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Masters & Mercenaries: The Forgotten #5
No Love Lost
When Ezra Fain joined the ranks of the CIA, the last thing on his mind was romance. After meeting Kim Soloman, it was difficult to think of anything else. A tragic mistake drove them apart, leaving him shattered and unable to forgive the woman he loved. But when his greatest enemy threatens her life, Ezra leaps into action, prepared to do anything to try to save her.
Solo accepted long ago that she won’t get over Ezra. She’s worked for years to get back into his life, looking for any way to reignite the love they once shared. Unfortunately, nothing seems to penetrate the wall he has built between them. When she’s arrested for a crime she didn’t commit, she believes she’s on her own.
Racing across the globe, Ezra and Solo find themselves together again, caught in the crosshairs of the agency they sacrificed so much to serve. Days on the run soon turn to steamy nights, but Levi Green isn’t about to let them find their happily ever after. And when the smoke clears, the men and women of McKay-Taggart will never be the same again.
Solo accepted long ago that she won’t get over Ezra. She’s worked for years to get back into his life, looking for any way to reignite the love they once shared. Unfortunately, nothing seems to penetrate the wall he has built between them. When she’s arrested for a crime she didn’t commit, she believes she’s on her own.
Racing across the globe, Ezra and Solo find themselves together again, caught in the crosshairs of the agency they sacrificed so much to serve. Days on the run soon turn to steamy nights, but Levi Green isn’t about to let them find their happily ever after. And when the smoke clears, the men and women of McKay-Taggart will never be the same again.
367 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 29, 2020
423 people are currently reading
809 people want to read
About the author
Lexi Blake
182 books6,381 followersNY Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake lives in North Texas with her husband, three kids, and the laziest rescue dog in the world. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn't until she started writing romance and urban fantasy that she found the stories of her heart. She likes to find humor in the strangest places and believes in happy endings no matter how odd the couple, threesome, or foursome may seem.
Her first novel, Their Virgin Captive: Masters of Ménage, Book 1, was a collaboration with New York Times bestselling author Shayla Black. There are five more books available in the series: Their Virgin's Secret, Their Virgin Concubine, Their Virgin Princess, Their Virgin Hostage, and Their Virgin Secretary. The next book in the series, Their Virgin Mistress, is releasing this April.
In addition to the Masters of Ménage series, she is the author of the Masters and Mercenaries series. There are eight full-length novels and four novellas available now, with more coming in 2015.
In 2013, Lexi also began releasing her urban fantasy series, Thieves. The first five are available now, with Ripper, a spin-off to the series, coming in 2015.
Sign up for Lexi's newsletter at http://lexiblake.net/contact.html#new....
For more information about her books, her appearances and her wacky life visit her Facebook page (http://goo.gl/q2IHnJ) or her website (http://www.lexiblake.net).
Her first novel, Their Virgin Captive: Masters of Ménage, Book 1, was a collaboration with New York Times bestselling author Shayla Black. There are five more books available in the series: Their Virgin's Secret, Their Virgin Concubine, Their Virgin Princess, Their Virgin Hostage, and Their Virgin Secretary. The next book in the series, Their Virgin Mistress, is releasing this April.
In addition to the Masters of Ménage series, she is the author of the Masters and Mercenaries series. There are eight full-length novels and four novellas available now, with more coming in 2015.
In 2013, Lexi also began releasing her urban fantasy series, Thieves. The first five are available now, with Ripper, a spin-off to the series, coming in 2015.
Sign up for Lexi's newsletter at http://lexiblake.net/contact.html#new....
For more information about her books, her appearances and her wacky life visit her Facebook page (http://goo.gl/q2IHnJ) or her website (http://www.lexiblake.net).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 215 reviews
October 18, 2020
I did enjoy this, but I just can't say I loved it. I adored the first 4 or 5 books in the original Masters and Mercenaries series, they had kink, passion, a story that didn't drag and a fresh feel. Whilst I'm sure
Lexi Blake
fans will love No Love Lost, for me it didn't bring anything new to the table.
It had great characters and plot twists galore, but those twists seemed to come out of nowhere. With a plot twist, I like to know there were clues and hints to it scatted throughout the story. This felt more like new facts or information was introduced to move the plot on, rather than revealed secrets where hindsight allows us to see the foreshadowing.
Pros
It's a second chance romance, which I'm a total sucker for.
The story is well written, the characters had depth and were believable. Most of all was how convincing the emotions of the main protagonists were. Despite the con mentioned below, I could feel their emotions, they definitely felt authentic.
Beck recognising his mistakes in the past, seeking help to change, and genuinely attoning for them.
Cons
The huge amount of time this couple spent apart whilst supposedly being so madly in love and such utter soul mates they barely/didn't have any other relationships in the meantime. They were together as a couple for about two years in their early/mid-20's and I'm meant to believe that all those many, many years later they are STILL in love with one another. Too much, sorry.
The pace was too slow. There is a LOT of intrigue and plenty of twists but I felt like the actual relationship was going nowhere for far too long. At 75% we'd had a bit of spanking and a few, very basic sex scenes.
It's really difficult for me to rate this because it is a good read but, for me, it's also a fairly forgettable one. That's partly due to the large number of books I read every week, many of them are forgotten, but it just didn't have that edge to it that I needed. It's still a good romantic suspense, but for a series that mentions BDSM clubs so much, there has been a noted absence of any significant kinky action in it.
It had great characters and plot twists galore, but those twists seemed to come out of nowhere. With a plot twist, I like to know there were clues and hints to it scatted throughout the story. This felt more like new facts or information was introduced to move the plot on, rather than revealed secrets where hindsight allows us to see the foreshadowing.
Pros
It's a second chance romance, which I'm a total sucker for.
The story is well written, the characters had depth and were believable. Most of all was how convincing the emotions of the main protagonists were. Despite the con mentioned below, I could feel their emotions, they definitely felt authentic.
Beck recognising his mistakes in the past, seeking help to change, and genuinely attoning for them.
Cons
The huge amount of time this couple spent apart whilst supposedly being so madly in love and such utter soul mates they barely/didn't have any other relationships in the meantime. They were together as a couple for about two years in their early/mid-20's and I'm meant to believe that all those many, many years later they are STILL in love with one another. Too much, sorry.
The pace was too slow. There is a LOT of intrigue and plenty of twists but I felt like the actual relationship was going nowhere for far too long. At 75% we'd had a bit of spanking and a few, very basic sex scenes.
It's really difficult for me to rate this because it is a good read but, for me, it's also a fairly forgettable one. That's partly due to the large number of books I read every week, many of them are forgotten, but it just didn't have that edge to it that I needed. It's still a good romantic suspense, but for a series that mentions BDSM clubs so much, there has been a noted absence of any significant kinky action in it.
September 28, 2020
I love a good misunderstood story! The heroine had to make some pretty tough choices that cost her, her husband and love of her life. No Love Lost is all about the journey for Kim and Beck's lost love.
I don't know what it is about a misjudged or misunderstood storyline, but I do love them. I think it's more about the moment when the truth comes out and seeing the other party grovel to get back what they lost. That's exactly what you get with Beck and Kim. I really loved seeing that transformation with Beck and how much his love grew for Kim after going through some really hellish years.
You also get to see all the lovely side characters from this whole series. This author has a pretty good sense of humor and it shows through most of these characters. I really enjoy this group and I'm extremely curious about other books that I know some of them come from. I believe it intertwines more than one series.
That may seem like you should read all books in order but I can say that I have read two books out of order and have had no issues piecing together what I need to enjoy each book as a standalone. If anything it has piqued my interest to read the other books.
I don't know what it is about a misjudged or misunderstood storyline, but I do love them. I think it's more about the moment when the truth comes out and seeing the other party grovel to get back what they lost. That's exactly what you get with Beck and Kim. I really loved seeing that transformation with Beck and how much his love grew for Kim after going through some really hellish years.
You also get to see all the lovely side characters from this whole series. This author has a pretty good sense of humor and it shows through most of these characters. I really enjoy this group and I'm extremely curious about other books that I know some of them come from. I believe it intertwines more than one series.
That may seem like you should read all books in order but I can say that I have read two books out of order and have had no issues piecing together what I need to enjoy each book as a standalone. If anything it has piqued my interest to read the other books.
September 26, 2020
5 STARS
I have spent years, YEARS waiting for this book. YEARS. Y'all don't even realize the amount of want I had for this. When you crave a book this bad, when you're so desperate for a particular character's story and HEA, let me tell you something, you set your expectations high. You can't help it. Beck and Solo have spent years being some of the most memorable secondary characters in previous books. I've been dying for their HEA and my hopes were high. I was almost terrified going into this book for fear that I may have set them too high. And then Lexi Blake comes in and blows all of expectations right out of the water. Because this book didn't just meet them, it far exceeded anything I could have ever hoped for.
This is a love story years in the making. A romance that started out fiery hot between two agents and then burned out even hotter when lies and espionage came between them. It's been years, and the rage that's there still burns for Beck. He may not be over Solo, but he's not ready to forgive her either. He blames her for the death of his brother and he doesn't mince his words or spare her his hatred when they're in each other's vicinity.
Let me tell you I almost wanted to hate Beck. His treatment of Solo is almost callous at times. The amount of anger and resentment he carries towards her is almost painful to read. And the way she takes all his verbal punches on the chin and doesn't flinch made me love her even more. Solo is one tough cookie. Lexi wrote some of the most kickass heroines I've read, but Solo is in a class of her own. She may have her hard and tough exterior, but she cares and she cares deeply for those she considers friends.
There's so much that happened in this book. So many secrets and twists that sent my head spinning. It was a non-stop action packed ride full of depth and emotion. I spent so long waiting for Beck to finally see the error of his ways but I wasn't prepared for just how hard he'd feel it. The second chance feels of this story were on a whole other level. I lived for these two.
After so many years with the Masters and Mercenaries series and this spinoff, I feel like I know these characters. I crave each little glimpse of them as the years pass. But no one is quite as potent as Ian Black and his kids. The hell raisers that his daughters have come to be is the most deliciously hilarious thing to read. I loved them!
To say I loved this book would be an understatement. I devoured it. I lived for it. I couldn't get enough of this story. There's so many revelations that by the time I picked my jaw off of the floor, another would come out of left field and whack me over the head. It was so good! I think the last time I was anticipating a book this bad, it was Ian's. But this one far exceeded any expectations. Beck and Solo were everything. One of my favorites in the series. Bar none.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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He would win her back. He wouldn’t stop until she said yes to him again.
I have spent years, YEARS waiting for this book. YEARS. Y'all don't even realize the amount of want I had for this. When you crave a book this bad, when you're so desperate for a particular character's story and HEA, let me tell you something, you set your expectations high. You can't help it. Beck and Solo have spent years being some of the most memorable secondary characters in previous books. I've been dying for their HEA and my hopes were high. I was almost terrified going into this book for fear that I may have set them too high. And then Lexi Blake comes in and blows all of expectations right out of the water. Because this book didn't just meet them, it far exceeded anything I could have ever hoped for.
“Yeah, I’d intended for this to end that way, but if you need to rage a little more, go on. I assure you I can take it.”
This is a love story years in the making. A romance that started out fiery hot between two agents and then burned out even hotter when lies and espionage came between them. It's been years, and the rage that's there still burns for Beck. He may not be over Solo, but he's not ready to forgive her either. He blames her for the death of his brother and he doesn't mince his words or spare her his hatred when they're in each other's vicinity.
Let me tell you I almost wanted to hate Beck. His treatment of Solo is almost callous at times. The amount of anger and resentment he carries towards her is almost painful to read. And the way she takes all his verbal punches on the chin and doesn't flinch made me love her even more. Solo is one tough cookie. Lexi wrote some of the most kickass heroines I've read, but Solo is in a class of her own. She may have her hard and tough exterior, but she cares and she cares deeply for those she considers friends.
There's so much that happened in this book. So many secrets and twists that sent my head spinning. It was a non-stop action packed ride full of depth and emotion. I spent so long waiting for Beck to finally see the error of his ways but I wasn't prepared for just how hard he'd feel it. The second chance feels of this story were on a whole other level. I lived for these two.
After so many years with the Masters and Mercenaries series and this spinoff, I feel like I know these characters. I crave each little glimpse of them as the years pass. But no one is quite as potent as Ian Black and his kids. The hell raisers that his daughters have come to be is the most deliciously hilarious thing to read. I loved them!
To say I loved this book would be an understatement. I devoured it. I lived for it. I couldn't get enough of this story. There's so many revelations that by the time I picked my jaw off of the floor, another would come out of left field and whack me over the head. It was so good! I think the last time I was anticipating a book this bad, it was Ian's. But this one far exceeded any expectations. Beck and Solo were everything. One of my favorites in the series. Bar none.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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October 6, 2020
OMG, That was amazing!!!
Lexi Blake has give us a story that we can really sink out teeth into here. I have really enjoyed the series and this was a great way to end things. There's not only mystery, suspense, and action, but lots of steamy times as well.
You can read my full review and an Excerpt here: https://bit.ly/NBReviewNLL
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
Lexi Blake has give us a story that we can really sink out teeth into here. I have really enjoyed the series and this was a great way to end things. There's not only mystery, suspense, and action, but lots of steamy times as well.
You can read my full review and an Excerpt here: https://bit.ly/NBReviewNLL
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
July 17, 2022
Captivating me from the beginning to the very last word, No Love Lost was an incredibly beautiful, exceptionally written, second chance love story. As my most anticipated book of the year, I could not wait for Ezra and Kim's romance, as we were teased continuously with glimpses into their relationship drama throughout the entire Masters & Mercenaries: The Forgotten Series. It was well worth the wait and to say it went beyond my high expectations is an understatement as Lexi Blake had outdone herself by penning one heck of an epic tale. I could not put my kindle down - between the intense sexual chemistry, the off-the-charts angst level, and the all-consuming plotline, I was addicted to this poignant and memorable read. A brilliant finale that surpassed everything I've ever hoped for when it came to this couple and their journey.
Once married and now divorced for over a decade, the immeasurable love these two shared was undeniable, despite a past heavily laced with heartache, secrets, and lies. With each encounter, tensions deliciously escalated between the ex-CIA agent Ezra (Beck) Fain and agent Kim "Solo" Soloman. Beck was so consumed with rage, he was incapable of forgiving his ex's grave betrayal (bearing the responsibility for his older brother's death) regardless of the hold she had on his heart. I got where Beck was coming from when it came to blaming Kim, but he was frustratingly blinded by anger, he did not listen to reason. Lucky for him, I love a stubborn and sexy hero. In the end, Beck worked hard for his redemption - moving on from their painful past to heal the cavernous breach between them.
Solo was a badass tough (yet tenderhearted) chick, and I adored her. For years, Kim shouldered a tremendous amount of guilt for the secrets she held, knowing full well they wrecked her marriage to the only man she truly loved. Still, she sacrificed all to protect Fain from both the truth and the nefarious foe obsessed with destroying them. All this made for a fantastic, nail-biting edgy read. And throughout, I felt their sorrows, struggles, and every bump in their tumultuous relationship, but mostly... their undying love. Kim and Beck's journey was a passion-filled, emotional roller coaster ride.
All heaviness and heart-aching drama aside, there were moments of levity courtesy of my favorite Master and Mercenary - Ian Taggart. I will never get my fill of his loony character and happy to say fans will be thrilled to see him, as well as some old friends from prior installments. Sad to see this series end, but looking forward to new and exciting stories from Lexi Blake's wondrous imagination.
advance reader's copy of this publication received in exchange for an honest review
September 5, 2020
With certain authors I know I am going to probably need tissues nearby when I read their stories. Usually with any story written by Lexi Blake, I yell, am incredulous when it comes to what she does to some of her characters, and in some cases, ready to throw the book across the room. In No Love Lost, Lexi Blake takes us on a rollercoaster ride of emotions and her characters are along for the ride. Without giving anything away, buckle up and get ready for Solo and Ezra's ride. Oh, make sure you have some tissues on hand.
February 20, 2023
I started reading this series before I realized it was a sub-series. I believe the main series is heavy on the BDSM scene, which isn't my jam, I have not read those. However, until this book, there was only a tiny element in the split off series. The first book had funny parts. The second book was alright. I accidentally skipped the third book. I started to get invested in the lost boys and wanted to see where they ended up.
In the first book, you learn about the six men who had no memories of their past. They were referred to as the lost boys. Each book focused on one team member's struggles and their love interest. Each book gets you closer to solving what happened in the past. Ezra may not be a favorite character in the series for me, but I enjoyed this story and how it played out.
By the time you reach this book, you realize Hope McDonald was not the only sinister force in the whole saga. Levi Green was a power-hungry-obsessed stalker that was more involved than realized. I was definitely hooked on wanting to know what happened.
This ended the series well. Lexi Blake did introduce something at the end to continue the series or have another sub-series on her hand.
In the first book, you learn about the six men who had no memories of their past. They were referred to as the lost boys. Each book focused on one team member's struggles and their love interest. Each book gets you closer to solving what happened in the past. Ezra may not be a favorite character in the series for me, but I enjoyed this story and how it played out.
By the time you reach this book, you realize Hope McDonald was not the only sinister force in the whole saga. Levi Green was a power-hungry-obsessed stalker that was more involved than realized. I was definitely hooked on wanting to know what happened.
This ended the series well. Lexi Blake did introduce something at the end to continue the series or have another sub-series on her hand.
September 29, 2020
This is not a 3 star read for me but neither is it a 2. Somewhere in between.
I couldn’t rate it higher because I couldn’t get past Beck. He was a sanctimonious shithead who would lash out at everyone and everything when he didn’t get his own way. Seven years of therapy did fuck all, so maybe Kai needs to rethink his profession. Oh, and at the end when Solo is finally opening up to him about how he’s made her feel all these years of him treating her like shit, he came across as condescending instead of caring.
Speaking of Solo, she should have trusted her instincts and gone back to Malta, found some other guy who would treat her right and move on. Beck will be back to his passive-aggressive, blaming-everyone-else-but-himself ways as soon as the latest word of the epilogue is read.
Why are they still in love? He left her not once but twice! Pissed me off when he kept referring to Solo as his wife. Because she wasn’t his wife because he threw her away. But he loves her? Yeah nah.
Despite all that, the plot was good and I read the whole book in one sitting. But it’s probably not one I’m going to remember for long.
I couldn’t rate it higher because I couldn’t get past Beck. He was a sanctimonious shithead who would lash out at everyone and everything when he didn’t get his own way. Seven years of therapy did fuck all, so maybe Kai needs to rethink his profession. Oh, and at the end when Solo is finally opening up to him about how he’s made her feel all these years of him treating her like shit, he came across as condescending instead of caring.
Speaking of Solo, she should have trusted her instincts and gone back to Malta, found some other guy who would treat her right and move on. Beck will be back to his passive-aggressive, blaming-everyone-else-but-himself ways as soon as the latest word of the epilogue is read.
Why are they still in love? He left her not once but twice! Pissed me off when he kept referring to Solo as his wife. Because she wasn’t his wife because he threw her away. But he loves her? Yeah nah.
Despite all that, the plot was good and I read the whole book in one sitting. But it’s probably not one I’m going to remember for long.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2020
Finally. Beck and Kim are getting their second chance. But both of the struggle to move beyond the past. This book culminates all of the Lost Boys. Now it's kim and Beck. It comes down to this. Their love story I unraveling, but their stubborn asses are learning to trust and love. Roman makes it easy for them. I love this book. And..any Lexi fan can see the mirror ball. We get to see the next generation. Thank you for this.
September 29, 2020
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Beck (Ezra) has a second chance with the woman he's always loved. So he's not going to screw up again and lose her. But first, he has to get her out of the mess she's in, and protect her. Then they'll talk, they'll rehash things. That's the plan at least, but we all know how plans have a way of going awry...
This series is crazy intense. The overarching plot is wrapped up sort of in No Love Lost, but of course there are always things going on, and it's those things that really keep this series going. What I liked about this particular installment is the two leads feel so realistic in a world of spies and action, their emotions are what grounded them and made them real instead of hard core agents. Well, Kim is that, or was, but she, and Beck, are so well-drawn and layered and so damn interesting. I felt their emotions as they were feeling them, felt Kim's anger at Beck for hurting her and betraying her more than once, felt Beck's anger, even if he had it directed at the wrong person, and I felt their love. This is an excellent second chance romantic suspense.
ARC via Social Butterfly PR for an honest review.
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September 30, 2020
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'No love Lost' is another amazing story of the 'Master and Mercenaries' world by Lexi Blake. I have been reading this series for a long time and am going to get enough of these amazing characters!
We finally have Ezra!! I have waited for that man's story for such a long time! Solo is his perfect match and I literally couldn't wait to read about how she rips him a new one.
Beck blames Solo for his brother's death and the hate he spewed at her , had me cringing a lot. But then when she gets into danger , he is the first one to jump in to save her. Solo thinks she is on her own in this trouble and is even more shocked to see Ezra helping her. They both don't have the nicest relationship and are always at each other's throats. It was amazing for me to see them both develop a nice relationship and then finally fall in love!
This series is my all time favorite. If you need a high dose of suspense mixed with a lot of kink in your book, then look no more. This book is your cup of tea! A definite recommendation to all the dark Romance lovers out there!
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October 1, 2020
I have watched Lexi Blake grow from a good story teller to a great novelist. No Love Lost is a prime example of her story telling ability, weaving it into an emotional and compelling book. This is one of the Master and Mercenaries novels, part of the Lost Boys series. Ezra Fain has been in love with Kim Solomon, aka Solo for years, and vice versa despite their divorce. After years of therapy to get his anger under control, Beck Kent took back his real name, instead of his late brother’s, Ezra Fain, which is good, since Ezra isn’t really dead. After driving Kim away with his anger and jealousy, Beck has been looking for her for seven years. When he finally finds her, he saves her from their shared nemesis, Levi Green. At the same time, he saves his son, and his brother from Levi’s machinations. But Levi has gained power over the years and his obsession with Kim hasn’t changed. Can Beck win back his woman while keeping her safe from the evil that stalks her? As always, Ian Taggert is delightful, and we get to catch up with most of the characters from the earlier books, including their children. There’s also a surprise twist at the and for those who read Lexi’s other series. While this isn’t a good book to start with for the series, it is a great addition. The angst, the self-knowledge gained by both protagonists, and the suspense, all combine to create a captivating read.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
September 20, 2020
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the fifth in the Lost Boys spin off by Lexi Blake, and knowing it is the last one makes for a very poignant read – even if there will be more spin offs in the future … these guys need to be around forever!
I absolutely suggest that you need to be up to date to really understand all the underlying storylines, plot twists and possibly most sadly the huge rift between Kim and Beck. Oh and why Levi Green is such a despicable person.
Be ready for a huge amount of tension and a lot of deep breathing to get over the stressful moments. They come thick and fast. Apart from a few scenes where we discover a truly wonderful secret and see that play out, the team and Solo and Beck in particular are subject to a great deal of crazy – so much so that the wonderful lost boys come out of retirement to help finally solve the outstanding issue.
I loved, loved, loved catching up with group of people who I have grown to know so well. It was heart breaking but also life affirming by the end and I couldn’t have asked for anything more. I highly recommend this book to you – as long as you are up to date!
This is the fifth in the Lost Boys spin off by Lexi Blake, and knowing it is the last one makes for a very poignant read – even if there will be more spin offs in the future … these guys need to be around forever!
I absolutely suggest that you need to be up to date to really understand all the underlying storylines, plot twists and possibly most sadly the huge rift between Kim and Beck. Oh and why Levi Green is such a despicable person.
Be ready for a huge amount of tension and a lot of deep breathing to get over the stressful moments. They come thick and fast. Apart from a few scenes where we discover a truly wonderful secret and see that play out, the team and Solo and Beck in particular are subject to a great deal of crazy – so much so that the wonderful lost boys come out of retirement to help finally solve the outstanding issue.
I loved, loved, loved catching up with group of people who I have grown to know so well. It was heart breaking but also life affirming by the end and I couldn’t have asked for anything more. I highly recommend this book to you – as long as you are up to date!
September 30, 2020
This book finally bring to a close the Lost Boys and Erza/Beck and Solo. It's been a long time coming and done in a way that I was finally rooting for Beck and Solo. It was easy or fast, this book alone spans over 7 years, but Beck and Solo were in a good place by the end, one where they were forced to face their issues and really decide if they wanted to be together and how all secrets were out now.
Once again highlights for me come from Ian on this one. He's such a busy body, but he makes me laugh. I love how fierce he is about his kids. I also loved how Levi finally, finally got his and glad who the people were to make sure it happened.
Once again highlights for me come from Ian on this one. He's such a busy body, but he makes me laugh. I love how fierce he is about his kids. I also loved how Levi finally, finally got his and glad who the people were to make sure it happened.
September 30, 2020
***ARC Provided by the Author***
4.5 Stars
This, finally is Kim and Ezra's (Solo and Beck) story.
I love a good second chance romance. And, this one had everything you want in one with a couple who split up for reasons I am not going to spoil for those unfamiliar, but who also clearly still feel something for one another.
In with all of the second chance stuff, it had a couple of pretty good...woah, hold up, wait a darn minute, WHAT moments too.
And, well, those and the fact that these 2 finally (FINALLY) get their happy ending and I absolutely had a wonderful time reading this one.
It can be, I think, read as a standalone...but I recommend you read all of the books before this, as not only are they great, they really add to the experience of this one.
I enjoyed and recommend this title.
4.5 Stars
This, finally is Kim and Ezra's (Solo and Beck) story.
I love a good second chance romance. And, this one had everything you want in one with a couple who split up for reasons I am not going to spoil for those unfamiliar, but who also clearly still feel something for one another.
In with all of the second chance stuff, it had a couple of pretty good...woah, hold up, wait a darn minute, WHAT moments too.
And, well, those and the fact that these 2 finally (FINALLY) get their happy ending and I absolutely had a wonderful time reading this one.
It can be, I think, read as a standalone...but I recommend you read all of the books before this, as not only are they great, they really add to the experience of this one.
I enjoyed and recommend this title.
October 2, 2020
We have been building up to Ezra Fain and Kim Soloman's book since the beginning of the Masters and Mercenaries: The Forgotten series. We've seen first hand that they're both crazy about each other but at the same time there is a lot of resentment between them for things that happened in the past. Ezra blames Kim for the things that happened between them but at the same time he just threw away their relationship without even trying to see her side of things.
Like a lot of fans I've been really looking forward to their book, I wanted to dig deeper into where things went wrong and I knew their chemistry would be explosive when they finally gave in to it. Lexi Blake never disappoints on that front, especially when she can throw in a lot of danger and push her characters over the edge as they fight for their lives. I'm not going to lie, there were moments when I really wanted to shake some sense into Ezra. The way he kept punishing Kim constantly and always immediately jumped to the worst conclusions about her got really irritating after a while but by the end of the book we do see a huge turn around in his character and he works hard to become a better man for her. I always knew Kim had secrets but I could never have even begun to guess all of them so there were some really brilliant revelations throughout the story too.
I loved seeing all of the Lost Boys come together for one last mission with the help of some of the McKay-Taggart crew, one of the things I've enjoyed most about this series is the ongoing camaraderie between the group and they way they always look out for each other and that hasn't changed here. While I really enjoyed the romance and was happy with the way things turned out for Ezra and Kim I was slightly disappointed that they spent so much time apart, really they were only together for such a short time before their relationship imploded and then they were apart for so long that it was a bit hard to understand why they were still so madly in love with each other. I totally got the sparks flying when they were back in each others vicinity but they'd both spent years longing for each other from a distance.
That's only a slight niggle in the grand scheme of things though and overall this was a fast paced story full of action and intrigue. It ties together a lot of threads that have been ongoing for at least 5 books now and it definitely leaves the whole Masters & Mercenaries crew in a very different place to where they started. I can't wait to see where Lexi takes this world next because I have a strong feeling we're nothing to be saying goodbye to it any time soon!
Like a lot of fans I've been really looking forward to their book, I wanted to dig deeper into where things went wrong and I knew their chemistry would be explosive when they finally gave in to it. Lexi Blake never disappoints on that front, especially when she can throw in a lot of danger and push her characters over the edge as they fight for their lives. I'm not going to lie, there were moments when I really wanted to shake some sense into Ezra. The way he kept punishing Kim constantly and always immediately jumped to the worst conclusions about her got really irritating after a while but by the end of the book we do see a huge turn around in his character and he works hard to become a better man for her. I always knew Kim had secrets but I could never have even begun to guess all of them so there were some really brilliant revelations throughout the story too.
I loved seeing all of the Lost Boys come together for one last mission with the help of some of the McKay-Taggart crew, one of the things I've enjoyed most about this series is the ongoing camaraderie between the group and they way they always look out for each other and that hasn't changed here. While I really enjoyed the romance and was happy with the way things turned out for Ezra and Kim I was slightly disappointed that they spent so much time apart, really they were only together for such a short time before their relationship imploded and then they were apart for so long that it was a bit hard to understand why they were still so madly in love with each other. I totally got the sparks flying when they were back in each others vicinity but they'd both spent years longing for each other from a distance.
That's only a slight niggle in the grand scheme of things though and overall this was a fast paced story full of action and intrigue. It ties together a lot of threads that have been ongoing for at least 5 books now and it definitely leaves the whole Masters & Mercenaries crew in a very different place to where they started. I can't wait to see where Lexi takes this world next because I have a strong feeling we're nothing to be saying goodbye to it any time soon!
September 18, 2020
No Love Lost (Masters & Mercenaries: The Forgotten #5) by Lexi Blake
5 stars
M/F Second chance romance
Triggers: Stalking, Kidnapping, BDSM
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Ezra (Beck) is one hard man. He knows love, he knows loss and he knows revenge. While he hasn't been the most understanding person, what he's had to live through has given him a chip on his shoulder so large, it's a wonder he can stand up straight.
Kim (Solo) is an amazing operative who never thought her life would turn out the way it has. On the run, accused of horrible things, in love with someone who only hates her and to make it all wrapped with a shiny bow, she has more secrets than anyone around.
These two fight like cats and dogs, but know that they had something at one time.
You'll cheer for Solo, rage against Ezra, want to kill Levi Green AGAIN - man, this guy! These characters are all so well developed and the story will twist and turn in ways that you can't imagine. I loved every second of it, even the seconds that made me cry with heartbreak.
I can't say enough about this book and hope that you've read the previous ones because you'll need all of the background to understand the complexities in this one. Read at your own risk of needing something to throw, Kleenex and some chocolate. Amazing is all I can really say.
5 stars
M/F Second chance romance
Triggers: Stalking, Kidnapping, BDSM
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Ezra (Beck) is one hard man. He knows love, he knows loss and he knows revenge. While he hasn't been the most understanding person, what he's had to live through has given him a chip on his shoulder so large, it's a wonder he can stand up straight.
Kim (Solo) is an amazing operative who never thought her life would turn out the way it has. On the run, accused of horrible things, in love with someone who only hates her and to make it all wrapped with a shiny bow, she has more secrets than anyone around.
These two fight like cats and dogs, but know that they had something at one time.
You'll cheer for Solo, rage against Ezra, want to kill Levi Green AGAIN - man, this guy! These characters are all so well developed and the story will twist and turn in ways that you can't imagine. I loved every second of it, even the seconds that made me cry with heartbreak.
I can't say enough about this book and hope that you've read the previous ones because you'll need all of the background to understand the complexities in this one. Read at your own risk of needing something to throw, Kleenex and some chocolate. Amazing is all I can really say.
October 6, 2020
Check out our full posts for NO LOVE LOST RELEASE BLITZ and NO LOVE LOST BLOG TOUR on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆☆
M/F Second-Chance Romance
Triggers: Hidden because they may contain spoilers.
Ezra (Beck) is one hard man. He knows love, he knows loss, and he knows revenge. While he hasn't been the most understanding person, what he's had to live through has given him a chip on his shoulder so large, it's a wonder he can stand up straight.
Kim (Solo) is an amazing operative who never thought her life would turn out the way it has. On the run, accused of horrible things, in love with someone who only hates her, and to make it all wrapped with a shiny bow, she has more secrets than anyone around.
These two fight like cats and dogs, but know that they had something at one time.
You'll cheer for Solo, rage against Ezra, want to kill Levi Green AGAIN – man, this guy! These characters are all so well developed, and the story will twist and turn in ways that you can't imagine. I loved every second of it, even the seconds that made me cry with heartbreak.
I can't say enough about this book and hope that you've read the previous ones because you'll need all of the background to understand the complexities in this one. Read at your own risk of needing something to throw, Kleenex, and some chocolate. Amazing is all I can really say.
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆☆
This is the fifth in the Lost Boys spinoff by Lexi Blake, and knowing it is the last one makes for a very poignant read – even if there will be more spinoffs in the future… these guys need to be around forever!
I absolutely suggest that you need to be up to date to really understand all the underlying storylines, plot twists, and possibly most sadly, the huge rift between Kim and Beck. Oh, and why Levi Green is such a despicable person.
Be ready for a huge amount of tension and a lot of deep breathing to get over the stressful moments. They come thick and fast. Apart from a few scenes where we discover a truly wonderful secret and see that play out, the team and Solo and Beck in particular are subject to a great deal of crazy – so much so that the wonderful lost boys come out of retirement to help finally solve the outstanding issue.
I loved, loved, loved catching up with group of people who I have grown to know so well. It was heart breaking but also life affirming by the end and I couldn’t have asked for anything more. I highly recommend this book to you – as long as you are up to date!
Mary – ☆☆☆☆☆
Ezra is at it again, trying to save Solo from Levi Green. It has been seven years since he has seen her, but the love he feels for her is even stronger now. He has changed since the last time they saw each other; he has been through therapy, he is calmer now. He wants to try again with her.
She has kept several secrets from him for seven years, can they move past them and make a future together? Will Levi come back for her because he believes she is his? Can they stop Levi for good this time?
I love this series, it is filled with suspense, intrigue, a rogue CIA agent who has a God complex and wants to control his own army through mind control. McKay-Taggert has the Lost Boys, who are the results of another doctor who thought she was God and she kept wiping their memories but they are slowly gaining them back.
So if you love suspenseful military stories with a love story twisted in it, then this series is for you. I highly recommend it and I hope you love it too.
Shelby – ☆☆☆
No Love Lost, the fifth book in the Masters and Mercenaries: The Forgotten, is the finale to the series. The four books all lead up to this last couple: Solo and Beck/Ezra. I will say that I had very high expectations as Solo is one of my favorite characters in the entire series.
I am not going to summarize the story. I will say that I wasn't fond of this book. I wanted a conclusion to the series, I needed to see where it played out, and the ending was there, but it took a long time to get there. The couple was apart more than together, it truly took forever for the story to gain traction.
There were twists and turns that kept my attention, but overall, I was hoping for more from this book.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
October 3, 2020
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads, so here is my review.
Ezra is at it again, trying to save Solo from Levi Green. It has been 7 years since he has seen her but the love he feels for her is even stronger now. He has changed since the last time they saw each other, he has been through therapy, he is calmer now. He wants to try again with her.
She has kept several secrets from him for seven years, can they move past them and make a future together? Will Levi came back for her because he believes she is his? Can they stop Levi for good this time?
I love this series, it is filled with suspense, intrigue, a rogue CIA agent who has a God complex and wants to control his own army through mind control. McKay-Taggert has the Lost Boys who are the results of another doctor who thought she was God and she kept wiping their memories but they are slowly gaining them back.
So if you love suspenseful military stories with a love story twisted in it then this series is for you. I highly recommend it and I hope you love it too.
Ezra is at it again, trying to save Solo from Levi Green. It has been 7 years since he has seen her but the love he feels for her is even stronger now. He has changed since the last time they saw each other, he has been through therapy, he is calmer now. He wants to try again with her.
She has kept several secrets from him for seven years, can they move past them and make a future together? Will Levi came back for her because he believes she is his? Can they stop Levi for good this time?
I love this series, it is filled with suspense, intrigue, a rogue CIA agent who has a God complex and wants to control his own army through mind control. McKay-Taggert has the Lost Boys who are the results of another doctor who thought she was God and she kept wiping their memories but they are slowly gaining them back.
So if you love suspenseful military stories with a love story twisted in it then this series is for you. I highly recommend it and I hope you love it too.
October 4, 2020
The emotion in this book was epic. I got so wrapped in everything that was going on and nothing went the way I expected. It's what kept me reading and blowing through the book. I needed to know what would happen next. Would Beck and Kim find their way back to each other? Would Levi Green finally get what he deserved? How would it all be resolved? Romantic suspense isn't even my favorite romance trope but the way Lexi Blake writes it? That's when I want to read it. And I will keep coming back for more. I can't recommend this story or this series enough. It was beyond fantastic.
September 16, 2020
5 Star Review of No Love Lost (Masters and Mercenaries: The Forgotten #5) by Lexi Blake
I have been waiting not so patiently for Ezra Fain and Kim (Solo) Soloman’s story and oh what a story it was. Have you ever anticipated a book so much, that you didn’t want to start reading because you knew that when it was finished the series would be ended? That is the position I found myself in reading No Love Lost.
For fear of accidentally letting something slip, this will be a brief review. All I will say is that this is Lexi Blake at her finest, she certainly saved the best for last. This was one heck of a roller coaster of a read and I admit to tears, so have the tissues on stand-by.
A fitting ending to what has been an amazing series. No Love Lost is a fast paced story filled with suspense, danger, intrigue and emotions that had me on the edge of my seat. Lexi Blake had me fully invested from the first chapter to the last and I highly recommend this book.
I have been waiting not so patiently for Ezra Fain and Kim (Solo) Soloman’s story and oh what a story it was. Have you ever anticipated a book so much, that you didn’t want to start reading because you knew that when it was finished the series would be ended? That is the position I found myself in reading No Love Lost.
For fear of accidentally letting something slip, this will be a brief review. All I will say is that this is Lexi Blake at her finest, she certainly saved the best for last. This was one heck of a roller coaster of a read and I admit to tears, so have the tissues on stand-by.
A fitting ending to what has been an amazing series. No Love Lost is a fast paced story filled with suspense, danger, intrigue and emotions that had me on the edge of my seat. Lexi Blake had me fully invested from the first chapter to the last and I highly recommend this book.
October 31, 2020
*I received a free copy to read & review for Wicked Reads*
No Love Lost the 5th book in the Masters and Mercenaries: The Forgotten is the finale to the series. The 4 books all lead up to this last couple: Solo and Beck/Ezra.
I will say that I had very high expectations as Solo is one of my favorite characters in the entire series.
I am not going to summarize the story. I will say that I wasn't fond of this book.. I wanted a conclusion to the series, I needed to see where it played out and the ending was there but it took a long time to get there. The couple was apart more than together, it truly took forever for the story to gain traction.
There were twists and turns that kept my attention, but overall I was hoping for more from this book.
No Love Lost the 5th book in the Masters and Mercenaries: The Forgotten is the finale to the series. The 4 books all lead up to this last couple: Solo and Beck/Ezra.
I will say that I had very high expectations as Solo is one of my favorite characters in the entire series.
I am not going to summarize the story. I will say that I wasn't fond of this book.. I wanted a conclusion to the series, I needed to see where it played out and the ending was there but it took a long time to get there. The couple was apart more than together, it truly took forever for the story to gain traction.
There were twists and turns that kept my attention, but overall I was hoping for more from this book.
May 9, 2021
I'm a huge fan of Lexi Blake's paranormal/Urban Fantasy work. Those books have consistently been auto buys for me. With NO LOVE LOST, Blake's romantic suspense series moves into that category as well.
I loved everything about NO LOVE LOST. After following Beck/Erza and Kim Solomon for numerous books I was more than ready to see these two finally fight for their love. Much like Sam and Alyssa in Suzanne Brockmann's GONE TOO FAR, NO LOVE LOST delivers and does so with everything her fans have come to expect in The Forgotten Series. From Beck and Kim running for their lives to life changing secrets NO LOVE LOST is easily my favorite in Blake's Masters and Mercenaries world.
I could fan girl all day about why I loved this book, but if you asked me to name one thing it would be the surprising depth to both Kim and Beck. Blake didn't hold back as she led these characters on a heart wrenching journey that breaks them both down before they emerge stronger as individuals and devoted as a couple.
As I've come to expect, many of the M&M characters fill the pages of NO LOVE LOST. Blake has created, in Kim Solomon's words, a kinky family, which pretty much hits the nail on the head. The sex scenes are sizzling as well but, more importantly, they are integral to the story, serving as a safe place for Beck and Kim to let the walls around their hearts down.
If this is your first Lexi Blake book I would say NO LOVE LOST can be read as a standalone, but I'd recommend starting (at a minimum) with Lost Hearts (Memento Mori) which is the first book in The Forgotten Series. If you're someone who needs to start from the very beginning, check out Lexi Blake's website for a complete reading order (www.lexiblake.net).
I received a copy of this book in exchange for honest feedback.
I loved everything about NO LOVE LOST. After following Beck/Erza and Kim Solomon for numerous books I was more than ready to see these two finally fight for their love. Much like Sam and Alyssa in Suzanne Brockmann's GONE TOO FAR, NO LOVE LOST delivers and does so with everything her fans have come to expect in The Forgotten Series. From Beck and Kim running for their lives to life changing secrets NO LOVE LOST is easily my favorite in Blake's Masters and Mercenaries world.
I could fan girl all day about why I loved this book, but if you asked me to name one thing it would be the surprising depth to both Kim and Beck. Blake didn't hold back as she led these characters on a heart wrenching journey that breaks them both down before they emerge stronger as individuals and devoted as a couple.
As I've come to expect, many of the M&M characters fill the pages of NO LOVE LOST. Blake has created, in Kim Solomon's words, a kinky family, which pretty much hits the nail on the head. The sex scenes are sizzling as well but, more importantly, they are integral to the story, serving as a safe place for Beck and Kim to let the walls around their hearts down.
If this is your first Lexi Blake book I would say NO LOVE LOST can be read as a standalone, but I'd recommend starting (at a minimum) with Lost Hearts (Memento Mori) which is the first book in The Forgotten Series. If you're someone who needs to start from the very beginning, check out Lexi Blake's website for a complete reading order (www.lexiblake.net).
I received a copy of this book in exchange for honest feedback.
September 15, 2020
This is such an amazing book, I couldn’t stop reading. What an emotional journey and I didn’t expect to cry so much. I really felt for Kim ( Solo) and her ex husband Beck. Will he ever get over his anger? They obviously still love each other. When will he quit making Kim feel guilty over the death of his brother Ezra? Will Kim ever be safe? It seems like Levi Green will always be obsessed with her. Loved staying on edge too. So many twists. Loved getting updates on prior characters. Towards the end, can Beck prove to Kim he’s changed and will she give him another chance? I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy and I highly recommend this book. This book is easy to follow even if you missed other books in this series,and I’ve loved each one so far. Some characters are from other series by this author and I love how they all interact.
September 23, 2021
What the -bleep- was that? I mean I expected emotions, stress, the time hop, action... Everything. But not THAT! It was a gorious end to one of my favorite series of all times and I really have to keep myself from posting spoilers, so bare with me and my rambling.
I loved everything about this book. Ezra, Solo, Big Tag, even Levi was fitting and great for the story. Of course we saw other people and more characters and the kids and I still cannot find the right words to express all that I was feeling while reading...
I just want to say one last thing and that is: read the book. you won't be disappointed. And, if you can, read "Oleg Federov's Third Chance" after this one.
Thanks LExi for giving me another favorite book of yours <3
I loved everything about this book. Ezra, Solo, Big Tag, even Levi was fitting and great for the story. Of course we saw other people and more characters and the kids and I still cannot find the right words to express all that I was feeling while reading...
I just want to say one last thing and that is: read the book. you won't be disappointed. And, if you can, read "Oleg Federov's Third Chance" after this one.
Thanks LExi for giving me another favorite book of yours <3
September 29, 2020
4.5 stars--NO LOVE LOST is the fifth and final Instalment in Lexi Blake’s contemporary, adult MASTERS AND MERCENARIES: THE FORGOTTEN erotic, BDSM, romantic suspense series focusing on six former military soldiers (Jax, Dante, Sasha, Tucker, Owen, Robert and Ezra/Beck) whose minds and lives were eradicated and erased by a secret, unauthorized military experiment. This is former CIA operatives Kimberly ‘Solo’ Solomon, and Ezra Fain aka Beckett Kent’s story line. NO LOVE LOST should not be read as a stand alone as the story line has been building throughout the series. THE FORGOTTEN is a spin off from the author’s Masters and Mercenaries series; several characters from the aforementioned series as well as the Nights in Bliss, Colorado and Texas Sirens series cross over for familiarity.
NOTE: If you have not read Lexi Blake’s original Masters and Mercenaries series, their may be some confusion as it pertains to the Lost Boys and their backstory.
WARNING: There are some BDSM scenes as well as Dom/sub sexual scenarios.
SOME BACKGROUND: Several months (years) earlier, the mercenaries from the McKay-Taggart Black Ops group rescued, from an unauthorized military lab, run by Dr. Hope McDonald, six men they labelled the ‘Lost Boys’. With their memories wiped clean, no ID, and no traceable DNA, the Lost Boys were essentially ‘new born’ soldiers trained to kill and destroy. The Forgotten are their stories.
Told from third person perspectives, covering several years beyond the present, NO LOVE LOST focuses on the acrimonious and caustic relationship between former CIA operatives, former lovers, and the now divorced couple Kimberly ‘Solo’ Solomon, and Ezra Fain aka Beckett Kent. Divorced for years, our couple struggled with the reality that the fine line between love and hate goes a long way when Beck continues to blame Solo for the death of his brother but Levi Greene, a common enemy who has set his sights on our story line heroine, will pull Beck back into Kimberly’s life but in doing so Beck’s anger and pain would push her away one last time. Fast forward seven years wherein the team at McKay Taggart will discover Solo’s whereabouts but in doing so will inadvertently threaten everyone Kimberly loves. What ensues is the rebuilding but tempestuous on again, off again relationship between Beck and Kim, and the fall-out as too many lies and secrets, once again, threaten the fragile hold on trust and love .
Beckett Kent aka Ezra Fain is a man with a temper who lashes out at the woman he loves. Issues of trust, miscommunication, words said in anger and haste between the couple add fuel to an already simmering pain. As Solo struggles with her need for a man who pushes all of her buttons, the enemy is biding his time in an effort to destroy Beckett and Kim.
The relationship between Beckett and Kim is a second chance relationship that has been burned one too many times. Beckett blames Kim for the loss of his brother but it will be the secrets and lies that will push Becket over the edge. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense with some light BDSM, Dom/sub and spanking scenarios.
There is a large ensemble cast of familiar, colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters including several of the author’s previously mentioned series. The timeline of NO LOVE LOST jumps approximately seven years wherein the author is setting the stage for her next spin off: Masters and Mercenaries-Reloaded.
NO LOVE LOST is the culmination of five interwoven storylines about The Forgotten-a group of men who lost their lives, their minds, their family and respect; a detailed story of family and friendships; betrayal and vengeance; secrets and lies; love, loss, and forgiveness. The premise is emotional and engaging; the romance is heart breaking yet seductive; the characters are struggling to find a place in the world.
www.thereadingcafe.com
NOTE: If you have not read Lexi Blake’s original Masters and Mercenaries series, their may be some confusion as it pertains to the Lost Boys and their backstory.
WARNING: There are some BDSM scenes as well as Dom/sub sexual scenarios.
SOME BACKGROUND: Several months (years) earlier, the mercenaries from the McKay-Taggart Black Ops group rescued, from an unauthorized military lab, run by Dr. Hope McDonald, six men they labelled the ‘Lost Boys’. With their memories wiped clean, no ID, and no traceable DNA, the Lost Boys were essentially ‘new born’ soldiers trained to kill and destroy. The Forgotten are their stories.
Told from third person perspectives, covering several years beyond the present, NO LOVE LOST focuses on the acrimonious and caustic relationship between former CIA operatives, former lovers, and the now divorced couple Kimberly ‘Solo’ Solomon, and Ezra Fain aka Beckett Kent. Divorced for years, our couple struggled with the reality that the fine line between love and hate goes a long way when Beck continues to blame Solo for the death of his brother but Levi Greene, a common enemy who has set his sights on our story line heroine, will pull Beck back into Kimberly’s life but in doing so Beck’s anger and pain would push her away one last time. Fast forward seven years wherein the team at McKay Taggart will discover Solo’s whereabouts but in doing so will inadvertently threaten everyone Kimberly loves. What ensues is the rebuilding but tempestuous on again, off again relationship between Beck and Kim, and the fall-out as too many lies and secrets, once again, threaten the fragile hold on trust and love .
Beckett Kent aka Ezra Fain is a man with a temper who lashes out at the woman he loves. Issues of trust, miscommunication, words said in anger and haste between the couple add fuel to an already simmering pain. As Solo struggles with her need for a man who pushes all of her buttons, the enemy is biding his time in an effort to destroy Beckett and Kim.
The relationship between Beckett and Kim is a second chance relationship that has been burned one too many times. Beckett blames Kim for the loss of his brother but it will be the secrets and lies that will push Becket over the edge. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense with some light BDSM, Dom/sub and spanking scenarios.
There is a large ensemble cast of familiar, colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters including several of the author’s previously mentioned series. The timeline of NO LOVE LOST jumps approximately seven years wherein the author is setting the stage for her next spin off: Masters and Mercenaries-Reloaded.
NO LOVE LOST is the culmination of five interwoven storylines about The Forgotten-a group of men who lost their lives, their minds, their family and respect; a detailed story of family and friendships; betrayal and vengeance; secrets and lies; love, loss, and forgiveness. The premise is emotional and engaging; the romance is heart breaking yet seductive; the characters are struggling to find a place in the world.
www.thereadingcafe.com
October 16, 2021
I'm a bit conflicted about this one because Beck and Kim are one of my favorite couples from the series, but this also did not live up to what I'd hoped for from their story. Weird to be disappointed by a book I'm giving a four star rating to, but that is the truth of it. I liked it, but I'm still a bit bummed by it! Some of it may go better on reread when I know what to expect, but some of it just didn't live up to the story that had been built up for them. As great as they are individually and as a couple. TBH, I think this is a three star book for a five star couple, which is how I ended up at four.
October 1, 2020
Fair Warning This review may seem like a rant.
I was super excited about this book.
But it tanked. Just like Theo Taggart's book Submission is Not Enough.
There was nothing new about it. Same old song and dance.
If you have been following this series, you will realize that it's just a concoction of various elements of previous books in the series.
NLL is divided into 2 parts.
Part 1 starts of fine but gradually falls apart... My second star is solely for Solo's character.
Part 2 has chapters that are quite frankly Extended Epilogues for "The Lost Boys"....Its totally unnecessary and doesn't add to the story.
The only thing that stopped me from DNF-ing this book thrice were these lines__ "And when the smoke clears, the men and women of McKay-Taggart will never be the same again." __in the end they too were a moot point.
My brain was on a loop of repeating "Same Old-Same old-Predictable stuff"
I even skipped a chapter or two-that's a sin I never commit-I did not miss any part of the plot.
There have been some really good books in this series ...Some I've re-read again & againMaster No, A View to a Thrill,Dominance Never Dies,Love and Let Die
Unfortunately NLL was a big disappointment.
I was super excited about this book.
But it tanked. Just like Theo Taggart's book Submission is Not Enough.
There was nothing new about it. Same old song and dance.
If you have been following this series, you will realize that it's just a concoction of various elements of previous books in the series.
NLL is divided into 2 parts.
Part 1 starts of fine but gradually falls apart... My second star is solely for Solo's character.
Part 2 has chapters that are quite frankly Extended Epilogues for "The Lost Boys"....Its totally unnecessary and doesn't add to the story.
The only thing that stopped me from DNF-ing this book thrice were these lines__ "And when the smoke clears, the men and women of McKay-Taggart will never be the same again." __in the end they too were a moot point.
My brain was on a loop of repeating "Same Old-Same old-Predictable stuff"
There have been some really good books in this series ...Some I've re-read again & againMaster No, A View to a Thrill,Dominance Never Dies,Love and Let Die
Unfortunately NLL was a big disappointment.
September 30, 2020
I was prepared heading into No Love Lost, ex-CIA agent Ezra (Beck) Fain and agent Kim "Solo" Soloman long-awaited story that it was going to be a doozy of a story line and that the twists and secrets that were woven into the plot would have my emotions running the gamut, as Beck and Solo fought to protect themselves from a litany of enemies, including each other. But I don’t think I was quite ready for the amount of disdain Beck still held for Solo and how his feelings of hatred toward her made everything more difficult, not only between them, but in every facet of their lives, both individually and together.
Let me start by saying that Beck had every right to feel the way he did about Solo. What went down altered a lot of lives and some were changed in ways that they’re still coping with, but while I understood the reasons behind his callous comments and actions, I was afraid he was going to burn any thread that still existed between them, that still gave them a fighting chance to be to each other what they should have been from the very beginning.
Solo, man, is she a fighter. Lexi Blake’s heroines are some of my absolute favorite because they are badass, which makes sense given the environment they’re a part of and the danger and heightened situations they find themselves in…but Solo went beyond that for me…she proves herself time and time again but her mistakes weigh on her, especially when it concerns the love of her life, so the fact that she’s on the run seems to be about more than just alluding those who want her dead; I also see it as self-preservation, given that the man she loves, who owns her, blames her and loathes her in a way that she doesn’t think there is any coming back from, at least not for them.
As much as I was anticipating Beck and Solo’s story, I did struggle with the pacing a bit…some parts seemed to hardly move the plot forward and I honestly didn’t understand why the hero and heroine spent so much time apart, especially given all that they had already been through both together and individually. There’s a lot to unpack in this story and, at times, I felt like maybe there was too much to include and unravel and it left me wanting more in some areas.
Lexi Blake’s version of a second chance romance is packed with action, secrets, lies, and a couple who need to get out of their own way and figure their shit out before it’s too late. I can’t get enough of Blake’s Masters & Mercenaries, and The Forgotten spin-off is one fantastic addition to an already amazing series.
4 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
Let me start by saying that Beck had every right to feel the way he did about Solo. What went down altered a lot of lives and some were changed in ways that they’re still coping with, but while I understood the reasons behind his callous comments and actions, I was afraid he was going to burn any thread that still existed between them, that still gave them a fighting chance to be to each other what they should have been from the very beginning.
Solo, man, is she a fighter. Lexi Blake’s heroines are some of my absolute favorite because they are badass, which makes sense given the environment they’re a part of and the danger and heightened situations they find themselves in…but Solo went beyond that for me…she proves herself time and time again but her mistakes weigh on her, especially when it concerns the love of her life, so the fact that she’s on the run seems to be about more than just alluding those who want her dead; I also see it as self-preservation, given that the man she loves, who owns her, blames her and loathes her in a way that she doesn’t think there is any coming back from, at least not for them.
As much as I was anticipating Beck and Solo’s story, I did struggle with the pacing a bit…some parts seemed to hardly move the plot forward and I honestly didn’t understand why the hero and heroine spent so much time apart, especially given all that they had already been through both together and individually. There’s a lot to unpack in this story and, at times, I felt like maybe there was too much to include and unravel and it left me wanting more in some areas.
Lexi Blake’s version of a second chance romance is packed with action, secrets, lies, and a couple who need to get out of their own way and figure their shit out before it’s too late. I can’t get enough of Blake’s Masters & Mercenaries, and The Forgotten spin-off is one fantastic addition to an already amazing series.
4 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
September 17, 2020
Every inch of this book is bittersweet happiness. From the very start of the Lost Boys series' it has been some of Lexi Blake's best writing. No Love Lost was a culmination of years of hard work and carefully crafted plotting.
Her James Bond like suspense mixed with a high steamy factor has made this a favorite series of mine for almost a decade. The Forgotten branch of the Masters and Mercenaries series has truly brought me happiness like never before, interconnecting her other worlds, bringing us a wild ride that spreads joy to all of her fandoms.
From the very dedication I was choked up. The story captivated me from the beginning to end; filled with action, hotness, tear filled moments and lots of LOL moments as well.
Ezra/Beck Fain man have been the man who helped keep the Lost Boys together, but in doing so he lost his job working with the CIA. In his place a sinister man took over and Levi Green is like no other bad man the McKay-Taggart team ever took on before.
Levi is truly a sociopath that should make you wonder about the inner workings of Lexi's mind...his long game is unlike anything I've ever read and his evilness is so brilliant...I do wonder if Lexi sits around and cackles while she's plotting. His game has involved the Lost Boys and Beck is tired of playing considering Levi is fixated on his ex-wife, Kim Soloman.
Kim "Solo" Soloman can never seem to escape the one man who holds her heart. Beck Fain can never forgive her for the death of his brother and that mistake will forever be the anger that is a wedge between them...oh and Levi Green.
As long as he is breathing down their necks, creating a cycle of chaos, walking away from the man she loves will be the only possible solution from the tangle that is her life.
It all comes down to saving the world, saving each other, and saving the team. Can this all be achieved while setting aside past grievances and will Levi finally get what's coming to him?
No Love Lost is the last in The Forgotten series, but for fans of this series, we may know that even as the characters are aging, they have also reproduced like rabbits, so fear not as there will be generations to come to carry on the world that Lexi has created.
Her James Bond like suspense mixed with a high steamy factor has made this a favorite series of mine for almost a decade. The Forgotten branch of the Masters and Mercenaries series has truly brought me happiness like never before, interconnecting her other worlds, bringing us a wild ride that spreads joy to all of her fandoms.
From the very dedication I was choked up. The story captivated me from the beginning to end; filled with action, hotness, tear filled moments and lots of LOL moments as well.
Ezra/Beck Fain man have been the man who helped keep the Lost Boys together, but in doing so he lost his job working with the CIA. In his place a sinister man took over and Levi Green is like no other bad man the McKay-Taggart team ever took on before.
Levi is truly a sociopath that should make you wonder about the inner workings of Lexi's mind...his long game is unlike anything I've ever read and his evilness is so brilliant...I do wonder if Lexi sits around and cackles while she's plotting. His game has involved the Lost Boys and Beck is tired of playing considering Levi is fixated on his ex-wife, Kim Soloman.
Kim "Solo" Soloman can never seem to escape the one man who holds her heart. Beck Fain can never forgive her for the death of his brother and that mistake will forever be the anger that is a wedge between them...oh and Levi Green.
As long as he is breathing down their necks, creating a cycle of chaos, walking away from the man she loves will be the only possible solution from the tangle that is her life.
It all comes down to saving the world, saving each other, and saving the team. Can this all be achieved while setting aside past grievances and will Levi finally get what's coming to him?
No Love Lost is the last in The Forgotten series, but for fans of this series, we may know that even as the characters are aging, they have also reproduced like rabbits, so fear not as there will be generations to come to carry on the world that Lexi has created.
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