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Herc’s Mercs #4
Once A Hero
Ezra Levin spent years as a soldier, just as his father had wished. But after stints in the Israeli military, the Mossad, and finally as a member of Hercules Security, the man once known as “Ghost” decides to retire and pursue his own dreams of being a chef. At forty-five, he knows his yearning to have a partner and a family of his own are probably unattainable, but as a private chef for Judge Mason Whittaker and his young son, Jamie, Ezra finds some measure of fulfillment.
Unfortunately, Mason’s past as a District Attorney has made him a lot of enemies - one of whom seems to be looking for payback. When a series of unsettling events disturbs the Whittaker household, Ezra immediately steps up, wanting to protect Mason and Jamie. He calls upon his old friend, Cade Thornton, for help, as a cunning criminal plays a game of cat and mouse that endangers Mason’s life. Ezra realizes that Mason has come to mean far more to him than just an employer, and that he’s going to have to use all his old skills to stop a killer - or else he just might wind up losing the man he loves.
Unfortunately, Mason’s past as a District Attorney has made him a lot of enemies - one of whom seems to be looking for payback. When a series of unsettling events disturbs the Whittaker household, Ezra immediately steps up, wanting to protect Mason and Jamie. He calls upon his old friend, Cade Thornton, for help, as a cunning criminal plays a game of cat and mouse that endangers Mason’s life. Ezra realizes that Mason has come to mean far more to him than just an employer, and that he’s going to have to use all his old skills to stop a killer - or else he just might wind up losing the man he loves.
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First published August 26, 2015
4 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
About the author
Ari McKay
72 books181 followersAri McKay is the professional pseudonym for Arionrhod and McKay, who collaborate on original m/m fiction. They began writing together in 2004 and finished their first original full length novel in 2011. Recently, they’ve begun collaborating on designing and creating costumes to wear and compete in at Sci Fi conventions, and they share a love of yarn and cake.
Arionrhod is an avid costumer, knitter, and all-around craft fiend, as well as a professional systems engineer. Mother of two human children and two dachshunds who think they are human, she is a voracious reader with wildly eclectic tastes, devouring romance novels, military science fiction, horror stories and Shakespeare with equal glee. She is currently preparing for the zombie apocalypse.
McKay is an English teacher who has been writing for one reason or another most of her life. She also enjoys knitting, reading, cooking, and playing video games. She has been known to knit in public. Given she has the survival skills of a gnat, she’s relying on Arionrhod to help her survive the zombie apocalypse.
Arionrhod is an avid costumer, knitter, and all-around craft fiend, as well as a professional systems engineer. Mother of two human children and two dachshunds who think they are human, she is a voracious reader with wildly eclectic tastes, devouring romance novels, military science fiction, horror stories and Shakespeare with equal glee. She is currently preparing for the zombie apocalypse.
McKay is an English teacher who has been writing for one reason or another most of her life. She also enjoys knitting, reading, cooking, and playing video games. She has been known to knit in public. Given she has the survival skills of a gnat, she’s relying on Arionrhod to help her survive the zombie apocalypse.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
March 22, 2018
I am thoroughly enjoying this series from Ari McKay as various different members of Herc's mercenary team find themselves falling in love.
Each story has had quite different settings, even if the premise of falling in love is central and I really liked this one with former stealth specialist Ezra and his Judge employee Mason.
There was also an added bonus of a great kid who acted like a typical 12 year-old and not an overly educated or intellectual prodigy and we got to hear about the other guys in the firm still being happily in love.
Now onto book five ;)
#ARC kindly received from the authors in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
Each story has had quite different settings, even if the premise of falling in love is central and I really liked this one with former stealth specialist Ezra and his Judge employee Mason.
There was also an added bonus of a great kid who acted like a typical 12 year-old and not an overly educated or intellectual prodigy and we got to hear about the other guys in the firm still being happily in love.
Now onto book five ;)
#ARC kindly received from the authors in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
December 3, 2016
3.5 Stars This is the fourth installment in Ari McKay's 'Herc's Mercs' series, and I was looking forward to this one with as much enthusiasm as I had book one. The author has done a great job with these guys, and this installment focuses on a retired member of Hercules Security, Ezra. Since the previous works involved active duty men, I thought the concept of a retired agent would be interesting. And, again, I was right…which I usually am, by the way. *smirks*
First off let me just say - Ezra can be my personal chef any day of the week. Lemon poppy seed pancakes? Yum. Ezra is far more than a chef, however, even though that's what he wanted for his retirement. Ezra is a well trained killing machine, having served in the Israeli army, then Mossad, and finally for Hercules. He's content now to take care of Mason and his son, Jamie, although his attraction to Mason is somewhat unnerving. It would be easier if Mason were straight, but he's out and proud of his bisexuality. What Ezra doesn't seem to notice is that Mason is just as interested in him.
When a few instances have Ezra thinking Mason and Jamie might have a stalker, he calls Herc and gets a team of guys out for protection. Of course this also means he has to reveal his background to Mason, which he isn't looking forward to. It isn't his background that causes an issue, however, it's two boneheaded guys who can't see what's right in front of their faces. Typical men, it takes Mason almost dying before they can admit how they feel.
I enjoyed this book, although I didn't bond with Ezra and Mason the way I had hoped to. It was great to see a lot of the other team members and I'm certainly looking forward to the next book. If you enjoy a story about more mature men, a little drama, some action/adventure, a sweet romance, and sexy loving, then this might be the book for you.
NOTE: This book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
First off let me just say - Ezra can be my personal chef any day of the week. Lemon poppy seed pancakes? Yum. Ezra is far more than a chef, however, even though that's what he wanted for his retirement. Ezra is a well trained killing machine, having served in the Israeli army, then Mossad, and finally for Hercules. He's content now to take care of Mason and his son, Jamie, although his attraction to Mason is somewhat unnerving. It would be easier if Mason were straight, but he's out and proud of his bisexuality. What Ezra doesn't seem to notice is that Mason is just as interested in him.
When a few instances have Ezra thinking Mason and Jamie might have a stalker, he calls Herc and gets a team of guys out for protection. Of course this also means he has to reveal his background to Mason, which he isn't looking forward to. It isn't his background that causes an issue, however, it's two boneheaded guys who can't see what's right in front of their faces. Typical men, it takes Mason almost dying before they can admit how they feel.
I enjoyed this book, although I didn't bond with Ezra and Mason the way I had hoped to. It was great to see a lot of the other team members and I'm certainly looking forward to the next book. If you enjoy a story about more mature men, a little drama, some action/adventure, a sweet romance, and sexy loving, then this might be the book for you.
NOTE: This book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
March 9, 2016
4.5 stars...
March 14, 2016
More like 2.5
This story was more like Books 1 & 2 but didn't quite measure up to those either. It felt like a lot was missing. There was a small amount of character building but almost nothing about the relationship developing. Ezra showing the son, Jamie, how to cook and telling him stories gave a basis for their connection. Nothing was given about whether Ezra and Mason spent any time together besides dinner. Nothing about conversations, just that they were attracted and each spent lots of time being polite and professional. When the dangerous and life threatening situations come up, suddenly they're in love. The stalker part wasn't suspenseful or surprising. It was too easy to guess what would ultimately happen, if not exact details. It was very bland. There's few sex scenes in these books. Book 3 broke the mold with a little kink thrown in. Otherwise, scenes in every book were almost exactly the same and the big, bad mercenary is always the top. Not sure I'll continue with this series, if it continues.
Reread 1/10/16
I guess I can call this a solid 3 star. My first impression is not much different after reading it again. I guess the falling in love was a fairly slow burn, though I still couldn't feel the connection.
This story was more like Books 1 & 2 but didn't quite measure up to those either. It felt like a lot was missing. There was a small amount of character building but almost nothing about the relationship developing. Ezra showing the son, Jamie, how to cook and telling him stories gave a basis for their connection. Nothing was given about whether Ezra and Mason spent any time together besides dinner. Nothing about conversations, just that they were attracted and each spent lots of time being polite and professional. When the dangerous and life threatening situations come up, suddenly they're in love. The stalker part wasn't suspenseful or surprising. It was too easy to guess what would ultimately happen, if not exact details. It was very bland. There's few sex scenes in these books. Book 3 broke the mold with a little kink thrown in. Otherwise, scenes in every book were almost exactly the same and the big, bad mercenary is always the top. Not sure I'll continue with this series, if it continues.
Reread 1/10/16
I guess I can call this a solid 3 star. My first impression is not much different after reading it again. I guess the falling in love was a fairly slow burn, though I still couldn't feel the connection.
May 14, 2017
Ezra Levin, once known as Ghost, decides to retire from his last job in security and pursue his dream of being a chef. He would love to have a partner and a family, but he may have to settle for being a private chef for Judge Mason Whittaker and his young son, Jaime. Unfortunately, Mason’s past as a district attorney has earned him many enemies and one is back. A series of unsettling events leads Ezra to step up and call upon his old employer to help protect the man who has become dear to him.
Mason did not want to think he was in danger. He did not feel as if all the protection was necessary. Ezra had a sense that there was more here than what Mason thought and decided to protect the man who was coming to mean so much to him. The action starts out slow and escalates as the stalker does the same. Herc’s Mercs is on the job though and nothing gets past them. The interaction between the two men changed as the danger did but they must keep their wits if they are to survive. Hop on for the roller coaster ride as Ezra steps up to save the man he loves. Action, danger and some very sexy men makes Once a Hero an excellent read.
Mason did not want to think he was in danger. He did not feel as if all the protection was necessary. Ezra had a sense that there was more here than what Mason thought and decided to protect the man who was coming to mean so much to him. The action starts out slow and escalates as the stalker does the same. Herc’s Mercs is on the job though and nothing gets past them. The interaction between the two men changed as the danger did but they must keep their wits if they are to survive. Hop on for the roller coaster ride as Ezra steps up to save the man he loves. Action, danger and some very sexy men makes Once a Hero an excellent read.
December 14, 2019
Ezra "Ghost" Levin is a retired merc and now the chef of Mason Whittaker. He loves his job cooking for Mason and his son Jamie. Mason is an ex-prosecutor, now a judge and widower. When Mason gets a threatening letter in the mail Ezra goes on alert. He's not taking any chances with Mason and Jamie, so he contacts Cade "Herc" Thornton to get some support. Things slowly escalate until Mason is attacked. Ezra has known for some time that he loves Mason and Jamie and considers them his family. No one messes with Ghosts family. When a misunderstanding between Ezra and Mason causes Mason to reevaluate his feelings, he realizes that he loves Ezra too. This is a slow romance with some suspense mixed in. I was hooked from page one. There are a few notable grammar, punctuation and spelling errors but all in all it's a very good read. I definitely recommend this book and the preceding books in the series.
ARC received for an honest review.
ARC received for an honest review.
December 16, 2019
Ezra "Ghost" Levin has retired from active duty at Herc's Mercs to pursue a career as a personal chef. Living with and cooking for Judge Mason Whittaker and his (super awesome) 12 years old son Jamie would be a lot easier if Ezra wasn't insanely attracted to Mason and if he didn't wish he was a part of Mason and Jamie's family as a partner and step-father.
When Mason's life is threatened from one of his past cases, Ghost takes on his protector's role once again to save the life of the man he loves.
I liked this book a lot, Ezra is as great character, strong and calm and a true caretaker; Mason is so honorable nd loving you can't help but fall in lovewith him. And Jamie is the true cherry on top of this lovely story, cheering like crazy for his Dad and Ezra while living his typical teenager life.
When Mason's life is threatened from one of his past cases, Ghost takes on his protector's role once again to save the life of the man he loves.
I liked this book a lot, Ezra is as great character, strong and calm and a true caretaker; Mason is so honorable nd loving you can't help but fall in lovewith him. And Jamie is the true cherry on top of this lovely story, cheering like crazy for his Dad and Ezra while living his typical teenager life.
February 28, 2018
I really liked this one for a lot of reasons, I loved "Ghost" aka Ezra in previous stories. Mason is great match for Ezra too. The drama of a bad guy going after Judge Mason was well written and keeps you reading along. I loved the ending with Ezra's new side job description from Cade. Jamie's one smart cookie for so young and inquisitive.
Going after his destroyer he needed Mason to pay and pay badly but who is He?.
Ezra 45 yrs aka "Ghost" was now a chef at Judge Mason Whittaker's home with his 12 yr old son, Jamie for the past 6 months. Neither Ezra or Mason 40 yrs knew what or who was coming their way which spelt trouble.
Going after his destroyer he needed Mason to pay and pay badly but who is He?.
Ezra 45 yrs aka "Ghost" was now a chef at Judge Mason Whittaker's home with his 12 yr old son, Jamie for the past 6 months. Neither Ezra or Mason 40 yrs knew what or who was coming their way which spelt trouble.
July 15, 2018
A Good Read
After Ghost moved on, he knew he wanted to attend culinary school and become a chef. He prefferd to work as a private chef for someone. Ghost was hired to work for Judge Mason Whittaker and his twelve year old son, Jamie. He used his name Ezra Levin. Mason was a bisexual who lost his wife when Jamie was two. Ezra grew very fond of Jamie. Jamie would help Ezra in the kitchen and ask non-stop questions about Ezra's life as a soldier. Mason and Ezra felt drawn to each other, but Ezra wouldn't cross the employer and employee line. He was always careful to act professional. I love Herc's Mercs they are full of action, suspense and romance. It was a good read.
After Ghost moved on, he knew he wanted to attend culinary school and become a chef. He prefferd to work as a private chef for someone. Ghost was hired to work for Judge Mason Whittaker and his twelve year old son, Jamie. He used his name Ezra Levin. Mason was a bisexual who lost his wife when Jamie was two. Ezra grew very fond of Jamie. Jamie would help Ezra in the kitchen and ask non-stop questions about Ezra's life as a soldier. Mason and Ezra felt drawn to each other, but Ezra wouldn't cross the employer and employee line. He was always careful to act professional. I love Herc's Mercs they are full of action, suspense and romance. It was a good read.
April 7, 2018
This one is a little like the first one but still good. The people are older. Which is a good reminder that no matter how old you are, you can still do something that matters. This one pertains to a psycho and a judge. Of course criminals try to pass off as being innocent when they aren't. Some just take things into their own hands. And Ezra shows people to not underestimate someone just cuz they're older.
November 18, 2018
I really like this series! I enjoyed the story line, and the interaction between the two main characters. I'm not going to put any spoilers in my review, but I recommend this series. Even though you can read this book as a stand-alone, I highly suggest you read them as a series, in order, as you meet the characters from the other books, and there would be questions if you didn't read the first three in the series first. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did!
Good Reading!
Shannon P.
Good Reading!
Shannon P.
January 22, 2019
Danger with a side of fluff. Ezra is a chef who not only cooks a great dinner but can be counted on to save your life.
May 26, 2019
Good
Another solid story in the series. Sweet, hot, and with a good touch of suspense to keep it interesting. K
Another solid story in the series. Sweet, hot, and with a good touch of suspense to keep it interesting. K
February 6, 2024
Love this series!
September 17, 2015
This is the fourth installment in the Herc's Mercs series and my favorite so far. When the story begins Ezra has been working for Mason for a while so their relationship didn't feel rushed or contrived but the sexual tension between them was palpable.
Ezra has done the military/mercenary thing and now wants nothing more than to create things in the kitchen and take care of a family. He has found that with the Whittakers. So when events start to unfold that could jeopardize them he doesn't hesitate to dust off his old skills and call in reinforcements.
At first Mason doesn't see the danger and feels that Ezra is over-reacting and overstepping, but when it comes to the safety of his son, Jamie, he doesn't want to take any chances.
The author does a great job of giving each character their own voice. Ezra's is much more formal, which given his background made sense and read true for me. It made it easier for me to recognize their different voices in my head. It also read true when it came to Jamie's character, his voice and mannerisms were that of a 12 year old boy.
The mystery unfolds quickly and creates that sense of urgency that makes the book read quickly, and also makes it impossible to put down once you get started. So if you are looking for something hot and fast, Once a Hero is one to grab.
Ezra has done the military/mercenary thing and now wants nothing more than to create things in the kitchen and take care of a family. He has found that with the Whittakers. So when events start to unfold that could jeopardize them he doesn't hesitate to dust off his old skills and call in reinforcements.
At first Mason doesn't see the danger and feels that Ezra is over-reacting and overstepping, but when it comes to the safety of his son, Jamie, he doesn't want to take any chances.
The author does a great job of giving each character their own voice. Ezra's is much more formal, which given his background made sense and read true for me. It made it easier for me to recognize their different voices in my head. It also read true when it came to Jamie's character, his voice and mannerisms were that of a 12 year old boy.
The mystery unfolds quickly and creates that sense of urgency that makes the book read quickly, and also makes it impossible to put down once you get started. So if you are looking for something hot and fast, Once a Hero is one to grab.
September 13, 2015
FourStars
This is my first time reading Ari McKay. For the most part, I enjoyed the story.
I LOVED the age’s of the characters in this romance. They were both in their 40’s and sexy and full of life. There was an intensity between Ezra and Mason that sizzled through the pages. I was chanting in my head…”just kiss already.” That, to me, is a great talent by an author, when you can FEEL it from the pages!! Mason’s son was adorable and smart and a very enjoyable addition in the story.
What I found difficult to connect with was the dialogue between any of the characters. It felt so formal. I won’t hold that against it because the rest of the story was captivating and intense.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Reviewer: Kimberley
This is my first time reading Ari McKay. For the most part, I enjoyed the story.
I LOVED the age’s of the characters in this romance. They were both in their 40’s and sexy and full of life. There was an intensity between Ezra and Mason that sizzled through the pages. I was chanting in my head…”just kiss already.” That, to me, is a great talent by an author, when you can FEEL it from the pages!! Mason’s son was adorable and smart and a very enjoyable addition in the story.
What I found difficult to connect with was the dialogue between any of the characters. It felt so formal. I won’t hold that against it because the rest of the story was captivating and intense.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Reviewer: Kimberley
December 19, 2015
Copy graciously provided by InkedRainbowReads.
4 Heartfelt Stars!
This is my first time reading Ari McKay. For the most part, I enjoyed the story.
I LOVED the age’s of the characters in this romance. They were both in their 40’s and sexy and full of life. There was an intensity between Ezra and Mason that sizzled through the pages. I was chanting in my head…”just kiss already.” That, to me, is a great talent by an author, when you can FEEL it from the pages!! Mason’s son was adorable and smart and a very enjoyable addition in the story.
What I found difficult to connect with was the dialogue between any of the characters. It felt so formal. I won’t hold that against it because the rest of the story was captivating and intense.
I would read more by this author.
4 Heartfelt Stars!
This is my first time reading Ari McKay. For the most part, I enjoyed the story.
I LOVED the age’s of the characters in this romance. They were both in their 40’s and sexy and full of life. There was an intensity between Ezra and Mason that sizzled through the pages. I was chanting in my head…”just kiss already.” That, to me, is a great talent by an author, when you can FEEL it from the pages!! Mason’s son was adorable and smart and a very enjoyable addition in the story.
What I found difficult to connect with was the dialogue between any of the characters. It felt so formal. I won’t hold that against it because the rest of the story was captivating and intense.
I would read more by this author.
April 24, 2021
Ezra Current profession Chef, Previous professions in Mossad and for Hercules Security Code name Ghost. Mason a Judge previously a Lawyer.
Great story, well written, Great characters. Some previous characters are in or mentioned within the book.
MM.
Great story, well written, Great characters. Some previous characters are in or mentioned within the book.
MM.
September 2, 2015
3.5 stars because I really didn't like the way Ghost's vocabulary was so proper. The son was cute.
On the plus side MOJO.... Ahhh, yummy!! I love me some native american men ...
On the plus side MOJO.... Ahhh, yummy!! I love me some native american men ...
October 3, 2015
Full review posted at http://guiltyindulgencebookclub.blogs...
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews