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The Mercenaries #2
Out of Plans
THE NEW PLAN:
* Find Marc
* DON'T find Marc
* Take down a Russian Bratva boss
* Don't have sex with Kingsley
* Find Marc
* Take down a Colombian drug lord
* Don't fall for Marc again
* DON'T FIND MARC
* Kill every ..
*
*
*SCREW THE PLAN AND JUST WING IT
This is the story of what happens when best laid plans fail, and a vengeful woman is forced to find her own way once again. A bond broken, trust shattered, and too many lies to keep track of find Marc and Lily all out of plans and running out of time. Can they find their way back to each other before trouble finds them first, or is it really the end of their journey?
* Find Marc
* DON'T find Marc
* Take down a Russian Bratva boss
* Don't have sex with Kingsley
* Find Marc
* Take down a Colombian drug lord
* Don't fall for Marc again
* DON'T FIND MARC
* Kill every ..
*
*
*SCREW THE PLAN AND JUST WING IT
This is the story of what happens when best laid plans fail, and a vengeful woman is forced to find her own way once again. A bond broken, trust shattered, and too many lies to keep track of find Marc and Lily all out of plans and running out of time. Can they find their way back to each other before trouble finds them first, or is it really the end of their journey?
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 13, 2015
54 people are currently reading
1809 people want to read
About the author
Stylo Fantome
27 books4,765 followersCrazy 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
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
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 330 reviews
August 15, 2017
★★★★★! Out Of Plans, book 2 of 2. Action-filled mission of vengeance with villains, greed, danger & wall-banging, contemptuous sex!
“Slow and sweet was nice, but she'd fucked his brains out during round two, and the third, they'd gotten a noise complaint from the front desk.”
Books in The Mercenaries series must be read in order:
Book 1: Best Laid Plan
Book 2: Out of Plans
In Best Laid Plans (book 1) mercenary and hitman Marcelle De Sant, Marc and transporter Liliana Brewster, Lily were thrown together on a dangerous and suspenseful mission trying to deliver stolen blood diamonds to the Russian mob.
It was a race against time through a desert filled with land mines and riddled with villains. Clouded by lies and distrust they fought their fierce sexual attraction and their way out of Africa.
Out Of Plans (book 2) picks up six months after book 1‘s shocking ending. While Marc is trying to carry on the mission, Lily is set on avenging her sister and revenging the man who hurt her.
When their paths cross again it is nothing short of electrifying; raw and contemptuous sex and hilarious bantering. Again they find themselves chased by enemies and plagued by setbacks on a roller-coaster of plan B’s.
“They didn't say anything. The only noise in the room was their ragged breathing.”
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.
Out Of Plans, told from alternating POVs, is a suspenseful race to right wrongs with the perfect blend of danger, suspense, witty bantering and sizzling sex. Story ends on a high, closing the book a mission with a horizon filled with new plans.
Spellbinding story-telling! Suspenseful and intriguing plot! Off-the-charts and noisy sex scenes!
“See you around, De Sant,” she called out as he opened the door. He smirked at her. “Not if I see you first, Brewster,” he called back. Then he winked, stepped through the door, and was gone.”
***
Hero rating: 4.5 stars
Heroine rating: 4.5 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: 5 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.
February 8, 2020
Well, the first book was better. More... action-filled? Maybe. Most likely.
Still: Lily is a badass. Marc is just whining baby. And someone should have shot him a hundred pages ago! Just saying. Still loving Kingsley. The Stankovskis were crazy sick!
<-- Sort of.
And the most important? Damiano I love him so much! He needs his own book! ASAP!
Still: Lily is a badass. Marc is just whining baby. And someone should have shot him a hundred pages ago! Just saying. Still loving Kingsley. The Stankovskis were crazy sick!
<-- Sort of.
And the most important? Damiano I love him so much! He needs his own book! ASAP!
December 22, 2015
★4.5 Action Packed Stars★
"Kingsley Law: What you want and what you need are often two very different things, darling. Learn the difference and remember it.-Kingsley"
Out of Plans is the action packed second book in The Mercenaries Series. At the conclusion of Best Laid Plans, Marc left Lily with a note and Lily formulated a plan to continue her quest for vengeance! Can she really move forward without Marc by her side?
"Kingsley Law was a devastatingly handsome man. A quick wit and a sharp smile. Trim physique, and always dressed in stylish suits."
Lily doesn't waste any time jumping back into the action. She runs to Kingsley where she receives training, friendship, and even love! With a backpack full of supplies and a plethora of "Kingsley's Laws" in her bank of tricks, she takes off to achieve vengeance.
"Whatever it takes. You train me, and I'll help you in anyway you want, with anything."-Lily
Unbeknownst to Lily, Marc has also been on "the quest". Although he had hoped Lily would return to a "quiet life", in his heart he is hurting over giving her up. When Lily and Marc intercept, the passion and fury between the two is reignited!
"Leaving her had been hard enough. But he'd done it for a reason, It meant something. By getting vengeance for her, he was making leaving her worthwhile."
Marc and Lily must come to terms with the mission and their relationship. Only one thing is certain between the two, physical action is the only "love language" they speak fluently to each other. If they aren't punching, biting, and kicking each other, they are happy to pin the other down for a raw and passionate "romp" in the jungle!
"Her mind had registered the length of time since he'd left her, but her body didn't notice it at all. It recognized his touch as if they'd been together just the day before; like no time had passed."
"Kingsley's Law: Few things can ruin your plans quite like anger. Love, fear, sadness, all can motivate, but anger? Anger will fuck things right up."
As Marc comes to terms with the mistakes he has made, Lily reasserts herself as a strong force to be reckoned with. Kingslsey's presence only adds fuel to the fire. Marc is quite jealous of the friendship between Lily and the Brit and Kingsley is quite happy to exacerbate the situation at every opportunity known to man! However, the love between Marc and Lily is undeniable. Although it takes the two a rather long time to acknowledge it, it is a very active part of the story and drives the plot with meticulous precision!
"That would explain why you're so tense, sweetheart. Like a guitar string, your body is begging me to pluck out a tune."
"It was a tidal wave, something she couldn't stop, something that was swallowing her whole."
"You and I? We make the best "big mistakes" ever."-Marc
Told in multiple POV, Out of Plans offers an action packed romance full of intrigue, suspense, and mystery. The characters are well developed and the dynamics between them keep you engaged with every page turn. Although it is evident that Marc and Lily are the prominent characters in the series, Kingsley plays a valuable role in the plot and adds an alternate plot line in which I am hoping Stylo will continue to explore! The pacing in the story was well matched with the first read and the story arc was well planned and executed brilliantly! The combination of the witty dialogue and passionate physical connection between Lily and Marc kept me engaged the entire read!
"Only porn stars and people fresh out of prison had sex like that."
"She and Kingsley were partners, for sure. But she and Marc...they were something else, and that something involved sharing a bed."
"We weren't done six months ago. We won't be done tomorrow."-Marc
Overall, Out of Plans is another winning read for action/romance lovers! Personally, I have discovered through this series (and some other recent reads) that this is by far my favorite type of read to indulge in. I am a huge fan of Stylo Fantome's work! She has an easy writing style that flows naturally through each page. Her combination of strong heroines and "sexy alpha males" will always keep me coming back for more! I simply cannot get enough! This is another MUST READ NOW series to devour and enjoy!
"Kingsley's Law: Work with what you've got, and make it count."
***The Mercenaries Series***
★BR with CC, MER, WAR, and LOYDA!
★ARC graciously provided via author in exchange for an honest review!★
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
"Kingsley Law: What you want and what you need are often two very different things, darling. Learn the difference and remember it.-Kingsley"
Out of Plans is the action packed second book in The Mercenaries Series. At the conclusion of Best Laid Plans, Marc left Lily with a note and Lily formulated a plan to continue her quest for vengeance! Can she really move forward without Marc by her side?
"Kingsley Law was a devastatingly handsome man. A quick wit and a sharp smile. Trim physique, and always dressed in stylish suits."
Lily doesn't waste any time jumping back into the action. She runs to Kingsley where she receives training, friendship, and even love! With a backpack full of supplies and a plethora of "Kingsley's Laws" in her bank of tricks, she takes off to achieve vengeance.
"Whatever it takes. You train me, and I'll help you in anyway you want, with anything."-Lily
Unbeknownst to Lily, Marc has also been on "the quest". Although he had hoped Lily would return to a "quiet life", in his heart he is hurting over giving her up. When Lily and Marc intercept, the passion and fury between the two is reignited!
"Leaving her had been hard enough. But he'd done it for a reason, It meant something. By getting vengeance for her, he was making leaving her worthwhile."
Marc and Lily must come to terms with the mission and their relationship. Only one thing is certain between the two, physical action is the only "love language" they speak fluently to each other. If they aren't punching, biting, and kicking each other, they are happy to pin the other down for a raw and passionate "romp" in the jungle!
"Her mind had registered the length of time since he'd left her, but her body didn't notice it at all. It recognized his touch as if they'd been together just the day before; like no time had passed."
"Kingsley's Law: Few things can ruin your plans quite like anger. Love, fear, sadness, all can motivate, but anger? Anger will fuck things right up."
As Marc comes to terms with the mistakes he has made, Lily reasserts herself as a strong force to be reckoned with. Kingslsey's presence only adds fuel to the fire. Marc is quite jealous of the friendship between Lily and the Brit and Kingsley is quite happy to exacerbate the situation at every opportunity known to man! However, the love between Marc and Lily is undeniable. Although it takes the two a rather long time to acknowledge it, it is a very active part of the story and drives the plot with meticulous precision!
"That would explain why you're so tense, sweetheart. Like a guitar string, your body is begging me to pluck out a tune."
"It was a tidal wave, something she couldn't stop, something that was swallowing her whole."
"You and I? We make the best "big mistakes" ever."-Marc
Told in multiple POV, Out of Plans offers an action packed romance full of intrigue, suspense, and mystery. The characters are well developed and the dynamics between them keep you engaged with every page turn. Although it is evident that Marc and Lily are the prominent characters in the series, Kingsley plays a valuable role in the plot and adds an alternate plot line in which I am hoping Stylo will continue to explore! The pacing in the story was well matched with the first read and the story arc was well planned and executed brilliantly! The combination of the witty dialogue and passionate physical connection between Lily and Marc kept me engaged the entire read!
"Only porn stars and people fresh out of prison had sex like that."
"She and Kingsley were partners, for sure. But she and Marc...they were something else, and that something involved sharing a bed."
"We weren't done six months ago. We won't be done tomorrow."-Marc
Overall, Out of Plans is another winning read for action/romance lovers! Personally, I have discovered through this series (and some other recent reads) that this is by far my favorite type of read to indulge in. I am a huge fan of Stylo Fantome's work! She has an easy writing style that flows naturally through each page. Her combination of strong heroines and "sexy alpha males" will always keep me coming back for more! I simply cannot get enough! This is another MUST READ NOW series to devour and enjoy!
"Kingsley's Law: Work with what you've got, and make it count."
***The Mercenaries Series***
★BR with CC, MER, WAR, and LOYDA!
★ARC graciously provided via author in exchange for an honest review!★
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
December 12, 2015
5 "Fuck the plans, De Sant" STARS
The second book in this amazing series picks up six months later with Lily 2.0 out on her own exacting her plan for vengeance after months of training with Kingsley. She's still very much pissed at Marc, can't say I blame her, and out to prove to him and herself that's she can do this.
"Lines had been drawn, boundaries had been established."
Of course, no surprise, Lily and Marc do cross paths as they're on the same mission after all. Lily is not happy to see him.
Marc quickly realizes that during their time apart Lily has changed and she's no longer a fan! The bickering and banter between these two is still hilarious! I loved it.
"There was a wall between them, a mile high and fifty feet thick, and it was there because he'd lied to her."
Sure enough, not too long into reconnecting, trouble finds these two.
Talk about cursed or bad luck or something!!! But both rise to the occasion and do what they do best (okay, maybe second best because I think they're at their best when their lips are locked!). No matter what predicament they find themselves in, there's no denying they work well together.
Their infamous fights continue and neither gives in. So their stuck together and then the band's back together again...
once the dashing Kingsley meets up with them!
Throughout this whole thing, Lily's torn. She's hurt, mad and angry with Marc and his presence is hard on her.
"She felt like pulling her hair out. Her brain was waging a war with her heart, and the whole mess was driving her insane."
In time, neither can resist their pull...
"She's better than anything ever was."
And finally, all three join forces to finally bring Lily's plan to fruition.
Damn, this was nail biting and intense but also captivating and amazing!! The final countdown was painful and riddled with breath-holding scenes.
And through this all, Lily and Marc come to terms that both can live with.
Like I've said before, this series is like watching an awesome action-packed movie with two strikingly hot men and one sexy bad ass heroine! Lily's amazing and her growth and development was beholding and inspiring!
And Marc and Lily, while their lives are dark and dirty, they're also beautiful.
Ms. Fantome gives us crumbs about Kingsely's past and about what may haunt him that I sure hope means there'll be more. That this hot, dangerous and sex-on-a-stick man gets his own book.
**ARC generously provided by author in exchange for an honest review.**
For more reviews and blog posts.
The second book in this amazing series picks up six months later with Lily 2.0 out on her own exacting her plan for vengeance after months of training with Kingsley. She's still very much pissed at Marc, can't say I blame her, and out to prove to him and herself that's she can do this.
"Lines had been drawn, boundaries had been established."
Of course, no surprise, Lily and Marc do cross paths as they're on the same mission after all. Lily is not happy to see him.
Marc quickly realizes that during their time apart Lily has changed and she's no longer a fan! The bickering and banter between these two is still hilarious! I loved it.
"There was a wall between them, a mile high and fifty feet thick, and it was there because he'd lied to her."
Sure enough, not too long into reconnecting, trouble finds these two.
Talk about cursed or bad luck or something!!! But both rise to the occasion and do what they do best (okay, maybe second best because I think they're at their best when their lips are locked!). No matter what predicament they find themselves in, there's no denying they work well together.
Their infamous fights continue and neither gives in. So their stuck together and then the band's back together again...
once the dashing Kingsley meets up with them!
Throughout this whole thing, Lily's torn. She's hurt, mad and angry with Marc and his presence is hard on her.
"She felt like pulling her hair out. Her brain was waging a war with her heart, and the whole mess was driving her insane."
In time, neither can resist their pull...
"She's better than anything ever was."
And finally, all three join forces to finally bring Lily's plan to fruition.
Damn, this was nail biting and intense but also captivating and amazing!! The final countdown was painful and riddled with breath-holding scenes.
And through this all, Lily and Marc come to terms that both can live with.
Like I've said before, this series is like watching an awesome action-packed movie with two strikingly hot men and one sexy bad ass heroine! Lily's amazing and her growth and development was beholding and inspiring!
And Marc and Lily, while their lives are dark and dirty, they're also beautiful.
Ms. Fantome gives us crumbs about Kingsely's past and about what may haunt him that I sure hope means there'll be more. That this hot, dangerous and sex-on-a-stick man gets his own book.
**ARC generously provided by author in exchange for an honest review.**
For more reviews and blog posts.
January 26, 2016
Lily proves once again that red heads are fiery
When I start a story, there's a little bubble of hope that my expectations will be met and if I'm really lucky, exceeded. In Out of Plans I got exactly what I hoped for. Lily, Marcelle and Kingsley are back again with an action packed, exciting adventure. It didn't take me long to get settled back into their crazy world and thankfully I didn't need to do a re-read of Best Laid Plans first.
We start the story with Lily tracking down Kingsley who's a little worse for wear. She wants him to train her to be better at what she does and get her back on track to finish her plans of vengeance. Lily's determination jumps off the pages and I could almost hear her teeth grinding when she thinks about Marcelle. The time she spends with Kingsley has made her tougher and all her softness has been removed.
Marcelle...you're an idiot. Your decisions lacked logic and ended up causing you more troubles. Luckily, once you saw your red head, you realised your mistake, so I forgave you.
Kingsley my lovely, I think it's time for a change. I don't think the prostitutes, alcohol and ciggies are going to cut it anymore. Time for you to find your own Darling.
When the three of them come together there are certainly sparks flying. Marc must work his way back into their favour and hope they learn to trust him again. The dynamics have definitely changed, as Kingsley and Lily work together like a well oiled machine.
We get to meet some new and interesting baddies. Damien Ledo was my favourite. At first I was intrigued, then I wanted to punch him really hard and eventually he was kind of sweet for a baddie. We also meet Mrs Psycho Chicken and her hubby Mr Mother Ducker. This couple made my skin crawl. The evilness made me happy that Lily was very determined to see her plans through.
This story is action packed, exciting, humorous and sexy. A couple of times I thought it dragged a little, but when things started to heat up, I couldn't take my eyes off the pages. There are a couple of torture scenes I read with one eye open, so if you're squeamish, just be warned.
I really enjoyed this story and love the style of writing. I hope this isn't the end for these guys because I could see myself getting addicted to them. Pretty please with sugar on top, I'd love for Kingsley to get his happy, happy, joy, joy. Definitely recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this story from the author for an honest review.
To buy Out of Plans -
US: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B019...
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...
CA: http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B019C...
AUS: http://www.amazon.com.au/gp/product/B...
I’m an Aussie chick who loves to read and review romance, drink coffee, be a Style Setter and stalk David Gandy. To see more of my reviews, fashion, food and pervathons -
When I start a story, there's a little bubble of hope that my expectations will be met and if I'm really lucky, exceeded. In Out of Plans I got exactly what I hoped for. Lily, Marcelle and Kingsley are back again with an action packed, exciting adventure. It didn't take me long to get settled back into their crazy world and thankfully I didn't need to do a re-read of Best Laid Plans first.
We start the story with Lily tracking down Kingsley who's a little worse for wear. She wants him to train her to be better at what she does and get her back on track to finish her plans of vengeance. Lily's determination jumps off the pages and I could almost hear her teeth grinding when she thinks about Marcelle. The time she spends with Kingsley has made her tougher and all her softness has been removed.
Marcelle...you're an idiot. Your decisions lacked logic and ended up causing you more troubles. Luckily, once you saw your red head, you realised your mistake, so I forgave you.
Kingsley my lovely, I think it's time for a change. I don't think the prostitutes, alcohol and ciggies are going to cut it anymore. Time for you to find your own Darling.
When the three of them come together there are certainly sparks flying. Marc must work his way back into their favour and hope they learn to trust him again. The dynamics have definitely changed, as Kingsley and Lily work together like a well oiled machine.
We get to meet some new and interesting baddies. Damien Ledo was my favourite. At first I was intrigued, then I wanted to punch him really hard and eventually he was kind of sweet for a baddie. We also meet Mrs Psycho Chicken and her hubby Mr Mother Ducker. This couple made my skin crawl. The evilness made me happy that Lily was very determined to see her plans through.
This story is action packed, exciting, humorous and sexy. A couple of times I thought it dragged a little, but when things started to heat up, I couldn't take my eyes off the pages. There are a couple of torture scenes I read with one eye open, so if you're squeamish, just be warned.
I really enjoyed this story and love the style of writing. I hope this isn't the end for these guys because I could see myself getting addicted to them. Pretty please with sugar on top, I'd love for Kingsley to get his happy, happy, joy, joy. Definitely recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this story from the author for an honest review.
To buy Out of Plans -
US: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B019...
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...
CA: http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B019C...
AUS: http://www.amazon.com.au/gp/product/B...
I’m an Aussie chick who loves to read and review romance, drink coffee, be a Style Setter and stalk David Gandy. To see more of my reviews, fashion, food and pervathons -
August 10, 2017
5 ★★★★★ SCREW THE PLAN AND JUST WING IT Stars
Genre: Romantic Thriller
Type: Book 2 of 2 from The Mercenaries series
POV: Third Person
Out Of Plans picks up six months after the most upsetting ending of the history of book endings haha. Liliana (Lily) Brewster was upset and angry at Marc and she was bound to train and be better than he was. Her goal was to train and be good enough to go avenge the death of her sister. Of course she wished she finds Marc as well but pretended that he didn’t matter to her anymore. She tried to blackout his memory and forgets about him. Little did Lily know that her destiny was bound to come crashing right back to him and back to where they were before fighting for their life together. However this time around she was smarter and stronger.
Marcelle (Marc) Da Sant is trying to do what he thinks is the best; he is in a mission to do something to protect the woman he loved but he let her go. He was bound to keep her safe but what Marc didn’t realized and it sure took him long enough to realized was; this woman he fell for was stubborn and was never going to stop fighting for what she wanted. Marc was very impressed when he crossed path with Lily and this time he wanted to fight for her and keep her. However; Lily wasn’t giving in so easy. Some people may say she was too harsh on him but I thought she was badass and he had to get it in his head they were both a team and they had to trust each other and believe in each other to make things work.
Kingsley Law; what can I say he was amazing. Lily reached out to him for help and he was there always. He was a badass assassin and I would have given anything to fall head over heels for him but my heart was and had always been with Marc. I felt horrible that he and Lily would have never made a couple they were awesome together as a team; as best friends who understood and could read each other’s thoughts. But her heart was Marc’s and I loved that.
This book was packed with action; suspense; it was sexy full of funny moments just plain awesome. These three found themselves again being chased by killers running for their lives and it’s a total roller coaster ride. They finally run out of plan and have to just go with it and follow their instincts but this time it was Lily’s call; oh boy did I loved how these two man would give their lives for this woman. And what Lily did at the end wow left me breathless and speechless. I love a badass heroine and who doesn’t like two hot sexy assassins to go with it?! Hmmm YES PLEASE!. Defiantly recommend this amazing book to all my friends. And I just wish that we get Kinsley’s book he needs a badass heroine for himself as well. He is just amazing. You hear me Stylo??!! *hint*hint* we want Law’s book.
BOOK ORDER: NOT A STANDALONE
AMAZON PURCHASE LINK
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Genre: Romantic Thriller
Type: Book 2 of 2 from The Mercenaries series
POV: Third Person
“You and I? We make the best ‘big mistakes’, ever.” Marc
Out Of Plans picks up six months after the most upsetting ending of the history of book endings haha. Liliana (Lily) Brewster was upset and angry at Marc and she was bound to train and be better than he was. Her goal was to train and be good enough to go avenge the death of her sister. Of course she wished she finds Marc as well but pretended that he didn’t matter to her anymore. She tried to blackout his memory and forgets about him. Little did Lily know that her destiny was bound to come crashing right back to him and back to where they were before fighting for their life together. However this time around she was smarter and stronger.
“I was always stronger than you, you just never realized it.” Lily
Marcelle (Marc) Da Sant is trying to do what he thinks is the best; he is in a mission to do something to protect the woman he loved but he let her go. He was bound to keep her safe but what Marc didn’t realized and it sure took him long enough to realized was; this woman he fell for was stubborn and was never going to stop fighting for what she wanted. Marc was very impressed when he crossed path with Lily and this time he wanted to fight for her and keep her. However; Lily wasn’t giving in so easy. Some people may say she was too harsh on him but I thought she was badass and he had to get it in his head they were both a team and they had to trust each other and believe in each other to make things work.
“Now that he knew she wasn’t living a peaceful normal life…he couldn’t bear the thought of her being out of his sight.” Marc
Kingsley Law; what can I say he was amazing. Lily reached out to him for help and he was there always. He was a badass assassin and I would have given anything to fall head over heels for him but my heart was and had always been with Marc. I felt horrible that he and Lily would have never made a couple they were awesome together as a team; as best friends who understood and could read each other’s thoughts. But her heart was Marc’s and I loved that.
This book was packed with action; suspense; it was sexy full of funny moments just plain awesome. These three found themselves again being chased by killers running for their lives and it’s a total roller coaster ride. They finally run out of plan and have to just go with it and follow their instincts but this time it was Lily’s call; oh boy did I loved how these two man would give their lives for this woman. And what Lily did at the end wow left me breathless and speechless. I love a badass heroine and who doesn’t like two hot sexy assassins to go with it?! Hmmm YES PLEASE!. Defiantly recommend this amazing book to all my friends. And I just wish that we get Kinsley’s book he needs a badass heroine for himself as well. He is just amazing. You hear me Stylo??!! *hint*hint* we want Law’s book.
“They were something better. Something unified. Something unbreakable.” Lily
BOOK ORDER: NOT A STANDALONE
AMAZON PURCHASE LINK
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
December 3, 2015
Genre: Romantic Thriller
Type: Book 2 of 2 from The Mercenaries series
POV: Third Person
Rating:
Liliana (Lily) Brewster had an unfinished business. After five years of holding a grudge against Anatoly Stankovski for his wrong doings to her family, she was at the last stretch of her path to revenge. With the help of charming Brit, Kingsley Law, she gained skills and confidence to carry out the ultimate act.
Marcelle (Marc) Da Sant had his own vow to fulfill. Determined to keep Lily safe, he ventured out on his own to end it once and for all. But plans are bound to fail when the two combative personalities crossed path.
The first book was full of fiery explosions and equally fiery passions, so expect to encounter the same situations in this epic conclusion.
I love how even more badass Lily had become. Events from previous book forced her to reevaluate her priorities and prepped her for the inevitable. However, I liked her less in this one – with her behavior and some of the choices she made.
Marc’s reasoning for his actions were admirable. I love how he learned to let go and adapt as situations required – be it involving Lily or Kingsley.
Speaking of Kingsley, I have been #TeamKingsley since he first appeared in book 1 and I love him even more now. It’s just hard to resist that British charm and cheekiness.
There’s also a new character in this one. Damiano Lado could hold on his own. I certainly love him and actually hope he made more appearance in this one.
I love all the heart thumping actions and the direction of the story, but I do felt it’s a little lacking in the explosive chemistry that Marc and Lily had in previous book. I also felt like Marc’s sex appeal decreased.
I believe it’s largely due to Kingsley’s bigger role and possibly my biased opinion because I love him more than Marc haha! I am really hoping for more of him in the future because there were things being suggested but not addressed concerning his life.
Out Of Plans is an action filled story with lustworthy characters who you’d want on your side when you’re in a pickle – and on your bed during downtime :p
Books in the series:
Must be read in order
★ ★ ★ (F)BR with CC, Mer & Liz ★ ★ ★
My ass kicking (and cock sucking lol!) Shhluts! :p
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Type: Book 2 of 2 from The Mercenaries series
POV: Third Person
Rating:
Liliana (Lily) Brewster had an unfinished business. After five years of holding a grudge against Anatoly Stankovski for his wrong doings to her family, she was at the last stretch of her path to revenge. With the help of charming Brit, Kingsley Law, she gained skills and confidence to carry out the ultimate act.
Marcelle (Marc) Da Sant had his own vow to fulfill. Determined to keep Lily safe, he ventured out on his own to end it once and for all. But plans are bound to fail when the two combative personalities crossed path.
The first book was full of fiery explosions and equally fiery passions, so expect to encounter the same situations in this epic conclusion.
He'd once told her that she didn't have to be the person she was anymore; clearly, she'd taken it to heart. She was something entirely new.
I love how even more badass Lily had become. Events from previous book forced her to reevaluate her priorities and prepped her for the inevitable. However, I liked her less in this one – with her behavior and some of the choices she made.
Marc’s reasoning for his actions were admirable. I love how he learned to let go and adapt as situations required – be it involving Lily or Kingsley.
Kingsley was her partner. Kingsley was there when Marc wasn't. Kingsley was privy to things Marc wouldn't be.
Speaking of Kingsley, I have been #TeamKingsley since he first appeared in book 1 and I love him even more now. It’s just hard to resist that British charm and cheekiness.
He may be a very bad man, but he's charming to the point of distraction.
There’s also a new character in this one. Damiano Lado could hold on his own. I certainly love him and actually hope he made more appearance in this one.
“I'm a bad man, Lily. I've done awful things. But you, you are the best thing I've ever done, and I had to do right by that.”
I love all the heart thumping actions and the direction of the story, but I do felt it’s a little lacking in the explosive chemistry that Marc and Lily had in previous book. I also felt like Marc’s sex appeal decreased.
I believe it’s largely due to Kingsley’s bigger role and possibly my biased opinion because I love him more than Marc haha! I am really hoping for more of him in the future because there were things being suggested but not addressed concerning his life.
Out Of Plans is an action filled story with lustworthy characters who you’d want on your side when you’re in a pickle – and on your bed during downtime :p
Books in the series:
Must be read in order
★ ★ ★ (F)BR with CC, Mer & Liz ★ ★ ★
My ass kicking (and cock sucking lol!) Shhluts! :p
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
January 11, 2016
Kick-ass heroines RULE!!!!
Yes, there will always be those helpless damsels who need rescuing by Prince Charming…and that’s okay with me! But a woman who needs no rescuing or saving and perhaps even rescue the hero….now that’s what I call cool!!!
Liliana aka Lily Brewster, the kick-ass heroine we first met in Best Laid Plans, the 1st book in Stylo Fantome’s fabulous The Mercenaries Series, is back again in the follow up book, Out of Plans. Meaner, tougher and more determined than ever to take down the bad guys responsible for her sister’s death.
After being left stranded in some exotic island in Zanzibar by Marcelle de Sant, Lily doesn’t break down into distress mode for very long. If he thinks that she will abandon her goal of taking down the Russia Mafia head honcho….he’s got it so so wrong!!! Nothing and no one will stand in her quest for justice.
She contacts Kingsley Law…yes, the gorgeous and amoral mercenary she met in Africa and persuades him to train her in all the skills required to her becoming a dangerous and skillful killer.
The scenes between these two were so funny and enjoyable. Kingsley is beyond awesome…and he knows it too!!
Marc is in for a huge surprise when he meets up with Lily again……she’s much more than the woman he first met in Africa.
” He'd once told her that she didn't have to be the person she was anymore; clearly, she'd taken it to heart. She was something entirely new.”
And if Marc wants to stay alive and well, he’d better shape up and keep out of Lily’s way or else.
Lily is not prepared to listen to Marc’s excuse of abandoning her in Africa…..he wanted to protect her!! Pleeez!!! She doesn’t need or want his protection! She’s focused on her mission of vengeance and nothing will stand in her way.
Despite the chemistry and feelings between Marc and Lily, they both try to keep things on a professional level….which of course they both find very difficult to maintain. Lily doesn’t give in too easily …she’s mad at Marc and that’s that…..
…and he will have to work hard at getting her to trust him again.
Marc just never gets it about Lily. He continues to wanting to protect her, trying to keep her away from all the badness out there…..he has no clue on how to handle a deep relationship with a woman….his feelings for Lily affect his ability to stay focused on the mission.
"You left her, remember, idiot? So stop chasing her. Treat it like a job. Like any other job." –Kingsley
Non-stop action…………fast paced……….nail biting……on the edge of your seat…….
Evil drug and human trafficking cartels, car chases, arms smuggling, gun fights in the steamy South American jungles and the streets of NYC, assassins, romance, sexy and dangerous mercenaries, blowing up cars, friendship and best of all…….a totally KICKASS heroine!!!
The banter between all of the protagonists was absolutely stunning.
It’s amazing how much I engaged with the characters in this series. I know….mercenaries, killers…..but somehow there’s something about them that makes you believe that there’s a good side to them…..how could I possibly find Damiano Ledo, arms dealer, drug lord, killer……charming and likeable…..
What a great storyline! If you want an action packed romance with the most unlikely and unique characters…..this is the series for you.
I am hoping that we will get more about these three absolutely unforgettable characters….how about Kingsley story next??? Please Ms SF!!
Oh, yes…you’re curious about Quentin Tarantino’s pic having anything to do with this book?
Okay, let me explain! I sent a message to Mr Tarantino begging him to making a movie based on this series because I really believe he would be the only director who could turn it into an AWESOME, COOL and more than FABULOUS movie ever!
Now, please tell me….do you think the expression on his face could possibly be a YES?????
November 11, 2019
What can I say? I liked it ;)
Especially the ending.
Now if Luc Besson would just return my calls ...
Especially the ending.
Now if Luc Besson would just return my calls ...
December 7, 2015
Out of Plans opens with Lily left alone but being resourceful and motivated as ever to have her vengeance, she is not without a plan for long. With Marc’s good-bye letter taunting her, Lily forges forward and decides find the one man who can help her succeed in her ultimate mission: Kingsley Law. Once Lily locates Kingsley, a feat in itself, he agrees to train and treat her as a fellow mercenary. This time between Lily and Kingsley is vital and it is quite a special time for each character.
“Now she was part of the shadows. She moved in stealth, and if there was something she thought she couldn’t do, she had a very bad man behind her to make sure she could do it.”
After five long years, the time comes for Lily to kill Stankovski and her entire world is focused on this moment. With all her plans and contingency plans in place, she finally gets closer as ever until the one unplanned variable causes her entire plan to go hell…Marcelle de Sant!
"Kingsley’s law: in a crisis, if you’re not thinking about what is directly in front of you, then you should probably be thinking about what you’d like to wear when you’re buried.”
After being unwillingly united with Marc, a back draft of emotions surges and Lily is forced to confront her feelings of anger, abandonment, distrust and love toward Marc. Of course, Marc is still under the impression that Lily isn’t cut out for this line of work and tries to insolate her, but Lily is not going to allow him to interfere in her life anymore. The problem is that Marc and Lily cannot deny their feelings. They are both volatile and trying to stay separated becomes an impossible task.
”You’re delicate to me, and I would die if I broke you.”
With Lily’s eye on the prize, Marc and Kingsley stand by her side and nothing less than suspenseful action ensues. While the action and danger keeps you on your toes, the friendship between Lily and Kingsley remains unbreakable and the dynamic between Lily and Marc shifts to one of equality.
For me, I really liked how Marc and Lily’s relationship changed and the determining factor was really due to Marc recognizing Lily’s strength and resilience. Additionally, Lily evolved and learned to embrace her choices. As for Kingsley, we learned so much about him and there were some hints into his past that definitely leave room for a possible book of his own. I loved reading all of Kingsley’s laws! Kingsley’s self-assured cockiness added wonderfully to the story and complimented the grittiness of Marc’s personality.
With this series, Stylo has successfully crafted a story of adrenaline filled action, love and friendship in such a captivating and entertaining fashion. I highly recommend!!
* * * Note: An ARC was generously provided by the author in exchange for a honest review.* * *
Note: Thanks to Hawkey and Lonestar Liz for a (F)BR!!
December 15, 2015
Out of Plans is the sequel and conclusions to Best Laid Plans. I absolutely loved the first book and couldn’t wait to jump into this story and see the conclusion. Out of Plans picks up where Best Laid Plans left off. Lily is alone, Marc left her and she couldn’t be more angry. Out of desperation and need she turns to Kingsley. He then trains her to be a better, stronger, more ruthless mercenary.
Kingsley was absolutely perfection, I seriously fell in love with his fun loving, flirtatious, sexy self. I think it’s a real flaw when you are reading a story and hoping the heroine ends up with another guy. Unfortunately that’s exactly what happened. Kingsley brought his A game and Marc just seemed lacking. I seriously wanted so much more for Marc and Lily. I wanted them pick back up their relationship and sell me on them being perfect for each other. I just didn’t see that in this story.
While I did seriously enjoy the story I wanted more romance and a deeper connection between Lily and Marc or I wanted Lily with Kingsley one. There is a scene in the story where Kingsley comes onto Lily, normally I would be completely against my heroine with a different hero, but I was all about Lily and Kingsley, that’s a problem for me.
Now in terms of the plot and suspenseful aspects it was great. The story moved so quickly and I was completely into Lily getting her revenge. I felt like that part of the story was done so well and if you go into this story seeking suspense and action, you will love it.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Kingsley was absolutely perfection, I seriously fell in love with his fun loving, flirtatious, sexy self. I think it’s a real flaw when you are reading a story and hoping the heroine ends up with another guy. Unfortunately that’s exactly what happened. Kingsley brought his A game and Marc just seemed lacking. I seriously wanted so much more for Marc and Lily. I wanted them pick back up their relationship and sell me on them being perfect for each other. I just didn’t see that in this story.
Better than revenge. Better diamonds. It was everything she’d ever wanted to hear from him.
While I did seriously enjoy the story I wanted more romance and a deeper connection between Lily and Marc or I wanted Lily with Kingsley one. There is a scene in the story where Kingsley comes onto Lily, normally I would be completely against my heroine with a different hero, but I was all about Lily and Kingsley, that’s a problem for me.
Now in terms of the plot and suspenseful aspects it was great. The story moved so quickly and I was completely into Lily getting her revenge. I felt like that part of the story was done so well and if you go into this story seeking suspense and action, you will love it.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
December 18, 2015
4.5 STARS*****
(Arc provided in exchange for an honest review)
DOUBLE the thrill, double the action, and even more heated passion in this second installment of the Mercenaries series. What a crazy ride Lily, Marc and Kingsley gave us, even though this second time around they found themselves all Out Of Plans...
This second book starts after Marc left Lily heart broken by that beautiful yet cruel letter, saying goodbye. She finds herself lost and mad for falling for him. Lily is very strong so she only allows herself a few tears before forming a new strategy. With renewed purpose she goes back to her revenge plans; to find and eliminate from this world , the man that took her sister's life, and there is only one person who can help her get to him, Kingsley...
Kingsley welcomes Lily with open arms and they begin training and working together right away. Their dynamic is amazing. They have fun training and they balance each other perfectly, every time they are out on a job.
Six months after Kingsley took her in, she sees Marc again and it turns out he has very valuable information that can help her achieve her goal. So, Marc and Lily call a truce and they decide to work together but nothing else, nothing romantic can happen between them. But when they are together, shooting and sparring, the danger and adrenaline work as fuel that makes the sexual tension burn even deeper.
Marc wants Lily back and he is jealous of the close relationship she now has with Kingsley. Marc knows he broke her heart and even though he was trying to protect her by leaving her, his feelings for her only grew stronger in the time that they were apart. Can he deal with all the old feelings he has for her? He wants to protect her fiercely but he also knows she is very strong and that she is nothing if not a mercenary just like him or even better. Her strength is what he loves most about her but he struggles with the fear of her getting hurt and that throws off his whole game.
Lily knows how much both Mark and Kingsley love her but she's discovering how she must deal with each men individually. She adores Kingsley in a brotherly way and Marc is the man she loves and yet she wants to beat the crap out of him on a daily basis. Both guys are very important to her. They have become her only family and she hopes that together the three of them will be able to avenge her sister's death. But the question remains, will Lily be able to pull the trigger when she comes face to face with the Russian Mafia Monster that has been haunting her dreams?
Never a dull moment when reading a Stylo Fatôme book and this one was packed with action on top of HOT romance, making it a very entertaining series. I loved the development of the relationship between Marc and Lily, two individuals that can't do hearts and flowers but that they are highly intense and passionate about each other.
I must admit that my favorite thing about this book was Kingsley . This British mercenary was so sexy and with a larger than life personality. I really think he deserves his own book. He is so funny and charming. He is one of those characters that makes you want to materialize inside the book, if only for just one minute and do wicked things with him. He added so much more depth to the story. He became more than a secondary character and truly stole a big chunk of my heart. I really hope to read his book one day...
Amazing read, I highly recommend series. Gripping and very steamy story, that I'm sure will become a favorite to everyone who reads it.
(Arc provided in exchange for an honest review)
DOUBLE the thrill, double the action, and even more heated passion in this second installment of the Mercenaries series. What a crazy ride Lily, Marc and Kingsley gave us, even though this second time around they found themselves all Out Of Plans...
This second book starts after Marc left Lily heart broken by that beautiful yet cruel letter, saying goodbye. She finds herself lost and mad for falling for him. Lily is very strong so she only allows herself a few tears before forming a new strategy. With renewed purpose she goes back to her revenge plans; to find and eliminate from this world , the man that took her sister's life, and there is only one person who can help her get to him, Kingsley...
Kingsley welcomes Lily with open arms and they begin training and working together right away. Their dynamic is amazing. They have fun training and they balance each other perfectly, every time they are out on a job.
Six months after Kingsley took her in, she sees Marc again and it turns out he has very valuable information that can help her achieve her goal. So, Marc and Lily call a truce and they decide to work together but nothing else, nothing romantic can happen between them. But when they are together, shooting and sparring, the danger and adrenaline work as fuel that makes the sexual tension burn even deeper.
Marc wants Lily back and he is jealous of the close relationship she now has with Kingsley. Marc knows he broke her heart and even though he was trying to protect her by leaving her, his feelings for her only grew stronger in the time that they were apart. Can he deal with all the old feelings he has for her? He wants to protect her fiercely but he also knows she is very strong and that she is nothing if not a mercenary just like him or even better. Her strength is what he loves most about her but he struggles with the fear of her getting hurt and that throws off his whole game.
Lily knows how much both Mark and Kingsley love her but she's discovering how she must deal with each men individually. She adores Kingsley in a brotherly way and Marc is the man she loves and yet she wants to beat the crap out of him on a daily basis. Both guys are very important to her. They have become her only family and she hopes that together the three of them will be able to avenge her sister's death. But the question remains, will Lily be able to pull the trigger when she comes face to face with the Russian Mafia Monster that has been haunting her dreams?
Never a dull moment when reading a Stylo Fatôme book and this one was packed with action on top of HOT romance, making it a very entertaining series. I loved the development of the relationship between Marc and Lily, two individuals that can't do hearts and flowers but that they are highly intense and passionate about each other.
I must admit that my favorite thing about this book was Kingsley . This British mercenary was so sexy and with a larger than life personality. I really think he deserves his own book. He is so funny and charming. He is one of those characters that makes you want to materialize inside the book, if only for just one minute and do wicked things with him. He added so much more depth to the story. He became more than a secondary character and truly stole a big chunk of my heart. I really hope to read his book one day...
Amazing read, I highly recommend series. Gripping and very steamy story, that I'm sure will become a favorite to everyone who reads it.
December 3, 2015
I think this book is kickass, but I have some unpopular opinion to address.
Similar to its predecessor, Out of Plans is still as explosive and suspenseful. The action scenes were top notch and half the time I wonder am I reading a book written by a dude. The attention to details, the underlying sense of danger and the flow of the action are flawless.
Now I would like to review each of the main characters.
Lily - the badass bitch
She seems like a raging bitch for half the book. I understand her resentment towards Marc for abandoning her. But that didn't entitled her to be a bitch to him for so long. And how many times does the poor man need to explain himself. For fuck sake, I felt like she is in constant denial or on certain cracked for not understanding his good intention.
Marc was a mercenary long before he knew her and now this woman want to be better than him by just training with Kingsley for six months? I don't care he is fucking Rambo incarnated, I just don't believe it.
Don't even let me get started about the whole sorta triangle thing with Kingsley. And why does every man seems to worship the land she walked on? There is Marc who would actually die for her, then Kingsley who love her more than he value his friendship with Marc and then now we have a certain drug lord who would do anything to help her.
Kingsley - the cool Brit in a suit
This man ticks all my checkboxes. If this is any other book, I will be all over him. He seems to be the most skillful, resourceful and deadly among the trio. He is even hiding some sordid secret that make me sympathize with him. But I can't shake the feeling that this is Marc and Lily's story, stop outshining the poor guy. I'm sure you will have your own story to tell later.
Marc De Sant
Marcelle!! You need to step it up man. Kingsley is getting more fans than you as we're speaking. You are getting sloppy and you even let your woman walk all over you. I don't care that Lily turned into some kind of Angelina Jolie with a bazooka, you need to do something about it. I'm rooting for you here.
Rant finish.
"We could've been fucking since Colombia. See What happens when you're a bitch? You miss out on good sex."
"Did you just call me a bitch?"
"Please. It's practically your middle name."
Well said, De Sant. Well said.
Similar to its predecessor, Out of Plans is still as explosive and suspenseful. The action scenes were top notch and half the time I wonder am I reading a book written by a dude. The attention to details, the underlying sense of danger and the flow of the action are flawless.
Now I would like to review each of the main characters.
Lily - the badass bitch
She seems like a raging bitch for half the book. I understand her resentment towards Marc for abandoning her. But that didn't entitled her to be a bitch to him for so long. And how many times does the poor man need to explain himself. For fuck sake, I felt like she is in constant denial or on certain cracked for not understanding his good intention.
Marc was a mercenary long before he knew her and now this woman want to be better than him by just training with Kingsley for six months? I don't care he is fucking Rambo incarnated, I just don't believe it.
Don't even let me get started about the whole sorta triangle thing with Kingsley. And why does every man seems to worship the land she walked on? There is Marc who would actually die for her, then Kingsley who love her more than he value his friendship with Marc and then now we have a certain drug lord who would do anything to help her.
Kingsley - the cool Brit in a suit
This man ticks all my checkboxes. If this is any other book, I will be all over him. He seems to be the most skillful, resourceful and deadly among the trio. He is even hiding some sordid secret that make me sympathize with him. But I can't shake the feeling that this is Marc and Lily's story, stop outshining the poor guy. I'm sure you will have your own story to tell later.
Marc De Sant
Marcelle!! You need to step it up man. Kingsley is getting more fans than you as we're speaking. You are getting sloppy and you even let your woman walk all over you. I don't care that Lily turned into some kind of Angelina Jolie with a bazooka, you need to do something about it. I'm rooting for you here.
Rant finish.
"We could've been fucking since Colombia. See What happens when you're a bitch? You miss out on good sex."
"Did you just call me a bitch?"
"Please. It's practically your middle name."
Well said, De Sant. Well said.
December 16, 2015
IT'S LIVE! AMAZON
4.5 Badass stars
Out of plans is the continuation of Best Laid Plans and Stylo once again surely did not disappoint.
Our heroine, Lily, is hurt and most of all angry at what happened at the ending of BLP. She decides to turn into the British mercenary, Kingsley and she asks for his help. They make a team and he's helping her train for the next six months. They have bonded and he has made her stronger, teaching her everything that could make her plan her revenge, better than the previous time.
She is determined and she can do this, even without Marc's help. But life has other plans, throwing them together once again. Life's spiderweb tangles them all together along with their enemies and a crazy ride is on for them.
Once again, Stylo has given us a suspenseful action packed book, with the same level of angst and suspense as the previous time. Kicking ass, getting kicked, shots, explosives and a crazy chase that blurs the lines between good guys and bad guys. Sometimes even friends can turn into foes and enemies into allies.
I expected more twists and turns, not that it lacked on that extend, but somehow I just expected more. The book wasn't so much focused on the big enemy and therefore we didn't really meet him until the last part of the book. Yes, there was information and his presence was always accounted, but I thought we would dig further into him. Maybe that's just me.
Still, I truly enjoyed this sequel, the writing once again was captivating and the characters compelling. They were so well written , that you could feel their inner turmoil, their thoughts and emotions and each of them seperately was one of his kind. But all of them working together, that was simply epic.
If you enjoy action packed books, with lots of angst, suspense and adventure and some sexy and fun moments, this is a series that you should definitely pick up.
PS: I truly hope that if there's a next part in the series it will be Kingsley's book. I'm looking forward to getting to know him better! The unsolved mystery around his past makes me think that we will get a book about him, right? RIGHT?
Out of Plans is the second part of The Mercenaries series:
ARC was kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 Badass stars
Out of plans is the continuation of Best Laid Plans and Stylo once again surely did not disappoint.
Our heroine, Lily, is hurt and most of all angry at what happened at the ending of BLP. She decides to turn into the British mercenary, Kingsley and she asks for his help. They make a team and he's helping her train for the next six months. They have bonded and he has made her stronger, teaching her everything that could make her plan her revenge, better than the previous time.
She is determined and she can do this, even without Marc's help. But life has other plans, throwing them together once again. Life's spiderweb tangles them all together along with their enemies and a crazy ride is on for them.
"You are right, he and I are good together.
But you and I... we could've been great."
Once again, Stylo has given us a suspenseful action packed book, with the same level of angst and suspense as the previous time. Kicking ass, getting kicked, shots, explosives and a crazy chase that blurs the lines between good guys and bad guys. Sometimes even friends can turn into foes and enemies into allies.
I expected more twists and turns, not that it lacked on that extend, but somehow I just expected more. The book wasn't so much focused on the big enemy and therefore we didn't really meet him until the last part of the book. Yes, there was information and his presence was always accounted, but I thought we would dig further into him. Maybe that's just me.
Still, I truly enjoyed this sequel, the writing once again was captivating and the characters compelling. They were so well written , that you could feel their inner turmoil, their thoughts and emotions and each of them seperately was one of his kind. But all of them working together, that was simply epic.
If you enjoy action packed books, with lots of angst, suspense and adventure and some sexy and fun moments, this is a series that you should definitely pick up.
PS: I truly hope that if there's a next part in the series it will be Kingsley's book. I'm looking forward to getting to know him better! The unsolved mystery around his past makes me think that we will get a book about him, right? RIGHT?
Out of Plans is the second part of The Mercenaries series:
ARC was kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
September 11, 2016
So good! Oh my gosh so good! Phenomenal really! This series had the perfect balance of action and suspense and intrigue and love and everything!!
Lily really came into her own with this one. She was already badass and Kingsley helped to make her even more so. I did want to punch her out for the first 25% of the book or so, but that's only because her thought process with regards to Marc was so freaking irrational. However, I always had mad respect for her. Lily, Marc and Kingsley once again turned out to be one heck of a team and I'm extremely pleased with the happy ending. It was as happy as these mercenaries could get and as realistic as the rest of the book.
XO
Lily really came into her own with this one. She was already badass and Kingsley helped to make her even more so. I did want to punch her out for the first 25% of the book or so, but that's only because her thought process with regards to Marc was so freaking irrational. However, I always had mad respect for her. Lily, Marc and Kingsley once again turned out to be one heck of a team and I'm extremely pleased with the happy ending. It was as happy as these mercenaries could get and as realistic as the rest of the book.
XO
December 20, 2015
5 "Always You"Stars
Out of Plans is non stop action from beginning to end. It's intriguing, it's high octane, it's fantastic banter between characters, it's steamy and it's an amazing read!!! I found that I couldn't put the book down.
The story picks up after Best Laid Plans ends. Lily must continue on her journey. But in order to accomplish her goal, she needs help and Kingsley Law is just the man to help. Suave and debonair Kingsley, teaches Lily the skills she needs to finish her journey she started 5 years ago. But now she has another goal, to be better, to be stronger, to be more and to show Marc De Sant what he missed out on. But what Lily doesn't know is that Marc made a promise that he would finish her quest for her.
Lily and Kingsley forge a deep friendship. She learns to trust him and he her. But all the while, Lily never forgets Marc. While she is hurt, she still loves him but she vows to get over him, once she kicks his ass. In her quest for Stankovski, Lily must also deal with a drug lord, Damiano Ledo, who is going into business with Stankovski. The plot thickens but Lily and Marc reunite and the fireworks begin, both good and bad.
What I find so wonderful is that Stylo Fantôme writes the most wickedly wonderful banter between her characters. The characters are dry, sarcastic, funny, witty, strong, sexy, and tender......Lily-Kingsley, Lily-Marc, Lily-Kingsley-Marc, Lily-Damiano, and of course Stankovski with all of them. While reading you crave the interactions and the feelings among them all. It is all tangled and twisted but it is also visual and explosive.
Like I said in the beginning, this book is non stop action. The plot is ever changing. The twist and turns are wickedly unexpected. There is death, torture, mystery, intrigue, sex, dry wit, and mayhem. I said this about the last book but these two books would make a fanfreakingtastic movie. Nonstop action with a sexy romantic twist. It has something for everyone. A wickedly handsome man, a ruggedly strong man, a mysterious handsome drug lord, an evil villain and most importantly a strong, no holds bar heroine that can be a badass as well as beautiful, sexy and strong.
I hope that Stylo continues this series. Kingsley has some skeletons in his closet and I would love to know more- hint hint!! Best Laid Plans and Out of Plans would be great holiday reads for anyone looking for an entertaining ride!!
Advanced reading copy given by author via Shh Moms Reading in exchange for an honest review
Out of Plans is non stop action from beginning to end. It's intriguing, it's high octane, it's fantastic banter between characters, it's steamy and it's an amazing read!!! I found that I couldn't put the book down.
The story picks up after Best Laid Plans ends. Lily must continue on her journey. But in order to accomplish her goal, she needs help and Kingsley Law is just the man to help. Suave and debonair Kingsley, teaches Lily the skills she needs to finish her journey she started 5 years ago. But now she has another goal, to be better, to be stronger, to be more and to show Marc De Sant what he missed out on. But what Lily doesn't know is that Marc made a promise that he would finish her quest for her.
Lily and Kingsley forge a deep friendship. She learns to trust him and he her. But all the while, Lily never forgets Marc. While she is hurt, she still loves him but she vows to get over him, once she kicks his ass. In her quest for Stankovski, Lily must also deal with a drug lord, Damiano Ledo, who is going into business with Stankovski. The plot thickens but Lily and Marc reunite and the fireworks begin, both good and bad.
What I find so wonderful is that Stylo Fantôme writes the most wickedly wonderful banter between her characters. The characters are dry, sarcastic, funny, witty, strong, sexy, and tender......Lily-Kingsley, Lily-Marc, Lily-Kingsley-Marc, Lily-Damiano, and of course Stankovski with all of them. While reading you crave the interactions and the feelings among them all. It is all tangled and twisted but it is also visual and explosive.
Like I said in the beginning, this book is non stop action. The plot is ever changing. The twist and turns are wickedly unexpected. There is death, torture, mystery, intrigue, sex, dry wit, and mayhem. I said this about the last book but these two books would make a fanfreakingtastic movie. Nonstop action with a sexy romantic twist. It has something for everyone. A wickedly handsome man, a ruggedly strong man, a mysterious handsome drug lord, an evil villain and most importantly a strong, no holds bar heroine that can be a badass as well as beautiful, sexy and strong.
I hope that Stylo continues this series. Kingsley has some skeletons in his closet and I would love to know more- hint hint!! Best Laid Plans and Out of Plans would be great holiday reads for anyone looking for an entertaining ride!!
Advanced reading copy given by author via Shh Moms Reading in exchange for an honest review
December 22, 2015
“You left me! I trusted you and you left me! I believed in you, but you never believed in me. You left me in some country I’d never heard of, with nothing. You just left me.”
Lines had been drawn, boundaries had been established."
In book 1 we see Lily and Marc thrown together; battling the desert, fighting against time, all in efforts to deliver blood diamonds to the Russians. It's now six months later, and we find Lily seeking revenge. Revenge on the man who hurt her, and revenge towards her sister's killer. All encapsulated with a deep sexual chemistry and lies and distrust. Lily's fiery persona, and Marc's straight laced, head on the game attitude, has these two creating an exciting and suspenseful story. Filled with silly and comical banter, and a sizzling sexual attraction that has these two spinning heads.
Stylo Fantome gives us two opposing forces that butt heads and constantly drawn to the other. Marc is trying to protect Lily, while Lily is out for vengeance. And when we throw Kingsley into the mix, things just get even better.
“You, Lily, are by far the best thing I’ve ever stolen.”
Non the less, Marc's hard ass, overprotective side, took a back seat to his sweetness. Even though far and few inbetween, there was something about the way Lily and Marc conversed that was so endearing. I felt the emotions between them. It didn't need to be lovey dovey.
Out of Plans is action paced and suspenseful plot, that has me rooting for Kingsley and Lily mostly. I simply loved those two. But, sigh.. Marc's the man for Lily. Hopefully, Kingsley will get his own book, and his own heroine, to keep his arse away from these hoes. lol.
They were something better. Something unified. Something unbreakable.
*ARC provided on behalf of the author for an honest review* Thanks!!
Lines had been drawn, boundaries had been established."
In book 1 we see Lily and Marc thrown together; battling the desert, fighting against time, all in efforts to deliver blood diamonds to the Russians. It's now six months later, and we find Lily seeking revenge. Revenge on the man who hurt her, and revenge towards her sister's killer. All encapsulated with a deep sexual chemistry and lies and distrust. Lily's fiery persona, and Marc's straight laced, head on the game attitude, has these two creating an exciting and suspenseful story. Filled with silly and comical banter, and a sizzling sexual attraction that has these two spinning heads.
Stylo Fantome gives us two opposing forces that butt heads and constantly drawn to the other. Marc is trying to protect Lily, while Lily is out for vengeance. And when we throw Kingsley into the mix, things just get even better.
“You, Lily, are by far the best thing I’ve ever stolen.”
Non the less, Marc's hard ass, overprotective side, took a back seat to his sweetness. Even though far and few inbetween, there was something about the way Lily and Marc conversed that was so endearing. I felt the emotions between them. It didn't need to be lovey dovey.
Out of Plans is action paced and suspenseful plot, that has me rooting for Kingsley and Lily mostly. I simply loved those two. But, sigh.. Marc's the man for Lily. Hopefully, Kingsley will get his own book, and his own heroine, to keep his arse away from these hoes. lol.
They were something better. Something unified. Something unbreakable.
*ARC provided on behalf of the author for an honest review* Thanks!!
November 28, 2019
5 STARS
This is the second book in the Mercenaries series and is still an awesomeness of action , suspense and romance.
Lily teams up with Kingsley ( platonic friendship)after Marc left her at the end of book one. In the time apart Kingsley teaches her to fight and to be one of the " mercenaries" and now Lily wants her revenge on Marc for leaving her, plus the diamonds deal is still on.
It this book Lily is even more of a kick ass h, she makes a proper number on Marc . He is regretful for leaving her but only had her safety and well being at heart when he s done that.
This is no less than action packed again. More bad guys, more gun blazing, more fighting , and Lily and Marc learn to do it again together.
I felt a bit sorry for Marc when he was left a bit out from Lily-Kingsley team, he was very jealous.
"You and I? We make the best "big mistakes" ever."
The epilogue was short but sweet, I would have liked to have more books but I can do with Kingsley's book.
"We weren't done six months ago. We won't be done tomorrow."
This is the second book in the Mercenaries series and is still an awesomeness of action , suspense and romance.
Lily teams up with Kingsley ( platonic friendship)after Marc left her at the end of book one. In the time apart Kingsley teaches her to fight and to be one of the " mercenaries" and now Lily wants her revenge on Marc for leaving her, plus the diamonds deal is still on.
It this book Lily is even more of a kick ass h, she makes a proper number on Marc . He is regretful for leaving her but only had her safety and well being at heart when he s done that.
This is no less than action packed again. More bad guys, more gun blazing, more fighting , and Lily and Marc learn to do it again together.
I felt a bit sorry for Marc when he was left a bit out from Lily-Kingsley team, he was very jealous.
"You and I? We make the best "big mistakes" ever."
The epilogue was short but sweet, I would have liked to have more books but I can do with Kingsley's book.
"We weren't done six months ago. We won't be done tomorrow."
December 14, 2015
FULL REVIEW NOW POSTED:
What a spectacular thrill-ride this series has been start to finish! For someone who rarely reads Romantic Suspense novels, this story has now turned me into a bona fide aficionado, and this author’s fan for life. Just as action-packed as its prequel, just as brilliantly written and masterfully executed, this was a book I was dying to get my hands on from the moment I knew it was coming, and it did not disappoint one bit. An unexpected love story, striking in its beauty, juxtaposed against a violent backdrop of deadly gun fights, sadistic mobsters, and hair-raising escapes—I felt like my poor heart was going to either burst out of my chest or give up on me altogether, and I loved every single exhilarating second of it. This is nothing less than one of my favourite reads of the year.
After surviving their diamond heist across North Africa, they might have found hope for a better life in each other’s arms, but we find our two mercenaries apart. In an attempt to spare her from risking her own life by going after the man who put a bounty on her head, Marcelle “Marc” De Sant has abandoned the love of his life on a beach in East Africa, telling her to find happiness without him. But as noble as his intentions might have been, Liliana “Lily” Brewster is all but moved by his actions, and determined now more than ever to prove to him and to everyone else what she’s made of. And then kill Marc for not believing in her.
With the help of our favourite smooth-operating, suit-donning, motto-professing, deadly Englishman, Lily trains to become an unstoppable killing machine, channeling her heartbreak into an unquenchable thirst for vengeance and justice. She single-mindedly hunts the man responsible for her sister’s death, chasing him across two continents and using every resource at her disposal, but as she finally reaches her target, she finds herself in a face-off with the very man who broke her heart.
And so we embark on a nail-biting adventure peppered with countless twists and turns, never knowing what act of death-defying insanity we’d find as we turn the next page. Yet, as wild and dangerous as their mission becomes, the love story between Marc and Lily never fails to take centre stage, driving the story forward and infusing it with a romantic softness that stands in stark contrast to the mayhem around them.
Lily is quite possibly the most fearless heroine I have ever come across, a woman set on proving to everyone around her that she is no wilting flower and that she does not need a man to ‘save’ her, but her true courage is to be found in the way her heart refuses to stop loving even when giving her heart away is the riskiest act of them all.
A brilliant marriage of gripping drama and gritty action, held together by phenomenal character development and mouth-watering chemistry between them, this is a book I devoured as quickly as I could, absolutely entranced by this author’s vivid prose and flair for effortlessly mixing action sequences and sexy romance. I hope one day to see this breathtaking story on the big screen since that is where it truly belongs, the role of Lily naturally played by Bruce Willis, in a red wig or something, because…Bruce Willis.
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“You left me! I trusted you and you left me! I believed in you, but you never believed in me. You left me in some country I’d never heard of, with nothing. You just left me.”
What a spectacular thrill-ride this series has been start to finish! For someone who rarely reads Romantic Suspense novels, this story has now turned me into a bona fide aficionado, and this author’s fan for life. Just as action-packed as its prequel, just as brilliantly written and masterfully executed, this was a book I was dying to get my hands on from the moment I knew it was coming, and it did not disappoint one bit. An unexpected love story, striking in its beauty, juxtaposed against a violent backdrop of deadly gun fights, sadistic mobsters, and hair-raising escapes—I felt like my poor heart was going to either burst out of my chest or give up on me altogether, and I loved every single exhilarating second of it. This is nothing less than one of my favourite reads of the year.
“She was quicker, faster. Lily 2.0. Her curves had been replaced by tone muscles, and her fiery passion had been replaced by ice cold anger.”
After surviving their diamond heist across North Africa, they might have found hope for a better life in each other’s arms, but we find our two mercenaries apart. In an attempt to spare her from risking her own life by going after the man who put a bounty on her head, Marcelle “Marc” De Sant has abandoned the love of his life on a beach in East Africa, telling her to find happiness without him. But as noble as his intentions might have been, Liliana “Lily” Brewster is all but moved by his actions, and determined now more than ever to prove to him and to everyone else what she’s made of. And then kill Marc for not believing in her.
“Do you see any of this, De Sant? Wherever you are, have you heard about me yet? You’re a coward, you’re spineless, you’re weak willed, and I’m going to prove who is the stronger one, once and for all.”
With the help of our favourite smooth-operating, suit-donning, motto-professing, deadly Englishman, Lily trains to become an unstoppable killing machine, channeling her heartbreak into an unquenchable thirst for vengeance and justice. She single-mindedly hunts the man responsible for her sister’s death, chasing him across two continents and using every resource at her disposal, but as she finally reaches her target, she finds herself in a face-off with the very man who broke her heart.
“You think I’m some delicate, fragile, little girl wandering around out here. I’m not. I wasn’t in Africa, and I’m even less of one now. You need to recognize that.”
“You’re delicate to me, and I would die if I broke you.”
And so we embark on a nail-biting adventure peppered with countless twists and turns, never knowing what act of death-defying insanity we’d find as we turn the next page. Yet, as wild and dangerous as their mission becomes, the love story between Marc and Lily never fails to take centre stage, driving the story forward and infusing it with a romantic softness that stands in stark contrast to the mayhem around them.
“You’re free. Go back to work. Get some jobs. Become Marcelle De Sant again.”
“Sweetheart, I haven’t been him since I looked into a pair of green eyes six months ago.”
Lily is quite possibly the most fearless heroine I have ever come across, a woman set on proving to everyone around her that she is no wilting flower and that she does not need a man to ‘save’ her, but her true courage is to be found in the way her heart refuses to stop loving even when giving her heart away is the riskiest act of them all.
“How could I have gone home? Home had become wherever he was.”
A brilliant marriage of gripping drama and gritty action, held together by phenomenal character development and mouth-watering chemistry between them, this is a book I devoured as quickly as I could, absolutely entranced by this author’s vivid prose and flair for effortlessly mixing action sequences and sexy romance. I hope one day to see this breathtaking story on the big screen since that is where it truly belongs, the role of Lily naturally played by Bruce Willis, in a red wig or something, because…Bruce Willis.
“I came out here so you wouldn’t have to.”
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December 19, 2015
It's live! Read it through KU or buy it on Amazon here: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B019...
4.5 Stars
The second installment in Stylo Fantŏme’s Mercenaries series was just as engaging and action packed as the first. With all the complexities of their personal lives and the difficulties that came with the job that they were all involved in it was easy to get lost in the story.
I definitely felt like the first book was Lily and Marc’s story but I felt like this one was much more Lily’s story. The second book picks up pretty much exactly where the first left off, Lily is now alone and she goes off to seek out the help of a criminal friend of hers, Kingsely. He and Lily spend a considerable amount of time together making a name for Lily, improving upon her criminal abilities and honing her skills. After six months of this training and working together Lily goes off on her own in search of Stankovski.
Unbeknownst to Lily, Marc has been on the hunt for the same man. The two meet in an unlikely place and get thrust together once again. Lily is definitely not the same woman Marc remembers from their brief time spent together in Africa. She’s become much more deadly and efficient in their time apart, even more so when Kingsley is at her side. Kingsley and Lily are a well-oiled machine together, Marc seems to just get in the way. But, he’s Marc, him and Lily shared Africa together and it proved to be one of the best and worst times in both their lives. Marc and Lily have to navigate this new terrain their in, how to become partners in their work and maybe in their personal lives as well.
There’s a lot of moral ambiguity with the line of work Lily, Marc, and Kingsley are in but we get to see them define those parameters a bit in this book. We see what they’re willing to do for their jobs and what they’re willing to do for each other.
On a final note, we got a new character in this book who I loved! I can’t wait to see if we get more Damiano later in the series! Also, I can’t wait for Kingsley to get his own book
4.5 Stars
The second installment in Stylo Fantŏme’s Mercenaries series was just as engaging and action packed as the first. With all the complexities of their personal lives and the difficulties that came with the job that they were all involved in it was easy to get lost in the story.
“Making you better than him will be easy, darling, but better than me? That’s impossible.” - Kingsley
I definitely felt like the first book was Lily and Marc’s story but I felt like this one was much more Lily’s story. The second book picks up pretty much exactly where the first left off, Lily is now alone and she goes off to seek out the help of a criminal friend of hers, Kingsely. He and Lily spend a considerable amount of time together making a name for Lily, improving upon her criminal abilities and honing her skills. After six months of this training and working together Lily goes off on her own in search of Stankovski.
Unbeknownst to Lily, Marc has been on the hunt for the same man. The two meet in an unlikely place and get thrust together once again. Lily is definitely not the same woman Marc remembers from their brief time spent together in Africa. She’s become much more deadly and efficient in their time apart, even more so when Kingsley is at her side. Kingsley and Lily are a well-oiled machine together, Marc seems to just get in the way. But, he’s Marc, him and Lily shared Africa together and it proved to be one of the best and worst times in both their lives. Marc and Lily have to navigate this new terrain their in, how to become partners in their work and maybe in their personal lives as well.
There’s a lot of moral ambiguity with the line of work Lily, Marc, and Kingsley are in but we get to see them define those parameters a bit in this book. We see what they’re willing to do for their jobs and what they’re willing to do for each other.
Kingsley’s law: Few things can ruin your plans quite like anger. Love, fear, sadness, all can motivate, but anger? Anger will fuck things right up.
On a final note, we got a new character in this book who I loved! I can’t wait to see if we get more Damiano later in the series! Also, I can’t wait for Kingsley to get his own book
**I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review, thanks Sylo!
Thanks to my shhluts CC, Liz, and warhawke for the (F)BR!
June 2, 2016
This was ok.... It was a good conclusion, it was action packed even If predictable. Just felt a little dragged out for me, not sure why.... I had to force myself to keep reading because I was so invested in the story. Overall, it was just ok.
September 16, 2016
5 F*** The Plans Stars
No idea where to start other than to say that I am 100% sad that it is over. I was total enrapt with this series. Marc and Lilliana were two fabulously fun and stubborn characters. They are perfectly imperfect and their romance was just the icing on top this journey of vengeance.
This book is 2 strikingly handsome men who are as lethal as they are sharp tongued. In the middle of them is a feisty woman who has had one hell of a ride through the worst parts of the world. Stolen diamonds, drug wars, human trafficking...oh just a few of the norms for the three as they reunite, somewhat unwillingly, to "finish" their job.
Lily is back and better than ever. She is strong and independent. With months of training under Law, she is prepared. Things would be so easy if they could just be, but her heart is still in the hands of the "Saint." To love him...or to kill him? Such a fine line! OH this was delish! Action packed with heat, sass and pure suspense...book two was harsh and yet it was fun. This author has yet to write a story that I can put down!
Hooray for Redheads and the men that punch them as a term of endearment!!!!
No idea where to start other than to say that I am 100% sad that it is over. I was total enrapt with this series. Marc and Lilliana were two fabulously fun and stubborn characters. They are perfectly imperfect and their romance was just the icing on top this journey of vengeance.
This book is 2 strikingly handsome men who are as lethal as they are sharp tongued. In the middle of them is a feisty woman who has had one hell of a ride through the worst parts of the world. Stolen diamonds, drug wars, human trafficking...oh just a few of the norms for the three as they reunite, somewhat unwillingly, to "finish" their job.
Lily is back and better than ever. She is strong and independent. With months of training under Law, she is prepared. Things would be so easy if they could just be, but her heart is still in the hands of the "Saint." To love him...or to kill him? Such a fine line! OH this was delish! Action packed with heat, sass and pure suspense...book two was harsh and yet it was fun. This author has yet to write a story that I can put down!
Hooray for Redheads and the men that punch them as a term of endearment!!!!
February 4, 2016
4.5 Stars
That was a crazy, wild ride!
I love when an author can make a follow-up book (or in this case a continuation) just as good, or better than the first. There were really no moments in this book where I felt let down or bored ... the whole thing was truly on-point.
I'm really curious about Kingsley and his past ... maybe one day we'll get his whole story - that would be cool.
That was a crazy, wild ride!
I love when an author can make a follow-up book (or in this case a continuation) just as good, or better than the first. There were really no moments in this book where I felt let down or bored ... the whole thing was truly on-point.
I'm really curious about Kingsley and his past ... maybe one day we'll get his whole story - that would be cool.
April 4, 2016
“You think I'm some delicate, fragile, little girl wandering around out here. I'm not. I wasn't in Africa, and I'm even less of one now. You need to recognize that.”
“You're delicate to me, and I would die if I broke you."
Lily always has a plan. And she won’t let anything or anyone stop her from her end goal. Especially not sexy mercernary Marc de Sant, who lied to her and left her. Luckily for her, she has someone, a friend of sorts of Marc, who promised that if she needed him, he’d be there. Now it’s six months later, and British hottie Kingsley Law has been training Lily, improving her skills, and taking her with him on his merc jobs. And finally she’s located Stankovski, the man responsible for murdering her sister.
I'm a bad man, Lily. I've done awful things. But you, you are the best thing I've ever done, and I had to do right by that.”
Six months ago Marcelle de Sant left the only woman he has ever cared for, to get her revenge for her, and to protect her from the bounty placed on her head. He finally has a lead on Stankovski, and it’s time to end him.
And so these two cross paths again, and sparks fly, like it always does between them. Will they be able to work together, and stay alive long enough to kill Stankovski, and maybe see whether they have a future together?
The pace of the second book was a lot slower than the first book, but I enjoyed it just as much. A lot more time was spent on the characters and I loved learning more about Kingsley Law. I really hope this British manwhore will get his own story. He’s so broken, hiding behind his fancy suits and charm, and you can’t help but love him.
Lily and Marc was just as combustible as always. Seriously, these two use fighting each other and bantering as foreplay, and I laughed myself silly at them. And I especially loved that ruthless Marc, who’s always so calm on a job, just lost it every single time Lily was in danger. Their chemistry was just as intense as in the previous book and I just adore these two together.
In their hunt for Stankovski they found an unexpected ally in Columbian drug lord, Damiano Ledo. At first I really disliked him, probably because he was torturing Lily, but then things got very interesting with him, and I ended up liking the sexy criminal. Go figure.
Even though the action was a lot less intense than the first book, there was still a lot of gun fights, car chases and explosions to get your adrenaline pumping. And I loved watching Lily, Marc and Kingsley work together. These three form a pretty formidable team, each bringing their own strengths and weaknesses.
I absolutely love this author’s writing style, and I can’t wait to read more. Pretty please can the next book be Kingsley’s…..
This series is excellent, and a MUST read for all who loves RS.
January 31, 2016
Together again. Who would've thought.After the shocking ending to Best Laid Plans I didn't think I would see the dynamic trio together again. I'm so glad I was wrong. Out of Plans picks up where Best Laid Plans left off: Lily hurt, pissed, and out for Marc’s blood.
Seeking revenge on Anatoly Stankovski for the slaying of her sister, Lily sets out to train with the best- the one and only Kingsley Law. The fiery red head has now transformed her looks and skills into a slender form, toned muscles, quicker reflexes, and kick ass moves proveing she is a force to be reckoned with.
Gone were her amazing red locks and alabaster skin, her full breasts and generous ass. Now she had a toned and trim body, an all over tan, and sleek black hair. She looked so different from the Lily he'd known six months ago.Marc on the other hand still looked the same and took Lily's breath away.
Wasn't he not quite this good looking!? It's unfair that such a dick can be so good looking.With the trio back together once more, action, gun fire, and boundaries are all tested. Kingsley becomes very protective of his little protégé which puts Marc into jealous mode. While Best Laid Plans showed how Lily and Marc's relationship developed, Out of Plans shows Lily's independence and Kingsley’s vulnerability. With two men vying for Lily's affection who will she choose in the end: the man who stole her heart just to break it; or the man who put her back together and became her mentor?
I really enjoyed the overall feel of Out of Plans. The introduction of new characters added an additional layer and I appreciated the little glimpses into Kingsley's past. This book is nothing short of tender moments shared between friends tucked between action sequences. This was another great book by Stylo Fantome and a fantastic follow up to Best Laid Plans. I can't wait for Kingsley's book. If you like revenge plots, action, some steamy sexy times, then one-click Out of Plans now.
My The Mercenaries series review:
Book 1: Best Laid Plans
Nov. 25, 2015
Received an ARC. What a Thanksgiving treat. Thank you Stylo.
I'm trying to calm my breathing down but I just can't
The cover has finally been revealed and expected release date seems to be on time. Life is good folks!
August 15, 2015
I can't wait to find out what has happened in the lives of Marc, Lily, and Kingsley since that show stopping cliffhanger in book 1, Best Laid Plans.
Expected publication date: 12/15/15
My The Mercenaries series review:
Book 1: Best Laid Plans
January 20, 2016
I loved the first book and wondered if this one would measure up. Of course it does!
Lily undergoes a bit of a transformation between when we saw her last and who she is now. She was absolutely a lot tougher than I will ever be, but she was no where near able to pull off the task she set out to do. She spends several months doing nothing but training and comes out the other side on a whole new level. I like how she still has her moments of doubt and the capability of showing heart despite her rougher exterior.
Kingsley is the person she seeks out for help. He has major combat skills. Before this point, I only knew him for the cool outward persona he gave. After getting to know him a little better, I see he has hidden layers including all the pain he's in. Lily is like a balm for his soul, in my opinion. I really hope to see more of him in a future book.
Marc has never gotten over Lily. He left her in hopes of protecting her from the lifestyle, and now he's taken up her fight as his own. His emotional growth path is just as deep as the changes Lily and Kingsley are going through. Marc has to accept things for what they are. He looses a little of his alpha broodiness while still retaining his warrior prowess.
There's a bit of building up and information giving in the beginning, but after the action really gets started, it doesn't stop. These three are on a mission and set to go at all times. I would truly love to see it all played out in film. I don't know how the author came of with some of the scenes. They will definitely keep the reader on the edge of their seat. Although everything is as explosive as any action movie I've seen, it's delivered in a believable, fact-checked kind of way. The characters are all total badasses with amazing expertise, but they aren't immortals. They bleed and hurt, and they can only use what is available to them.
Marc, Lily and Kingsley are very damaged people who push all of their hurts into being powerful. Individually they are awesome, but together they are a formidable sight to behold.
This novel is an instant favorite for me and a must read in my opinion.
December 11, 2015
What a thrill ride : The action picks up where it left off at the end of the first book, Best Laid Plans. If you’re reading this review and you haven’t read that one, do me a favor - look it up and read it now, then read reviews for this book. Trust me, you need to start from the beginning to appreciate every bitty exciting, violent, crazy thrill in this book.
For those who did read the first book, you already know that Marc and Lily are apart, and working on their own towards the common goal of eliminating Stankovski. I always go into continuing stories wary that the story will peter out, and I’ll be left unsatisfied. This was SO not the case. Questions are answered, lives are in peril (as well as extremities), villains are plentiful and nothing is easy. Spoilers should be avoided, as so much of the delicious tension is in not knowing what’s going to happen next.
This story left me with that giddy, breathless feeling that a good action movies do. I could see it play out in my mind, on the big screen, and all I needed was a sugary drink and a bucket of popcorn. Hollywood, make it happen. Speaking of happening...
I didn’t think it would happen : Once upon a time, all I wanted to do was to punch Marc De Sant in the junk. By the end of this story, I couldn’t imagine anyone else with Lily ever. She makes him work for it, and he earned it and I enjoyed every little bit of it (I was totally on her side BTW). They were just as volatile, just as crazy, but perfectly imperfect for each other.
Want more please : I have so many questions about my favorite man Kingsley (I mean, Mai?!?!), that I need this series to keep going. I also love seeing the universe expand a bit more, some new elements, and potential leads (hey Damiano), that I want to dive into Ms. Fantome’s mind and see what else she can come up with.
This is a great action/adventure/romantic suspense kind of series that’s among my favorite reads this year. Well done, Ms. Fantome, well done.
I really enjoyed it. It’s an action-packed thrill ride from start to finish with plenty of danger, a bit of romance, and a satisfying friendship between Lily, Kingsley and Marc to cap it all off. This is a satisfying start to what I hope becomes a continuing series. I can’t wait to see what Ms. Fantome comes up with to top that, cause I need Kingsley to get his own book(s). *crossing fingers*
**ARC provided by author for review**
January 1, 2016
Whew that was exhausting! All of that action and adventure going on must have burned through a few cals. At any rate I munched through a few mince pies as I tore through this, just to try to reassure my body that the adrenalin was all in my mind and that I wasn't actually leaving the sofa and trekking across the world zapping baddies and escaping from captivity. Didn't want to upset my delicate constitution after all.
I enjoyed this much more than the first one, even though it got a bit grisley in places thanks to the ramped up romance element. After that horrible, guts through the floor ending to book one, I was pleased to see Lily was even more determined and badass than ever. Trained by the gorgeous - if everso slightly camp - Kingsley, her skills now rival her ambitions and she's lethal.
Just like the first book, the action starts from page one and doesn't let up, but I felt the characters were more human in this; we experienced their insecurities and fears and - oh lawdy yes - passion for their jobs and for one another. The sex was intense and angry thanks to the heightened emotions; the danger and recklessness the three of them got off on was reflected in the smut, with Kingsley finding his outlet in his usual over the top fashion and Marc and Lily finding theirs together.
Marc has really grown as a character from the beginning of the first book (where I wasn't sure about him tbh) to become a male lead to die for, all alpha and protective but still retaining his sense of humour and dark charisma. Loved him.
Much as I loved the drama, I could've lived with a little less in places, especially where I found I was losing track of who was where. There's an amazing detail to the scenes that does make me feel like I'm engrossed in a film sometimes, but with all of that detail comes a need for a reader with a good memory, and mine's pretty crap, so I did have to stop and scroll back a couple of times to remind myself who was standing where.
This series is a little outside of my usual comfort zone with all of that action and gunfire going on, but there was more than enough romance and smut in this to keep me interested and invested all of the way through. Lily' s story is now complete, but the author promises a book about Kingsley next so I'll be all over that because I need for him to find his hea.
Recommended series, particularly if you're looking for something a little bit different from the norm. And both books are available on ku.
I enjoyed this much more than the first one, even though it got a bit grisley in places thanks to the ramped up romance element. After that horrible, guts through the floor ending to book one, I was pleased to see Lily was even more determined and badass than ever. Trained by the gorgeous - if everso slightly camp - Kingsley, her skills now rival her ambitions and she's lethal.
Just like the first book, the action starts from page one and doesn't let up, but I felt the characters were more human in this; we experienced their insecurities and fears and - oh lawdy yes - passion for their jobs and for one another. The sex was intense and angry thanks to the heightened emotions; the danger and recklessness the three of them got off on was reflected in the smut, with Kingsley finding his outlet in his usual over the top fashion and Marc and Lily finding theirs together.
Marc has really grown as a character from the beginning of the first book (where I wasn't sure about him tbh) to become a male lead to die for, all alpha and protective but still retaining his sense of humour and dark charisma. Loved him.
Much as I loved the drama, I could've lived with a little less in places, especially where I found I was losing track of who was where. There's an amazing detail to the scenes that does make me feel like I'm engrossed in a film sometimes, but with all of that detail comes a need for a reader with a good memory, and mine's pretty crap, so I did have to stop and scroll back a couple of times to remind myself who was standing where.
This series is a little outside of my usual comfort zone with all of that action and gunfire going on, but there was more than enough romance and smut in this to keep me interested and invested all of the way through. Lily' s story is now complete, but the author promises a book about Kingsley next so I'll be all over that because I need for him to find his hea.
Recommended series, particularly if you're looking for something a little bit different from the norm. And both books are available on ku.
April 6, 2016
**I was a beta reader of Out of Plans.**
I was wondering how Fantome was going to pull off a worthy follow up to the brilliance of Best Laid Plans but she totally did. The story begins months later after Lily has picked herself up after Marc stood her up.
She's in search of Kingsley to help her train and fulfill her revenge plan against Stankovsky. The state she finds Kingsley in makes my heart hurt for him. He's such a complex man and I hope we get his story from his pov someday. I like that Lily is refocused on her original goal and not necessarily on finding Marc.
The action sequences are as big and bold and clever as in BLP. They play out in movie form in your imagination just as vividly. Marc and Lily's reunion was priceless. And there's a new hottie introduced - Damiano Ledo - ally or enemy? You have to read to find out.
I really liked Marc in this book. He has the same swagger and bless his heart you know he meant well when he ditched Lily. Through the whole beginning you're looking forward to him seeing Lily again and you're singing, "You're gonna get your ass kicked." Lol. And Fantome delivers. But I especially loved Marc's transformation. He learned to stop treating Lily as a delicate flower and let her be the badass that she is.
In BLP, Lily's revenge plan was kind of a pipe dream. We weren't sure if Lily was going to see it through. But with Marc and Kingsley's help, that she's finally learned to accept, it's become a reality. I thought Fantome was very creative with the plan and all of the technicalities involved. There was a definite OMG moment in there that will make you gasp out loud.
I'm very impressed with the originality of this series and I'm very sad to see it end. Well done!
I was wondering how Fantome was going to pull off a worthy follow up to the brilliance of Best Laid Plans but she totally did. The story begins months later after Lily has picked herself up after Marc stood her up.
She's in search of Kingsley to help her train and fulfill her revenge plan against Stankovsky. The state she finds Kingsley in makes my heart hurt for him. He's such a complex man and I hope we get his story from his pov someday. I like that Lily is refocused on her original goal and not necessarily on finding Marc.
The action sequences are as big and bold and clever as in BLP. They play out in movie form in your imagination just as vividly. Marc and Lily's reunion was priceless. And there's a new hottie introduced - Damiano Ledo - ally or enemy? You have to read to find out.
I really liked Marc in this book. He has the same swagger and bless his heart you know he meant well when he ditched Lily. Through the whole beginning you're looking forward to him seeing Lily again and you're singing, "You're gonna get your ass kicked." Lol. And Fantome delivers. But I especially loved Marc's transformation. He learned to stop treating Lily as a delicate flower and let her be the badass that she is.
In BLP, Lily's revenge plan was kind of a pipe dream. We weren't sure if Lily was going to see it through. But with Marc and Kingsley's help, that she's finally learned to accept, it's become a reality. I thought Fantome was very creative with the plan and all of the technicalities involved. There was a definite OMG moment in there that will make you gasp out loud.
I'm very impressed with the originality of this series and I'm very sad to see it end. Well done!
December 20, 2015
*An advance reading copy was generously provided to me in exchange for an honest review.*
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