This is the first book in the next generation series: Masters & Mercenaries: New Recruits. Tasha and Dare’s story is spicy, entertaining, and full of intrigue — packed with secrets, suspense, and unexpected twists. Their D/s dynamic is sizzling and well developed. I also enjoyed the glimpses into Tasha’s family, which added warmth to the story. This is a great start to the new series, with a strong plot and compelling characters. I’ll definitely be continuing the series. Ryan West did an excellent job bringing everything to life.

Rating: / Format: Audiobook - Solo narration by Ryan West Series / Standalone: Interconnected Standalone (Masters and Mercenaries - New Recruits #1) Tropes: Second Generation, Action and Suspense Thanks to Valentine PR and the author for this gifted audiobook - all opinions are my own I read the first generation years ago and absolutely loved them. Lexi Blake is my go-to for a spy thriller because she writes amazing action scenes. The characters have so much depth that it feels like you are really connecting to them. This story is especially good because we have Tasha, who is the one involved in the espionage aspect, and Dare, who she’s trying to protect. Add on the juxtaposition of their Ds relationship and it makes for an interesting dynamic. The suspense of the plot and the camaraderie of this group really had me dialed in to the storyline. And what a way to hook us for the next book!!! As far as the narration. This was expertly handled. This audio is a perfect example as to why I would never pass up a solo narrated performance. Ryan West did an amazing job tackling multiple characters and it was so easy to forget I was listening to only one person. The different inflections and accents were a joy to listen to.

Eek! I loved this book so so so much. It should have been completely ridiculous and yet Lexi Blake skills made everything that should have had me rolling my eyes completely possible. Loved it. What I really loved was how lost in the story I got. I forgot I was folding laundry I became so entranced. Highly recommend.