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Exit Strategy #2
Vengeful Lover
Every assassin has an exit strategy – their ultimate plan for leaving that dangerous life and disappearing. They just never expect to live long enough to enact it.
Gabriel Prescott was no different.
But everything changed when he met fellow mercenary Justin Mallory.
Now he’s racing across Europe with Justin to put to rest old threats before they can end both their lives.
Of course, it will also mean coming clean to Justin about exactly who he is and who wants him dead. Gabriel can only hope that Justin will still want him when the truth comes out.
Gabriel Prescott was no different.
But everything changed when he met fellow mercenary Justin Mallory.
Now he’s racing across Europe with Justin to put to rest old threats before they can end both their lives.
Of course, it will also mean coming clean to Justin about exactly who he is and who wants him dead. Gabriel can only hope that Justin will still want him when the truth comes out.
236 pages, ebook
First published June 7, 2019
201 people are currently reading
402 people want to read
About the author
Jocelynn Drake
142 books2,898 followersNew York Times Bestselling author Jocelynn Drake loves a good story, whether she is reading it or writing one of her own. Over the years, her stories have allowed her to explore space, talk to dragons, dodge bullets with assassins, hang with vampires, and fall in love again and again.
This former Kentucky girl has moved up, down, and across the U.S. with her husband. Recently, they’ve settled near the Rockies.
When she is not hammering away at her keyboard or curled up with a book, she can be
walking her dog Ace, or playing video games. She loves Bruce Wayne, Ezio Auditore, travel, tattoos, explosions, and fast cars.
She is the author of the urban fantasy books: The Dark Days series and the Asylum Tales. For gay romance, she has completed The Exit Strategy and Shadow Elite series, and is now working on a spin-off of her MM paranormal series, Lords of Discord. She has also co-authored with Rinda Elliot the following series: Unbreakable Bonds, Ward Security, Pineapple Grove, the Weavers Circle. In addition, she has co-authored with AJ Sherwood the following series: Scales 'N' Spell and Wings 'N' Wands. She can be found at JocelynnDrake.com.
This former Kentucky girl has moved up, down, and across the U.S. with her husband. Recently, they’ve settled near the Rockies.
When she is not hammering away at her keyboard or curled up with a book, she can be
walking her dog Ace, or playing video games. She loves Bruce Wayne, Ezio Auditore, travel, tattoos, explosions, and fast cars.
She is the author of the urban fantasy books: The Dark Days series and the Asylum Tales. For gay romance, she has completed The Exit Strategy and Shadow Elite series, and is now working on a spin-off of her MM paranormal series, Lords of Discord. She has also co-authored with Rinda Elliot the following series: Unbreakable Bonds, Ward Security, Pineapple Grove, the Weavers Circle. In addition, she has co-authored with AJ Sherwood the following series: Scales 'N' Spell and Wings 'N' Wands. She can be found at JocelynnDrake.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
October 29, 2025
***3.5 Stars***
It's a good thing that I've put on my rose-tinted glasses for Justin and his G Love before I started this book, otherwise you would have heard me saying 'Oh, shoot me now' pretty often.
Oh... Oooooooh! Umm, yes please? ;-)
As feared-all-over-the-world assassins go, these two still have to learn a trick or two (they are still bloody amateurs if you ask me) and why authors feel the need to write a sex scene when at least one of the characters just cheated death after being tortured and beaten is beyond me. I mean, I get the whole I-am-alive-you-are-alive-we-are-alive-so-let's-celebrate thing, but come on... seriously? I ached all over on Gabriel's behalf, but what the hell do I know...
It wasn't all bad bad, though, to the contrary, I really do love Justin and Gabriel as lovers and they are really hot together. I liked the twist the story took with Gabriel's sister, I enjoyed that it took partially place in Germany and Alexei is simply adorable. What made me round my rating up, though, was the epilogue. Cute AF! So, on to the next... :)
It's a good thing that I've put on my rose-tinted glasses for Justin and his G Love before I started this book, otherwise you would have heard me saying 'Oh, shoot me now' pretty often.
Oh... Oooooooh! Umm, yes please? ;-)
As feared-all-over-the-world assassins go, these two still have to learn a trick or two (they are still bloody amateurs if you ask me) and why authors feel the need to write a sex scene when at least one of the characters just cheated death after being tortured and beaten is beyond me. I mean, I get the whole I-am-alive-you-are-alive-we-are-alive-so-let's-celebrate thing, but come on... seriously? I ached all over on Gabriel's behalf, but what the hell do I know...
It wasn't all bad bad, though, to the contrary, I really do love Justin and Gabriel as lovers and they are really hot together. I liked the twist the story took with Gabriel's sister, I enjoyed that it took partially place in Germany and Alexei is simply adorable. What made me round my rating up, though, was the epilogue. Cute AF! So, on to the next... :)
March 9, 2024
HOT DAMN!
Justin and Gabriel are sinfully sexy.
I raced through this book...desperate for their HEA. *spoiler* It's not here...yet.
I quickly fell for them in the first book (throwing all caution to the wind) but we peel back a few layers here. Discovering more about them had me racing through the pages. I HAD to know!
Their ride isn't over yet (thank goodness!!!) and *cringe* I'm not stopping for a proper review.
Justin almost loses his G Love and it made my heart stop.
I have WANTS for these men...I just want them to be left alone and allowed to fill their days with sunshine and lazy kisses. Is that too much to ask? I think not!
psssttt, Gabriel's nephew snuck into my heart without me realizing it.
To discover he has a book later on?! *flails*
Bring it on!!
(random sidenote...the cover model does NOT fit my mind's eye for Justin. Nope...sorry, that's not him)
Justin and Gabriel are sinfully sexy.
I raced through this book...desperate for their HEA. *spoiler* It's not here...yet.
I quickly fell for them in the first book (throwing all caution to the wind) but we peel back a few layers here. Discovering more about them had me racing through the pages. I HAD to know!
Their ride isn't over yet (thank goodness!!!) and *cringe* I'm not stopping for a proper review.
Justin almost loses his G Love and it made my heart stop.
I have WANTS for these men...I just want them to be left alone and allowed to fill their days with sunshine and lazy kisses. Is that too much to ask? I think not!
psssttt, Gabriel's nephew snuck into my heart without me realizing it.
To discover he has a book later on?! *flails*
Bring it on!!
(random sidenote...the cover model does NOT fit my mind's eye for Justin. Nope...sorry, that's not him)
August 11, 2019
I love this series from Jocelynn. It's a slightly different approach to the romantic suspense she writes with Rinda Elliott and it has a more concentrated feel to it.
Focusing on ex-military turned Government agents turned independent mercenaries means the stories have more of an edge and involve more spy related than criminal based activity.
I adore Justin and his G Love, they're a pair of irrepressible rogues who hide nothing about the bad things they've done in their past lives.
The plots are twisted and outrageous and I simply don't care about whether they're possible, I'm fairly sure there's all sorts goes on in the murky world of espionage that people wouldn't believe if they heard about it.
I was pleasantly surprised by elements of the plot as well, while others were fairly obvious from the get go. Overall it was a brilliantly paced adventure with two incredibly sexy men.
Focusing on ex-military turned Government agents turned independent mercenaries means the stories have more of an edge and involve more spy related than criminal based activity.
I adore Justin and his G Love, they're a pair of irrepressible rogues who hide nothing about the bad things they've done in their past lives.
The plots are twisted and outrageous and I simply don't care about whether they're possible, I'm fairly sure there's all sorts goes on in the murky world of espionage that people wouldn't believe if they heard about it.
I was pleasantly surprised by elements of the plot as well, while others were fairly obvious from the get go. Overall it was a brilliantly paced adventure with two incredibly sexy men.
July 6, 2019
I loved everything about this book. The pace, the action and the determination to love and accept each other. Gabriel was in a mission to destroy his family or those who wished him and Justin dead. After being caught and tortured, Justin tracks G down, rescues him and together they look to destroy anyone who stands in their way of peace. Adored the relationship and the surprise rekindling of G and his sister. Great book, couldn’t put it down.
August 15, 2019
Brain fog requires rereading previous books in series!
What an exciting sequel to Deadly Lover. Gabriel has been gone for months trying to tie up loose ends from his past, in order to move forward with Justin. When Justin discovers Gabriel needs help, they join forces and collide with surprising obstacles along the way. The author does pen some excellent suspense, adding unexpected plot twists and raising the level of anticipation. I love an unrepentant assassin and appreciated the rather blasé attitudes of both men as they calmly blew people away. They both have a conscience but hey, some people just deserve it! The steam level was high once more and paced quite well. There was a missing, undefinable quality that kept the narrative from completely spiking edge-of-my-seat tension levels but it’s nevertheless very engaging. The epilogue gives a wonderful HEA with kittens on top! I’m left wondering who the subject(s) of subsequent novels in the series might be and looking forward to them. Recommended!
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or a promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review*
What an exciting sequel to Deadly Lover. Gabriel has been gone for months trying to tie up loose ends from his past, in order to move forward with Justin. When Justin discovers Gabriel needs help, they join forces and collide with surprising obstacles along the way. The author does pen some excellent suspense, adding unexpected plot twists and raising the level of anticipation. I love an unrepentant assassin and appreciated the rather blasé attitudes of both men as they calmly blew people away. They both have a conscience but hey, some people just deserve it! The steam level was high once more and paced quite well. There was a missing, undefinable quality that kept the narrative from completely spiking edge-of-my-seat tension levels but it’s nevertheless very engaging. The epilogue gives a wonderful HEA with kittens on top! I’m left wondering who the subject(s) of subsequent novels in the series might be and looking forward to them. Recommended!
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or a promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review*
June 10, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5 shoot em stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Vengeful Lover is the second book in the Exit Strategy series and it continues Justin and Gabriel's plans of getting out of the spy and killing business so that they can have a "normal life" together.
To do this Gabriel Prescott aka Viktor Krestyanov needs to kill some old enemies from his past, he planned to do this without Justin but of course things never go to plan and Justin comes to his rescue.
So off they go hunting.
I loved the twist with Alexei that was so unexpected and so cute.
These two get stronger as a couple with each passing day, the banter between them is hilarious and the jealousy is cute and I love the angry sex, so HOT.
I cannot wait for the final book in this series where I get to know more about Justin Mallory and 🤞 they get their HEA with their cats and dogs LOL.
Vengeful Lover is the second book in the Exit Strategy series and it continues Justin and Gabriel's plans of getting out of the spy and killing business so that they can have a "normal life" together.
To do this Gabriel Prescott aka Viktor Krestyanov needs to kill some old enemies from his past, he planned to do this without Justin but of course things never go to plan and Justin comes to his rescue.
So off they go hunting.
I loved the twist with Alexei that was so unexpected and so cute.
These two get stronger as a couple with each passing day, the banter between them is hilarious and the jealousy is cute and I love the angry sex, so HOT.
I cannot wait for the final book in this series where I get to know more about Justin Mallory and 🤞 they get their HEA with their cats and dogs LOL.
July 11, 2019
***** Fantstic continuation of assassins Gabriel and Justin,
whom we have met in "Exit Strategy, Deadly Lover." Plus a short story "Lover Calling."
Gabriel has ghosted, but Justin hasn't figured out why, until he gets a phone call.
Then he's jetting to Europe, to rescue Gabriel...
and help him finish the job. Their mutual desire to retire and be able to be together, unstressed, is pulling them hard. Their sexy times are scorching hot, and their easy manner with each other, and banter are marvelous.
It's no easy task to eliminate the bad guys, so we plenty of action, traps, gun fights, espionage and treachery. All through that conflict, our men remain devoted, strong and solid. There are episodes that have Justin comforting Gabriel and Gabriel tending to Justin.
Jocelynn Drake keeps this tale fresh and exciting, terrifying and peaceful. There are twists we don't expect, and the epilogue is fabulous.
Norwegian Forest Cats
Highly recommended. It can stand alone, but I'm glad I read the first book.
ENJOY !
========
whom we have met in "Exit Strategy, Deadly Lover." Plus a short story "Lover Calling."
Gabriel has ghosted, but Justin hasn't figured out why, until he gets a phone call.
Then he's jetting to Europe, to rescue Gabriel...
and help him finish the job. Their mutual desire to retire and be able to be together, unstressed, is pulling them hard. Their sexy times are scorching hot, and their easy manner with each other, and banter are marvelous.
It's no easy task to eliminate the bad guys, so we plenty of action, traps, gun fights, espionage and treachery. All through that conflict, our men remain devoted, strong and solid. There are episodes that have Justin comforting Gabriel and Gabriel tending to Justin.
Jocelynn Drake keeps this tale fresh and exciting, terrifying and peaceful. There are twists we don't expect, and the epilogue is fabulous.
Norwegian Forest Cats
Highly recommended. It can stand alone, but I'm glad I read the first book.
ENJOY !
========
October 15, 2022
This was explosive 🧨, I loved every action scene 😀. My infatuation for Gabriel just intensified 😊🥰.
♡ Character development is so on point I can’t even fault the author especially considering what both Gabriel and Justin have been through.
♡ I love how their relationship is progressing, it’s not unrealistic and superficial, it’s deep (and I like it) it’s the kind of connection that is hard to come by and worth fighting for and these two bad boys have it and it’s so beautiful to read.
♡ Their chemistry both in and out of bed is so 😮💨🥵🥰, I need me a Gabriel 🥹🥰
♡ And then there’s Grunt 😂🤭
“I was thinking we needed to pay a visit to Grunt.” “Grunt?” “Yes.” “As in…” Justin made a grunting noise that sort of reminded him of a gorilla. “Please don’t make that noise around him when you meet him,” Gabriel said.” 😂😂 I really wish Justin had made that noise just to see what the crazy old hermit would do 😂😂 he (Grunt) is one character I’d have enjoyed reading more about
“Grunt cackled and tucked the weapon away as quickly as it first appeared. “I just wanted to see if he’d shit himself.” He leaned over closer to Justin and sniffed the air. “Nope. Guess he’s a keeper.” Grunt laughed again” 😂😂 you can guess what sort of crazy he is just from that little piece.
♡ I love everything about the book, the storyline, plot , and how the author wrote it, it’s so easy to follow and understand. I cannot wait to read the next book, I need a “fix”of Gabriel 😘
♡ Character development is so on point I can’t even fault the author especially considering what both Gabriel and Justin have been through.
♡ I love how their relationship is progressing, it’s not unrealistic and superficial, it’s deep (and I like it) it’s the kind of connection that is hard to come by and worth fighting for and these two bad boys have it and it’s so beautiful to read.
♡ Their chemistry both in and out of bed is so 😮💨🥵🥰, I need me a Gabriel 🥹🥰
♡ And then there’s Grunt 😂🤭
“I was thinking we needed to pay a visit to Grunt.” “Grunt?” “Yes.” “As in…” Justin made a grunting noise that sort of reminded him of a gorilla. “Please don’t make that noise around him when you meet him,” Gabriel said.” 😂😂 I really wish Justin had made that noise just to see what the crazy old hermit would do 😂😂 he (Grunt) is one character I’d have enjoyed reading more about
“Grunt cackled and tucked the weapon away as quickly as it first appeared. “I just wanted to see if he’d shit himself.” He leaned over closer to Justin and sniffed the air. “Nope. Guess he’s a keeper.” Grunt laughed again” 😂😂 you can guess what sort of crazy he is just from that little piece.
♡ I love everything about the book, the storyline, plot , and how the author wrote it, it’s so easy to follow and understand. I cannot wait to read the next book, I need a “fix”of Gabriel 😘
June 12, 2019
4.5 stars!
I really enjoyed this second installment, even more than the first one, honestly. It helped that the grammar mistakes were cleared up in this one, only a few here or there throughout the book.
I've come to really enjoy Justin and Gabriel (and it was awesome to learn their real names in this one) together and their love for each other. Idk why, but there's just something so interesting about assassins falling in love in a story. Probably because we don't think of them having much feeling or emotions at all, to do what they do.
But reading about the struggle of it, and someone who can kill so ruthlessly falling in love? Yeah, I like that.
This was an interesting read, and I was happy that I was surprised at exactly what Gabriel was clearing up as we learn more about his past.
We don't learn much about Justin's past as this is focused mainly on Gabriel and his problems, but I hope the next book focuses on Justin's past (assuming there will be another book) and we learn more about him along with Gabriel.
It was great seeing these two work together and Justin come to Gabriel's rescue and to see these two being badasses.
I do think the climax was a tad too easy for Gabriel and Justin, hence giving off .5 stars from this, but it didn't hinder my enjoyment of this too much, so I rounded up. It just didn't have as high stakes as it should have, for how long this was taking Gabriel to finish, but it still was satisfying in its own way, especially with the place Gabriel and Justin end up.
Loved this, it was really good and I really enjoyed it. Two thumbs up from me! <3
I really enjoyed this second installment, even more than the first one, honestly. It helped that the grammar mistakes were cleared up in this one, only a few here or there throughout the book.
I've come to really enjoy Justin and Gabriel (and it was awesome to learn their real names in this one) together and their love for each other. Idk why, but there's just something so interesting about assassins falling in love in a story. Probably because we don't think of them having much feeling or emotions at all, to do what they do.
But reading about the struggle of it, and someone who can kill so ruthlessly falling in love? Yeah, I like that.
This was an interesting read, and I was happy that I was surprised at exactly what Gabriel was clearing up as we learn more about his past.
We don't learn much about Justin's past as this is focused mainly on Gabriel and his problems, but I hope the next book focuses on Justin's past (assuming there will be another book) and we learn more about him along with Gabriel.
It was great seeing these two work together and Justin come to Gabriel's rescue and to see these two being badasses.
I do think the climax was a tad too easy for Gabriel and Justin, hence giving off .5 stars from this, but it didn't hinder my enjoyment of this too much, so I rounded up. It just didn't have as high stakes as it should have, for how long this was taking Gabriel to finish, but it still was satisfying in its own way, especially with the place Gabriel and Justin end up.
Loved this, it was really good and I really enjoyed it. Two thumbs up from me! <3
Want to read
November 22, 2020The sweet and frankly adorable Elfie McGlitterpants 😁 gifted me this awesome book. Thank you so much!! 😘
July 22, 2019
Nowhere near as many errors as in book 1 thank goodness, but still not quite there yet. Like the MC's, but have some issues with the timelines.
June 17, 2019
Exciting continuation of the previous book. Things start out with Gabriel having been MIA off cleaning up loos ends from his past in order that he and Justin can move forward with their relationship without having to look over their shoulders. However, Justin soon gets word that Gabriel ran into some trouble and needs his help.
Justin saves Gabriel and the two quickly regroup and devise a plan to take care of the rest of Gabriel’s real family. Gabriel recovers much faster than you’d expect for someone who was tortured and beaten, but they don’t have much time to waste. They must eliminate the threats before they are taken out themselves. We learn about the real names and mainly Gabriel’s background which was definitely interesting. I liked how his sister wasn’t quite the same person he remembered and that Justin was there to help him see that.
There are some other twists and turns that keep things exciting, and the guys continue with their fun banter and sexy chemistry which I felt was well spaced out. We get a nice epilogue to see how the guys made out. I loved the no nonsense mercenaries falling in love but staying true to their personalities and hope we get to see more of them again.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
August 13, 2025
Every assassin has an exit strategy – their ultimate plan for leaving that dangerous life and disappearing. They just never expect to live long enough to enact it. Gabriel Prescott was no different. But everything changed when he met fellow mercenary Justin Mallory. Now he’s racing across Europe with Justin to put to rest old threats before they can end both their lives. Of course, it will also mean coming clean to Justin about exactly who he is and who wants him dead. Gabriel can only hope that Justin will still want him when the truth comes out.
This one, book 2, sees Justin Mallory chasing after his new lover and fellow assassin, Gabriel Prescott. Gabriel left at the end of Book #1, Deadly Lover, promising to return to start their new life after finishing up his own loose ends.
The story goes right away into a fight for their still very new relationship, and a journey into Gabriel’s traumatic history with his dangerous family. With a lot of action and suspense. Drake’s story builds up on the homophobia that is present in, not all, but some Russian cultures and we see the tragic impact it has on the entire community, in this particular case...the children. It’s a theme that is revisited here and carried out in some of the future books.
I really liked this book and the relationship between Gabriel and Justin. It’s not by any means, a story that is finished. They still have much more work left to do not only on their relationship as they continue to grow...but also on their new home and partnership.
I don't want to give too much away but I think it's okay to say that this story introduces two new and important characters, whose entrance is dramatic as well as emotional.
The next book, that is the last book in the series is Final Lover which I am looking forward to. I would certainly recommend this series but be aware that this is a series that begs to be read in order so that the characters, the relationships and the events occur in a chronological order.
Side Note: There are two other books, same format, listed as part of the Exit Strategy series, but with different characters. I have them.
This one, book 2, sees Justin Mallory chasing after his new lover and fellow assassin, Gabriel Prescott. Gabriel left at the end of Book #1, Deadly Lover, promising to return to start their new life after finishing up his own loose ends.
The story goes right away into a fight for their still very new relationship, and a journey into Gabriel’s traumatic history with his dangerous family. With a lot of action and suspense. Drake’s story builds up on the homophobia that is present in, not all, but some Russian cultures and we see the tragic impact it has on the entire community, in this particular case...the children. It’s a theme that is revisited here and carried out in some of the future books.
I really liked this book and the relationship between Gabriel and Justin. It’s not by any means, a story that is finished. They still have much more work left to do not only on their relationship as they continue to grow...but also on their new home and partnership.
I don't want to give too much away but I think it's okay to say that this story introduces two new and important characters, whose entrance is dramatic as well as emotional.
The next book, that is the last book in the series is Final Lover which I am looking forward to. I would certainly recommend this series but be aware that this is a series that begs to be read in order so that the characters, the relationships and the events occur in a chronological order.
Side Note: There are two other books, same format, listed as part of the Exit Strategy series, but with different characters. I have them.
May 13, 2023
Better than book 1, 3.5 rounded up. There was less non-real-man type of dialogue but still some to be annoying. The plot was faster more action packed, car chases etc. nice.
But the Colton thing toward the end was random and could have made a bigger impact if it was sprinkled throughout more deliberately.
The final event with Nicolai was also a whimper, not a bang. Could have been a lot more intense.
And who the hell is the baldie on the cover??? Neither MC that's for sure!
On to the next!
But the Colton thing toward the end was random and could have made a bigger impact if it was sprinkled throughout more deliberately.
The final event with Nicolai was also a whimper, not a bang. Could have been a lot more intense.
And who the hell is the baldie on the cover??? Neither MC that's for sure!
On to the next!
December 13, 2019
Ups, I read this during the summer and obviously forgot to review it.
It was a good read but not as good as the first book. So 3.5 stars upgraded to 4 as I really like those two
It was a good read but not as good as the first book. So 3.5 stars upgraded to 4 as I really like those two
November 11, 2021
3.5 stars
June 21, 2022
DNF at 35%
This went from blandly readable to just straight up bland.
It's got the hallmarks I've come to expect of this author, honestly - everything is rather surface, characters are somewhat two dimensional, and tense or emotional moments are interrupted by horniness, even when it doesn't make sense (like when Gabriel has spent a long time being beaten, frozen, and tortured.......lets jerk off in the shower.???)
I didn't expect them to be 100% soulless killers, but it was rather cheesy, their humanitarian killer ideals. There's ways this can work, but... "we'll only kill the bad guys!" is what a six year old declares.
Finally, the world politics was not my jam. It was strange to bring in such serious topics into such a light book. Also I just don't like reading about irl political things.
Overall, probably won't try this author again. Also Justin calling Gabriel "G-Love" made me regret having eyes.
Read more reviews on my blog:
https://horsetalkreviews.blogspot.com/
This went from blandly readable to just straight up bland.
It's got the hallmarks I've come to expect of this author, honestly - everything is rather surface, characters are somewhat two dimensional, and tense or emotional moments are interrupted by horniness, even when it doesn't make sense (like when Gabriel has spent a long time being beaten, frozen, and tortured.......lets jerk off in the shower.???)
I didn't expect them to be 100% soulless killers, but it was rather cheesy, their humanitarian killer ideals. There's ways this can work, but... "we'll only kill the bad guys!" is what a six year old declares.
Finally, the world politics was not my jam. It was strange to bring in such serious topics into such a light book. Also I just don't like reading about irl political things.
Overall, probably won't try this author again. Also Justin calling Gabriel "G-Love" made me regret having eyes.
Read more reviews on my blog:
https://horsetalkreviews.blogspot.com/
August 7, 2024
4⭐️ porque hay gatos al final
March 4, 2023
When Justin learns his G Love is in a precarious and life-threatening situation, he wastes no time and manages to get him out of a very deadly situation.
Determined to help Gabriel cleaning house, Justin wasn’t leaving his lover’s side again until all the men who were hunting him were dead.
Between healing from their injuries the two men travel all over Eastern Europe getting rid of Gabriel's life long enemies.
But Gabriel is forced to adjust his opinions and reluctantly gains the unexpected, while working hard to keep Justin safe.
Was this love?
Oh God, if this was what it meant to be in love, this was absolutely horrible. His heart was racing, and a chill was clinging to his skin, sinking down into his bones. It was as if a Rottweiler had sat on his chest and refused to budge. He couldn’t catch his breath. Couldn’t even think.
Fuck this love thing.
This is the perfect ending to the story of the two assassins working hard to have their HEA with the help of some great secondary characters.
Part of the Exit Strategy Series and must be read in order:
August 9, 2020
Series Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2020/02/04/...
Rating: 4 Stars – minor quibbles but I loved it to bits
Rating: 4 Stars – minor quibbles but I loved it to bits
June 6, 2019
Absolutely loved this second book in the Exit Strategy series! The action picks up swiftly from the novella Lover Calling which came after book one, Deadly Lover. You really should read these books in order as background is important and events build on previous events.
Justin gets information from his handler Marilyn that his lover Gabriel, who has been out of touch recently, is in trouble. Justin rushes to Europe to save him. Hijinks ensue.
The book is action packed as Gabriel, now with Justin at his side, continues his mission to eliminate those who stand in the way of them having a peaceful life together. There are surprises along the way, with the path littered with the requisite dead bodies. In addition we get a front row seat to the deepening of their relationship, some baring of secrets, and some moments of breath holding as we watch events unfold.
Some fun secondary characters are introduced who will hopefully reappear in future books. Plus there are cats I’ve never heard of, had to look up, and now want to own!
The character development is great. We get more information allowing us to understand and care even more for these characters. Moreso on Gabriel’s side...Justin still has lots of secrets we don’t know. The pacing of the story arc is perfect...action sequences followed up by slower paced, thoughtful scenes. It’s a great blend of action, emotion and heat. It’s a tight, well-constructed narrative that draws the reader in. I really fell more in love with these characters and kept thinking that I hoped there’d be many more follow up books. The premise for those books was even alluded to in a discussion between the main characters. There is also a mystery still hanging over Gabriel’s head and more secrets to suss out about Justin.
And thus came my only disappointment in the book...the author note at the end saying she has one more book planned for the series. Gah! No! I’m sure that Justin And Gabriel have many more stories to tell. They cannot go quietly into that good night of retirement!! Please!!
Justin gets information from his handler Marilyn that his lover Gabriel, who has been out of touch recently, is in trouble. Justin rushes to Europe to save him. Hijinks ensue.
The book is action packed as Gabriel, now with Justin at his side, continues his mission to eliminate those who stand in the way of them having a peaceful life together. There are surprises along the way, with the path littered with the requisite dead bodies. In addition we get a front row seat to the deepening of their relationship, some baring of secrets, and some moments of breath holding as we watch events unfold.
Some fun secondary characters are introduced who will hopefully reappear in future books. Plus there are cats I’ve never heard of, had to look up, and now want to own!
The character development is great. We get more information allowing us to understand and care even more for these characters. Moreso on Gabriel’s side...Justin still has lots of secrets we don’t know. The pacing of the story arc is perfect...action sequences followed up by slower paced, thoughtful scenes. It’s a great blend of action, emotion and heat. It’s a tight, well-constructed narrative that draws the reader in. I really fell more in love with these characters and kept thinking that I hoped there’d be many more follow up books. The premise for those books was even alluded to in a discussion between the main characters. There is also a mystery still hanging over Gabriel’s head and more secrets to suss out about Justin.
And thus came my only disappointment in the book...the author note at the end saying she has one more book planned for the series. Gah! No! I’m sure that Justin And Gabriel have many more stories to tell. They cannot go quietly into that good night of retirement!! Please!!
June 11, 2019
This was excellent! Anyone who may be holding off because of editing issues on the first one need not worry. All was well here.
June 9, 2019
Vengeful Lover!
Total Rating: 4.6 Stars out of 5
Rating Review Rollout:
(1) Attention Keeper: 5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
(2) Digging deep in Character Development: 5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
(3) Danger-Drama-Friction-Suspense Fulfillment?: 5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
(4) Edit to Perfection!: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(5) Feeling the Words: 4.5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌙
(6) Give me more please factor: 5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
(7) Going with the Flow of the Story: 5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
(8) Grammar Police: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(9) It's all about the Chemistry, baby: 5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
(10) Laugh out loud funny: N/A
(11) Love connection: 4 🌞🌞🌞🌞
(12) Main characters appeal: 5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
(13) Plot Worthy: 5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
(14) Show me Entertainment: 5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
(15) Super-Duper-Natural feels: N/A
(16) The Writing speaks for itself: 4.5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌙
(17) The Wrap Up of all loose ends in a tidy bow: 4.5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌙
(18) Too sexy for my shirt kinda sex: 4.5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌙
Total Rating: 4.6 Stars out of 5
Rating Review Rollout:
(1) Attention Keeper: 5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
(2) Digging deep in Character Development: 5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
(3) Danger-Drama-Friction-Suspense Fulfillment?: 5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
(4) Edit to Perfection!: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(5) Feeling the Words: 4.5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌙
(6) Give me more please factor: 5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
(7) Going with the Flow of the Story: 5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
(8) Grammar Police: 3 🌟🌟🌟
(9) It's all about the Chemistry, baby: 5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
(10) Laugh out loud funny: N/A
(11) Love connection: 4 🌞🌞🌞🌞
(12) Main characters appeal: 5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
(13) Plot Worthy: 5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
(14) Show me Entertainment: 5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
(15) Super-Duper-Natural feels: N/A
(16) The Writing speaks for itself: 4.5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌙
(17) The Wrap Up of all loose ends in a tidy bow: 4.5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌙
(18) Too sexy for my shirt kinda sex: 4.5 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌙
August 8, 2019
I loved Justin and G Love in Deadly Lover and I'm madly in love with them even more!! I mean how could you not.... "Do you have a knife? I need to cut off some fingers." "What the fuck?" "I don't know which fucking finger unlocks the phone. I thought I'd just take them all." BWHAHAHA... This was so much fun and exciting and sexy as hell!! I can't wait for the finale!!
June 7, 2019
So worth the wait!
I really didn't think that this action packed, hot as hell series could get any better because I loved it just the way it Was. But guess what? I was wrong. This is officially the second book in the the series, but technically is the third, because you definitely shouldn't miss the short novella Lover calling which comes after Deadly lover and in my opinion is equally important to the story and relationship development between Justin and Gabriel.
On top of excellent writing, in Vengeful lover you'll get to know Gabriel better, more insights in his past that made him a man he is today. He'll get to deal whit the ghosts of his past (with some major surprises along the way) so he can hope for the future, learn to trust and slowly accept the fact that he's not a lone wolf anymore and he can share the burden. Justin's past still stays a mistery and I can't wait for the next book in the series. I really hope it won't be the last because this couple really deserves more.
Oh and did I mention they are burning up the sheets... Again.
I've received an ARC with no obligation to write a review, but I think we should make reads as good this one more visible.
I really didn't think that this action packed, hot as hell series could get any better because I loved it just the way it Was. But guess what? I was wrong. This is officially the second book in the the series, but technically is the third, because you definitely shouldn't miss the short novella Lover calling which comes after Deadly lover and in my opinion is equally important to the story and relationship development between Justin and Gabriel.
On top of excellent writing, in Vengeful lover you'll get to know Gabriel better, more insights in his past that made him a man he is today. He'll get to deal whit the ghosts of his past (with some major surprises along the way) so he can hope for the future, learn to trust and slowly accept the fact that he's not a lone wolf anymore and he can share the burden. Justin's past still stays a mistery and I can't wait for the next book in the series. I really hope it won't be the last because this couple really deserves more.
Oh and did I mention they are burning up the sheets... Again.
I've received an ARC with no obligation to write a review, but I think we should make reads as good this one more visible.
June 7, 2019
When love comes...It does not really matter who....
Two peas in a pod....or so they say!
These two Assassins had a rocky start. They were competitors, but totally different in some ways. While one excels in operating through the use of technology, the other relies on force and instinct, which have serve them both equally successfully, each excelling in their own way.
It all started an an unlikely alliance, which grew into love neither one expected. But to have a future, are they willing to go through something really big, life-threatening and may look unsurmountable to have their happily-ever-after?
One hell of a ride Ms. Jocelynn Drake, and you can’t help but be caught up with these endearingly, lovable men! I felt scared and excited reading page after page, rooting for these men who are just trying to start their lives with each other! It is a fast-paced, with non-stop obstacles and twist and turn, so prepare yourself for a wild ride. CONGRATULATIONS on your latest bestseller Ms. Jocelynn Drake!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Two peas in a pod....or so they say!
These two Assassins had a rocky start. They were competitors, but totally different in some ways. While one excels in operating through the use of technology, the other relies on force and instinct, which have serve them both equally successfully, each excelling in their own way.
It all started an an unlikely alliance, which grew into love neither one expected. But to have a future, are they willing to go through something really big, life-threatening and may look unsurmountable to have their happily-ever-after?
One hell of a ride Ms. Jocelynn Drake, and you can’t help but be caught up with these endearingly, lovable men! I felt scared and excited reading page after page, rooting for these men who are just trying to start their lives with each other! It is a fast-paced, with non-stop obstacles and twist and turn, so prepare yourself for a wild ride. CONGRATULATIONS on your latest bestseller Ms. Jocelynn Drake!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
June 10, 2019
Die Fortsetzung lässt mich zwiegespalten zurück. Ich liebe es, die Protas über mehrere Bände und einen längeren Zeitraum zu begleiten und hasse "offene" Enden, aber in diesem Fall hätte es mich nicht gestört, wenn es nach Band 1 zu Ende gewesen wäre.
Zwei Auftragskiller, die sich zusammen ein Leben aufbauen wollen. Dafür müssen sie aber Gabriels mörderische und machtgierige Familie aus dem Weg räumen. Es folgt eine actiongeladene und bleischwere Jagd von Berlin über Österreich und Mykonos bis nach Russland.
Schlecht war die Geschichte nicht, aber Gabriel und Justin hätten sie nicht benötigt.
Zwei Auftragskiller, die sich zusammen ein Leben aufbauen wollen. Dafür müssen sie aber Gabriels mörderische und machtgierige Familie aus dem Weg räumen. Es folgt eine actiongeladene und bleischwere Jagd von Berlin über Österreich und Mykonos bis nach Russland.
Schlecht war die Geschichte nicht, aber Gabriel und Justin hätten sie nicht benötigt.
June 7, 2019
Another great add to the series. Gabriel and Justin's story continues with twist, turns and epic suspense. These two guys are joining forces to try to deal with the past coming back to ruin their future. Loved seeing these two grow closer, complex and deep moments that make you want to know more and more. Their chemistry and connection is intense, sexy and hot. Don't want to say too much more because I think it would spoil for this great read. Add in side characters that I hope we see more from and I can't wait for the next.
June 8, 2019
This was a fun one to read, watching as Justin and Gabriel race around Europe taking care of business so that Gabriel can live free and happy in the US with Justin. Through their adventures Gabriel encounters his family and nothing goes how he thought it would. Some of it was good, some of it just was. The end had me smiling, loved that Justin and Gabriel now have a chance of real happiness with their past firmly in the past.
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