know, it changed constantly, and while Phoebe was always attracted to him, it wasn't until he put on his metaphorical leathers that she allowed herself to indulge.
Phoebe didn't act like an operative much either, most of the time she was either whining or crying or lamenting the fact that she was falling for someone who wasn't her hubby. My heart broke for what both had gone through, but the story felt kind of disingenuous for some reason. That said, it was overall well written, sexy and heart-wrenching, as witnessed by this poignant statement:
"I was just thinking about family."
"And it made you turn slightly green?" Simon laughed, slapping him on the shoulder. "Don't think about it. Just do it. There are no guarantees in life except that if you waste it, you'll regret it. Take it all – the good, the bad, the risky. This is yours and it's all you have. Having a family is the most frightening thing in the world if you really let yourself think about it. All that pain waiting out there if you lose one of them. And still, it's meaningless if you don't have them. We find our families, Jesse. Some of us are lucky to find them when we're born, but a lot of us have to look. So be grateful and welcome every single person who becomes family to you. Hold them close and yes, mourn them when they're gone, so at the end of all of this you know you had a life."
Bottom Line: Another sexy suspense filled offering from Ms. Blake! - See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
- See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
Phoebe Graham was devastated when her husband and love of her life Jamie was killed after being captured in Iraq. Raised as a covert spy, Phoebe is now in deep cover with McKay-Taggart Security, but she's gone soft. She genuinely likes the men and women who put their lives on the line to protect others, but shockingly, it's the one person who survived the hell that her husband died in, Jesse Murdoch, who makes her question her orders.
Something smells in Texas, and with every plot they uncover, the stench grows. Someone wants Jesse, the tool they tried to create with torture and mind games, and they're ready to stop at nothing to get him back.
YOU ONLY LOVE TWICE is the 8th book in the excellent Masters and Mercenaries series and one I was really looking forward to. Jesse got totally fucked by the government after surviving as a POW for months with hostile jihadists. As positive of a person as he is, he had seriously skewed self confidence, but kept bouncing back with an unwavering devotion to Phoebe and his McKay-Taggart family.
The thing I had a hard time with was when he switched to Dom mode. It was like a personality transplant instead of a natural transition. And Phoebe's reactions to him also were so varied depending on the personality he took on. Was he the kicked puppy? The muscle but not the brain for missions? Was he the broken POW whose government screwed him? Was he the Dom in charge who exuded confidence and ego? I don't know, it changed constantly, and while Phoebe was always attracted to him, it wasn't until he put on his metaphorical leathers that she allowed herself to indulge.
Phoebe didn't act like an operative much either, most of the time she was either whining or crying or lamenting the fact that she was falling for someone who wasn't her hubby. My heart broke for what both had gone through, but the story felt kind of disingenuous for some reason. That said, it was overall well written, sexy and heart-wrenching, as witnessed by this poignant statement:
"I was just thinking about family."
"And it made you turn slightly green?" Simon laughed, slapping him on the shoulder. "Don't think about it. Just do it. There are no guarantees in life except that if you waste it, you'll regret it. Take it all – the good, the bad, the risky. This is yours and it's all you have. Having a family is the most frightening thing in the world if you really let yourself think about it. All that pain waiting out there if you lose one of them. And still, it's meaningless if you don't have them. We find our families, Jesse. Some of us are lucky to find them when we're born, but a lot of us have to look. So be grateful and welcome every single person who becomes family to you. Hold them close and yes, mourn them when they're gone, so at the end of all of this you know you had a life."
Bottom Line: Another sexy suspense filled offering from Ms. Blake! - See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
- See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
March 21, 2015
Five smokin' hot, suspenseful Stars!
First off I loved this book . I carved out time from my busy schedule and binge read this, and struggled putting it down.
Phoebe was a great character. She was tormented by her past, she was constantly plagued with guilt because of her feelings for Jesse. She was conflicted by her secrets she knew would come to light, but feared they would ruin her budding relationship with Jesse. She couldn't deny her feelings for him, but she didn't know how to handle them.
I've loved Jesse since his introduction in Alex and Eve's book. He is the ultimate tortured soul. He has severe PTSD, survivors guilt because of being the only one to survive his units captivity in Iraq, and shame and insecurity, constantly feeling he is unworthy of being a part of Tag's team. He thinks all he is good for is being the muscle in the team and has nothing else to contribute. But he's felt alive and secure with Phoebe, only to discover she's not who he thought she was, compounding all his feelings of insecurity.
The team soon finds out that Jesse is in danger, but they don't know what is motivating the attacks against him. Phoebe and the team have to work together to protect Jesse and uncover the plot to kill him. This forces Jesse and Phoebe to work together, and soon the chemistry between them is too much to deny. But both of their issues, namely Jesse's insecurity and Phoebe's guilt, interfere with their relationship. Fortunately, Jesse isn't one to give up easily and won't let Phoebe go; all he has to do is convince Phoebe to give them a try.
This book was full of suspense and danger, and I was dying to know who was trying to kill Jesse and why. I had some ideas about what was going on, and most of them were confirmed, but there were still many surprises and twists. I got frustrated with Phoebe's constant denial of her feelings for Jesse, but they were very understandable considering her past. I was rooting for Jesse the whole time, and it was great to see him overcome his issues.
This whole series has been amazing! I had my suspicions about who the next the book would be about, and I was totally right, but now I'm dreading waiting another six months for the next book.
First off I loved this book . I carved out time from my busy schedule and binge read this, and struggled putting it down.
Phoebe was a great character. She was tormented by her past, she was constantly plagued with guilt because of her feelings for Jesse. She was conflicted by her secrets she knew would come to light, but feared they would ruin her budding relationship with Jesse. She couldn't deny her feelings for him, but she didn't know how to handle them.
I've loved Jesse since his introduction in Alex and Eve's book. He is the ultimate tortured soul. He has severe PTSD, survivors guilt because of being the only one to survive his units captivity in Iraq, and shame and insecurity, constantly feeling he is unworthy of being a part of Tag's team. He thinks all he is good for is being the muscle in the team and has nothing else to contribute. But he's felt alive and secure with Phoebe, only to discover she's not who he thought she was, compounding all his feelings of insecurity.
The team soon finds out that Jesse is in danger, but they don't know what is motivating the attacks against him. Phoebe and the team have to work together to protect Jesse and uncover the plot to kill him. This forces Jesse and Phoebe to work together, and soon the chemistry between them is too much to deny. But both of their issues, namely Jesse's insecurity and Phoebe's guilt, interfere with their relationship. Fortunately, Jesse isn't one to give up easily and won't let Phoebe go; all he has to do is convince Phoebe to give them a try.
This book was full of suspense and danger, and I was dying to know who was trying to kill Jesse and why. I had some ideas about what was going on, and most of them were confirmed, but there were still many surprises and twists. I got frustrated with Phoebe's constant denial of her feelings for Jesse, but they were very understandable considering her past. I was rooting for Jesse the whole time, and it was great to see him overcome his issues.
This whole series has been amazing! I had my suspicions about who the next the book would be about, and I was totally right, but now I'm dreading waiting another six months for the next book.
February 25, 2015
What can I say - I adore Lexi Blake - and this series. I don't ever want it to end. I wasn't sure going into it that I would enjoy Jesse's story - but I couldn't have been more wrong. I loved every word - and I couldn't be more excited by the secondary characters that (I hope!!) will grace future installments.
If you haven't tried this series yet - do it.
If you haven't tried this series yet - do it.
November 4, 2015
Love Jessie and Phoebe!
April 15, 2015
I found myself laughing at the start of this one, the way that the baby shower spun out of control. You would have thought that this one event could have been normal for these people, however normal isn't a word that ever comes close to describing the group. When you add in Ten and his group of merry men, it isn't even a possibility.
I liked how these two groups seemed to integrate, wish it could have been more and a permanent thing. Things weren't all rainbows and sunshine, but bumps along the way, which is what made it fun to read. Jesse and Phoebe's relationship went about much the same. Both of them had to face horrible things in their past and let them go. It was their frank decision that were the most interesting, I especially liked how Jesse realized the connection between them and then shared it with Phoebe.
With how this one ended it will be interesting to see what happens next. I can't wait to see Ten Dom it up.
I liked how these two groups seemed to integrate, wish it could have been more and a permanent thing. Things weren't all rainbows and sunshine, but bumps along the way, which is what made it fun to read. Jesse and Phoebe's relationship went about much the same. Both of them had to face horrible things in their past and let them go. It was their frank decision that were the most interesting, I especially liked how Jesse realized the connection between them and then shared it with Phoebe.
With how this one ended it will be interesting to see what happens next. I can't wait to see Ten Dom it up.
April 21, 2015
4.5 ⭐'s
May 17, 2024
ive been looking forward to phoebe's book for along time and even more so when i new that she was going to be with jesse.
Phoebe , Ians accountant has always been very intimidated , when ian got grumpy when she was in the room shed get scared , maybe even leave the room crying ... she has some thing to hide and what we find out about her is amazing
Jesse recently home from being held prisoner and tortured in war is suffering from PTSD hes finding that one person can keep him grounded , phoebe the woman he loves .
the people who held Jesse prisoner are now after him again and and the McKay-Taggart can stop them from carrying out they plans , fantastic book , i was hooked the whole way through
Phoebe , Ians accountant has always been very intimidated , when ian got grumpy when she was in the room shed get scared , maybe even leave the room crying ... she has some thing to hide and what we find out about her is amazing
Jesse recently home from being held prisoner and tortured in war is suffering from PTSD hes finding that one person can keep him grounded , phoebe the woman he loves .
the people who held Jesse prisoner are now after him again and and the McKay-Taggart can stop them from carrying out they plans , fantastic book , i was hooked the whole way through
October 20, 2019
I wanted to like this. The writing was good but the characters were so inconsistent. That frustrated me and all the other goings on was just too much. If the hero had actually grown as a character rather than jumping in and out of two radically different ones I would have liked it a whole lot more. The fact that the heroine liked him better when he was domineering didn’t appeal to me either.
Giving up at 67%. Not for me.
Giving up at 67%. Not for me.
February 17, 2015
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Brilliant. Masterpiece. Superb. Magnificent. Outstanding. I had to ravage my thesaurus to come up with enough superlatives to describe how I feel about Lexi Blake’s newest addition to her Masters and Mercenaries series. Yet all of these words seem a lukewarm description of my exact feelings while reading You Only Love Twice. I don’t think I was more than one minute into reading before I was already screaming and yelling OMG. I wasn’t even more than three percent into reading when I started crying. With her usual exceptional writing, Ms. Blake grabbed my heart and soul within two minutes of opening the book.
There was so much pain and sadness in both Jesse and Phoebe. Ms. Blake pulled these emotions to the surface for the reader to understand who these people were and help us understand their actions and motivations. But it also meant that I shed a lot of tears while reading. I shed those tears because Jesse and Phoebe were no longer fictional characters, but instead so real that I could practically feel them standing next to me. With each addition to the series, Ms. Blake blows me away with her ability to create characters with so much depth that I truly care about them.
In fact, the brilliance of this series can be directly attributed to the characters and specifically the individuality of each of the books’ featured couples. While they have BDSM and spying in common, they are never carbon copies of each other. Jesse may be a Dom in the bedroom, but when he’s not in a scene, he is full of insecurity and hurt. Phoebe has spent so many years taking care of herself and hiding her vulnerability that it is going to take someone special to knock down her walls. I found myself wanting to reach out to both of them and tell them it was going to be all right. My arms ached to give them a hug.
But there is always so much to Ms. Blake’s story than just the perfect romance. She always manages to write the perfect blend of romance and thriller. There was so much intrigue in You Only Love Twice and Ms. Blake slowly peeled the different layers of the mystery at just the right pace to keep you on the edge of your seat. Just when you think you have things figured out, she will throw another curve ball at you that mixes it all up. But it all makes sense, and every surprise is just another piece of the perfect puzzle. Once all the pieces are put together it results in a beautiful story that will stay with you long after you have read the last page.
For those who are fans of the Masters and Mercenaries series, there is plenty of Ian and the other members of the McKay-Taggert family. Ian has never been funnier or sarcastic and he is the undisputed center of this amazing group of people. I absolutely love that Ms. Blake keeps bringing back all the couples that we have previously fallen in love with. I’m never ready to say goodbye to these people that I have fallen in love with so it’s good that I don’t have to.
You Only Love Twice ended by setting up the next book in the series and I’m already counting down the days until its release. With each new release, I swear that this one is my favorite so I have no doubt that the next book will blow me away. Until then, I think I am going to go back and read You Only Love Twice again because I am not ready to leave this amazing universe that Ms. Blake has created.
Brilliant. Masterpiece. Superb. Magnificent. Outstanding. I had to ravage my thesaurus to come up with enough superlatives to describe how I feel about Lexi Blake’s newest addition to her Masters and Mercenaries series. Yet all of these words seem a lukewarm description of my exact feelings while reading You Only Love Twice. I don’t think I was more than one minute into reading before I was already screaming and yelling OMG. I wasn’t even more than three percent into reading when I started crying. With her usual exceptional writing, Ms. Blake grabbed my heart and soul within two minutes of opening the book.
There was so much pain and sadness in both Jesse and Phoebe. Ms. Blake pulled these emotions to the surface for the reader to understand who these people were and help us understand their actions and motivations. But it also meant that I shed a lot of tears while reading. I shed those tears because Jesse and Phoebe were no longer fictional characters, but instead so real that I could practically feel them standing next to me. With each addition to the series, Ms. Blake blows me away with her ability to create characters with so much depth that I truly care about them.
In fact, the brilliance of this series can be directly attributed to the characters and specifically the individuality of each of the books’ featured couples. While they have BDSM and spying in common, they are never carbon copies of each other. Jesse may be a Dom in the bedroom, but when he’s not in a scene, he is full of insecurity and hurt. Phoebe has spent so many years taking care of herself and hiding her vulnerability that it is going to take someone special to knock down her walls. I found myself wanting to reach out to both of them and tell them it was going to be all right. My arms ached to give them a hug.
But there is always so much to Ms. Blake’s story than just the perfect romance. She always manages to write the perfect blend of romance and thriller. There was so much intrigue in You Only Love Twice and Ms. Blake slowly peeled the different layers of the mystery at just the right pace to keep you on the edge of your seat. Just when you think you have things figured out, she will throw another curve ball at you that mixes it all up. But it all makes sense, and every surprise is just another piece of the perfect puzzle. Once all the pieces are put together it results in a beautiful story that will stay with you long after you have read the last page.
For those who are fans of the Masters and Mercenaries series, there is plenty of Ian and the other members of the McKay-Taggert family. Ian has never been funnier or sarcastic and he is the undisputed center of this amazing group of people. I absolutely love that Ms. Blake keeps bringing back all the couples that we have previously fallen in love with. I’m never ready to say goodbye to these people that I have fallen in love with so it’s good that I don’t have to.
You Only Love Twice ended by setting up the next book in the series and I’m already counting down the days until its release. With each new release, I swear that this one is my favorite so I have no doubt that the next book will blow me away. Until then, I think I am going to go back and read You Only Love Twice again because I am not ready to leave this amazing universe that Ms. Blake has created.
April 25, 2015
Originally Reviewed For: Tea and Book
Just so you know, I am doing the unthinkable, I am reading Lexi Blake's, Masters and Mercenaries Series out of order. WAY out of order *gasp* alert the media.. *grins* I began with her contrbution to the 1001 Dark Nights Series, Dungeon Games (Book 6.5) and now am reviewing book 8! Yep totally skipped books 1-6 and 7. What is the world coming to?
I will say that Dungeon Games totally intrigued and captured my attention. One of the things that caught my attention was the presence of BDSM but the lack of it. Does that make sense? We know the characters are Masters and Submissives but so far it's more implied than reality. Which makes this series a totally different concept than the other BDSM Series I have read. That being said, I really do need to read a few more books before I declare this as fact.
Phoebe Graham is a sweet, slightly clutzy accountant for the McKay-Taggart Security Service. A group of very strong personalities who just want to take care of her, except she's not. Phoebe is the daughter of a man who created a special ops team for the CIA. Her brother runs it and her husband died for it. But there's a mole somewhere and Phoebe has been sent out to see if McKay-Taggart Security Services is a treasonous organization. Phoebe certainly hopes not.. she actually likes these people.
Jesse Murdoch was the only member of his team that survived a brutal attack. Questions circled around him and it was suggested he leave the military. Fortunately for him, the powers that be at McKay-Taggart believe in him and have offered him a job. And now that he has a partner he respects and he is finally finding his footing. But that sexy Phoebe Graham has captured his attention. He's even willing to go gently and slightly vanilla to make her happy. Only she keeps him at the "just friends" arms length. But this is a mercenary organization and someone is questioning just who is this Phoebe Graham?
Oh my, the spies are gathering and the mercenaries are questioning.. yeppers the doo doo has hit the fan.
Full of action, greed, corruption, redemption and two wounded souls finding each other. I really enjoyed this book and honestly feel that even non BDSM lovers will enjoy it. It read very well as a stand alone but I knew all of these people had lives an stories to tell.. so of course I am working on catching up. As I read and explore I will let you know if the kink gets any kinkier..
A really good story!
Shauni
Just so you know, I am doing the unthinkable, I am reading Lexi Blake's, Masters and Mercenaries Series out of order. WAY out of order *gasp* alert the media.. *grins* I began with her contrbution to the 1001 Dark Nights Series, Dungeon Games (Book 6.5) and now am reviewing book 8! Yep totally skipped books 1-6 and 7. What is the world coming to?
I will say that Dungeon Games totally intrigued and captured my attention. One of the things that caught my attention was the presence of BDSM but the lack of it. Does that make sense? We know the characters are Masters and Submissives but so far it's more implied than reality. Which makes this series a totally different concept than the other BDSM Series I have read. That being said, I really do need to read a few more books before I declare this as fact.
Phoebe Graham is a sweet, slightly clutzy accountant for the McKay-Taggart Security Service. A group of very strong personalities who just want to take care of her, except she's not. Phoebe is the daughter of a man who created a special ops team for the CIA. Her brother runs it and her husband died for it. But there's a mole somewhere and Phoebe has been sent out to see if McKay-Taggart Security Services is a treasonous organization. Phoebe certainly hopes not.. she actually likes these people.
Jesse Murdoch was the only member of his team that survived a brutal attack. Questions circled around him and it was suggested he leave the military. Fortunately for him, the powers that be at McKay-Taggart believe in him and have offered him a job. And now that he has a partner he respects and he is finally finding his footing. But that sexy Phoebe Graham has captured his attention. He's even willing to go gently and slightly vanilla to make her happy. Only she keeps him at the "just friends" arms length. But this is a mercenary organization and someone is questioning just who is this Phoebe Graham?
Oh my, the spies are gathering and the mercenaries are questioning.. yeppers the doo doo has hit the fan.
Full of action, greed, corruption, redemption and two wounded souls finding each other. I really enjoyed this book and honestly feel that even non BDSM lovers will enjoy it. It read very well as a stand alone but I knew all of these people had lives an stories to tell.. so of course I am working on catching up. As I read and explore I will let you know if the kink gets any kinkier..
A really good story!
Shauni
August 20, 2016
Wow, who is this woman, Phoebe Graham? The previous book already hinted that Phoebe is not whom she seems to be. Will the real Slim Shady please stand up? When Phoebe is revealed I'm pleased. At first I thought based on the hints that I would hate her. I love her. Goodness I cried over her. Her life has been rough. The lost she experiences breaks my heart. She is a strong woman and I can only admire her for it. The way she handles Ten also amuses me. Love it.
Most of the males in this series are good. I mean, I like them but they don't touch me much, except for Ian. Jesse, he is the other man I like. I really like Jesse. He is so straightforward. He may be loco when his triggers are set off, but man, he is the backup I want. When he goes into his berserk-er rage, others may be fearful. I'm turned on and love it. The way it is described when he is seeing red is fabulous. His only instinct is to destroy and raze everything to the ground. I can respect this. I especially like that he will even bite the shit out of a tango. He is not just a mad dog though. He is a man with issues. He is a man of complexity. And he is a man with a good heart. I cry for Jessie and what he has been through. He and Phoebe work so well together and I love this pairing. Ms. Blake did her damn-est as a bloody sadist when she put these two together. Their shared history unbeknownst to them could have really derailed this relationship. But these two are such sterling characters even though they have battered around badly, that they overcome all obstacles. This is a story of love triumphs all. Highly recommended for kinky readers who thrive through pain and angst.
Most of the males in this series are good. I mean, I like them but they don't touch me much, except for Ian. Jesse, he is the other man I like. I really like Jesse. He is so straightforward. He may be loco when his triggers are set off, but man, he is the backup I want. When he goes into his berserk-er rage, others may be fearful. I'm turned on and love it. The way it is described when he is seeing red is fabulous. His only instinct is to destroy and raze everything to the ground. I can respect this. I especially like that he will even bite the shit out of a tango. He is not just a mad dog though. He is a man with issues. He is a man of complexity. And he is a man with a good heart. I cry for Jessie and what he has been through. He and Phoebe work so well together and I love this pairing. Ms. Blake did her damn-est as a bloody sadist when she put these two together. Their shared history unbeknownst to them could have really derailed this relationship. But these two are such sterling characters even though they have battered around badly, that they overcome all obstacles. This is a story of love triumphs all. Highly recommended for kinky readers who thrive through pain and angst.
April 27, 2015
Lexi Blake gets better with each book.
God I love this series. You feel like a family member reading the books. Jesse and Phoebe are great together.
The interaction between Jesse and Phoebe is delightful and as always, Big Tag’s humor keeps the reader laughing. The intrigue keeps you turning the pages, and the entire book is a delightful addition to the Masters and Mercenaries series. Expect some flogging and spanking, but the BDSM lifestyle plays a very small part of this story, although what happens to Sanctum is unexpected.
Overall, a roller coaster ride of fun, sex and danger brought to you by an author who has become a master of her craft
I cant wait for Tennessee Smith book
God I love this series. You feel like a family member reading the books. Jesse and Phoebe are great together.
The interaction between Jesse and Phoebe is delightful and as always, Big Tag’s humor keeps the reader laughing. The intrigue keeps you turning the pages, and the entire book is a delightful addition to the Masters and Mercenaries series. Expect some flogging and spanking, but the BDSM lifestyle plays a very small part of this story, although what happens to Sanctum is unexpected.
Overall, a roller coaster ride of fun, sex and danger brought to you by an author who has become a master of her craft
I cant wait for Tennessee Smith book
June 15, 2015
Excellent, loved this one (and all of them!). Can't wait for Tennessee's story in the next book, he intrigued me in
and the author put a very interesting hook at the end of this book which will be really fun to see how that plays out. Such a great series.
and the author put a very interesting hook at the end of this book which will be really fun to see how that plays out. Such a great series.
February 21, 2015
Phoebe Graham, the klutzy timid accountant at McKay-Taggart, is hiding a secret. As an undercover agent tasked to infiltrate the McKay-Taggart Security firm, she's assigned to gather ongoing intel on the key players in the firm though it's Jesse Murdoch who is to be her main focus. What better way to get close than to pose as his super shy ultra conservative vanilla girlfriend. Problems arise when the lines between her job and heart start to blur and she's given orders that will test her true loyalties to self, family, country, and heart.
Jessie has survived the army and being held prisoner by a radical jihadist faction though some still question if he actually was a prisoner or not. With the help and support of his friends at McKay-Taggart he's at a point where only the physical and psychological scars remain as a testament of what he went through.
Devastation doesn't begin to cover his feelings when he's told Phoebe isn't who they thought she was. The question is who does she work for and why is she at McKay-Taggart Security firm. Those questions become secondary when they catch Phoebe in the act of lining up a kill shot on Jesse.
* * * *
This is the 8th installment in the "Masters and Mercenaries" series featuring Jesse Murdoch and Pheobe Graham, the timid klutzy mouse employee who cried and became hysterical whenever Ian Taggart was around. In this installment we find out the answer surrouding the teaser ending of A View to a Thrill. Wasn't a stretch of the imagination though. It's the circumstances surrounding it that are key.
In a voice/speech pattern mimicking Mr. Rogers from Mr. Rogers Neighborhood: Can you say 'soap opera' boys and girls?
Overall this book has all the bells and whistles I love in a story including layering & depth in the world building, action-adventure, angst, suspense, mystery, unexpected twists & turns, emotional ethical/morality conflicts, and an unexpected surprise or two along the way. Lexi is a master storyteller who is able to use all of those elements to her advantage to keep the reader enthralled to the very last word of the very last sentence of the very last page. In this case she ends with a 'teaser' to the next installment Master No scheduled for release August 4, 2015.
In a voice/speech pattern mimicking Mr. Rogers from Mr. Rogers Neighborhood: Can you say 'sadistic tease author' boys and girls?
At the core of this story the author takes up PTSD and how those who cope with it may have the physical appearance that everything's fine, but with a specific sound, smell, or unique trigger, they go into a crisis event. There are those who legitimately struggle with this so it is a timely topic to include into a fictional story that fans can appreciate on different levels.
Romance between the central characters. I'm going to be in the minority going on record that their relationship didn't quite work. I definitely was a fan of these two and hands down wanted that HEA ending for them. My issue was key scenes that pretty much defined the core issues between the two didn't play as important a role in the story as they should have. Non spoiler CoC restricts me from expounding on who/what/when/where. If this book had been tagged as action-suspense-thriller I wouldn't have blinked an eye on this thought. but as a romance genre read it did.
Adult content. Do I even need to include that this is a Lexi Blake written book. Expect the BDSM action (glitterkink variety). Expect the erotica romance scenes, but above all expect toe curling goodness that will result in some quality time with BOB or a long looooong cold shower. :D
Secondary characters. The gangs back and better than ever. One of the best things about the author is she does realize life does go on after a featured installment so old and new characters do make appearances. I do appreciate that the new characters are eased in just as someone new to the neighborhood, school, job, or what would. They get the lay of the land (or bulldoze their way in depending) to find their nitch. The character Erin is certainly one who has done that. OK. Maybe Kashmir Kamdar & Chapal too. Oh and Kai and Deke and Theo and Case and Kori and Ace and Michael and .... well you get my drift.
I know I probably should have rated this a five star but I'm right in the middle with a slight move to the 4. Reason is I noticed story line inconsistencies, details, and grammatical/spelling errors that stuck out like a sore thumb. Lexi Blake is on and will continue to be on my auto buy list. That is a high bar as I do look for more than a superficial romance and Lexi consistently delivers that. In this story there was a stumble or two. That's all.
I can't end this without mentioning Ian and Charlotte. For those fans (like me) who can't get enough of Ian. He's back. And. There are a few unexpected 'bombshell' moments. Vague nonspoiler reference. The numbers '10' '2' and 'priceless' come to mind. Those who have read this book know what I'm talking about. Loved loved loved the circumstances around those numbers.
ps. priceless refers to the required monetary replacement scene
Recommend this book? Hell ya. It COULD be read as a standalone if you haven't read any of the previous installments. It's got all the elements that fans of contemporary m/f erotic romance will appreciate and than some. Looking so forward to the next installment where Ten .... well, you'll have to read THIS book to find out the teaser ending.... and it's a doozy. :D
Jessie has survived the army and being held prisoner by a radical jihadist faction though some still question if he actually was a prisoner or not. With the help and support of his friends at McKay-Taggart he's at a point where only the physical and psychological scars remain as a testament of what he went through.
Devastation doesn't begin to cover his feelings when he's told Phoebe isn't who they thought she was. The question is who does she work for and why is she at McKay-Taggart Security firm. Those questions become secondary when they catch Phoebe in the act of lining up a kill shot on Jesse.
* * * *
This is the 8th installment in the "Masters and Mercenaries" series featuring Jesse Murdoch and Pheobe Graham, the timid klutzy mouse employee who cried and became hysterical whenever Ian Taggart was around. In this installment we find out the answer surrouding the teaser ending of A View to a Thrill. Wasn't a stretch of the imagination though. It's the circumstances surrounding it that are key.
In a voice/speech pattern mimicking Mr. Rogers from Mr. Rogers Neighborhood: Can you say 'soap opera' boys and girls?
Overall this book has all the bells and whistles I love in a story including layering & depth in the world building, action-adventure, angst, suspense, mystery, unexpected twists & turns, emotional ethical/morality conflicts, and an unexpected surprise or two along the way. Lexi is a master storyteller who is able to use all of those elements to her advantage to keep the reader enthralled to the very last word of the very last sentence of the very last page. In this case she ends with a 'teaser' to the next installment Master No scheduled for release August 4, 2015.
In a voice/speech pattern mimicking Mr. Rogers from Mr. Rogers Neighborhood: Can you say 'sadistic tease author' boys and girls?
At the core of this story the author takes up PTSD and how those who cope with it may have the physical appearance that everything's fine, but with a specific sound, smell, or unique trigger, they go into a crisis event. There are those who legitimately struggle with this so it is a timely topic to include into a fictional story that fans can appreciate on different levels.
Romance between the central characters. I'm going to be in the minority going on record that their relationship didn't quite work. I definitely was a fan of these two and hands down wanted that HEA ending for them. My issue was key scenes that pretty much defined the core issues between the two didn't play as important a role in the story as they should have. Non spoiler CoC restricts me from expounding on who/what/when/where. If this book had been tagged as action-suspense-thriller I wouldn't have blinked an eye on this thought. but as a romance genre read it did.
Adult content. Do I even need to include that this is a Lexi Blake written book. Expect the BDSM action (glitterkink variety). Expect the erotica romance scenes, but above all expect toe curling goodness that will result in some quality time with BOB or a long looooong cold shower. :D
Secondary characters. The gangs back and better than ever. One of the best things about the author is she does realize life does go on after a featured installment so old and new characters do make appearances. I do appreciate that the new characters are eased in just as someone new to the neighborhood, school, job, or what would. They get the lay of the land (or bulldoze their way in depending) to find their nitch. The character Erin is certainly one who has done that. OK. Maybe Kashmir Kamdar & Chapal too. Oh and Kai and Deke and Theo and Case and Kori and Ace and Michael and .... well you get my drift.
I know I probably should have rated this a five star but I'm right in the middle with a slight move to the 4. Reason is I noticed story line inconsistencies, details, and grammatical/spelling errors that stuck out like a sore thumb. Lexi Blake is on and will continue to be on my auto buy list. That is a high bar as I do look for more than a superficial romance and Lexi consistently delivers that. In this story there was a stumble or two. That's all.
I can't end this without mentioning Ian and Charlotte. For those fans (like me) who can't get enough of Ian. He's back. And. There are a few unexpected 'bombshell' moments. Vague nonspoiler reference. The numbers '10' '2' and 'priceless' come to mind. Those who have read this book know what I'm talking about. Loved loved loved the circumstances around those numbers.
ps. priceless refers to the required monetary replacement scene
Recommend this book? Hell ya. It COULD be read as a standalone if you haven't read any of the previous installments. It's got all the elements that fans of contemporary m/f erotic romance will appreciate and than some. Looking so forward to the next installment where Ten .... well, you'll have to read THIS book to find out the teaser ending.... and it's a doozy. :D
October 27, 2019
This is the 8th book in the Master and Mercenaries series and is not a standalone book.
I think this was the most complex book so far in the series. It brought so many of the characters together that were in the previous books. It seemed like the other books were just the character development for this one. The author references many situations that were in her other books.
My heart went to Jesse and everything he went through. I can’t imagine how he survived. Thankfully he found Phoebe and a reason to live.
I love Lexi Blake; she not only gives a good suspenseful story, but she adds in romance in a way that doesn’t make it boring. I might have to check to see if she has any straight suspense books!!
I think this was the most complex book so far in the series. It brought so many of the characters together that were in the previous books. It seemed like the other books were just the character development for this one. The author references many situations that were in her other books.
My heart went to Jesse and everything he went through. I can’t imagine how he survived. Thankfully he found Phoebe and a reason to live.
I love Lexi Blake; she not only gives a good suspenseful story, but she adds in romance in a way that doesn’t make it boring. I might have to check to see if she has any straight suspense books!!
May 11, 2021
Wow this might just be my favorite one yet
![Profile Image for Namera [The Literary Invertebrate].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1647896333i%2F31792110._UX200_CR0%2C96%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
June 20, 2022
Words cannot describe how amazing this book was. This series just keeps getting better and better.
February 3, 2022
Another great addition to this series
Jesse has always been a favorite character so I was really excited to read his story.
I loved the story and really enjoyed the new cast of characters and seeing Ten and Ian’s world’s mesh.
Jesse has always been a favorite character so I was really excited to read his story.
I loved the story and really enjoyed the new cast of characters and seeing Ten and Ian’s world’s mesh.
February 19, 2015
These books just keep getting better and better.
Jesse Murdoch was tortured by a militant called the Caliph when he was captured in the Middle East. The Caliph could never break him and turn him against his unit and eventually he was rescued. He came to work for Ian in book 4 "On Her Master's Secret Service". Jesse has always been the muscle and since he has PTSD from his capture, he has always been thought of as a little unstable.
Phoebe (Grant) Graham has been working for Ian Taggert as his accountant and no one knew she was a long term plant put there by Tennessee Smith to watch Jesse and make sure he wasn't a threat. When Phoebe gets a kill order from an unknown person, she doesn't realize until it is almost too late that she is supposed to kill Jesse. Phoebe and Jesse, along with the McKay-Taggert team and Tennessee Smith's CIA team must find out why someone wants Jesse dead.
I have loved Jesse since he joined the crew. He has always thought of himself as less than the others, but no one else thinks that. They know he has needed help and have gotten it for him and have given him a family that he never had. Phoebe thinks that Ian picks at Jesse because he thinks Jesse is stupid but that is just Ian's way of caring. Simon has become his best friend and work partner and the others respect him knowing how much he went through and care about him. Phoebe wants to defend and protect him and Jesse is not used to anyone wanting to do that.
This book was probably the least centered around domination/submission but it works for Jesse and Phoebe. I love the fact that Ms. Blake incorporates such an in-depth story into her books and that the BDSM and sex are just a part of the bigger story. It is something that makes them all family but doesn't solely define any of the characters. I am really looking forward to more Masters and Mercenaries books and the upcoming one with Ten sounds great!
SPOILER RIGHT NOW:
It is hilarious that Ian is having twins...and they're GIRLS!
Jesse Murdoch was tortured by a militant called the Caliph when he was captured in the Middle East. The Caliph could never break him and turn him against his unit and eventually he was rescued. He came to work for Ian in book 4 "On Her Master's Secret Service". Jesse has always been the muscle and since he has PTSD from his capture, he has always been thought of as a little unstable.
Phoebe (Grant) Graham has been working for Ian Taggert as his accountant and no one knew she was a long term plant put there by Tennessee Smith to watch Jesse and make sure he wasn't a threat. When Phoebe gets a kill order from an unknown person, she doesn't realize until it is almost too late that she is supposed to kill Jesse. Phoebe and Jesse, along with the McKay-Taggert team and Tennessee Smith's CIA team must find out why someone wants Jesse dead.
I have loved Jesse since he joined the crew. He has always thought of himself as less than the others, but no one else thinks that. They know he has needed help and have gotten it for him and have given him a family that he never had. Phoebe thinks that Ian picks at Jesse because he thinks Jesse is stupid but that is just Ian's way of caring. Simon has become his best friend and work partner and the others respect him knowing how much he went through and care about him. Phoebe wants to defend and protect him and Jesse is not used to anyone wanting to do that.
This book was probably the least centered around domination/submission but it works for Jesse and Phoebe. I love the fact that Ms. Blake incorporates such an in-depth story into her books and that the BDSM and sex are just a part of the bigger story. It is something that makes them all family but doesn't solely define any of the characters. I am really looking forward to more Masters and Mercenaries books and the upcoming one with Ten sounds great!
SPOILER RIGHT NOW:
It is hilarious that Ian is having twins...and they're GIRLS!
February 18, 2015
Shadow's review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
Once again, Lexi Blake has brought us a book that features adventure, hot sex, love, pathos, humor and insight into what makes up a family.
You Only Love Twice is Phoebe and Jesse’s story and it is a tough one. Jesse was captured while fighting in the Middle East and underwent some major torture and now suffers from PTSD flashbacks. Phoebe, working undercover for the CIA and her adopted brother, Tennessee Smith, once thought Jesse might be responsible for the death of her husband, whom she still mourns after two years. Since working for McKay-Taggart Security Services, she has not only come to believe Jesse is innocent, but she has gained a family in the other members of the company. But that changes when she gets the word to take out Jesse.
Can these two people overcome their pasts, the threat posed by an unknown killer, and the interference of their respective adopted families to find their HEA.
The interaction between Jesse and Phoebe is delightful and as always, Big Tag’s humor keeps the reader laughing. The intrigue keeps you turning the pages, and the entire book is a delightful addition to the Masters and Mercenaries series. Expect some flogging and spanking, but the BDSM lifestyle plays a very small part of this story, although what happens to Sanctum is unexpected.
Overall, a roller coaster ride of fun, sex and danger brought to you by an author who has become a master of her craft.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
Once again, Lexi Blake has brought us a book that features adventure, hot sex, love, pathos, humor and insight into what makes up a family.
You Only Love Twice is Phoebe and Jesse’s story and it is a tough one. Jesse was captured while fighting in the Middle East and underwent some major torture and now suffers from PTSD flashbacks. Phoebe, working undercover for the CIA and her adopted brother, Tennessee Smith, once thought Jesse might be responsible for the death of her husband, whom she still mourns after two years. Since working for McKay-Taggart Security Services, she has not only come to believe Jesse is innocent, but she has gained a family in the other members of the company. But that changes when she gets the word to take out Jesse.
Can these two people overcome their pasts, the threat posed by an unknown killer, and the interference of their respective adopted families to find their HEA.
The interaction between Jesse and Phoebe is delightful and as always, Big Tag’s humor keeps the reader laughing. The intrigue keeps you turning the pages, and the entire book is a delightful addition to the Masters and Mercenaries series. Expect some flogging and spanking, but the BDSM lifestyle plays a very small part of this story, although what happens to Sanctum is unexpected.
Overall, a roller coaster ride of fun, sex and danger brought to you by an author who has become a master of her craft.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
July 14, 2017
This was a really good book I love reading this series. Jesse Murdoch is a man with a big heart and considering all the things that he went through it's a wonder that he was able to show compassion for others. Jesse was a POW and people that he betrayed his country, but Ian and the rest of the crew knew the truth. Phoebe Grant lost her husband when Jesse's unit was taken hostage he was spy and so was Phoebe who is the sister of Tennessee they thought that Jesse was a trader. This was a really good book and I love reading this series. Phoebe who was the mousy accountant that worked for McKay-Taggert who took Jesse in and helped him adjust to civilian life. I love that Ian finds strays and makes them part of the family and speaking of family it was good to see how the couples in this series are doing like Alex and Eve had adopted an baby boy and that Ian and Charlotte and having twin girls. The book also introduced new players on the Team like Erin I really liked her and Ian and Sean's twin brother's Theo and Case. This book was well written like the rest of the books in this series. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series. I am glad that Jesse got his happy ending.
June 22, 2015
Ok, so this was the hardest one to rate so far, but I don't feel like it was as good as the others IF YOU READ THE PREVIOUS ONES.
If you didn't, if you just read this one, I'm betting you'd like it more. But, Jesse's personality transplant really threw me. It was too BAM! TOTALLY COMPETENT NOW!
And, I think it would have been more intersting to delve into the new Phoebe as different instead of just accepting her...but if you hadn't read the others, neither of these things would bother you.
What also wouldn't bother you is the sex is all starting to feel the same. How about a woman who doesn't want to deal with butt stuff? For real. Those scenes are all starting to feel the same.
You know what would be interesting? A sub deciding on a hard no on something in play and the Dom respecting that and them dealing with that and it making them grow closer. That would be new and interesting for this series.
If you didn't, if you just read this one, I'm betting you'd like it more. But, Jesse's personality transplant really threw me. It was too BAM! TOTALLY COMPETENT NOW!
And, I think it would have been more intersting to delve into the new Phoebe as different instead of just accepting her...but if you hadn't read the others, neither of these things would bother you.
What also wouldn't bother you is the sex is all starting to feel the same. How about a woman who doesn't want to deal with butt stuff? For real. Those scenes are all starting to feel the same.
You know what would be interesting? A sub deciding on a hard no on something in play and the Dom respecting that and them dealing with that and it making them grow closer. That would be new and interesting for this series.
February 18, 2015
It was OK. The problem I have is while the plot is interesting the actual emotional issues the heroines have to overcome feel the same. The root causes might be different but they all just ... feel the same. And it only takes some in-depth conversation with whomever to make them realize that yeah, they really do want to fall in love with some badass and be happy forever. So, yeah, not digging the repetition.
May 6, 2015
I'll never get tired of this series. No matter what. Yes, it can be totally predictable, but the fun characters make it worthy. OTP Doms and sassy subs. Spy games and danger. I love it all.
April 17, 2015
Loved Jesse <3
April 20, 2015
Loved it!!!! Jesse own me when he said Phoebe she would never cry alone again.See, he didnt say she'd never cry, but she'd never cry alone!!!! Awesome!!!!!!
April 27, 2025
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
You Only Love Twice is the next main novel in the "Masters and Mercenaries" and this is Jesse and Phoebe's book. After the teaser for the previous book, I actually had to jump right away into the next book if I am being honest. But I will be honest in being disappointed that Phoebe wasn't the soft heroine I was actually hoping for her to be. But that isn't to say their book was bad or anything, I still enjoyed it quite a bit, but there aren't many softer heroines in this series as I would actually like there to be. But it was still a emotional and poignant story and probably one of the more heart wrenching additions to the series.
First Line
Phoebe looked up at the house with no designs on actually living there.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Jesse
The Heroine: Phoebe
Summary
Phoebe is working with the CIA and lost her husband to a op that she planned that went horribly wrong and deals with trauma from losing him and out of guilt. But there was one man on his team that survived and so with her brother, they work on her going undercover to pose as his girlfriend, so she can get into the Taggert group and gain their trust and find out if Jesse was to blame for it or not. But then a hit is placed on Jesse and she is the person to take the hit. She is used to following orders no matter what they are....but now her heart is involved and she might have to choose between duty to her country and to the man she has learned to love....
What I Loved
This book kept me on the edge of my seat LITERALLY!!! I just didn't want to put this one down and I couldn't seem to get enough of these two here. I loved their dynamic. Their relationship was so deeply layered and we see so many aspects of them having to deal with some heartbreaking moments. This is where both of them are still having to overcome trauma of the past and its not a easy road for either of them. Jesse from suffered both physical and psychological torture and then for Phoebe to having lost her husband who was part of the team that Jesse lost and been the one to plan the op in the first place. And all the connections to their past really made their connection that much brighter. And we get some fun times with the Taggert crew including Ian becoming a father of TWINS and they are girls LOL Oh its a true delight when that was revealed. But if you are a Harry Potter Fan....you will adore the little snippets on that here and there that are so fun.
What I Struggled With
I would have loved to see more vulnerability from the heroine, to showcase the woman she was with before was still the same woman and that it wasn't all a cover.
Overall View
You Only Love Twice is a emotionally driven story that digs deep into the human element and stuns the read with laughs...heartbreak and healing!
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Romantic Suspense, Erotic Romance
Character Types: Military, Law Enforcement
Themes: Heart/Touching, PTSD, Tear Jerker, BDSM
Tropes: Mistaken Identity, Redemption
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Both
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Shayla Black
Maya Banks
Susan Stoker
Song This Book Inspires
Murder Song by Aurora
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes I would say its best to read these in order
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Blazing fire to the building-The prime focus is the sex scenes, scorching hot, and could burn one. Less focus on the emotional intimacy to the relationship.
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