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Masters & Mercenaries: New Recruits #6
Love and Let Spy
Canadian operative Ben Parker met the woman of his dreams while working undercover in Australia. That operation, to take down Emmanuel Huisman, was the singular focus of his life until he met Maggie. Now the hunt for his former childhood friend turned international terrorist often feels like what he does in between chasing the magenta-haired American spy he can’t stop thinking about. She’s the woman of his dreams, when she isn’t being the stuff of his nightmares. Sometimes she is sweet and deliciously responsive to him, and other times she pushes him out of a plane without a parachute.
Kenzie Taggart knew Ben Parker was the one for her the minute she saw him. Unfortunately, he didn’t meet her first. He met her twin sister, Kala, and they had to keep the secret. No one outside of their team knows they’re twins. Everyone believes the operative known as Miss Magenta is one person. Kenzie can’t tell the man she’s falling in love with who she really is, but she also can’t afford to lose him.
When faced with certain death on a joint operation in Nepal, Kenzie reveals the truth about “Maggie” and they spend their last minutes alive in each other’s arms. It was perfect, and then a miraculous rescue leaves them in a difficult situation. Kenzie couldn’t be happier that Ben knows the truth, but so does Huisman. He’s determined to burn down the world, but not before he ruins his old friend and his newfound beloved. As Ben and Kenzie cross the globe in their quest to stop the madman, they might have to choose between saving the world and saving each other.
Kenzie Taggart knew Ben Parker was the one for her the minute she saw him. Unfortunately, he didn’t meet her first. He met her twin sister, Kala, and they had to keep the secret. No one outside of their team knows they’re twins. Everyone believes the operative known as Miss Magenta is one person. Kenzie can’t tell the man she’s falling in love with who she really is, but she also can’t afford to lose him.
When faced with certain death on a joint operation in Nepal, Kenzie reveals the truth about “Maggie” and they spend their last minutes alive in each other’s arms. It was perfect, and then a miraculous rescue leaves them in a difficult situation. Kenzie couldn’t be happier that Ben knows the truth, but so does Huisman. He’s determined to burn down the world, but not before he ruins his old friend and his newfound beloved. As Ben and Kenzie cross the globe in their quest to stop the madman, they might have to choose between saving the world and saving each other.
376 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 24, 2026
About the author
Lexi Blake
189 books6,410 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 116 reviews
March 24, 2026
Ken and the Bratz
Right out of the gate, I have to share my appreciation for the family trees. I'm behind in the original M&M series and this series, as well as the Nights in Bliss series, which has a crossover, so this is über helpful.
Ben (Canadian Ken doll) Parker and Kenzie (Kenz, Bratz doll) Taggart have some things going on, that's for sure, but being in the spy biz doesn't seem to be doing them any favors. There were a few times when I just wanted to (GAH!) Ben, but I do love how he proves himself in the end.
The chemistry between the two wasn't always there. Still, I thoroughly enjoyed the action and the scenes when they got out of their heads.
Ever the voice of reason, Ian Taggart (Big Tag), remains true to self with his comedic relief and threats against Ben that are put forth in such a way that he needs to question whether Big Tag is serious or not. Knowing that Ian is fully capable of committing such acts really should put the fear of God into anyone. LOL!
In all honesty, Big Tag is one of the best characters in the entire Masters & Mercenaries series. I guess that's why he turns up in other series, too. He straddles the line between serious super spy and teenaged boy in a grown man's body with his antics and general goofiness. Give him a lemon bar and he's a declawed kitten.
There are times that I'm left questioning what the full story is with a side character or two who obviously had their story told, but it doesn't stop me from enjoying this. That said, having knowledge of this universe, which includes at least the first few books in the Masters & Mercenaries, Topped, and Nights in Bliss series, is recommended.
Story: 4.5 stars
H = 30; h = late 20s, early 30s
Right out of the gate, I have to share my appreciation for the family trees. I'm behind in the original M&M series and this series, as well as the Nights in Bliss series, which has a crossover, so this is über helpful.
Ben (Canadian Ken doll) Parker and Kenzie (Kenz, Bratz doll) Taggart have some things going on, that's for sure, but being in the spy biz doesn't seem to be doing them any favors. There were a few times when I just wanted to (GAH!) Ben, but I do love how he proves himself in the end.
The chemistry between the two wasn't always there. Still, I thoroughly enjoyed the action and the scenes when they got out of their heads.
She was like karma but with good lip gloss.
-- Kenzie Taggart
Ever the voice of reason, Ian Taggart (Big Tag), remains true to self with his comedic relief and threats against Ben that are put forth in such a way that he needs to question whether Big Tag is serious or not. Knowing that Ian is fully capable of committing such acts really should put the fear of God into anyone. LOL!
In all honesty, Big Tag is one of the best characters in the entire Masters & Mercenaries series. I guess that's why he turns up in other series, too. He straddles the line between serious super spy and teenaged boy in a grown man's body with his antics and general goofiness. Give him a lemon bar and he's a declawed kitten.
There are times that I'm left questioning what the full story is with a side character or two who obviously had their story told, but it doesn't stop me from enjoying this. That said, having knowledge of this universe, which includes at least the first few books in the Masters & Mercenaries, Topped, and Nights in Bliss series, is recommended.
Story: 4.5 stars
H = 30; h = late 20s, early 30s
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
“He made a decision in that moment. A decision to leave the spy out of this space. To be what he’d promised her. Her lover. Her protector. Her Dom.”
Kenzie and Ben have been a long time coming! These two have been circling each other for a while now and their coming together was just what I expected, explosive!
I loved how this story started with past missions and how Kenzie and Ben had interacted from the start before picking up from where the last mission ended. Getting Ben’s perspective was fun. I also always enjoy a trip to the Garden in London!
This was a great end to the new generation of Taggarts all getting heir happily ever afters!
🔥: “No, Kenzie. This is going to be my way. All the way.”
Kenzie and Ben have been a long time coming! These two have been circling each other for a while now and their coming together was just what I expected, explosive!
I loved how this story started with past missions and how Kenzie and Ben had interacted from the start before picking up from where the last mission ended. Getting Ben’s perspective was fun. I also always enjoy a trip to the Garden in London!
This was a great end to the new generation of Taggarts all getting heir happily ever afters!
🔥: “No, Kenzie. This is going to be my way. All the way.”
March 24, 2026
I did not expect these two to claw at my heart as much as they did, but here we are! Ben and Kenzie have been throwing themselves at each other, and then quickly backing away, for various reasons, for years now. They finally have a chance, but fate won’t make things easy on them. The real impetus is their own feelings, their own thoughts, their own dragons that they need to slay. They get there, but wow, they took us on quite the roller coaster to get there, and dragged everyone along for the ride. One thing though, one thing they never quavered on was their commitment and attraction to each other. It got jumbled, it got tossed around, but deep in their souls, right in their hearts, they always kept that love alive <3
March 30, 2026
4.75 Stars ⭐️
I know that I say this every time - but man, I LOVE this series. I love this entire world - and it is slowly but surely becoming a gigantic world. We are now at well over 30 books in the main series and the spin offs and yet, I am still here for as many books as Ms. Blake wants to write.
This book had the last of Ian Taggert's daughters getting her HEA. It was Ben and Kenzie's book and was the last book in the next generation spin offs for the kids (now grown adults) in the US. Apparently, we are going to be moving to the next generation in the UK next -can't wait.
So, about this book. While I really liked it a whole lot, there were still things that bothered me a bit. Basically, it was the completely crazy responses and the hot and cold nature of Ben. His compete over reaction and his treatment of Kenzie after a certain phone call even seemed over the top to me. I seriously thought, "You've got to be kidding me." I'm not sure what reaction I was supposed to have, but it made me angry and did not FEEL organic. To me, it felt like it was something put into the story to create unnecessary drama.....so that did pull me out of the story a bit.
But, even with that, I still loved this book. I am glad we finally got some closure on an overarching story arc that has been going on for several books - it was time to close that storyline.
As always, it was great to see all of our favorite characters back on the page. I will never get enough of the Taggert's - any Big Tag is good for me.
Now begins the wait for the London gang :)
I know that I say this every time - but man, I LOVE this series. I love this entire world - and it is slowly but surely becoming a gigantic world. We are now at well over 30 books in the main series and the spin offs and yet, I am still here for as many books as Ms. Blake wants to write.
This book had the last of Ian Taggert's daughters getting her HEA. It was Ben and Kenzie's book and was the last book in the next generation spin offs for the kids (now grown adults) in the US. Apparently, we are going to be moving to the next generation in the UK next -can't wait.
So, about this book. While I really liked it a whole lot, there were still things that bothered me a bit. Basically, it was the completely crazy responses and the hot and cold nature of Ben. His compete over reaction and his treatment of Kenzie after a certain phone call even seemed over the top to me. I seriously thought, "You've got to be kidding me." I'm not sure what reaction I was supposed to have, but it made me angry and did not FEEL organic. To me, it felt like it was something put into the story to create unnecessary drama.....so that did pull me out of the story a bit.
But, even with that, I still loved this book. I am glad we finally got some closure on an overarching story arc that has been going on for several books - it was time to close that storyline.
As always, it was great to see all of our favorite characters back on the page. I will never get enough of the Taggert's - any Big Tag is good for me.
Now begins the wait for the London gang :)
Read
March 26, 2026Sadly, this was disappointing. I wanted Kinz to have a big romance and instead she got Ben.
I wanted to throw him out of that plane.
I wanted to throw him out of that plane.
March 28, 2026
"Maggie, I want to forget all reasons why this can't work." She went on her toes and brought her lips close to his, hovering. "Then maybe you're ready. Kiss me, Ben. See how it feels this time. See how it feels when it's the right time and the right place and the absolute right woman for you."
Ben has had a very complicated relationship with "Maggie". Aka, Kara. But neither of those names are actually the real name of the person Ben is infactuated with. Kenzie is the one - but she is only just now allowed to share her real identity with Ben. Things seem to be getting more difficult before they get better.
Kenzie believes in love at first sight - and she has definitely felt that way about Ben. Having to hide her identity for so long has been difficult. Now that she has come clean - she's not sure Ben really trusts her. And she's not sure she can trust what he wants out of this relationship. Intel or love? It's hard to wait and see which.
I love Kenzie's story! I didn't know what to think of Ben in the beginning, but he finally won me over!
Ben has had a very complicated relationship with "Maggie". Aka, Kara. But neither of those names are actually the real name of the person Ben is infactuated with. Kenzie is the one - but she is only just now allowed to share her real identity with Ben. Things seem to be getting more difficult before they get better.
Kenzie believes in love at first sight - and she has definitely felt that way about Ben. Having to hide her identity for so long has been difficult. Now that she has come clean - she's not sure Ben really trusts her. And she's not sure she can trust what he wants out of this relationship. Intel or love? It's hard to wait and see which.
I love Kenzie's story! I didn't know what to think of Ben in the beginning, but he finally won me over!
Did Not Finish
April 15, 2026I think you have to be a fan of the series (or previous books) to enjoy this. I went into this book blind as an arc reader, and I just found myself super confused. To kick things off the beginning of the story feels more like a movie montage I should watching, and doesn't provide enough context for me to grasp what is actually happening. This continues through the book, where some things are explained, but not fully (or just at all) leaving me thinking "I'm clearly missing something here" taking me out of the story.
I wasn't even able to push myself to finish this book before the release date because I just feel so disconnected as a reader. Long story short, if you think you want to read this, go back to book 1 first or else you just won't connect with the story like all of the other reviewers are.
I won't leave a star rating because I don't feel like I can adequately criticize or praise it! It wouldn't be fair to the author :)
I wasn't even able to push myself to finish this book before the release date because I just feel so disconnected as a reader. Long story short, if you think you want to read this, go back to book 1 first or else you just won't connect with the story like all of the other reviewers are.
I won't leave a star rating because I don't feel like I can adequately criticize or praise it! It wouldn't be fair to the author :)
April 30, 2026
The kids are all grown and saved the world!
March 24, 2026
Wow
Just as amazing as always. They had ups and downs, along with danger and drama. A truly great read.
Narration was awesome as usual.
Just as amazing as always. They had ups and downs, along with danger and drama. A truly great read.
Narration was awesome as usual.
March 24, 2026
Amazon / Amazon Worldwide / Apple / Nook / Kobo / Google / Lexi's Store / Audible
When Kenzie met Ben it was all heart eyes and she knew she found her man. But for the woman who falls in love weekly, Ben would become the one to take those rose colored glasses off her, because he's damaged and thinks he can't love. How can the woman who's all about love - for her family and for the man she wants to spend the rest of her life with - find happiness with a man who can't love?
Ben can't get over the fact that the pink haired woman he's fascinated with has been lying to him since they met. He's also not sure if he can trust her or her huge family full of spies. But if she can help him take down Huisman, he can do this op, have some fun while they're at it. He's not in any danger of losing his heart, though, because he knows he's not capable of the kind of love Kenzie wants.
We've been getting bits and pieces, teasers really, of what was to come for Kenzie and Ben, and I've been eagerly anticipating the last of Big Tag's kid's to finally find her one. And boy did she pick a doozy, because Ben lead her on a merry chase for his heart. He was so damaged by his relationship with Huisman that he couldn't see what was right in front of him and it almost cost him Kenzie (and his life). Thank God for Kenzie and her big family, because they welcomed him with open arms. Well, some of them only after a little bit of tough love and interrogation. Kenzie may have been the last to find love, but she was the perfect one to end this part of the next gen series. She's adorable, with the biggest heart ever, willing to do whatever she had to to save the people she loved, even when she wasn't sure all of them loved her the way she loved them. Ben, oh Ben. Sigh...such a damaged man who made so many stupid, stubborn decisions that ended up hurting everyone. But his redemption came in the form of love, and just in time. I'm going to miss this series, but the next one is coming, and I can't wait!
ARC provided by Valentine PR for an honest review.
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Review of advance copy received from Author
This entire New Recruits series was like watching my children grow right before my eyes. The odd feeling of - it felt like years and also like yesterday when the world was first teased with a snippet of Ben and Kenzie, or Ms. Magenta as she was known to him then. Now here we are at the end of the New Recruits series 🥹 and it's all the emotions bubbling to the surface, but most noteworthy I'd say how nostalgia and bittersweet come out on top. 💝 Everything about these kids, this second generation, has been beyond my wildest expectations. It's been by far Lexi's best writing, which says a lot, as I've been a hardcore fan and reader of hers for close to fifteen years.
Kenzie Taggert has been in love with Ben Parker since the beginning of this series. She is the sunshiny, girly-girl of the group who loves love and after her first glimpse of Ben she saw rainbows and unicorns and couldn't wait to start her epic love story with him. The hard part is it's hard to fall in love, especially with that insta-all consuming-love, but know that you can't be with the person because the world will explode. Okay, maybe we don't all know that, but the insta-all consuming part, yes, ❤️ it's something I'm sure we can all say has happened a time or two. Kenzie likes to fall in love just about every other week, but for some reason when she saw Ben Parker it was different, but it took years until they could actually have even a remote chance of being together. The biggest obsticle, Ben thought Ms. Magenta was one woman with a big personality disorder, he didn't realize that Kala and Kenzie switched all the time, and secondly he dedicated his life to chasing down the one man who was set to destroy his.
Give the girl a break, she just wants her man!!😂 JK, she also wants to be a spy, to live in a pink colored world, she's a multi-facited woman and I love her so much!
Ben doesn't trust easily, so when he did find out that he'd been duped by the one woman he'd been falling for, that she was actually two women, while he did feel somewhat better that she didn't need major therapy and the part of her he was always drawn to was actually Kenzie, he wasn't thrilled to having been lied to. However, he also knew he'd never actually be able to settle down and give her the life she wanted as long as Huiseman was alive.
The few times Ben's mind wasn't fixated on catching Huiseman was when it was memorized by Kenzie Taggart or the mystery that was Ms. Magenta. Thankfully in this book it's all come out, but I also love the beginning of this book where we get a recap of their history together. It was fun retracing every interaction they'd had up the present where Ben was finally able to piece which woman had actually been in his presence.
I was so thankful for so many easter eggs, historical bits dropped here and there, and then just the beautiful story that was Love and Let Spy. It had moments that cut deep, moments that made me weep, it was reflective, joyous, funny, everything that a Lexi Blake novel always brings out in me emotionally was tucked away in there. It was also a book that really reflected that while each child is a reflection of their parent; sometimes a wonderful combination, sometimes leaning towards one parent or another; Kenzie and Ben were the drama llamas of this new recruit bunch. It was kind of like Ian had been holding onto his popcorn waiting for the two of them, but also knowing he'd need lots of kind words, knowledge, and to dig deep into his own arsenals because even though everyone says Kala is his mini-me, she's more like Charlotte when it actually comes to feelings and being a stone cold Russian. Kenzie is Ian's daughter through and through when it comes to being overly dramatic and wearing her heart on her sleeves. I mean who else played Gun's and Roses on repeat when he thought he lost his love.😉 Kenzie also has a playlist for every mood. It's sweet how much both girls take after their parents and Ian is such a good dad, and found-father figure. He loves so hard, mostly you know this through his love language of sarcasm, but once you are in his circle there's no getting out. It just took Ben awhile to understand that too. Again, being last when you watch everyone else around you fall in love, which goes for both Ben and Kenzie, it was tough, especially when lies, secrets, and saving the world were involved. They deserved a bit of drama llama time.😉
Lastly, I've loved every dedication that Lexi has ever written in her books, but none more so than probably this one. Every mention throughout the book of what is contained within this particular dedication is hilarious and just got better and better as the running joke went on. I won’t spoil it...but thank you Lexi for adding that and sharing where that bit of inspiration came from. It was perfect 👌😅
Kenzie Taggert has been in love with Ben Parker since the beginning of this series. She is the sunshiny, girly-girl of the group who loves love and after her first glimpse of Ben she saw rainbows and unicorns and couldn't wait to start her epic love story with him. The hard part is it's hard to fall in love, especially with that insta-all consuming-love, but know that you can't be with the person because the world will explode. Okay, maybe we don't all know that, but the insta-all consuming part, yes, ❤️ it's something I'm sure we can all say has happened a time or two. Kenzie likes to fall in love just about every other week, but for some reason when she saw Ben Parker it was different, but it took years until they could actually have even a remote chance of being together. The biggest obsticle, Ben thought Ms. Magenta was one woman with a big personality disorder, he didn't realize that Kala and Kenzie switched all the time, and secondly he dedicated his life to chasing down the one man who was set to destroy his.
Give the girl a break, she just wants her man!!😂 JK, she also wants to be a spy, to live in a pink colored world, she's a multi-facited woman and I love her so much!
Ben doesn't trust easily, so when he did find out that he'd been duped by the one woman he'd been falling for, that she was actually two women, while he did feel somewhat better that she didn't need major therapy and the part of her he was always drawn to was actually Kenzie, he wasn't thrilled to having been lied to. However, he also knew he'd never actually be able to settle down and give her the life she wanted as long as Huiseman was alive.
The few times Ben's mind wasn't fixated on catching Huiseman was when it was memorized by Kenzie Taggart or the mystery that was Ms. Magenta. Thankfully in this book it's all come out, but I also love the beginning of this book where we get a recap of their history together. It was fun retracing every interaction they'd had up the present where Ben was finally able to piece which woman had actually been in his presence.
I was so thankful for so many easter eggs, historical bits dropped here and there, and then just the beautiful story that was Love and Let Spy. It had moments that cut deep, moments that made me weep, it was reflective, joyous, funny, everything that a Lexi Blake novel always brings out in me emotionally was tucked away in there. It was also a book that really reflected that while each child is a reflection of their parent; sometimes a wonderful combination, sometimes leaning towards one parent or another; Kenzie and Ben were the drama llamas of this new recruit bunch. It was kind of like Ian had been holding onto his popcorn waiting for the two of them, but also knowing he'd need lots of kind words, knowledge, and to dig deep into his own arsenals because even though everyone says Kala is his mini-me, she's more like Charlotte when it actually comes to feelings and being a stone cold Russian. Kenzie is Ian's daughter through and through when it comes to being overly dramatic and wearing her heart on her sleeves. I mean who else played Gun's and Roses on repeat when he thought he lost his love.😉 Kenzie also has a playlist for every mood. It's sweet how much both girls take after their parents and Ian is such a good dad, and found-father figure. He loves so hard, mostly you know this through his love language of sarcasm, but once you are in his circle there's no getting out. It just took Ben awhile to understand that too. Again, being last when you watch everyone else around you fall in love, which goes for both Ben and Kenzie, it was tough, especially when lies, secrets, and saving the world were involved. They deserved a bit of drama llama time.😉
Lastly, I've loved every dedication that Lexi has ever written in her books, but none more so than probably this one. Every mention throughout the book of what is contained within this particular dedication is hilarious and just got better and better as the running joke went on. I won’t spoil it...but thank you Lexi for adding that and sharing where that bit of inspiration came from. It was perfect 👌😅
March 26, 2026
After circling one another throughout the entire series, Canadian spy Ben Parker finally unites with the woman of his dreams, CIA agent Kenzie Taggart in Love and Let Spy. With their story beginning by revisiting several past missions from the earlier books, already seen from Kenzie’s perspective, it’s intriguing to see them through Ben’s eyes especially when he’s unaware of her big secret at those points, but they also help explain his emotional guardedness. Years spent pursuing a single adversary who knows exactly how to manipulate him have left Ben deeply mistrustful, so it’s no surprise he repeatedly puts his foot in it, sabotages his own chances with Kenzie, who may have accepted that Ben is the love of her life, but is definitely no pushover and refuses to let him take her for granted which gives their dynamic a satisfying balance.
Since the beginning, Ben has been a Captain Ahab–like figure, relentlessly chasing his personal Moby Dick in the form of his former childhood friend turned archenemy, Emmanuel Huisman. His only real distraction has been the American spy who captured his attention. The added twist of the identity of ‘Miss Magenta’ being shared between identical twins Kenzie and Kala adds both humour and context, especially in hindsight, as it explains her erratic behaviour, going from sweet and affectionate to literally throwing him out of a plane without a parachute, instances that had left Ben questioning Maggie’s sanity on more than one occasion. While discovering there were two of them comes as a strange relief, the circumstances are far from ideal. Just as Ben is obsessed with bringing down Huisman, the misogynistic Huisman is insanely fixated on him and his refusal to let anything or anyone including Kenzie come between them raises the stakes and building the tension right through to the gripping finale.
As expected from this author, the book blends intense action with sharp humour. There’s no shortage of danger, kidnappings, torture, and high-risk missions all feature heavily, but any darker elements are offset by the witty banter and strong group dynamics as the next generation proves they’re fully capable of saving the world, while indulging in some risqué escapades along the way. Their camaraderie and squabbling that only people who’ve grown up together have bring the characters vividly to life while adding an energy to the story. They’re a chaotic but highly effective team, and it’s clear they’ve inherited both the skills and the personalities of those who came before them. The overarching plot is tightly woven, centring on a megalomaniacal villain worthy of a James Bond story (all he’s missing is a fluffy white cat). There’s plenty to enjoy, from Sosa, the reluctant teenage assassin who expertly gets under Kenzie’s skin by comparing her to a Bratz doll to the unforgettable visual of TJ going full Rambo in a no holds barred mission to rescue his Lou. And naturally, Big Tag and the original crew aren’t about to let their children steal all the spotlight, especially if embarrassing them along the way is part of the fun.
Overall, this book is an engaging, action-packed finale to the Masters and Mercenaries Next Gen series, one that delivers on both romance and suspense. It wraps up the central storyline while leaving enough breadcrumbs to keep readers intrigued about what’s next with the focus shifting to the London crew, and if early glimpses of Lucy and her team are anything to go by, there’s plenty more excitement still to come.
Since the beginning, Ben has been a Captain Ahab–like figure, relentlessly chasing his personal Moby Dick in the form of his former childhood friend turned archenemy, Emmanuel Huisman. His only real distraction has been the American spy who captured his attention. The added twist of the identity of ‘Miss Magenta’ being shared between identical twins Kenzie and Kala adds both humour and context, especially in hindsight, as it explains her erratic behaviour, going from sweet and affectionate to literally throwing him out of a plane without a parachute, instances that had left Ben questioning Maggie’s sanity on more than one occasion. While discovering there were two of them comes as a strange relief, the circumstances are far from ideal. Just as Ben is obsessed with bringing down Huisman, the misogynistic Huisman is insanely fixated on him and his refusal to let anything or anyone including Kenzie come between them raises the stakes and building the tension right through to the gripping finale.
As expected from this author, the book blends intense action with sharp humour. There’s no shortage of danger, kidnappings, torture, and high-risk missions all feature heavily, but any darker elements are offset by the witty banter and strong group dynamics as the next generation proves they’re fully capable of saving the world, while indulging in some risqué escapades along the way. Their camaraderie and squabbling that only people who’ve grown up together have bring the characters vividly to life while adding an energy to the story. They’re a chaotic but highly effective team, and it’s clear they’ve inherited both the skills and the personalities of those who came before them. The overarching plot is tightly woven, centring on a megalomaniacal villain worthy of a James Bond story (all he’s missing is a fluffy white cat). There’s plenty to enjoy, from Sosa, the reluctant teenage assassin who expertly gets under Kenzie’s skin by comparing her to a Bratz doll to the unforgettable visual of TJ going full Rambo in a no holds barred mission to rescue his Lou. And naturally, Big Tag and the original crew aren’t about to let their children steal all the spotlight, especially if embarrassing them along the way is part of the fun.
Overall, this book is an engaging, action-packed finale to the Masters and Mercenaries Next Gen series, one that delivers on both romance and suspense. It wraps up the central storyline while leaving enough breadcrumbs to keep readers intrigued about what’s next with the focus shifting to the London crew, and if early glimpses of Lucy and her team are anything to go by, there’s plenty more excitement still to come.
March 24, 2026
4.5stars- LOVE AND LET SPY is the sixth and final instalment in Lexi Blake’s contemporary, adult MASTERS AND MERCENARIES: NEW RECRUITS erotic, Dom/sub, romantic suspense series set in the author’s numerous interconnected Masters and Mercenaries series. This is CIA agent Kenzie Taggart, and Canadian CSIS agent Ben Parker’s story line. LOVE AND LET SPY should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up after the events of book five SPY WITH ME, as well as the ongoing premise throughout the series. Several characters cross over with, or are mentioned from the author’s numerous Bliss Colorado series.
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from several omniscient third person perspectives including Kenzie and Ben, using present day and events from the past, LOVE AND LET SPY is the culmination of several instalments wherein the family owned McKay-Taggart Agency is circling the globe searching for a man who is determined to destroy Ian ‘Big Tag’ Taggart. With her identical twin sister safely recovering at home from a near death torture, Kenzie and the team continue their search for Dr. Manny Huisman, an experimental scientist, a monster who heads an organization to disrupt the world’s systems. From torture to drugs, misogyny to underaged Russian assassins, Huisman is the target of many international agencies but Huisman’s history and connections to CSIS Agent Ben Parker is troubling for the team at McKay-Taggart but none more so than our story line heroine. Kenzie fell in love with Ben months before but as spies, she and her sister would often go undercover as one another, and in this, Ben struggles to trust, to accept the truth, and n the end, Ben pushes Kenzie out of his life, willing to trust a madman before he can trust the woman with whom he was falling in love.
The world building follows several pathways, introducing a new Masters and Mercenaries team house in London, England. As the McKay-Taggart team travel the world, they will discover a mutual distrust of one another, but an equal determined to rid the world of madness and mayhem.
The relationship between Ben and Kenzie is fraught with issues of trust, betrayal, secrets and lies. Kenzie and her sister Kala would often interchange identities, and in this, Ben is left wondering if he ever knew the woman that called to his heart. Unable to accept the betrayal, Ben is willing to push Kenzie out of his life but never expected to face an entire village of people willing to destroy his life for hurting our story line heroine. The $ex scenes are provocative and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic, language and text.
Once again, there is a large ensemble cast of familiar, charismatic and dynamic secondary and supporting characters with powerful personalities and a history with the man in charge.
LOVE AND LET SPY is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, heart break and trust, family and relationships, forgiveness and love. The character driven premise is detailed, dramatic, edgy and raw; the romance is limited but fated; the characters are determined, desperate and charismatic.
copy supplied for review
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from several omniscient third person perspectives including Kenzie and Ben, using present day and events from the past, LOVE AND LET SPY is the culmination of several instalments wherein the family owned McKay-Taggart Agency is circling the globe searching for a man who is determined to destroy Ian ‘Big Tag’ Taggart. With her identical twin sister safely recovering at home from a near death torture, Kenzie and the team continue their search for Dr. Manny Huisman, an experimental scientist, a monster who heads an organization to disrupt the world’s systems. From torture to drugs, misogyny to underaged Russian assassins, Huisman is the target of many international agencies but Huisman’s history and connections to CSIS Agent Ben Parker is troubling for the team at McKay-Taggart but none more so than our story line heroine. Kenzie fell in love with Ben months before but as spies, she and her sister would often go undercover as one another, and in this, Ben struggles to trust, to accept the truth, and n the end, Ben pushes Kenzie out of his life, willing to trust a madman before he can trust the woman with whom he was falling in love.
The world building follows several pathways, introducing a new Masters and Mercenaries team house in London, England. As the McKay-Taggart team travel the world, they will discover a mutual distrust of one another, but an equal determined to rid the world of madness and mayhem.
The relationship between Ben and Kenzie is fraught with issues of trust, betrayal, secrets and lies. Kenzie and her sister Kala would often interchange identities, and in this, Ben is left wondering if he ever knew the woman that called to his heart. Unable to accept the betrayal, Ben is willing to push Kenzie out of his life but never expected to face an entire village of people willing to destroy his life for hurting our story line heroine. The $ex scenes are provocative and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic, language and text.
Once again, there is a large ensemble cast of familiar, charismatic and dynamic secondary and supporting characters with powerful personalities and a history with the man in charge.
LOVE AND LET SPY is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, heart break and trust, family and relationships, forgiveness and love. The character driven premise is detailed, dramatic, edgy and raw; the romance is limited but fated; the characters are determined, desperate and charismatic.
copy supplied for review
March 28, 2026
Thank you Valentine PR and even more thanks to Lexi Blake for gifting me this book of a series that I have been dying to read. Did I go buy the first 16 books of this series because I am addicted? Yes. Was it a long time coming that this was going to happen? Also yes.
I LOVE a found family. Add in a found family with spies! I'm in! Like all the way in! I had to do a quick overview of the other books just to understand where Ben and Kenzie met and how they started. I did it just to get a more comprehensive view since the plot is interwined within all the books in the New Recruits series (I recommend reading them all in order).
I love Kenzie. I think it's because I see myself in her (not the spy stuff duh) but the romantacising the things in life. Creating stories of love in my brain. Being "dramatic" for sharing my feelings and emotions outwardly. I felt her throughout this book and wanted to punch Ben for making her feel loved but also making her feel like she was not his priority and being cold to her at times. While I would have made Ben grovel more because of his hot & cold, I loved the ending and I loved how she was able to get her happily ever after that she deserves.
I had a love/hate relationship with Ben. Don't get me wrong, I love that man and all I wanted to do was hug him and tell him to trust them. But, god dang some of the decisions he makes made me want to punch a wall. Cause what do you mean you are answering calls and letting this man manipulate you. I LOVE that he finally decides on taking care of himself and not letting a toxic relationship be his priority.
Of course big shoutout to Big Tag. Love that man and will probably always love that man. The way he loves so deeply and cares so much for his team and lets all this peeps find a home within his family makes me want to meet him and have him hug me. (I personally believe he gives the greatest hugs lol).
Overall, amazing book with lots of drama, action and found family! This whole series starting from M&M has been on my list to read for so long and now that I am finally getting around to it, I know in my heart and soul that it will become my next obsession and I WILL most definitley be buying the rest of the series (once I read the first 16 cause a girl needs to replenish her bank account lol).
I LOVE a found family. Add in a found family with spies! I'm in! Like all the way in! I had to do a quick overview of the other books just to understand where Ben and Kenzie met and how they started. I did it just to get a more comprehensive view since the plot is interwined within all the books in the New Recruits series (I recommend reading them all in order).
I love Kenzie. I think it's because I see myself in her (not the spy stuff duh) but the romantacising the things in life. Creating stories of love in my brain. Being "dramatic" for sharing my feelings and emotions outwardly. I felt her throughout this book and wanted to punch Ben for making her feel loved but also making her feel like she was not his priority and being cold to her at times. While I would have made Ben grovel more because of his hot & cold, I loved the ending and I loved how she was able to get her happily ever after that she deserves.
I had a love/hate relationship with Ben. Don't get me wrong, I love that man and all I wanted to do was hug him and tell him to trust them. But, god dang some of the decisions he makes made me want to punch a wall. Cause what do you mean you are answering calls and letting this man manipulate you. I LOVE that he finally decides on taking care of himself and not letting a toxic relationship be his priority.
Of course big shoutout to Big Tag. Love that man and will probably always love that man. The way he loves so deeply and cares so much for his team and lets all this peeps find a home within his family makes me want to meet him and have him hug me. (I personally believe he gives the greatest hugs lol).
Overall, amazing book with lots of drama, action and found family! This whole series starting from M&M has been on my list to read for so long and now that I am finally getting around to it, I know in my heart and soul that it will become my next obsession and I WILL most definitley be buying the rest of the series (once I read the first 16 cause a girl needs to replenish her bank account lol).
Review of advance copy received from Author
My Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️.25
In Short: I love this series by Lexi Blake. And this book 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.
I've been waiting for Ben and Kenzie's story. It has been teased for the entire series. The book didn't disappoint. I thought Lexi did a great job with their story. Enjoyed seeing how she pulled it off. Fun read and definitely recommend.
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. I would jump in at least at the start of New Recruits personally. While these are still interconnected, I think this installment is more series-like and best read in order.
Spice Meter: ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
Romantic Tropes and Things:
-dual POV
-spies
-action/adventure romance
-BD SM
-lust at first sight
-hidden/secret identity
-I'm gonna get you back
I've started adding this information for those who want to know for every book.
-Ends in MC marriage?
-Ends in MC kids/pregnancy?
-Pregnancy? MC kids in book?
You can also find me on Insta @mylastromancenovel.
In Short: I love this series by Lexi Blake. And this book 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.
I've been waiting for Ben and Kenzie's story. It has been teased for the entire series. The book didn't disappoint. I thought Lexi did a great job with their story. Enjoyed seeing how she pulled it off. Fun read and definitely recommend.
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. I would jump in at least at the start of New Recruits personally. While these are still interconnected, I think this installment is more series-like and best read in order.
Spice Meter: ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
Romantic Tropes and Things:
-dual POV
-spies
-action/adventure romance
-BD SM
-lust at first sight
-hidden/secret identity
-I'm gonna get you back
I've started adding this information for those who want to know for every book.
-Ends in MC marriage?
-Ends in MC kids/pregnancy?
-Pregnancy? MC kids in book?
You can also find me on Insta @mylastromancenovel.
Review of advance copy
I received a gifted copy of this ARC via Valentine PR and am voluntarily writing this honest review. LOVE AND LET SPY is Book 6 in the MASTERS AND MERCENARIES: NEW RECRUITS series by Lexi Blake. This is the love story of Ben Parker and Kenzie Taggert, Canadian and American operatives, respectively. Ben and Kenzie had met, teamed up, and fallen in love during joint operations to hunt down a terrorist. Would they have to choose between saving the world or saving each other? This is a spicy, open door, third person, dual POV, contemporary romantic suspense with tropes that include close proximity, hidden identities, workplace romance, BDSM, spy novel, tortured hero, badass spy heroine, found family, and high stakes: saving the world. If you follow my reviews, you will know that I absolutely adore the Masters and Mercenaries series, especially the New Recruits. This series has so much history. The older characters have met, fallen in love, had children, and now their children are in the spy game too. I am truly sad to see this series move on away from the Dallas McKay-Taggert family when there are still so many children who need HEAs! I have been anticipating Ben and Kenzie’s story since the first book in the New Recruits spin-off and have enjoyed the progression of their relationship over the past five books. Now in a book of their own, the author recapped their story from their first contact, allowing the reader to benefit from the Ben and Kenzie’s perspectives instead of through the observations of others. The couple experience a lot of ups and downs, especially since half of Ben’s contact has been with Kenzie’s twin, Kala, leaving him confused with the hot/cold reaction he received. Ben had a lot of trust issues because of his young adult experiences, and was definitely a work in progress. Poor Kenzie just wanted this man she had been enamored with since the moment she set eyes on him! The author put this couple through their paces, but all the struggles made their HEA that much sweeter. I love the comedy the secondary characters added to the story and am jealous of the large extended family that McKay Taggert represents. The spy story really kept the book exciting and the intense emotional connection made the couple real. I definitely recommend this book for readers who enjoy romantic suspense spy novels where the BDSM lifestyle is a central theme.
March 26, 2026
Kenzie and Ben finally get their story and its fitting given Ben’s history with the protagonist ‘Manny’ Huisman. Ben’s mission in life was to take out his former best friend come terrorist but when he meets the mysterious Miss Magenta his focus takes a bit of a curve ball. Not knowing that she is a twin he is confused by the woman who is hot and cold. Ben finds himself more attracted to the softer side of ‘Maggie’ as he nicknames her.
Kenzie falls in love easily but there was something about Ben the first time she met him that kept her wanting more. Torn between revealing the truth about her and her twin Kala, and her work as a spy she keeps secrets which come out in the after a dramatic rescue at the beginning of the book. Kenzie is happy he now knows but Ben feels betrayed by the woman he trusted and pulls himself back into his world of revenge.
As a couple these two annoyed me at times especially when Kenzie felt she wasn’t enough and Ben needed to get his head out of his bottom! That said their story has been blooming throughout the whole series and I am glad they got their happy ending. Being the final book in the series this has an international cast and as always Big Tag offers his ‘words of wisdom’ to Ben. Kenzie is after all his daughter and doesn’t want to see her hurt. Big Tag has to be my favourite character out of everyone, his humour and threats to prospective partners just have me in stiches throughout. As for Kenzie and Ben, they get there but no without the spying twists and turns and the help from an unexpected source. Loved the epilogue but feel this is one book you need to read the whole series for as a lot of loose ends are tied up and it introduces the characters for the next series – can’t wait!
I received this as an advanced reader copy and have left my own review
Kenzie falls in love easily but there was something about Ben the first time she met him that kept her wanting more. Torn between revealing the truth about her and her twin Kala, and her work as a spy she keeps secrets which come out in the after a dramatic rescue at the beginning of the book. Kenzie is happy he now knows but Ben feels betrayed by the woman he trusted and pulls himself back into his world of revenge.
As a couple these two annoyed me at times especially when Kenzie felt she wasn’t enough and Ben needed to get his head out of his bottom! That said their story has been blooming throughout the whole series and I am glad they got their happy ending. Being the final book in the series this has an international cast and as always Big Tag offers his ‘words of wisdom’ to Ben. Kenzie is after all his daughter and doesn’t want to see her hurt. Big Tag has to be my favourite character out of everyone, his humour and threats to prospective partners just have me in stiches throughout. As for Kenzie and Ben, they get there but no without the spying twists and turns and the help from an unexpected source. Loved the epilogue but feel this is one book you need to read the whole series for as a lot of loose ends are tied up and it introduces the characters for the next series – can’t wait!
I received this as an advanced reader copy and have left my own review
March 27, 2026
I went into Love and Let Spy thinking I’d get a fun, slightly chaotic spy romance… but it actually hit me with way more emotion than I expected (in the best way).
Ben and Kenzie have this long, complicated history, and you can *feel* it in every interaction. They’ve been circling each other forever, so when things finally start falling into place, it doesn’t feel rushed but it feels earned. Messy, yes, but real. And honestly, the mess is what makes it so good. The whole “one identity, two sisters” reveal could’ve been confusing, but I actually loved it. It tied so many things together and made past moments click in a really satisfying way.
Kenzie was easily my favorite. She’s bubbly, dramatic, a little chaotic but underneath all that, she’s strong and very sure of herself. She knows what she deserves, and I loved that she didn’t just let Ben get away with his nonsense. Ben, though… he tested my patience. He’s so deep in his own head and mission that there were multiple moments where I just wanted to shake him and say, “please get it together.”
The plot itself is very action-driven, there’s always something happening. Missions, danger, chasing a villain across the world, it has that big, cinematic spy feel. But what I really appreciated is that the relationship never gets lost in all the action. The emotional tension stays front and center.
I will say, it doesn’t really feel like a standalone. There’s a lot of history, a lot of characters, and you can tell this story is part of something bigger. But even without knowing everything, the emotional moments still land.
Overall, it’s dramatic, fast-paced, a little over the top at times but also really fun and addictive. If you like spy romances with tension, banter, and a slow-burn couple that *really* takes their time, this one’s definitely worth picking up.
⭐ 4 stars
Ben and Kenzie have this long, complicated history, and you can *feel* it in every interaction. They’ve been circling each other forever, so when things finally start falling into place, it doesn’t feel rushed but it feels earned. Messy, yes, but real. And honestly, the mess is what makes it so good. The whole “one identity, two sisters” reveal could’ve been confusing, but I actually loved it. It tied so many things together and made past moments click in a really satisfying way.
Kenzie was easily my favorite. She’s bubbly, dramatic, a little chaotic but underneath all that, she’s strong and very sure of herself. She knows what she deserves, and I loved that she didn’t just let Ben get away with his nonsense. Ben, though… he tested my patience. He’s so deep in his own head and mission that there were multiple moments where I just wanted to shake him and say, “please get it together.”
The plot itself is very action-driven, there’s always something happening. Missions, danger, chasing a villain across the world, it has that big, cinematic spy feel. But what I really appreciated is that the relationship never gets lost in all the action. The emotional tension stays front and center.
I will say, it doesn’t really feel like a standalone. There’s a lot of history, a lot of characters, and you can tell this story is part of something bigger. But even without knowing everything, the emotional moments still land.
Overall, it’s dramatic, fast-paced, a little over the top at times but also really fun and addictive. If you like spy romances with tension, banter, and a slow-burn couple that *really* takes their time, this one’s definitely worth picking up.
⭐ 4 stars
March 28, 2026
I say this every time when I post a review about Lexi’s books, but this one is my new favourite. Kenzie and Ben’s story is long awaited, and I am thrilled at how it turned out. The plot was well developed, the pace and character development excellent and once again fantastic romance with spice.
The FMC Kenzie Taggart, developed through this story in a way that surprised and delighted me. She started in the original series as the light and fun twin with every appearance of her in previous books touching at the surface of how she comes to life in these pages. In terms of character trope it was very much a “Hidden depths” and “Misunderstood” for Kenz. Even the authors note speaks to that in the first few pages of the book.
As we get to know the MMC Ben, also shows that he is a heck of a lot more messed up than the previous books touch on. His story develops with first acknowledgment and then working through the trauma. Although it does seem to take the poor dude a while to get there. Even at the end of the story you know he has work to do.
The plot is action and suspenseful with a villain who you will all love to hate. This is the final story for this villain and if you have been reading the whole series you should buckle in for some heart stopping moments while our heroes work out how to bring him down.
The romance is hot and then cold due to the MMC working through his issues, so this is not a sweet love story, this is a love born from hard work. The “sad girl playlist” conversation discussed by our FMC speaks for the angst in getting there. The plot has Instalove, Secret Identity, Forced Proximity and Pining. Bedroom scenes are on page and they are medium spice.
The FMC Kenzie Taggart, developed through this story in a way that surprised and delighted me. She started in the original series as the light and fun twin with every appearance of her in previous books touching at the surface of how she comes to life in these pages. In terms of character trope it was very much a “Hidden depths” and “Misunderstood” for Kenz. Even the authors note speaks to that in the first few pages of the book.
As we get to know the MMC Ben, also shows that he is a heck of a lot more messed up than the previous books touch on. His story develops with first acknowledgment and then working through the trauma. Although it does seem to take the poor dude a while to get there. Even at the end of the story you know he has work to do.
The plot is action and suspenseful with a villain who you will all love to hate. This is the final story for this villain and if you have been reading the whole series you should buckle in for some heart stopping moments while our heroes work out how to bring him down.
The romance is hot and then cold due to the MMC working through his issues, so this is not a sweet love story, this is a love born from hard work. The “sad girl playlist” conversation discussed by our FMC speaks for the angst in getting there. The plot has Instalove, Secret Identity, Forced Proximity and Pining. Bedroom scenes are on page and they are medium spice.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kenzie and Ben you did not let me down! I have loved the new generation...LOVED them...and this was the perfect ending to the State side McKay-Taggart crew and an amazing departure point for the London crew. (Side note; that Epilogue was immense!)
Like all Blake novels, 'Love and Let Spy' this one fast-paced and emotionally layered. Blake is a goddess when it comes to blending espionage, humor, and heart in a way that feels both engaging and satisfying. Kenzie and Ben's the story delivers not just high-stakes intrigue but also a deeply personal journey of trust, identity, and vulnerability for both.
Kenzie knocked me on my ass a wee bit. (In the best possible way.) I felt like I was prepared for Kala's story and her truths but Kenzie's story made me feel raw in a way I wasn't expecting. She is intelligent, capable, and fiercely independent, yet she carries emotional scars that shape her decisions and relationships with everyone in her orbit in such a profound way. I love her!
Ben's characterisation was *chefs kiss*. I really don't want to give too much away but his relationship with Manny is so intriguing and just further highlights how Blake strikes a good balance between action and character development, ensuring that readers remain invested in both the mission and the relationships that unfold.
The best aspect of the novel for me though was how the novel handles trust. In a world built on secrets and deception, Kenzie and Ben’s journey toward honesty feels earned. Their emotional growth is as important as the external conflict, giving the story a satisfying depth.
You will never regret a Lexi Blake read!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Like all Blake novels, 'Love and Let Spy' this one fast-paced and emotionally layered. Blake is a goddess when it comes to blending espionage, humor, and heart in a way that feels both engaging and satisfying. Kenzie and Ben's the story delivers not just high-stakes intrigue but also a deeply personal journey of trust, identity, and vulnerability for both.
Kenzie knocked me on my ass a wee bit. (In the best possible way.) I felt like I was prepared for Kala's story and her truths but Kenzie's story made me feel raw in a way I wasn't expecting. She is intelligent, capable, and fiercely independent, yet she carries emotional scars that shape her decisions and relationships with everyone in her orbit in such a profound way. I love her!
Ben's characterisation was *chefs kiss*. I really don't want to give too much away but his relationship with Manny is so intriguing and just further highlights how Blake strikes a good balance between action and character development, ensuring that readers remain invested in both the mission and the relationships that unfold.
The best aspect of the novel for me though was how the novel handles trust. In a world built on secrets and deception, Kenzie and Ben’s journey toward honesty feels earned. Their emotional growth is as important as the external conflict, giving the story a satisfying depth.
You will never regret a Lexi Blake read!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 7, 2026
I have really enjoyed this series - the tight bond of the characters’ found and real family, sassy banter, steamy and sizzle, danger and suspense.
The start to this book (approx. first 25%) runs concurrently with previous books, but from the perspective of Kenzie and Ben. 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. Kenzie has previously come across as a bubblehead with little substance compared to her twin. This book clearly shows the nuances to Kenzie and a depth and intelligence that surprised me.
I struggled to even tolerate Ben in this book. He comes across as someone who only cares about himself. It’s been awhile since I’ve read a book where I actively didn’t want the feature couple to end up together. Towards the very end of the book I finally acknowledged he had been somewhat redeemed, but I would have liked to have seen him do more on page groveling.
The continuation of the Huisman storyline is suspenseful and brings Kenzie/Ben, Kala/Cooper, Lou/TJ, Tasha/Dare, Ian/Charlotte and more characters together for an action packed mission. The combination of all these 2nd generation characters is always entertaining. The action part of the storyline is intense, and we get to see previous main characters couples happily together and still in the spotlight.
I’m thrilled Lexi Blake brought us this final book in the series. The ending of this book is an exciting conclusion to Manny Huisman’s destructive and disruptive intentions. It is a wild ride.
I received a free ARC from the author and Valentine PR; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
The start to this book (approx. first 25%) runs concurrently with previous books, but from the perspective of Kenzie and Ben. 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. Kenzie has previously come across as a bubblehead with little substance compared to her twin. This book clearly shows the nuances to Kenzie and a depth and intelligence that surprised me.
I struggled to even tolerate Ben in this book. He comes across as someone who only cares about himself. It’s been awhile since I’ve read a book where I actively didn’t want the feature couple to end up together. Towards the very end of the book I finally acknowledged he had been somewhat redeemed, but I would have liked to have seen him do more on page groveling.
The continuation of the Huisman storyline is suspenseful and brings Kenzie/Ben, Kala/Cooper, Lou/TJ, Tasha/Dare, Ian/Charlotte and more characters together for an action packed mission. The combination of all these 2nd generation characters is always entertaining. The action part of the storyline is intense, and we get to see previous main characters couples happily together and still in the spotlight.
I’m thrilled Lexi Blake brought us this final book in the series. The ending of this book is an exciting conclusion to Manny Huisman’s destructive and disruptive intentions. It is a wild ride.
I received a free ARC from the author and Valentine PR; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
March 25, 2026
Not gonna lie, Kenzie and Ben’s book had me totally confused at the beginning! But then again, this is book 6 in the New Recruits series, and it runs the gamut of the timeline for all the other books in this series. I’d read something that happened and think “then I read that already“ so yeah that’s totally on me, but it did not in anyway affect my enjoyment of this book. But that’s my warning as well, do not read these books out of order!!
Kenzie always came off as the flighty twin. While Kala was all grumpy and murdery and witchy with a B, Kenzie was like Disney character; cute and sweet, but with teeth. Not only does she have teeth, but she’s got depth, too. It was a nice surprise, that really shouldn’t have been surprising, since her last name is Taggart.
Ben though, this boy is a little messed up. Between his twisted former friendship/betrayal with baddy Huisman to finding out that the woman he was attracted to was actually two different woman playing the same role…guy can’t catch a break. He almost blew up his and Kenzie’s relationship before it started.
His character had more growth than anyone in this series, imho. I enjoyed watching him and Kenzie navigate both their private lives and working together to bring down the evil one. I’m sad that we’ll be moving onto a whole new set of next gen-era, but hoping to see some glimpses of this group in the future. Lexi Blake has created a world I personally wouldn’t be cut out for, lol, but it’s always fun to visit!!
Kenzie always came off as the flighty twin. While Kala was all grumpy and murdery and witchy with a B, Kenzie was like Disney character; cute and sweet, but with teeth. Not only does she have teeth, but she’s got depth, too. It was a nice surprise, that really shouldn’t have been surprising, since her last name is Taggart.
Ben though, this boy is a little messed up. Between his twisted former friendship/betrayal with baddy Huisman to finding out that the woman he was attracted to was actually two different woman playing the same role…guy can’t catch a break. He almost blew up his and Kenzie’s relationship before it started.
His character had more growth than anyone in this series, imho. I enjoyed watching him and Kenzie navigate both their private lives and working together to bring down the evil one. I’m sad that we’ll be moving onto a whole new set of next gen-era, but hoping to see some glimpses of this group in the future. Lexi Blake has created a world I personally wouldn’t be cut out for, lol, but it’s always fun to visit!!
April 3, 2026
Two spies in love
Opposite attracts
Forced/close proximity
BDSM/Dom/sub
Hidden elements/undercover
Found family
Romantic suspense
Forgiveness
Sassy/banter/chemistry
100% recommend this book
Next Gen
"I'll k^ll you myself if you hurt her again." "I love it when my family hugs it out," Big Tag said.
"She's a beautiful woman. Are you done with her? I'll rethink everything if you can promise me you're not going to take some kind of revenge on her..."
"Maggie, I want to forget all reasons why this can't work." She went on her toes and brought her lips close to his, hovering.
"Then maybe you're ready. Kiss me, Ben. See how it feels this time. See how it feels when it's the right time and the right place and the absolute right woman for you."
She was like karma but with good lip gloss.
"He made a decision in that moment. A decision to leave the spy out of this space. To be what he'd promised her. Her lover.
Her protector. Her Dom."
"No, Kenzie. This is going to be my way. All the way."
Kenzie and Ben, i was so ready for their story! They have been circling each other for a while, and it was explosive! I couldn’t turn the pages quick enough! Exactly how I’d want a spies to lovers be this was absolutely perfection. What an explosive start, from their first interaction, you could feel their chemistry! I was frustrated with Ben at first, but he proved himself in the end. I was completely hooked.
Opposite attracts
Forced/close proximity
BDSM/Dom/sub
Hidden elements/undercover
Found family
Romantic suspense
Forgiveness
Sassy/banter/chemistry
100% recommend this book
Next Gen
"I'll k^ll you myself if you hurt her again." "I love it when my family hugs it out," Big Tag said.
"She's a beautiful woman. Are you done with her? I'll rethink everything if you can promise me you're not going to take some kind of revenge on her..."
"Maggie, I want to forget all reasons why this can't work." She went on her toes and brought her lips close to his, hovering.
"Then maybe you're ready. Kiss me, Ben. See how it feels this time. See how it feels when it's the right time and the right place and the absolute right woman for you."
She was like karma but with good lip gloss.
"He made a decision in that moment. A decision to leave the spy out of this space. To be what he'd promised her. Her lover.
Her protector. Her Dom."
"No, Kenzie. This is going to be my way. All the way."
Kenzie and Ben, i was so ready for their story! They have been circling each other for a while, and it was explosive! I couldn’t turn the pages quick enough! Exactly how I’d want a spies to lovers be this was absolutely perfection. What an explosive start, from their first interaction, you could feel their chemistry! I was frustrated with Ben at first, but he proved himself in the end. I was completely hooked.
April 4, 2026
I have read lots of M&M books and was so excited to get this ARC because I have been waiting for Ben and Kenzie! I absolutely love all these books - the situations they get into always keep me in suspense, which I love, and I love how Ben and Kenzie had so much push and pull and have been dancing around each other and involved in different operations. It's funny to hear his point of view on how sometimes she's cold, but others she's so great. I chuckled every time he referenced her hot and cold behavior. My heart has hurt for Kenzie every time she encounters Ben because for her, it was love and first sight and I can't imagine how tortured she was having to pretend she and Kara were one and the same.
As always, the rest of the crew - the families - are so fun to read and Big Tag is so funny without meaning to be. The Masters and Mercenaries series as a whole has an element of the BDSM lifestyle where characters are involved and own/attend clubs, but I'd say it's not a major player so if you usually don't read books with this element, you would probably be comfortable with this anyway. I fall into that category and I can't get enough of these books.
What to expect:
*romantic suspense
*secret identity
*love at first sight
*they're spies!
*found family
*so much banter
I received a complimentary eARC and my review is voluntary. Thank you to the author and Valentine PR.
As always, the rest of the crew - the families - are so fun to read and Big Tag is so funny without meaning to be. The Masters and Mercenaries series as a whole has an element of the BDSM lifestyle where characters are involved and own/attend clubs, but I'd say it's not a major player so if you usually don't read books with this element, you would probably be comfortable with this anyway. I fall into that category and I can't get enough of these books.
What to expect:
*romantic suspense
*secret identity
*love at first sight
*they're spies!
*found family
*so much banter
I received a complimentary eARC and my review is voluntary. Thank you to the author and Valentine PR.
April 6, 2026
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟/🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Format: Audiobook - Solo narration by Ryan West
Series / Standalone: Interconnected Standalone (Masters and Mercenaries, New Recruits, Book 6)
Tropes: Romantic Suspense, Hidden Identity, Workplace, Found Family, BDSM
Thanks to Valentine PR and the author for this gifted audiobook - all opinions are my own.
I have enjoyed this world so much and having this second generation series has been very fulfilling. It’s bittersweet that it’s come to an end but what a way to go out on a high note. Kenzie and Ben finally getting their hard fought HEA was one of the better stories in this second generation series. Kenzie is a certified baddie, as is the entire McKay/Taggart crew, and she really steals this show. Ben’s character grows quite a bit through this story and by the end he fits right in with the rest of the family. I loved the mentions from Bliss and the way we get to check in with everyone from previous stories/series. The sense of familiarity in this series is amazing.
I cannot get over the skill Ryan West exhibits narrating so many diverse characters. There are so many scenes with multiple characters interacting with each other and I never once confuse one for another. The different tones, inflections, accents…he has them all mastered and I will forever be a hype girl for this man. Solo narration at its best! He has done a phenomenal job with every book in this series.
Format: Audiobook - Solo narration by Ryan West
Series / Standalone: Interconnected Standalone (Masters and Mercenaries, New Recruits, Book 6)
Tropes: Romantic Suspense, Hidden Identity, Workplace, Found Family, BDSM
Thanks to Valentine PR and the author for this gifted audiobook - all opinions are my own.
I have enjoyed this world so much and having this second generation series has been very fulfilling. It’s bittersweet that it’s come to an end but what a way to go out on a high note. Kenzie and Ben finally getting their hard fought HEA was one of the better stories in this second generation series. Kenzie is a certified baddie, as is the entire McKay/Taggart crew, and she really steals this show. Ben’s character grows quite a bit through this story and by the end he fits right in with the rest of the family. I loved the mentions from Bliss and the way we get to check in with everyone from previous stories/series. The sense of familiarity in this series is amazing.
I cannot get over the skill Ryan West exhibits narrating so many diverse characters. There are so many scenes with multiple characters interacting with each other and I never once confuse one for another. The different tones, inflections, accents…he has them all mastered and I will forever be a hype girl for this man. Solo narration at its best! He has done a phenomenal job with every book in this series.
April 1, 2026
Love and Let Spy ARC Review
3.5⭐️
3.5🌶️
This was my first time reading a book by this author and I can say I had a mixed reception.
I love a spy story and the espionage side of this book was definitely pretty good. It felt like watching Charlie’s angels or even Get Smart (for anyone who remembers that) in terms of the spy stuff.
I had a bit of trouble with all the characters in the beginning but I think that’s just because I started at the end, I would probably know a lot more if I had begun this series from the start. Despite that I got used to everyone pretty quickly and I didn’t get them too mixed up.
The main leads were a little Luke warm to me. I like them individually but I wasn’t sold on them as a couple. Towards the beginning I felt like their story came off too fast but then every couple of chapters it felt like two steps forward one step back with them. That continued on and it did feel like their problems were consistent but maybe I had already just felt disconnected from them at that point.
The premise stayed pretty consistent throughout the book and I felt like the bad guy’s intentions and actions are pretty recognizable if you watch a lot of crime shows (like I tend too). His history with the MMC was kept at the forefront and I really liked that they didn’t gloss over it or make it less of big deal over time.
3.5⭐️
3.5🌶️
This was my first time reading a book by this author and I can say I had a mixed reception.
I love a spy story and the espionage side of this book was definitely pretty good. It felt like watching Charlie’s angels or even Get Smart (for anyone who remembers that) in terms of the spy stuff.
I had a bit of trouble with all the characters in the beginning but I think that’s just because I started at the end, I would probably know a lot more if I had begun this series from the start. Despite that I got used to everyone pretty quickly and I didn’t get them too mixed up.
The main leads were a little Luke warm to me. I like them individually but I wasn’t sold on them as a couple. Towards the beginning I felt like their story came off too fast but then every couple of chapters it felt like two steps forward one step back with them. That continued on and it did feel like their problems were consistent but maybe I had already just felt disconnected from them at that point.
The premise stayed pretty consistent throughout the book and I felt like the bad guy’s intentions and actions are pretty recognizable if you watch a lot of crime shows (like I tend too). His history with the MMC was kept at the forefront and I really liked that they didn’t gloss over it or make it less of big deal over time.
April 2, 2026
Being a huge fan of Lexi's books, I have known Kenzie Taggart her entire life. I have read about Kenzie and her twin sister Kala from birth, to torturing Uncle Boomer when he babysat when they were kids, high school to the present.
I always saw Kenzie as the happy twin, the one always wearing girlie clothing, going on dates and always being everyone's friend.
I learned a lot about Kenzie in Love and Let Spy. She has not always been the happy twin. She sacrifices her happiness to make sure Kala is happy and all the people around her. She has always dated boys that she thinks she loves but it's all wasted time as all they want is some fun. All of her other sisters have found love. Why can't she?
Ben finally comes into her life. Someone she could love, start a family and grow old with. Because her and Kala work undercover as Miss Magenta, Ben thinks it's one person when it is actually the twins. Until he finds out the truth, he now understands why the woman he wants so badly runs so hot and cold with him.
This is an excellent read that is filled with suspense, some butt kicking and yes sexy times at the club. I laughed out loud many times as the Taggart family and team of mercenaries are always digging at each other. If you are a fan of The New Recruits, this is a MUST read!!
I always saw Kenzie as the happy twin, the one always wearing girlie clothing, going on dates and always being everyone's friend.
I learned a lot about Kenzie in Love and Let Spy. She has not always been the happy twin. She sacrifices her happiness to make sure Kala is happy and all the people around her. She has always dated boys that she thinks she loves but it's all wasted time as all they want is some fun. All of her other sisters have found love. Why can't she?
Ben finally comes into her life. Someone she could love, start a family and grow old with. Because her and Kala work undercover as Miss Magenta, Ben thinks it's one person when it is actually the twins. Until he finds out the truth, he now understands why the woman he wants so badly runs so hot and cold with him.
This is an excellent read that is filled with suspense, some butt kicking and yes sexy times at the club. I laughed out loud many times as the Taggart family and team of mercenaries are always digging at each other. If you are a fan of The New Recruits, this is a MUST read!!
April 1, 2026
⭐️ Overall: 4/5
🔥 Burn: 4/5
🌶️ Spice: 4/5
💧 Emotional: 4/5
Kenzie and Ben completely pulled me in from the start, and I honestly fell in love with them.
The connection and tension between them was perfect. It felt so natural, but also full of that push and pull where they didn’t think they were actually going to end up together—and that made it even better.
This is definitely a slow burn, but it’s the kind that actually pays off. The tension builds in such a rewarding way, especially with all the secrets and hidden identity elements layered into their relationship.
Kenzie’s double life added so much depth to the story. Watching her fall for Ben while knowing she couldn’t fully be honest with him made everything feel more intense and emotional.
Even though this is an interconnected standalone, I didn’t feel like I was missing anything. I’m sure reading the full series would add more background, but it wasn’t needed to fully understand or enjoy this story—which I really appreciated.
Also… I loved the little moments of humor throughout—especially how Kenzie gave off Bratz doll energy 😂 it made her feel even more real and fun.
Overall, this was such a satisfying read with:
👉 strong emotional connection
👉 tension that keeps building
👉 and a slow burn that truly delivers
🔥 Burn: 4/5
🌶️ Spice: 4/5
💧 Emotional: 4/5
Kenzie and Ben completely pulled me in from the start, and I honestly fell in love with them.
The connection and tension between them was perfect. It felt so natural, but also full of that push and pull where they didn’t think they were actually going to end up together—and that made it even better.
This is definitely a slow burn, but it’s the kind that actually pays off. The tension builds in such a rewarding way, especially with all the secrets and hidden identity elements layered into their relationship.
Kenzie’s double life added so much depth to the story. Watching her fall for Ben while knowing she couldn’t fully be honest with him made everything feel more intense and emotional.
Even though this is an interconnected standalone, I didn’t feel like I was missing anything. I’m sure reading the full series would add more background, but it wasn’t needed to fully understand or enjoy this story—which I really appreciated.
Also… I loved the little moments of humor throughout—especially how Kenzie gave off Bratz doll energy 😂 it made her feel even more real and fun.
Overall, this was such a satisfying read with:
👉 strong emotional connection
👉 tension that keeps building
👉 and a slow burn that truly delivers
April 8, 2026
After being teased with Ben and Kenzie the entire series, Lexi delivered with a story full of secrets, lies, revenge, forgiveness and of course love. Kenzie has loved Ben Parker since the beginning of the series, which complicates things since he doesn’t know who she truly is. Ben is confused by her behavior at times, not realizing she switches places with her twin Kala for missions. He already has some pretty big trust issues from his childhood best friend, who has been the target of their missions and once he discovers the truth about Kenzie and Kala, that throws him deeper into himself causing him to shut down on Kenzie and his feelings he had for her. And goodness I’m like, poor girl she just can’t catch a break. She’s always been the bright fun girly girl who just wants an epic love like her parents and she wants Ben, but she also loves her job. This had the thrills, action, family, and of course sexy times in the kink clubs they all love to play in that Lexi is famous for giving us. I loved all the historical moments we got from the OGs and the banter between all the second gen’s especially the twins. This series was so good and I’m so sad for this group to be over but can’t wait to see what the London crew brings us
Thank you Lexi and VPR for the early copy to read and review
Thank you Lexi and VPR for the early copy to read and review
April 21, 2026
3.75 stars. This was a good book! Love and Let Spy is Kenzie Taggart and Ben Parker's story. Kenzie has been on the Taggart spy team with Ben for a while, working to take down the evil Emmanuel Hausman. But, because Ben is a Canadian operative, he not is entitled to the closely guarded secret of Miss Magenta. Kenzie and her twin sister, Kala, are playing the part of one single operative, Miss Magenta. Kenzie has had strong feelings for Ben since they met, and vice versa, but he never really knew who she was. As the hunt for Hausman heats up, the couple find themselves in a situation where they think they have just minutes left to live. Kenzie confesses the truth to Ben and at the last minute, their team swoops in the save their lives. Kenzie and Ben have some history to work through, but they have been building their slow burn relationship for so long that they are truly a strong, lasting couple.
I really enjoyed this story. I was happy that Kenzie and Ben got their happily ever after. They were sweet and sexy together. This was a good addition to the series and I was happy to see the conclusion to the Hausman storyline. I love this series and look forward to more from it and Ms. Blake in the future.
*arc provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
I really enjoyed this story. I was happy that Kenzie and Ben got their happily ever after. They were sweet and sexy together. This was a good addition to the series and I was happy to see the conclusion to the Hausman storyline. I love this series and look forward to more from it and Ms. Blake in the future.
*arc provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
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