Best Laid Plans

The Mercenaries #1

by Stylo Fantome

THE PLAN:

* Smuggle diamonds from Liberia to Morocco
* Make the trip in three days
* Don't get caught
* Don't kill each other
* Don't have sex with each other
* Don't fall for each other
* Stick to the plan

This is the story of what happens when an unlikely bond is formed between enemies, causing tensions to rise, and igniting a chemistry that threatens to burn them both. Together, they'll learn that sometimes even the best laid plans can fail.

If this NOVEL were a MOVIE, it would have an R rating from the MPAA. Contains: Violence, Grisly Images, Strong Language, Nudity, and Graphic Sexual Content

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Romantic Suspense, Suspense, Contemporary Romance, Dark, Adult

322 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 6, 2015

About the author

Crazy woman from a remote location in Alaska (where the need for a creative mind is a necessity!), I have been writing since ... forever? Yeah, that sounds about right. I have been told that I remind people of Lucille Ball - I also see shades of Jennifer Saunders, and Denis Leary. So basically, I laugh a lot, I'm clumsy a lot, and I say the F-word A LOT.

I like dogs more than I like most people, and I don't trust anyone who doesn't drink. No, I do not live in an igloo, and no, the sun does not set for six months out of the year, there's your Alaska lesson for the day. I have mermaid hair - both a curse and a blessing - and most of the time I talk so fast, even I can't understand me.

Yeah. I think that about sums me up.


I also write contemporary romance under the name Penny Sixsmith

Reviews

[SueBee★bring me an alpha!★ · Rating 5 out of 5]

★★★★ 3/4! Best Laid Plans, book 1 of 2. Thrown together on a dangerous mission, fighting their sexual attraction with bad guys at their heels!

“She giggled. Marc was pretty sure he'd never heard that sound come out of her before – it was like finding out a bobcat could giggle. Bizarre.”

Books in The Mercenaries series must be read in order:
Book 1: Best Laid Plan
Book 2: Out of Plans

Best Laid Plans (book 1) sweeps us off to North Africa on a dangerous and suspenseful mission. Mercenary and hitman Marcelle De Sant, Marc has finished a month-long heist of stealing some blood diamonds delivering them to the Russian mob. Transporter Liliana Brewster, Lily has been on location ready to smuggle the diamonds out of Liberia and into Russia.

Marc has plans for a vacation while Lily is embarking on her carefully laid out assignment. Having flirted for weeks they decide to let out some steam with a one-night stand. But come morning the sated lovers find themselves thrown together on a dangerous mission. Their mutual like quickly takes a nose dive clouded by lies and distrust as they are forced to fight their way out of Africa.

It’s a race against time through a desert filled with land mines, riddled with enemies and villains. Add to that fighting their fierce sexual chemistry. Raw, dirty contemptuous sex and hilarious bantering make up their tempestuous relationship while their ever changing strategies quite possible become the worst laid plans…




Eight words to describe Marcelle De Sant, Marc: Charming, loner, conflicted, noble, protective, possessive, ruthless and unpredictable.




Eight words to describe Liliana Brewster, Lily: Smart, hot-headed, seductive, determined, conflicted, naïve, feisty and fearless.

Best Laid Plans, told from alternating POVs, is a suspenseful nail-biter with danger, greed, suspense, witty bantering, off-the charts sexual tension and release. It ends with the opening of another chapter, leading right to book 2, Out of Plans for the conclusion of their story.

Effortless story-telling! Suspenseful and intriguing plot! Scorching and dirty sex scenes!

“That woman will fuck your world up. She looks like a pin up, fucks like a porn star, and fights like Tyson.”

***
Hero rating: 4 stars
Heroine rating: 4 stars
Sexual tension rating: 5 stars
Sex scenes rating: 5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 4.5 stars
Plot rating: 5 stars
Dialogue rating: 5 stars
Storytelling rating: 5 stars
Story ending rating: N/A
Book editing rating (5 = no edits spotted): N/A, ARC
************************************************
Overall rating: 4.75 stars

Would I recommend this series: Yes.
Would I re-read this series: Maybe later.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.

ARC provided to me by author Stylo Fantôme in exchange for an honest review.

If you missed hanging out and chatting LIVE with Stylo, be sure to check out this ReCap, DICKtation of the AUGUST IndieSTAR chat on Shh…

[MischaS_ · Rating 4 out of 5]

It seems I like everything Stylo Fantome writes. I found out about this series shortly after I finished the Kane series. And based on all pictures and quotes I thought that the main hero was Law. I wish he was. I actually find it a bit surprising that a side character is used for the promo more than the main one... but then again Law vs Marcelle is a pretty easy choice.

At first, Marcelle was great and badass. But when he started to fall for Lily, he became a weakling. Just a little whining baby.

...thanked god that Kingsley wasn't as stupid as Marc

Perfectly said. Anyway, despite Marcelle being Marcelle I loved reading this book, it was so much fun and action-packed.

[Lo Bookfrantic · Rating 5 out of 5]

5***Kickass Stars

Genre: Romantic Suspense
Type: Book 1 of 2 of The Mercenaries Series
POV: First Person – Dual

“When a person met Marc for the first time, the only words that ever come to mind was “ROUGH”.” Lily

This book WOW! This freaking book is kickass, full of steamy sex, suspense, action and once you start you are in for an amazing adventure that you do not want to miss out. Best Laid Plans takes place in North Africa where “Marcelle De Sant aka Marc” a well known hit man has only one month left to finish his assignment and he is out. He is really looking forward to get this new assignment over with. His job was to steal some blood diamonds and deliver them to the Russian mob. He is ready for a long vacation once this was over with. However; he didn’t anticipated meeting Lily and life got so much complicated than what he was used to.

Liliana Brewster aka Lily has been a transporter and for the past five years she has only one motivation and one goal “Revenge”. She only has one week left to smuggle the diamonds out of Liberia and into Russia. Lily had flirted with Marc while on her mission for few weeks; he was hot enough to have a one night stand she thought. So she followed him one night and they had a steamy night that was unforgettable. The next morning everything changed; Marc and Lily found themselves on a dangerous mission they both got caught into lies and were forced to fight for their lives away from Africa. Trust was a big issue for both of them; they were both on their own and desperately to do anything to get what they have to do to reach each of their goals.

“One of the worst cities in the world, and here was an auburn goddess with rosy skin and a lavender scent.” Marc

This book was packed with action full of suspense that had me biting my nails one minute and the other well it was hot. Marc and Lily ended up together trying to survived and developed feelings for each other. After fighting all the time of course she was stubborn and independent and he was well he was badass Marc Raw and strong and unpredictable. Their sexual chemistry was defiantly undeniable it was so HOT especially after a good fight they would go wild for each other. Marc and Lily had sex in the car, in the shower basically everywhere and it was amazingly HOT. They had to change strategies so both can get out of this mess alive.

“He grabbed her by the back of her head and pulled her in for a kiss.” Marc

“She grabbed the straps of his vest and yanked him even closer, sliding her tongue into his mouth before he could make that move first.” Lily

The events heading to the ending left me speechless, I was so angry at the choices Marc made and I am dying to get my hands on book two right away. Yes there is a cliffy ok a BIG cliffy whatever but best know you do not want to miss out on this fantastic adventure. I loved The author outdid herself with this one I absolutely loved every single minute of it and I just couldn’t get enough. Looking forward to more of Marc and Lily and more action on the next book.




If you missed hanging out and chatting LIVE with Stylo, be sure to check out thisReCap, DICKtation of the SHH LIVE CHAT WITH STYLO

"ARC kindly provide by author via blog tour, in exchange for an honest review". Thank you so much!!

BOOK ORDER: NOT A STANDALONE NOTTTTTT STANDALONE LOL


PURCHASE LINKS:
AMAZON US
AMAZON UK
AMAZON CA
AMAZON AUS


For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:

[Pavlina Read more sleep less blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

IT'S LIVE http://amzn.to/1EMngZU

5 BRILLIANT STARS
"Ready to play rough princess?"
"I though you'd never ask."

This is my first book from this author and I'm impressed!!I enjoyed the story and the characters so much!It was like I was watching a movie and I was on the edge of my seat until the end without knowing what will happen!There is action,danger,steamy and hot moments!!Stylo Fantome did an amazing job with this story!



Liliana and Marc have to work together in order to get themselves out of a dangerous situation that they have found themselves in.But after they have a one night stand...Can these two work together without having sex again?As dangerous and dark as their journey is it is also their love affair which grows in something passionate and intense!Will they manage to get away from the danger ?



I loved Marc,he is so cocky,smartass,mean,flirty and super hot!Lily is amazing, she is something else...I think everybody would like to be like her!She is independent,strong,badass and smart!!They are the perfect match!When these two are together you can feel the passion and sexual,physical tension between them!





I'm super excited to read the next book!!!Can't wait to see what she has for us!I highly recommend this story to anyone who likes books with action combined with hot moments!!

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just as good as I remember...

I was again completely sucked into the dark and scary world of pretty rocks...aka diamonds. Listening to Best Laid Plans was like listening to an action/adventure movie with a lot of blood. These two are so crazy that they're crazy good together. Fist fights, spilling blood and holding guns to each other's heads is common...and more times than not, it's Lilly leaving the most damage. This story is so outside of my normal reads but I'm completely enthralled. It's sexy, fast-paced and very entertaining.

I didn't mind the female narrator when she was reading Lilly's part, but any other time made me cringe. Her performance of Marc sounded like he constantly needed to clear his throat, her accents just didn't seem right, and Law sounded like a girl. The problem with Marc sounding really gravelly is that when the male narrator performed, his version of Marc was very smooth. It's a female narrator so of course there's a chance a male character is going to sound like a girl, but her version of Law was excessively girly. I liked the male narrator's talking voice, it was easy to listen to and I had no problems identifying a character change.

If you're looking for something a little bit different, have no issues with excessive violence, foul language and HOT sexy times, I highly recommend giving Best Laid Plains a go.

I will definitely be going back for more of The Mercenaries on audio, and at the bargain price of $2...ish (if you pre-own the kindle version), it will be sooner rather than later.

**********

I wouldn't want to meet these two in a back alley...

Some things I've learned/decided at the conclusion of Best Laid Plans...

Diamonds are not a girl's best friend.
I do not want to be like Angelina Jolie in Tomb Raider anymore.
Lions and tigers are not the scariest animals in Africa, the two-legged upright ones are worse.
Be careful where you step in Africa, it's a minefield.
And finally, if I have to visit Africa, I'll make sure to do a defensive driving course first.

Wow, that was the longest running action movie ever. Bloody life got in the way and it took a lot longer to read than I planned. The times in between reading left me on edge feeling like if I didn't hurry back, I'd miss something important. It was action-packed, smoking hot and exciting. You were constantly wondering what could possibly go wrong next. I was sucked into this tale from the very beginning to the end.

Some truths...the main characters are not goodies. They're not even baddies trying to be good. They are trained killers and no one is safe. You could probably say that Lilly wasn't all bad, especially compared to Marc. She was on a mission for justice and knew that there would be deaths, but she wasn't keen on killing for the sake of killing. Marc on the other hand...don't get in his way and don't piss him off. He's bad to the bone.

Lots and lots of violence with plenty of blood being spilt...on each other...by each other...to each other. Don't worry about Lilly though, she can definitely hold her own. Very evil characters are introduced and it's not always clear whether they are on your side or anyone's side for that matter. Guns, knives and bombs are being used constantly, but some of the worst violence was in the hand to hand combat.

I really enjoyed this story and loved the main characters, Lilly and Marc. This was a very steamy read and I don't think any of my smutty friends would be disappointed.

Kingsley was a great addition and I hope we get more of him in the future.

This is not a standalone, but the ending didn't make me want to throw my kindle. The author promises that she doesn't like to torture her readers, so I have high hopes the next instalment won't be too far away.

[warhawke · Rating 5 out of 5]

★ ★ ★ Best Laid Plan is LIVE!!! ★ ★ ★
Amazon US | UK | CA | AU




Type: Book 1 of The Mercenaries series
POV: Third Person
Rating:





Marcelle De Sant was a free lance mercenary hired to steal millions of dollars worth of blood diamonds from the Liberians for a Russian Bratva. His job was supposed to be a simple in and out.

Liliana Brewster was the transporter for the Bratva. She immersed herself among the low lives for a very specific reason that will need to see the end. But when stakes were high, friends became enemies and even vice versa, in the race to get out alive.



Beside really dark book, my second favorite is romantic/erotic action thriller. Unfortunately I haven’t come across a lot of them that had the perfect balance. When I first found out about this book, I was excited of the possibilities and now having read it, I can say it met my expectation and then some more.

I don't want to have to hurt her, but I will. I don't want to have to kill her, but I will.

I am in lust with Marc. Not even ashamed to admit it. He got my blood pumping in every way possible. He was rude (mostly), rough around the edges, killed without batting an eye lash and fucked like there’s no tomorrow (which in this case could possibly be true) – his sex appeal would burn down Hell to crisp.

But sometimes nasty things can come in pretty packages. Lily herself was proof of that.

Lily could hold up on her own. She was badass her in her own way, irrationally fearless, spitting, hitting, head-butting, balls-kicking fire cracker. I love her and want to be her (mostly so I can get dirty with Marc, but still… lol!).



If Marc and Lily alone were sexy enough, together they were like a volatile chemical experiment. The tension (both physical and sexual) between them was palpable and just one wrong move could blow it all over your face. It kept you on the edge.



And don’t get me started on Kingsley Law. He was another character that could give Marc run for his money – literally. If Marc was the rough and tumble guy, Kingsley was the poise and proper one. Did I mention he had British accent? Enough said.

So much trouble. So many rocks. Such little rocks.

Reading the book was like watching a nonstop action movie. Guns blazing, car crashing, walls crumbling – I could almost feel blood splattering on my face – and it’s a good feeling haha! And I love that it took me to all the nooks and crannies of dangerous places around Africa.

Best Laid Plans is a fast pace, action laden story with sexy as hell characters guaranteed to put you at the edge of your seat from the first page to the very last one. And I absolutely love that ending because it opened up huge possibilities for the next book. I’m looking forward to more Marc, Kingsley and Lily.


Note:
Books in the series:



★ ★ ★ (F)BR with CC, Mer, Nawal and Liz ★ ★ ★
But since I finished first I get dibs on both men :p

★ ★ ★ ARC won during #ShhIndieSTARchat August ★ ★ ★
Chat thread: https://goo.gl/g8zN4G
DICKtation & ReCap: https://goo.gl/qpa25f





For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:

[Sophie's Reading Corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full review now posted: Sept 7th

"We don't have to be these people anymore."

Lily is on a mission for the last five years and now she's finally close to accomplish it. Unfortunately, while in Africa, she meets Marc, another American, who seems to sabotage her mission and she won't allow that, even though the chemistry between them makes it hard for her to resist him.

Marc has been a mercenary since he could remember himself. He likes this life, he doesn't mind stealing, kidnapping or killing people. Things get complicated when someone sets a dangerous trap for him. A trap that spoils his name and makes him an aim. Somehow, he and Lily start a very dangerous journey, with people going after them.



I really REALLY loved this book!! Personally, I couldn't put it down!! I had an all nighter and I don't regret a thing. Stylo definitely has a wonderful writing and she takes you on a journey with her. Her writing is so realistic, yet so poetic at the same time. I loved how graphic was the scenery, the details, I felt like I was truly in Africa. I appreciate how she researched everything about it, even the lack of water in the bathrooms, the whole scene with the diamond trafficking etc. I loved the characters, how well described they were, the tension and the chemistry between them, but also their fighting scenes. It was absolutely entertaining to read.

Best laid plans is an amazing adventure, full of action, steamy moments, funny interaction and banter between the heroes that will certainly make you 1)laugh out loud, 2)get hot and bothered and 3)make you eat your nails out of worry. I enjoyed every single minute of this book and if you're a fan of action movies, then I strongly recommend you to grab this one!

Arc kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.

[Jx PinkLady Reviews ♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

BEST LAID PLANS is an action packed high paced and fierce story that packs an aggressive punch. The main protagonists inadvertently end up thrown together on a road trip of sorts, an unintended crazy adventure across Africa. Diamonds and potentially their lives are at stake as they battle with the elements, themselves, each other and the multiple gangs that are involved in the story arc. Lily and Marc have clashing agendas to negotiate in terms of the diamonds and their mission sparking their enemies to lover's style story.

Lily is an unlikely but fierce transporter with a great back story that demonstrates a clear motivation for her character's behaviour and determined state of mind. Marc is strong, courageous, clearly adept and highly experienced in his criminal profession. When they're together the sparks fly as the author takes us on their journey of potential destruction.

The story as a whole is pretty out there and incredible, sometimes making it hard to believe and a little too far-fetched for my reading tastes. I found some aspects to be more clichéd than I prefer which pulled me out of my story bubble at times. I couldn’t always picture the action which disengaged me somewhat from the drama and feel of the story and characters. For my tastes it felt a little top heavy on the aggression I prefer a little more light and shade so the darker elements are stark and shocking.

Kingsley as a supporting character almost stole the show for me. I really enjoyed his inclusion and looked forward to his scenes in the story. He's interesting, enigmatic and added the much needed light and shade that I was searching for.

This action packed story has certainly caught the attention of the reading world and despite my slightly negative thoughts it's a story that captured an enemy to lovers feel and kept me interested in their plight to the end. It has aggression, fighting, violence juxtaposed against eroticism, all ingredients for a fast paced read where battles are fought and the tension peeks.


Note: This is the first part in a two book series. Their journey together continues.

EXCERPT
She came back around to his front and watched him as he loaded up the rest of his gear. Thigh holsters, shoulder holster, ankle holster; pretty much anywhere he could hang a gun, there was a holster. When he glanced at her, she had her eyebrows raised in surprise.

“What?” he looked himself over, looking to see if he'd missed anything.

“That's a lot of gear,” she commented.

“Can never be too careful. I don't feel like dying tonight.”

“Why are you getting ready here, anyway? Don't you have a home?” she pointed out. He snorted.

“Sweetheart, the job starts here and ends here. I don't want anyone following me back to my place – not even these fuckers. I don't let anyone see where I sleep,” Marc stressed. She pouted her lips.

“Pity.”

“Why?”

She stepped up close to him, standing on her tiptoes so her mouth was near his ear.

“Because I'd love to see where you sleep.”

Amazon US--> http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B013...
Amazon UK--> http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...

Advanced copy provided for my honest review thoughts

[✰ Liz ✰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

~ 5 FANTASTIC HEART RACING STARS~

"Never be scared. I never want you to be scared, ever again."-Marc

Lights, camera, action! Every time I sit down to read a STYLO book I experience the same anticipation I feel before watching a well staged play or a blockbuster movie! The anticipation is always great because I know I am in store for one fantastic ride. Best Laid Plans far exceeded my expectations by the colorful characters, detailed plot, off the charts passion, and intense action. The only question on my mind at this point is, how am I going to wait patiently like a good girl for the next book to be released?



Lily and Marc are both living "undercover" in Liberia. They both are leading different lives and they both work for bad men. Marc is a freelance contractor. He is called in to get a job done quickly and then get out. Simple! However, when he meets Lily, a transporter, at the safe house he is living in nothing is so simple anymore. Lily and Marc share a night of passion before fate deals a "doozy" of a hand to them both!



Lily has been living this life in order to seek revenge. She is insistent on following through with her plans. When she and Marc get tangled up in a wild web of lies, it is unknown if they will end up killing each other or be lost forever in the rapture of passion.



Marc has just completed a major heist when he becomes a pawn in the mafia's plans. He suspects Lily of being involved with his demise. When Marc realizes how deeply entrenched Lily is, he immediately comes at her "guns a blazing"! The only problem is, Lily is no one to be messed with.

"Men were the worst. Men could do whatever they wanted. Men were not to be trusted."-Lily

She is full of fire and she certainly isn't afraid of some mercenary (even if he is one hot lover beneath the sheets). To put it plainly, Lily is quite the bad ass! Marc recognizes right away that he has his hands full with this girl.



"What had turned strawberry shortcake into a fighting machine that did dirty work for a Russian Bratva?"-Marc



As the plot thickens, the action intensifies and neither Marc nor Lily know who they can trust.

"Why are you being so nice to me?"-Lily

"Because I don't want to drag a dead body in this heat.
Keep moving."-Marc

They only known factors are they have feelings for one another and an undeniable attraction to get to know each other as intimately as possible. And yet, surely it is a bad idea to explore that avenue together.

"No sex. Not between us. Not ever again."-Lily



Will Lily be able to get her revenge? Will Marc be able to clear his name? Or will they kill each other before they make it to their destination? And most importantly, can they keep their vow to stay away from each other?

"His voice was soft and simple, and it wasn't exactly poetry, but it caused a pain in her chest. Like he wasn't used to seeing beautiful things. Like she was a gift."



"Only you. Only your eyes."-Marc

Overall, Best Laid Plans is a perfect blend of action, romance, mystery, and suspense. I thoroughly enjoy a read that keeps me engaged and invested the entire time. This action romance kept me on the edge of my seat through each gun fight, car chase, car jacking, and, as I have already mentioned, the steamy sex! Not only is the plot well written (and developed), the characters are complex, gritty, likable and yet (just like I like them) full of flaws. This naturalistic approach to writing makes Ms. Fantome a must read in my book. The text flows between the pages at a fast pace and yet, the tender moments were like a suspended melody constantly battling the upbeat tempo of the action. This magical mixture will keep you engaged the entire read. I simply cannot rave enough about this book. What is most outstanding about this author is her versatility. She is consistently willing to step "out of the box" and commit fully to whatever she writes. I simply cannot wait for more Lily and Marc! To Ms. Fantome, I say "BRING IT!".

~This was another heart stopping BR with my girls from Shh...! Thanks ladies!~

~ARC generously given by author in exchange for an honest review! Thank you Stylo Fantome for sharing your work with me!~

For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:

[~♡AB♡~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

★★★★ 4 Stars ★★★★

Now LIVE!
Amazon US | Amazon UK

"Quite the night, Marcelle De Sant. Gangs, cannibals, diamonds, killings, running for your life. I'm surprised you had any stamina left for me,"

This was one of those book that, when reading, you feel like you are watching a movie playing in your head, it was chock full of action and suspense and the author did a fantastic job of describing everything so perfectly and painting a picture in your mind.

It was the perfect mix of action and romance, and I loved the dynamic between the two main characters.

Liliana is a 'runner', a particularly good one who is skilled at what she does. She has been doing it for the last 5 years, but there is a very specific reason as to why a normal everyday law abiding girl decides to do a dangerous job in risky locations across the world.

Presently, she finds herself holed up in a safe house in Liberia, waiting for a haul to take place on a diamond that she needs to deliver to the Russian Bratva.



Marcelle 'Marc ' De Sant is the mercenary who is tasked with stealing the diamond, He's been on his own for most of his life, he works for himself and doesn't care how many bad people he has to kill in order to get a job done.

He and Lily have gotten close during their stay in the safe house waiting for the time to complete their jobs, so when they decide to have a goodbye roll in the hay they are not expecting to see each other again.

What follows is an adventure of extreme bad-assery, hot steamy sex and a storyline that will keep you on your toes and there is a love/hate dynamic going on which always makes for explosive chemistry.

"Why is everything a fucking battle with you? I feel like I need to constantly be kicking your ass just to get anything I want,"

I applaud Stylo for both the depth of characters and story that she is able to write, especially within such a complex continent as Africa.

Marc and Lily's story is not over, they still have a long way to go and this book ended on a mother of a cliffhanger. I am an eager beaver to find out how it's all going to end.

This is book 1 of 2, told in the third person from dual POV. Ends on a cliffhanger.

ARC gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest review

[S.M. West · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 "Bring the fire." STARS

Loved this! It was truly like an action-packed movie that unfolded on the pages! F*CKING FANTASTIC!!!



Liliana (lily) Brewster is one bad ass heroine. She's a transporter on a mission. She has a plan, a plan for revenge that's been five years in the making and it'll all come to fruition in 6 days.



Marcelle (Marc) De Sant is a mercenary. He's been hired by a Russian Bratva to steal diamonds from a Liberian gang. And then it's Lily's job, the gorgeous redhead that he's only just met, to transport them out of Africa and deliver them to the Pachkin of the Bratva in Russia. Marc has three days and then he's out. Of course, things don't go according to plan. All plans go to shit as all hell breaks loose.

“So much trouble for a bunch of rocks.”



Lily and Marc quickly go from acquaintances to an unforgettable one-night stand to enemies in a matter of hours as one's been set up and thinks the other had something to do with it.

These two were formidable together even when they were throwing punches and drop kicking each other.


“They were like magnets, fighting against each other one minute, then stuck together the next. Whatever it was, it was tangible, and powerful, and very real, and present.”



Along the road to hell, a hitman and friend to Marc shows up, Kingsley Law, and he just adds to this deliciously, action riddled tale! The dialogue between Marc and Law had me in stitches and the opposites of these two reminded me of my fav hotties from Cinemax's Strike Back (casting is a nod to these boys). What was also hilarious was Kingsley's flirting with Lily to the utter maddness of Marc.



This was seriously an action-packed adventure with guns, fighting, car chases, explosions, witty banter and bickering, and unbelievable off-the-charts sex! This was so much fun to read and I loved every second of it.

“His kiss was just like the man behind it; blunt, forceful and breathtaking. All her breaths, all her air.”


As much as they want to deny it, both Lily and Marc are drawn to each other...


and even though relationships are unheard of in the world they live in, they both explore the idea of doing just that.


You'd think as this draws to a conclusion, a little vacation would be just the perfect thing...



but instead we get an ending that left me spitting nails and looking forward to Lily's new plan for vengeance. I'm so glad I have Out of Plans because I'm ready to get down and dirty!

For more reviews and blog posts.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 'action-packed' stars

"Even the best laid plans can fall apart. You just keep going. Failure isn't an option."

Best Laid Plans is full of action and suspense and make me feels as if I'm watching a Hollywood Blockbuster. It is nothing like Stylo's previous work The Kane Trilogy. Halfway reading this I had to reconfirm that this is indeed written by her because it reminds me of those action-suspense book written by male authors. The attention to detail in fighting, car chasing and violence are so on point!

Marcelle De Sant aka Marc is a badass mercenary who got framed by the Russian Bratva. The first thing that came to his mind, is the sexy redhead who must had sold him out and fucked him, literally.

"I only sleep with sexy redheads who like to beat the shit out of me."

Liliana Brewster is a woman with an agenda. She had a solid plan, only to have Marc fuck it up with his outrageous accusation. The last thing she needs is a sexy mercenary ruining her five years plan for revenge.

"She looks like a pin up, fucks like a porn star, and fights like Tyson."

Marc and Lily together is combustible. They fight hard and fuck harder. Marc being the trouble magnet that he is can't stop attracting havoc everywhere he goes. Lily herself is a kickass partner in crime if only she manage to see eye to eye with him. They are on a mission to reach Tangier, while the bad guys are hot on their tail.



Think of the damage we could do together.

They went through hell and back in just ten days. Action, suspense, drama, sex, this book had it all. Is a book that definitely have you gripping the edge of your Kindle.



Their relationship is more physical to me. Amidst all the action, I have yet to feel a deep emotional connection between these two. They mostly want to punch and fuck each other. However, with the last chapter, especially that letter, I'm looking forward to the next one. Hopefully I will get more of the mushy stuff. After all, I'm a hopeless romantic at heart.

"It's been an adventure. Pretty awful, but pretty amazing."

[CC · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 "I'm going to defile you" Stars!!


Best Laid Plans is Stylo’s newest book in the series, Mercenaries, and the plot is precisely honed, the action is fast paced and the sex is hot!!

The two main characters are Marcelle de Sant (Marc) and Liliana Brewster (Lily.) Marc is a mercenary and Lily is a transporter for hire. Their paths cross in Liberia when they accept a job from a Russian mobster. After forging a connection, they become entangled when plans suddenly change and they are forced into an equitable arrangement.



Marc is a loner, a bit rough around the edges and one who follows his own set of principles. Lily is a planner who speaks her mind and challenges Marc from the beginning. Their constant push & pull banter is entertaining and adds to their palpable chemistry! Marc is so sexy and commanding yet Lily’s hold on him is just as powerful.

“If I want your ass, I’ll take it. If I want anything else, all I have to do is take it…as far as your concerned, you’re my goddamned property.”

As Marc and Lily’s bond strengthens, they are continually challenged by outside forces. They are constantly on the run only relying on each other to survive and succeed in their end game. Without giving away too many specific details, the plot is action-packed and filled with themes of greed, suspense, loyalty and trust. The sexual tension between Marc and Lily is combustible. As Marc and Lily approach the end of their mission, love and reverence take hold and decisions must be made.

“So now that you’re on this road to a heartless act of violence, do you think you can go back to your old life?”

In addition to Marc and Lily, there is a secondary character that adds tremendously to the story’s dynamics – his name is Kingsley Law. He is a good friend to Marc and quickly befriends Lily. Between Marc and Kingsley, the lust-o-meter is constantly at the maximum degree!

“Marc was all rough sexiness, his room filling a room like bomb blast. Kingsley was smoothness personified…His presence was sharp, like a knife.”

Stylo has done it again in Best Laid Plans. Her characters are instantly likable and it is as though you feel like you know them and belong as a member of their underground group. I love Marc, Lily and Kingsley! At any given moment, I was anxious to read the next twist and I could barely put down the book! I cannot wait to read the next book in the series to see what happens next!!


***Note: An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.***

Thanks to Javigina, Lonestar Liz, Hooks and Nawal for an awesome (F)BR!!!

[Dee Montoya · Rating 5 out of 5]

****4.5 STARS******

(ARC provided in exchange for an honest review)

What an explosive read! I think I was probably holding my breath the entire time I was reading. Best Laid Plans is full of excitement, hot romance and adventure. Definitely a MUST READ series...



Liliana Brewster and Marcelle De Sant live a life of crime. She's been a transporter for the organized crime for five years. Every day working toward one goal, vengeance.

Marc is a mercenary, one of the best in the business. He doesn't have time for anything other than getting the jobs done, getting paid and getting out.
He is ruthless and very dangerous.

Marc and Lily are working a job together for the Russian mafia. He has to steal very precious diamonds and she needs to transport them. For weeks now, they keep passing by each other around the safe house and they flirt; the sexual tension is tangible between them. On the last day of the job they decide to say farewell by having a very hot sexual session. The problem is, not only orgasms will be detonating around them. Rooms, buildings, cars, and hot kinky sessions will be exploding as these two take a journey through Africa looking for those who set them up.

Both Marc and Lily have a mission and failure is not an option.




Best Laid Plans is probably one of the coolest books I've ever read. It was almost like watching one of those big budget action films. Every chapter comes packed with hot and electrifying thrills. Stylo Fatôme held me tightly by the throat with this story and the best part is, that I really liked it.

Lily was such a kick ass heroine. She has so many of the qualities I enjoy in a female character. She was strong, smart, funny and capable of doing anything and everything just as good, if not better than any man.

Then we have Marc, and well... What can I say about this sexy, rugged, alpha male? I can probably go on all night about how captivating he is. But together they are just the prefect duo. If there was a best couple in a book award, it would definitely go to them.

Completely entertaining from beginning to end, this is the first book in this series. Out Of Plans (The Mercenaries, #2) releases Dec. 15th, 2015. Do yourselves a favor and add these books to your TBR's TODAY!!! You really don't want to miss these...

My Best Laid Plans music playlist:
*Titanium by David Guetta and Sia
*Bad Girl by Avril Lavigne
*I Put A Spell On You by Nina Simone
*The Blackest Day by Lana Del Rey
*Stronger by Kanye West

[Stylo Fantome · Rating 5 out of 5]

I lived and breathed this book for months. More research went into it than any other story I've ever written.

I wanted to write a book with lots of action - I love action movies, the more OTT, the better. I wanted the heroine to be mean. The scene with Lily talking to the little boy encapsulates the kind of person I wanted her to be, someone who basically always thought "IDGAF". I wanted her to kick as much ass as possible.

I wanted Marc to be rough but funny. In ways, he's actually softer to me than Lily is. But he's also a mercenary, so not being afraid to rough Lily up was crucial.

Basically, I wanted them BOTH to be anti-heroes.

I also wanted to write something different. Another book that doesn't quite have a genre. I always want to push myself, to create bigger, bolder, braver, DIFFERENT. It's important to me to always strive to bring something new to the table.

I think I did that with this book.

Or at the very least, I brought Kingsley Law into the world, which is pretty fantastic all in itself.

[Amy | Foxy Blogs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Today starts our yearly New Year's buddy read.



To see what our other New Year's buddy reads are check out this post-> http://foxyblogs.com/tww-%E2%80%A2-ma...

[Alex is The Romance Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

The most dangerous place in Africa. A ruthless mercenary smuggling “blood” diamonds and the transporter - both on a paid mission for the Russian Bratva aka Mob.

Unstable countries, war, hunted by armed and dangerous gangs, explosions,

suspense, cold-blooded killers, danger, diamond smuggling, rough and raw sex, treachery, revenge, violence, duplicity, hilarious moments, deceitfulness, big guns,

love, tenderness and the wildest and perilous journey through the most hostile place! Yes…….Best Laid Plans, the 1st book in Stylo Fantome’s The Mercenaries Series is ….

Whew....let me take a breath for a moment here…….This book left me feeling like I had just watched a Quentin Tarentino movie….oh, Mr T…..you could turn this story into a beyond amazing movie!!!

What made this novel such a great read for me?

THE CHARACTERS
Really? Mercenaries….killing and stealing for money, immoral, ruthless, dregs of the earth!!! I know, it’s crazy. But there was something about the main characters that drew me to them. Underneath all the cruelty and hardness, there was a gentleness and loneliness too.

LILIANA aka LILY BREWSTER

I fell in love with Lily from the start. A kick-ass heroine that drew me in with her smartness, toughness and her resourcefulness. She’s gutsy and self-reliant and takes care of herself and the baddies too. A take-charge woman.

“Just you wait, Marcelle De Sant. I’ll be the best anyone in this business has ever seen. Just you fucking wait.”

She’s sexy and adventurous and not afraid to make the first move……

This is also a woman with a lot of baggage….She has spent the last five years on a mission to revenge and kill the man responsible for her sister’s death, and nothing will stand in her way to accomplish that.

MARCELLE aka MARC DE SANT

"Marc was all rough sexiness, five o'clock shadow and gritted teeth, his presence filling a room like a bomb blast.

This is a man who kills and steals for money. A paid mercenary. His childhood was sad and terrible having being left alone to fend for himself after his parents had suddenly died. He learnt from an early age how to survive in the most appalling situations. His life is hard and brutal and all he looks forward to is the next paying job.

I ached for this man. How conflicted he felt about what he was doing and how lonely and sad his life actually was. What drew me to him was that he still retained his humanity. He had a gentle and caring side which he kept hidden from the world.

KINGSLEY LAW

“Kingsley was smoothness personified, with gel in his hair, and a suit under all his black gear. He was well groomed and had stormy blue eyes and fair skin, a sharp jaw and broad shoulders, complimented by perfect pearly teeth and a perfect pearly smile. His presence was sharp, like a knife."

Fellow mercenary and friend, he’s the only person that Marc trusts and who he sees as a friend. I loved this character. He’s undeniably unforgettable. He’s like a breath of fresh air amid the chaos. He lightens up tense and dangerous situations that relieve you from dark to light.
I would love to read his story someday.


THE ROMANCE

Lily does not need a man to get things done. But when she’s thrown together with a man just as tough and kick-ass as her, sharing a common goal to take out the bad guys…….temperatures will soar, conflict will arise and they will bring out the best and worst in each other.

"Why is everything a fucking battle with you? I feel like I need to constantly be kicking your ass just to get anything I want," – Marc

THE SETTING

Loved that the story takes place in Africa, which made it unique and out of the ordinary. Having travelled a lot in Africa, I had a vivid picture in my head of the places that were described.

By now, it’s very clear and obvious that I loved this crazy and insane trip. I am so looking forward to the next book……..and hey, get this one…because it’s…..GREAT FUN TO READ!!!

I loved this ………………..

”Yesterday, we were ready to kill each other. Tonight, we just had sex for two hours straight. What’s tomorrow? Pistols ad dawn?”

[Deanna❤Pink Lady❤️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lights * Camera *Action. This book opened and the drama never slowed down. It was dynamic and full of high octane energy. Crime, Suspense, Mystery, Violence, Kidnapping, Sex......this book had IT ALL!!!

Marcelle De Sant is a mercenary. He is 30 yrs old and has only really known this life. Marc has done it all. He is strong, quick, smart, a man who gets what he wants, and a man with a reputation for being the best at what he does. He is commanding and sexy, in a rough kind of way. With his jobs, he gets in; he gets out and gets paid highly. He had done bad things in his life but he makes no apologies.

Liliana Brewster is a transporter. She has only done this for five years, but for five years she has planned, plotted, and honed her skills, for one final mission. She worked her way up the system. Starting small and making a name for herself. She is beautiful, sexy, smart....... a force to be reckoned with. She is highly trained in combat and weaponry and she holds nothing back when messed with.

Lily and Mark meet on the job. He is to obtain blood diamonds and she is to drive them out of the country. But a one night stand and "a set up" changes that simplicity. What should be a plain and a straightforward job becomes a nightmare of deceit, deception, and a fight to stay alive. But they must first survive each other......

Marc and Lily are cunning, quick witted, and have sharp tongues. Their banter is amazing!!! (Stylo writes the best male/female banter- sassy, sarcastic, quick witted and meaningful- she really does it flawlessly) Lily goes toe to toe with Marc and holds nothing back. Throughout their journey, they go from lust to hatred, from distrust to trust, back to lust and finally something else. Their fight to stay alive from those that want the diamonds is intense, action packed and mentally and physically exhausting.



An extra character, Kingsley Law, joined the story mid way. He is also a mercenary and a friend to Marc. He is suave and sexy, polar opposite to Marc. He joins Marc and Lilly on their fight to stay alive. He sees the chemistry and the connection Marc and Lily have. He also recognizes that Lily and her final mission have flaws.

What I thought was going be a perfect ending turned into......

To be continued

I will admit that once I read the last few pages, I was excited to read those words. I didn't know this was a two part book but now their journey continues. Can’t wait for more Marc, Lily and Kingsley in Out of Plans……


Advance reader copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review

Buy Links-
Amazon US ➜ http://amzn.to/1Pgx8vM
Amazon UK ➜ http://amzn.to/1KdHPuz
Amazon Canada ➜ http://amzn.to/1DCnnqt
Amazon AUS ➜ http://bit.ly/1Wcv0Kj

[❤️Emma Book Lover ❤️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 ACTION PACKED stars

🖤Follow me on Instagram for more edits🖤


I read and re-read this book 3 times and just realized I have never left a review for it??! What a heck is wrong with me?? This is in my top 5 fav series ever ! Shame on me !

This book is like watching a hot , intense , action packed movie! It has everything in it: romance, sex, suspense ,car chase, bad guys, gun fires, bombs, kick ass heroine, badass Hero! The plot is very engaging and keeps you on the edge on you seat the hole book. The characters are entertaining and very complex.
Lily and Marc are from friends with benefits->death enemies->allies->again friends with benefits ->until we see their relationship evolve to so much more.
Marc is a hitman and a mercenary and Lily is a smuggler for Russian mafia. An oh boy! Do they make the best unconventional team ever?!!!
Both are equally stubborn , smart and passionate. Lily needs Marc to cross the unforgiving dessert with all mafia on their tracks and in the means time something happens from hating Marc to not hating him so much. Oh and the second character Kingsley? oh boy..(flustered all over).
They beat eachother, f**k eachother , take care of eachother with the same intensity.



“That woman will fuck your world up. She looks like a pin up, fucks like a porn star, and fights like Tyson.”




This is a series I would recommend to everyone who loves an awesome suspense-romance !

[Carissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

An enticingly suspenseful tale which takes us on a dangerously 'scenic' road trip through Africa and into it's bordering countries. One mission, two paths, one ending.

When Marcelle De Sant a mercenary and hitman for hire, was employed by the Russian Bratva, to steal Liberian diamonds, worth millions of dollars. He never thought he would have encountered a gorgeous redhead, with hypnotizing green eyes. Liliana Brewster, has worked her way up the criminal hierarchy. Planning for five years, finally hired as the Transporter for the stolen diamonds. Lily bides her time, until it's time for her mission to start. Transporting the diamonds across Africa headed straight for the head of the Russian Bratva.

Five weeks of flirting and skating around each other, lusting from far. Marcelle has delivered his end of the deal. His mission is complete. Before he leaves and while Lily awaits the start of her contract. They have one night, no rules, only sex, releasing five weeks of pent up frustration. When it's over they both go their separate ways.

But not every mission goes as smoothly as their one night no barred sexcapade.

"Men were the worst. Men could do whatever they wanted.
Men were not to be trusted."-Lily

Lily's part of the mission has started. While transporting the diamonds, she is accosted by non other than Marc. Marc was sold out. He was set up and the Liberians he stole the diamonds from, believes he sold the diamonds. Now, for his life, and for his reputation, he must get back those diamonds. And the only person that can help him, is the one woman, who set him up. Lily.

But sometimes nasty things can come in pretty packages. Lily herself was proof of that.

Now in a race to obtain the diamonds, and to make Lily's deadline for delivering to the Bratva, they must battle each other, the Liberians, and their building and slow burning desires for the other. They must learn to work together and trust each. Their missions have now changed,

On their journey, Marc and Lily learn more about each other, their own reasons for taking this job. Revealing all, through the perilous terrain that is Africa. Their journey was a roller coaster of emotions, filled with witty and laugh out loud banter. Sexual innuendos, tension and some seriously kick ass moves from Lily. That woman can hold her own. And she has no qualms about kicking Marc's ass. Even if he did deserve it.

They were like magnets, fighting against each other one minute, then stuck together the next.

A wonderful adventure created by Stylo Fantome. I seriously love this author and all her works. She creates masterful and superbly written novels that captures the reader, and keeps them engrossed.

My most favourite quote from this book is

“I made promises to yesterday. I can't start giving away my tomorrows.” ~ Lily”

*ARC provided on behalf of the author for an honest review* Thanks!

[Natasha is a Book Junkie · Rating 5 out of 5]

FULL REVIEW NOW POSTED:

He whispered more words in her ear, words she’d never heard before, in a voice she always wanted to hear. He was gentle with her, in a way he’d never been before, with a touch she could learn to live for. And as he breathed life into her veins and new thoughts into her mind and different feelings into her soul, there was just one phrase repeating itself in her head.
“… we don’t have to be these people anymore …”

While not always in the mood for Romantic Suspense novels, this author’s extraordinary writing in My Time in the Affair made me pick up this book without a second’s hesitation, already certain it would be a thrill-ride of a lifetime. And how right I was! An exhilarating reading experience from the very first page, there was not a moment in this story that adrenaline was not rushing through my veins or my heart was not beating a million miles an hour. Action-packed start to finish, divinely written, raw and gritty but somehow romantic and sexy at the same time—this book was unexpected in its beauty, given the violent backdrop of the story, and I was literally left panting in the end. Panting from excitement because their story was not over, panting from all the emotions I had felt while reading this incredible story, panting because my heart felt like it had run a marathon…barefoot. A truly breathtaking tale of two enemies turning into lovers, battling their way across North Africa, trying to stay alive in order to complete their missions, as long as they don’t kill one another beforehand. A must read!

“The were destined for two very different paths.”

Marcelle “Marc” De Sant and Liliana “Lily” Brewster are mercenaries, hired by the Russian mob for a heist, Marc’s job being to steal blood diamonds from a Liberian gang, and Lily’s to smuggle them out of Africa. On their last night in the same city, as Marc completes his assignment and Lily is about to start hers, they share one night of toe-curling passion, a night meant to be expel a month’s worth of sexual tension and desire between them, knowing that after than night they’d never see one another again.

“…that woman will f*ck your world up. She looks like a pin up, f*cks like a porn star, and fights like Tyson.”

But in a world where trust and trustworthiness are rare commodities, and it’s every man for himself, Lily and Marc soon find themselves facing each other’s gun barrels, fighting to separate lies from the truth, all the while running from the very men who set them off against one another. As we follow their gripping journey from Liberia to Morocco, we watch the two lovers-turned-adversaries learning to rely on one another, even put their lives in each other’s hands, their differing agendas becoming more and more aligned as they become closer.

“Tell me what do, Marc, I’ve been making decisions for too long. Have they all been wrong? Tell me what do.”

The most badass heroine I have ever come across, Lily is no damsel in distress in any given scenario. She holds her own in every fight—punching, kicking, shooting her way out of any peril—determined to fulfill her final mission. Yet Marc’s dominant, protective traits also awaken the vulnerable young woman in her who has been looking after herself for five long years, never trusting anyone to make decisions for her or to have her best interest at heart. She craves to give herself to a man who truly understands her, a man who would take her far away from the life she has chosen for herself, and as they grow closer, their priorities start shifting, bringing them into uncharted waters they are both uncertain how to navigate. Or whether they are even capable of doing so.

“I made promises to yesterday. I can’t start giving away my tomorrows.”

A compelling, fast-paced roller-coaster ride that never tapers off, never loses steam or fails to hold us willing captives every step along the way. With an intriguing, multi-faceted cast of characters and exhilarating action on every page, this is first and foremost a love story, born against all odds, a love story between two people who somehow manage to preserve some of their humanity in the midst of a life where being human is seen as the ultimate weakness. Love made them see a better life, but the journey to believing in that life remains ahead of them as their story continues and concludes in Out of Plans…

They were like magnets, fighting against each other one minute, then stuck together the next. Whatever it was, it was tangible, and powerful, and very real, and very present. He was the first person to ever make her question her plan. To ever make her wonder if maybe revenge wasn’t the answer.
“… we don’t have to be these people anymore …”

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Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1f4K36W
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/1gPTbgW
Amazon CA: http://amzn.to/1Wy9649

[Natalie ~ The Biblioholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bloody Fantastic!! I've always been strangely fascinated by Stylo Fantome's writing and this story was exceptional. She has a knack for making an anti-hero, or unlikely hero (i.e. Jameson from Degradation), into someone I not only want to meet, but someone I'd like to know, to root for, and to eventually love. And I most definitely loved Marc.

"Never be scared. I never want you to be scared, ever again,"

He was one of the best mercenaries in the world. He did jobs for the the Russian Bratva, the Irish Mob, the Italian Mafia, etc. Although he sometimes worked with others in the field (i.e. Kingsley Law, whom I would love to see in his own book), he preferred to work alone as an independent contractor. Unfortunately he had no choice when, due to unforeseen circumstances, he was forced to work with Lily.

Now Lily was a badass herself and my preferred type of heroine. She had made herself into one of the world's most sought after transporters. And she could definitely hold her own against men. My favourite scene with her was when she kicked the car in reverse and shot a flare into the pursuer's vehicle. Badass!

I was intrigued with these two characters by the end of the first page. Their story had them traipsing through the deserts of Africa and as consumed as I was, at times even my throat felt dry from the dust, the sand and the overwhelming heat. I guess it didn't help that here in Toronto we had a mini-heat wave lol. The author was successful in making this book read like an action movie because every scene was thrilling and I can't wait for the sequel!

"... we don't have to be these people anymore ..."

This story was suspenseful, sexy and intense and I recommend it to all lovers of romantic suspense/thriller. I'm off to read part 2 in Out of Plans.

XO

[TJ ☾ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

This book was so up my alley I had the best time. I love books with lots of action scenes and a kickass heroine and Lily definitely fit the bill. It read like an action movie and the straight up lawlessness of this book was so much fun. Why are couples that physically brawl so goddamn hot? It's the Mr. and Mrs. Smith syndrome I swear....



These two beating the living shit out of each other through this entire book had me in stitches. They would rage, beat on each other, and then afterwards be completely content. Total lovable idiots and them sniping at each other while trudging through this nightmare of a situation was so funny.

"How old are you now?"
"Thirty."
"Wow."
"Why?"
"You look older."
"Bitch."

Lily was fierce and had a hell of a temper, and my favorite thing was her getting to the jump on people who made the mistake of underestimating her.



"You only saw the parts I let you see. You don't know anything."

"I will do it! I will kill you!"
"Then fucking do it!"

Lmao she was so crazy and I loved it. The only reason I can't give this book the full 5 stars is Marc. On one hand it cracked me up how completely un-gentlemanly he was and the fact that he spit all over the concept of chivalry, any and all rules against hitting women, and just the overall guidelines of human decency

"There's only one bed," she pointed out.
"I hope you like the floor."
"I honestly actually hate you."



He didn't gawk when Lily would go hellcat on him, he'd give it back just as hard. But, personality and humor wise, I never found myself fully falling in love w him. I think I wanted him to have more presence. I'm also pretty pissed at him about that ending and can't wait for Lily to make him eat those condescending, mansplaining, dumbass words 😈

[Brit · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another novel by Stylo Fantome you say!? this is where if stylo was a singer I would throw my underwear on stage and just fan girl into the middle of next week! but I'll just sit back and stalk her throughout social media for more updates on this beautiful treasure.

Pre-order at only 99¢ ➜ Amazon | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AUS

Advance Readers Copy (ARC) provided for my blog for an honest review by the lovely author Stylo Fantome

Title: Best Laid Plans
Series: The Mercenaries, #1
Author: Stylo Fantome
Source: eARC
ASIN: B013KWCNL8
Pages: 322
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Age Group: Adult
Characters: Marcelle De Sant, Liliana Brewster
Point of View: Third
Release Date: September 7th 2015
Date Read: August 31st, 2015
Overall Rating: 5 Stars



It's too no surprise that Stylo Fantome is my favorite indie author and anything she writes is pure gold. And I'm having trouble rating this because it's just out of this world. But I can say is Best Laid Plans is her best work yet. Even though Jameson Kane is and always will be my go-to book boyfriend I believe Marcelle De Sant replaced him as number one. I had one heck of an argument with myself about this which didn't really look pretty.

And damn this novel felt like an action punch film block buster, I loved how the whole story played out and had me on the end of my seat and with every Stylo Fantome book it exceeded my expectations. The plot was detailed, the characters were well developed and the book had fierce sexual chemistry also it was intense and engaged me from the very first page.

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quickie Review
Story Rating ~ 5 Pulse Pounding Stars!
Hero Rating ~ 5 Sex Pounding Stars!
Heroine Rating ~ 5 KICK-ASS Stars!!
Heat Level ~ 4 SCORCHING STARS!
Action Rating ~ 5 NON-STOPPING STARS!
Ending ~ 4 stars but only because I’m pissed off at Marc, AGAIN!!
Overall Rating ~ 5 We Don’t Have To Be These People Anymore STARS!!

This WAS my first read by Stylo Fantome and it was EXACTLY the type of book that I LOVE TO READ!!



I was RIVITED to this read the whole way through. LOVED the character, the sex, the violence, the ACTION!!



I was planning on reading another book next, One With You, which I have been waiting forever to get my hands on but when I found out at the end of this read that it continues on with Out Of Plans, I KNEW I would be reading it next, NOW!!

THANK YOU ALL for writing such wonderful reviews on this book! And special thanks to my good book friend Karen, your review reminded me that I needed to read this one.

[Antonella · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow this was unexpected read...unexpectedly great!!!
Badass heroine and snarky rough hero on a dangerous mission in African desert filled with action and really steamy scenes.



I loved all the fighting....I loved redhead, feisty and smart heroine... You know I have this thing for redheads- I never could pull the color off.. So in a weird way, love/hate them...anyways
if Maggie Q was redhead she would be my dream mother efing heroine pick of all time...

Where was I...

Right?!




This was a fun read.
Things you need to know before starting this is that nothing is resolved at the end of this book so you kind of need to read book two too. But that is not a hardship.
Glad to discover new indie author, this book was buried for some time on my reader.

This was beyond enemies to lovers plotline.
And I'm here for it.... And you should be too especially if you like action packed read.

[~Kristin~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5+++ Stars
Wow, that was an adventure!! I can't wait for the next book!
This book is so intense, but in a high octane, adrenaline filled kind of way!

[Mercedes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marcelle and Liliana's story was action packed. This book was fast paced, with all the hand-to-hand combat and the gun slinging, there was hardly any down time. I was glued to the pages of the book, riveted by all the action and the complexities of the characters.

Lily was a transporter for a Russian mafia family. She had one objective and no matter how careful her planning was, the instability of Africa combined with the unexpected company of Marc managed to consistently derail Lily's plans. She was a fierce heroine.

She didn't stand for any of Marc's shit. If he doled it out she dished it right back. Lily's status in the criminal underworld is on shaky ground, she's still kind of new to the business and learning her way around, on top of that she's got an end game of her own to handle. She's not really in for the long haul, her game has an end-goal that's rapidly approaching.

Marc on the other hand is definitely a career criminal. Being a mercenary is very much what defines Marc. His interactions with Lily travel a fine line of business and personal, Marc's very familiar and comfortable on the business side of things but he's less familiar with having personal relationships.

Well, personal relaionships with women, because, we did get to meet Marc's "bestie" Kingsley. That man can hang around anytime. I could totally see why Lily wanted the three of them to stick together ;)


PS I totally got carried away making the "Best Laid Plans" text art so I decided to squeeze them all in. BUT, fun fact, the second one, with the trees, is a picture from Monrovia, Liberia (at least that's what google said), and the last one is a picture from Casablanca, Morocco. Lily and Marc were in both of these cities at some point in time during the book :)

(F)BR with CC, war, Nawal and Liz

Won an ARC from the lovely Stylo Fantome during #ShhIndieSTARchat August

[Jacqueline's Reads]

CAN.NOT.WAIT. PRE-ORDER is UP!!! 99 CENTS (Price increase after release date) - http://amzn.to/1IEkx0J

---

THE PLAN:

* Smuggle diamonds from Liberia to Morocco
* Make the trip in three days
* Don't get caught
* Don't kill each other
* Don't have sex with each other
* Don't fall for each other
* Stick to the plan

This is the story of what happens when an unlikely bond is formed between enemies, causing tensions to rise, and igniting a chemistry that threatens to burn them both. Together, they'll learn that sometimes even the best laid plans can fail.

[Jabberwocky · Rating 5 out of 5]

--->You can Pre-Order Best Laid Plans Amazon for $0.99. This special release price will only be good until Sept. 8th...and then the price goes back up to $2.99!<---





Title: Best Laid Plans
Series: (The Mercenaries, #1)
Author: Stylo Fantome
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance—but with a hella lot of action. (:
Rating: 5-Stars
Cliffhanger: Yessssss!!!
HEA: *growls* No...
Review on Blog: HERE



Best Laid Plans is the first book in Stylo Fantome's newest series, The Mercenaries. By cracking open this book, you're smuggled into the wicked North African continent—where mercenary Marcelle De Sant has successfully finished his most recent job of stealing millions of dollars worth in diamonds, where transporter Liliana Brewster is ready and waiting to take those precious stones out of Liberia to Morocco.

Only sometimes, even the best laid plans can fail—and suddenly, Marc and Lily are at each others throats, sexual tension sizzling underneath blazing hostility and sparks of mistrust...

She remembered their night together, remembered the way he'd reacted to her. He certainly hadn't faked his hard on. He hadn't faked fucking her like he needed to do it to breathe. He liked her body, he liked her face. He liked how she moved. Maybe she could use that to her advantage. She stopped struggling against his hold, letting herself relax against his legs. She rubbed her shoulders back and forth against his lap.

“Look. I'm sure we could work something out. I can make it really worth your while, if you just walk away,” she told him. She tried to keep her voice soft, tried not to glare.

“Really?” he questioned her, his eyebrows raising in surprise.

“We had fun, Marc. Why not have some more fun?”

But since the only way to get out of Africa alive is to fight alongside each other, they're forced into an alliance. All the while, chapter after chapter, Marc and Lily are counting down—to the number of days they have to stay alive, to the number of hours they have left together.

"You'll come back for me," she whispered.

"I never want to be away from you," he whispered, dropping to his knees in front of her. "But I have to do this."

Because as Marc and Lily's adventure explodes, there feelings for each other flame into something more than just raw, uninhibited sex. In between all the action and suspense, there is a heartfelt romance between a ruthless, seemingly-uncaring mercenary and a sexy, firecracker of a redhead who is definitely not afraid to punch back.

While their relationship was unconventional from there very first bang-and-boom, I could feel their passion for one another—and wished and hoped and chanted for their happily ever after.

"Always careful, sweetheart. Take it easy out there. Africa isn't kind," he warned her.

She turned away from him. "Neither am I."

Lily's badass nature was something to aspire to (she was no wilting flower) but it was Marc that truly captured my heart.

I ached for him, this big, bad mercenary who had never known love or true life—besides the next fuck or kill. And witnessing his growing need for Lily, made me ache for him. I craved more of his hidden, whispered touches, quiet, murmured words to her, for her, about her.

I wanted their fucking happily ever after, damnit. And I wanted it now.

But throughout the book, the tumultuous journey Stylo Fantome wrote kept me at the edge of my seat, clutching my kindle and holding onto hope until the very...last...page...

*sigh*

And then I wanted to scream and cry and laugh and just...

...smuggle the next book onto kindle, that's what!

Seriously, though. Best Laid Plans has a little of everything: Blood. Pretty, shiny gems. Fists. Fights. Suspense. A possessive, unpredictable Hero. Hilarious banter. Explosives. Rough play. Sharp knives. Hair-pulling and throat-choking. Dirty guns. Gangs. War. A feisty and fierce heroine. Naughty mouths. Raw, rough-and-tumble fucks. And even some beautifully broken, treacherous-as-their-journey-across-Africa, love.

His teeth kept moving, clamping down on her bottom lip hard enough to hurt. She cried out and pulled away from him, but he moved his hand to her neck, holding her in place. As his fingers pressed down around her windpipe, she raised her knees up, rubbing her thighs together.

"Ready to play rough, Princess?" he breathed against her lips.

She smiled up at him. "I thought you'd never ask."

On a side note, I also fell deeeeeeeeeeeply in love with a secondary character—Kingsly, who is as close of a friend to Marc as honorable, money-grabbing mercenaries have in their lives. Not afraid to shoot at each other, they also have the others' back.

While "Marc was all rough sexiness, five o'clock shadow and gritted teeth, his presence filling a room like a bomb blast. Kingsley was smoothness personified, with gel in his hair, and a suit under all his black gear. He was well groomed and had stormy blue eyes and fair skin, a sharp jaw and broad shoulders, complimented by perfect pearly teeth and a perfect pearly smile. His presence was sharp, like a knife."

And though Marc stole my heart with his rough-then-gentle care for Lily, all it took was the word 'darling' rolling off Kingsly's British tongue and my panties—where were they? Oh, yeah: on the floor. He brought so much bromance and laughter into this book; it wouldn't have been the same without the naughty ol' chap, Kingsly. I hold out hope that perhaps—one day—he'll have his own story? (Hint, hint *wink wink*)

Overall, I'd say it would be nearly impossible to be bored when reading Best Laid Plans, as there's never a dull character or a dull moment—so I would most definitely recommend this book to those who're looking to read a romance that will keep your heart racing for all the right and wrong reasons.

*PS: I was given an ARC of this book. But I do solemnly swear that I am up to...good on Goodreads. ;) This is a fair and honest review of this book. Pinky promise.*