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Dark Reserves #3
Archer's Aim
Desperate men do crazy things. But faking their own kidnapping might be a tad extreme…
Archer Benson
Running his own private security firm was supposed to be a fresh start for Archer after leaving the Army. And it was, until he got the contract for Montague Fine Diamonds.
Now he's been tasked with babysitting the most arrogant, self-entitled, infuriating man he’s ever met.
He’d quit only he needs the money to fix the life-changing injuries he suffered on his last tour. All he needs to do is just get this job done and then he’ll never have to see this spoilt brat again. Easy.
Well, it would be, if Felix wasn't stirring up feelings Archer can't allow himself to feel. He’s too damaged and disfigured to be with any man again.
But Felix isn’t like most men. He’s used to getting what he wants. And when he calls Archer Daddy, there’s no going back.
Felix Montague
Spoilt, entitled, arrogant… Felix had heard it all before. But being the son of a multimillionaire isn’t all yachts and parties.
He’s tired of life feeling empty. And tired of the bodyguards his father keeps hiring to watch him.
When Felix lays eyes on the latest bodyguard--a six foot muscular soldier covered in scars and tattoos--he has to remember his plan is to get Archer Benson to quit.
But Archer isn’t like the others. He’s not fazed by men like Felix. And when he calls Felix boy, it’s like an arrow through his heart.
Archer Benson
Running his own private security firm was supposed to be a fresh start for Archer after leaving the Army. And it was, until he got the contract for Montague Fine Diamonds.
Now he's been tasked with babysitting the most arrogant, self-entitled, infuriating man he’s ever met.
He’d quit only he needs the money to fix the life-changing injuries he suffered on his last tour. All he needs to do is just get this job done and then he’ll never have to see this spoilt brat again. Easy.
Well, it would be, if Felix wasn't stirring up feelings Archer can't allow himself to feel. He’s too damaged and disfigured to be with any man again.
But Felix isn’t like most men. He’s used to getting what he wants. And when he calls Archer Daddy, there’s no going back.
Felix Montague
Spoilt, entitled, arrogant… Felix had heard it all before. But being the son of a multimillionaire isn’t all yachts and parties.
He’s tired of life feeling empty. And tired of the bodyguards his father keeps hiring to watch him.
When Felix lays eyes on the latest bodyguard--a six foot muscular soldier covered in scars and tattoos--he has to remember his plan is to get Archer Benson to quit.
But Archer isn’t like the others. He’s not fazed by men like Felix. And when he calls Felix boy, it’s like an arrow through his heart.
245 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 20, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
July 7, 2022
CS Joyce was a new author to me and I wasn’t sure what to expect since this was the third book in a series - turns out it worked well as a standalone and I really liked it!
If you like characters hiding their insecurities behind a ton of sass and over the top behaviour you will love Felix! He had me laughing out loud several times in the first few chapters while he was trying to get Archer to quit as his bodyguard. His antics might have been a little much, but it was sort of endearing in a way and his character had some depth to it.
Archer was such a Daddy Dom - he was protective, patient and caring. I really felt for him and his own choice of solitude, as misguided as it was. He and Felix fit together like puzzle pieces and it was so sweet to see them work out their feelings for each other.
Even though the first few chapters were lighter and funny, the story quickly turns into more as secrets and hidden motives are discovered. The plot and tropes might be fairly common, but it was still intriguing and I badly wanted to see where the story was going. I felt as if some parts could have had a little more depth or detail to them, but overall the plot was engaging and there were some twists I didn’t see coming.
Definitely a book worth checking out if you enjoy the ex-military, Daddy Dom bodyguard vs the spoiled, sassy twink trope!
If you like characters hiding their insecurities behind a ton of sass and over the top behaviour you will love Felix! He had me laughing out loud several times in the first few chapters while he was trying to get Archer to quit as his bodyguard. His antics might have been a little much, but it was sort of endearing in a way and his character had some depth to it.
Archer was such a Daddy Dom - he was protective, patient and caring. I really felt for him and his own choice of solitude, as misguided as it was. He and Felix fit together like puzzle pieces and it was so sweet to see them work out their feelings for each other.
Even though the first few chapters were lighter and funny, the story quickly turns into more as secrets and hidden motives are discovered. The plot and tropes might be fairly common, but it was still intriguing and I badly wanted to see where the story was going. I felt as if some parts could have had a little more depth or detail to them, but overall the plot was engaging and there were some twists I didn’t see coming.
Definitely a book worth checking out if you enjoy the ex-military, Daddy Dom bodyguard vs the spoiled, sassy twink trope!
July 8, 2022
We all wear masks. Archer is an Army Vet who started his own security firm. He had been medically discharged, suffers from PTSD, a victim of a bad surgery and four years after discharge, faced with a reparative surgery he can't afford. Archer, felt his healing wounds made him ugly and untouchable. His baggage, is trunk sized. Archer, has an excellent team, Zayn and Hunter working with him that drag their own baggage. Felix, the son of a multimillionaire kept up the illusion that he wasn an empty headed rich dilettante. Inside his heatt, he dragged the baggage that he could have anything money could buy except love, intimacy and companionship. Archer, wond teh Montague Fine Diamonds contract, which is a windfall that comes with 'conditions'. It can also solve many personal financial problems. Felix planned on getting under Archer's skin. Their relationship, their conversations, their sharing are a hoot. Both, Archer and Felix are absolutely likeable men. The story has a good flow. The circumstances keep the reader interested and engaged. Can Archer keep Felix safe? Will Archer and Felix find true intimacy? Does Mr Montague get what he wants? Can Felix relax and open his heart? Can Archer see his own beauty? Great story. Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 8, 2022
If you enjoy the first part of the Sound of Music where the kids are trying to drive Maria away thinking she's just like all the other nannies only to be surprised and fall for her, you'll adore this book with that same vibe from Felix's point of view. He's fully prepared to drive Archer away by being acting the part of a jerk as he always does with the bodyguards his father hires, but Archer is something totally different and unexpected. Archer comes into the situation needing the money badly so he's willing to put up with a bunch of crap from Felix, plus he thinks he has no emotional stake in the game because of his injuries and determination/conclusion that he's always going to be alone. Watching these two recognize how wrong both of their ideas about how this was going to go is wonderfully handled. The additional mystery plot about Felix's father and exactly what he's into added a great deal to the story and balanced the romantic developments nicely.
July 9, 2022
What an interesting pairing. Surprisingly enough, they do fit. Both have their struggles and are hiding something, portraying one persona to the world while hiding who they are deep inside. They both hold their pain and hide it beneath a mask. They are both very complex characters, each with their own set of issues. It was interesting to see them struggle with their feelings and ridiculous denial about who they are and what they need. To be fair, it took them most of the book to figure it out. The action part and resolution of conflict part was very short and rushed, focusing more on personal development and their relationship, but I still liked it. Totally completed this book in one sitting, which counts as a good read in my opinion.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
August 8, 2022
Spoiled Brat Meets His Match
Felix is a lonely, spoiled brat millionaire who pisses his father off every chance he gets and manages to get every bodyguard to quit until Archer. Archer is ex military who has returned a broken, scarred man who's trying to keep his security business afloat to be able to afford his much needed knee surgery. When he's tasked with babysitting Felix instead of doing security he is furious. Archer can see past Felix's antics but refuses to quit. There are so many twists and turns in this book that I never saw coming making this one my favorite so far. There are many characters to like and equally as many to dislike. Buckle up for this rollercoaster ride. HEA guaranteed plus an epilogue. Just found out there's a 4th book on the way as well as a spinoff series. I highly recommend this series.
Felix is a lonely, spoiled brat millionaire who pisses his father off every chance he gets and manages to get every bodyguard to quit until Archer. Archer is ex military who has returned a broken, scarred man who's trying to keep his security business afloat to be able to afford his much needed knee surgery. When he's tasked with babysitting Felix instead of doing security he is furious. Archer can see past Felix's antics but refuses to quit. There are so many twists and turns in this book that I never saw coming making this one my favorite so far. There are many characters to like and equally as many to dislike. Buckle up for this rollercoaster ride. HEA guaranteed plus an epilogue. Just found out there's a 4th book on the way as well as a spinoff series. I highly recommend this series.
June 30, 2022
I jumped into this series with this book and wow the chemistry between Felix and Archer started the minute they met and never let up! Archer says to Zayn when Felix enters. " Looks like a Dandy arriving from some obnoxious Victorian inspired tea party". Felix to Archer about protecting him at his home " you can check all my nooks and crannies". They have a lot of unique spars that kept me laughing and smiling! Both had generalized misconceptions at first and each of them was truly surprised by the other! I read this as an arc and the story flowed perfectly with humor, hot chemistry, suspense and romance! We get size difference, a physically and emotionally scarred military vet and a Doberman!
June 27, 2022
This is a new to me author.
Archer is trying to set up his own security business, he has put his company forward for a big contract, imagine his surprise when part of it includes spying on the owners son. Felix is sick of feeling alone, sick of being belittled by his father, sick of all the boyguards he has to chase off, for reporting back. But all is not what it seems and with a few twist and turns I didnt see coming, I was holding on for the ride.
I have one complaint only.... its that I havent read any of the other books in the series...
Archer is trying to set up his own security business, he has put his company forward for a big contract, imagine his surprise when part of it includes spying on the owners son. Felix is sick of feeling alone, sick of being belittled by his father, sick of all the boyguards he has to chase off, for reporting back. But all is not what it seems and with a few twist and turns I didnt see coming, I was holding on for the ride.
I have one complaint only.... its that I havent read any of the other books in the series...
June 30, 2022
Hired for a protection job for a spoiled rich brat was not Archer’s idea of fun but he had bills to pay. Meeting Felix for the first time made him regret taking the job but it also sparked something in him buried for a long time. This story had intrigue, danger, illegal activities, and a boy finding his daddy. It was wonderful! I loved the characters, and the dog and bunny were precious. Archer’s workmates/employees made me smile as the easy going friendship was easy to feel. This story made me want to read more and I was certainly do so. Loved the story and highly recommend!
July 4, 2022
I really enjoyed this! Definitely a new series for me to enjoy
Felix and Archer were fantastic together. I loved their chemistry from start to finish. Archer was such a sweetheart and the way he and Felix worked together was perfect. We got a lot from this book, snark, steam, action, romance and a HEA. I haven’t read the rest of the series but I’m definitely going to go back and read the rest now that I know what I’m missing! The characters throughout the book were well-written and interesting (including lovely Dobermans) and we got a good plot to bring the story along.
Felix and Archer were fantastic together. I loved their chemistry from start to finish. Archer was such a sweetheart and the way he and Felix worked together was perfect. We got a lot from this book, snark, steam, action, romance and a HEA. I haven’t read the rest of the series but I’m definitely going to go back and read the rest now that I know what I’m missing! The characters throughout the book were well-written and interesting (including lovely Dobermans) and we got a good plot to bring the story along.
July 6, 2022
This is a new to me author; I’ll definitely go looking for more by them. Archer is hired to protect Felix. He’s not sure about Felix as he’s somewhat spoiled! Felix is lonely but he doesn’t like the bodyguards so he chases them off. Archer isn’t so easy to chase off. Archer’s Aim was seriously fun to read! Felix and Archer are fantastic together! Their chemistry is fire. Snark and banter action and romance! There’s twist and turns and intrigue. Overall, a fantastic read. Its well written and the pacing just flows so good!! Highly recommend!
July 6, 2022
This is the story of Archer and Felix. It is the 3rd book in the Dark Reserves series. I am a sucker for a hurt scarred military man and this series is right up my alley. I loved this story, plot is well thought out and the characters are awesome, likeable and I adored them. The chemistry between them is off the charts. Danger, intrigue and action keeps you turning the pages. There are a lot of laugh out loud moments. Loved it. Definitely recommended.
I received this book as an Arc and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
I received this book as an Arc and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
July 6, 2022
I have read a few of CS Joyce books before and I am so happy that I get to read some new ones.
Archer and Felix are awesome! The snark, banter and the chemistry from the get go is just flowing and not surprising. The chemistry between these two are off the charts, although it doesn't start that way.
The story is well-written and age gap/Daddy trope has always intrigue me. Now an army veteran (one of my weaknesses) and a spoiled brat (not really) just promises so much fun.
I haven't read the other books in the series but I will as soon as I can.
Congratulations Ms. CS Joyce!
Archer and Felix are awesome! The snark, banter and the chemistry from the get go is just flowing and not surprising. The chemistry between these two are off the charts, although it doesn't start that way.
The story is well-written and age gap/Daddy trope has always intrigue me. Now an army veteran (one of my weaknesses) and a spoiled brat (not really) just promises so much fun.
I haven't read the other books in the series but I will as soon as I can.
Congratulations Ms. CS Joyce!
July 8, 2022
I loved both MC’s in this book. Felix is so annoying and endearing at the same time, he is bratty and sassy, but so in need to be seen. In comes Archer, a scarred ex-military, who has given up on love thinking no one would want him. The plot and dialogue are great, the story flows and the side characters, mainly Archer’s friends, are perfect for the story. I was surprised by some twists in the end, but that’s just a bonus. I’m going to read the first two in the series, though this works well as a stand alone.
July 18, 2022
I enjoyed this story. It had interesting characters, light daddy/boy relationship, an alpha protector, a dash of danger, an intimidating doberman, and a cute bunny. Felix and Archer were both men who had walls up because life continuously let them down. Felix was a spoiled rich guy, but was lonely man who wanted to be loved. Archer had scars on the outside, but thought that he was too damaged for anyone to love him as he is. I loved reading about Felix's dashing outfits.
Archer and Felix worked well together. It was entertaining to see the lengths that Felix was willing to go to try to embarrass Archer enough that he quit, just like all the other bodyguards in his past had. They both tried to deny their feelings for one another because they were afraid of being hurt again.
This was the first book I read in the series, and it works well as a standalone. I enjoyed the supporting characters and would read their stories. Without giving too much away, I appreciate how the author handled the drama in the story. Overall, an enjoyable story.
Archer and Felix worked well together. It was entertaining to see the lengths that Felix was willing to go to try to embarrass Archer enough that he quit, just like all the other bodyguards in his past had. They both tried to deny their feelings for one another because they were afraid of being hurt again.
This was the first book I read in the series, and it works well as a standalone. I enjoyed the supporting characters and would read their stories. Without giving too much away, I appreciate how the author handled the drama in the story. Overall, an enjoyable story.
June 24, 2022
An interesting story that has it’s intriguing moments along with its spicy ones. The m/c’s, Felix and Archer, are fun as they spar. The situation turns serious pretty quickly and that’s when it become really intriguing. Keeps you reading and delivers a HeA, what more is there? A good read is what you get here, in my opinion. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
June 30, 2022
there’s a special relationship between a Daddy and his boy
What a good book this was. I’m very particular when it comes to Daddy/boy books and this one did a wonderful job with the dynamic. I loved Archer and Felix’s relationship and the twists at the end just added to the enjoyment.
What a good book this was. I’m very particular when it comes to Daddy/boy books and this one did a wonderful job with the dynamic. I loved Archer and Felix’s relationship and the twists at the end just added to the enjoyment.
July 8, 2022
I was glad that Archer was able to be what Felix needed the most and while his father went around it the wrong way he generally had his best interest at heart. They sure found out how deep the corruption went but it wasn't quite as it seemed. Felix can be quite impulsive but it was nice to see him calm down with Archer's love there to help steady him and for Archer to learn that he is still desirable after his accident.
July 6, 2022
Great story
I absolutely loved Felix and Archer. Felix is the epitome of the poor little rich boy with a brick wall and Archer is just the person to knock it down, after Felix puts a hole in his. These characters were so wonderful and definitely well written. I really enjoyed this story.
I absolutely loved Felix and Archer. Felix is the epitome of the poor little rich boy with a brick wall and Archer is just the person to knock it down, after Felix puts a hole in his. These characters were so wonderful and definitely well written. I really enjoyed this story.
July 6, 2022
I really enjoyed this story. The main characters, Archer and Felix are perfect for each other, eventually. It made me laugh, had me enthralled and kept me reading. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
July 8, 2022
I absolutely love this series. When I started it the author was sort of new to me. I have to say I have become a big fan over the course of the series. I have to say I think this book has become my favorite in the series. I don't know what it was I just really clicked with the charters in this story. The storyline was fantastic and beautiful. Before I knew I was more than half way thru the book. The story just sucks you in holds on to you.
July 7, 2022
I adored this book! I’d forgotten just how good this series is. Archer appears broody but under that tough exterior lies a big ole teddy bear. As for Felix you can’t help but love him! Cannot wait for the next book in the series.
July 7, 2022
this was a mix of intense passion and strength in this book. you see the characters are not what they show to the outside world. he just need a person to take control for him with a firm hand. cant wait for the next book
July 8, 2022
He needs money to sort all the injuries he suffered on his last tour which is why he is working for them. It is not going to be an easy job as his new client is a royal pain and yet he feels drawn to them. Will he runs as soon as the job has ended? See how these two finally get on or do they
July 8, 2022
I really liked the background subplot of the mystery surrounding Felix's father's shady dealings on top of the relationship development between Felix and Archer. This gave the story more depth and it wasn't focused solely on how Felix and Archer were going to get together, but also how they interact in "every day" situations.
I loved everything about Archer and that he's such a soft teddy bear on the inside. His interactions with Felix were cute and I loved reading about them too but the semi-insta-love between them wasn't very believable for me. BUT I'm glad this was sort of a slow burn and they didn't rush into things because there was a lot of dwelling and build-up on Archer's scars and disability/injury and if they fell into bed right away it would feel like all that detail/plot that focused on those is minimized.
A few grammar and editing mistakes that can be overlooked, but maybe it's fixed in the live version since I got an ARC version so of course it's not perfect. Despite taking place in NYC, sometimes the speech of the characters don't sound American. I think the author mentioned they were Irish and converted the book to using American English, so they've done well in most of the conversion but some non-American speech styles still slipped through.
Highly recommend for readers that enjoy daddy/boy with hurt/comfort and bodyguard/protectee tropes.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review. All opinions are my own and not influenced by the author.
I loved everything about Archer and that he's such a soft teddy bear on the inside. His interactions with Felix were cute and I loved reading about them too but the semi-insta-love between them wasn't very believable for me. BUT I'm glad this was sort of a slow burn and they didn't rush into things because there was a lot of dwelling and build-up on Archer's scars and disability/injury and if they fell into bed right away it would feel like all that detail/plot that focused on those is minimized.
A few grammar and editing mistakes that can be overlooked, but maybe it's fixed in the live version since I got an ARC version so of course it's not perfect. Despite taking place in NYC, sometimes the speech of the characters don't sound American. I think the author mentioned they were Irish and converted the book to using American English, so they've done well in most of the conversion but some non-American speech styles still slipped through.
Highly recommend for readers that enjoy daddy/boy with hurt/comfort and bodyguard/protectee tropes.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review. All opinions are my own and not influenced by the author.
July 8, 2022
Enjoyed
I loved Archer and Felix’s relationship they match perfectly together. This book has mystery, danger, passion, laughs, Daddy/boy relationship, and great characters.
I loved Archer and Felix’s relationship they match perfectly together. This book has mystery, danger, passion, laughs, Daddy/boy relationship, and great characters.
July 14, 2022
This was such a great book and one I was waiting for in this series and it lived up to what I was hoping for. Archer and Felix were perfect for each other!
July 16, 2022
Archer and Felix are just the right amount of everything. All the vibes work as they march toward their HEA.
August 25, 2022
Archer´s Aim is the first book I have read from CS Joyce. I liked the writing and the story. I loved Felix and all his sass!
Archer is a great Daddy Dom and he and Felix fit perfectly together!
This story has a lot of things like others with this kind of story. But this has a lot of twists that makes it interesting!
Archer is a great Daddy Dom and he and Felix fit perfectly together!
This story has a lot of things like others with this kind of story. But this has a lot of twists that makes it interesting!
July 29, 2022
From the outset, I enjoyed the world building in this book. I thought that Archer was such a complex character but one that had so much to give. Matched with Felix, they were perfect together because Felix was definitely not what he seemed either. There were lots of very funny moments in this book, particularly when Felix was trying to drive Archer away (with no success). It felt natural how their relationship developed from the time spent together and there was certainly an interesting twist with everything that happened with Felix's dad - no spoilers though! I enjoyed reading about all the characters throughout, even Archer's dog Titus (I'd have loved even more with that dynamic in the mix too!). The reason I've gone with 3 stars is that, although this is a good book, I was just left wanting a little bit more: a little bit more action, more steamy moments, more depth to the pair of them, more to the daddy kink that was advertised.
Despite this, I would recommend this book to those who enjoy this genre. It also works as a standalone so you can read it without having read the previous Dark Reserves books. It's well written and is a good story with some unpredictable parts too.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
Despite this, I would recommend this book to those who enjoy this genre. It also works as a standalone so you can read it without having read the previous Dark Reserves books. It's well written and is a good story with some unpredictable parts too.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
November 13, 2022
I'd been waiting and waiting for this book and I wasn't disappointed. It's written in a similar way to the previous books but also has its own flavor. Archer and Felix are a really good match. Archer hides the pain of his physical scars and wounds behind a tough, stoic facade. He puts everything into his private security firm and feels like no one could ever look past his appearance, so he doesn't bother. But as they say "You can take the man out of the Daddy life but you can't take the Daddy life out of the man"! Felix hides his loneliness and needs behind a mask of arrogance and spoiled privilege. He desperately needs a Daddy that will love him, discipline him, and never leave him. When Archer is assigned to protect Felix it's just a matter of time before their mutal attraction combusts. I loved how Archer is tough on the outside but is actually caring and just as lost as Felix. Felix is the most spoiled, mouthy twink and I adored him! There are plenty of appearances from characters in previous books and it was nice to have that link to the other books. I really enjoyed reading this and I definitely recommend giving it a try - although I would absolutely recommend reading the other books first. It can be read as a standalone but it's much more enjoyable when you know the background characters stories. I was lucky enough to get a review copy and this is my honest opinion!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews