What do you think?
Rate this book
Stark Saga #4.5
Justify Me
McKay-Taggart operative Riley Blade has no intention of returning to Los Angeles after his brief stint as a consultant on mega-star Lyle Tarpin’s latest action flick. Not even for Natasha Black, Tarpin’s sexy personal assistant who’d gotten under his skin. Why would he, when Tasha made it absolutely clear that—attraction or not—she wasn’t interested in a fling, much less a relationship.
But when Riley learns that someone is stalking her, he races to her side. Determined to not only protect her, but to convince her that—no matter what has hurt her in the past—he’s not only going to fight for her, he’s going to win her heart. Forever.
But when Riley learns that someone is stalking her, he races to her side. Determined to not only protect her, but to convince her that—no matter what has hurt her in the past—he’s not only going to fight for her, he’s going to win her heart. Forever.
125 pages, ebook
First published April 10, 2018
About the author
J. Kenner
162 books10.3k followersJ. Kenner (aka Julie Kenner) is the New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, Wall Street Journal and #1 International bestselling author of over one hundred novels, novellas and short stories in a variety of genres.
Though known primarily for her award-winning and international bestselling erotic romances (including the Stark and Most Wanted series) that have reached as high as #2 on the New York Times bestseller list, JK has been writing full time for over a decade in a variety of genres including paranormal and contemporary romance, “chicklit” suspense, urban fantasy, and paranormal mommy lit.
JK has been praised by Publishers Weekly as an author with a “flair for dialogue and eccentric characterizations” and by RT Bookclub for having “cornered the market on sinfully attractive, dominant antiheroes and the women who swoon for them.” A six time finalist for Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA award, JK took home the first RITA trophy awarded in the category of erotic romance in 2014 for her novel, Claim Me (book 2 of her Stark Trilogy) and in 2017 for Wicked Dirty in the same category. Her Demon Hunting Soccer Mom series (as Julie Kenner) is currently in development as a television show.
Her books have sold over three million copies and are published in over twenty languages.
In her previous career as an attorney, JK worked as a clerk on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and practiced primarily civil, entertainment and First Amendment litigation in Los Angeles and Irvine, California, as well as in Austin, Texas. She currently lives in Central Texas, with her husband, two daughters, and two rather spastic cats.
Though known primarily for her award-winning and international bestselling erotic romances (including the Stark and Most Wanted series) that have reached as high as #2 on the New York Times bestseller list, JK has been writing full time for over a decade in a variety of genres including paranormal and contemporary romance, “chicklit” suspense, urban fantasy, and paranormal mommy lit.
JK has been praised by Publishers Weekly as an author with a “flair for dialogue and eccentric characterizations” and by RT Bookclub for having “cornered the market on sinfully attractive, dominant antiheroes and the women who swoon for them.” A six time finalist for Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA award, JK took home the first RITA trophy awarded in the category of erotic romance in 2014 for her novel, Claim Me (book 2 of her Stark Trilogy) and in 2017 for Wicked Dirty in the same category. Her Demon Hunting Soccer Mom series (as Julie Kenner) is currently in development as a television show.
Her books have sold over three million copies and are published in over twenty languages.
In her previous career as an attorney, JK worked as a clerk on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and practiced primarily civil, entertainment and First Amendment litigation in Los Angeles and Irvine, California, as well as in Austin, Texas. She currently lives in Central Texas, with her husband, two daughters, and two rather spastic cats.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews
March 29, 2018
3.5 Stars
So this marks the sixth and last book I have read in the Masters & Mercenaries crossover series. And it was good. It was also incredibly short, and the link to the M&M world was again pretty weak. All that said, It was one of the better books from this series (although I think it would have made an even better full-length book as everything seemed to move at warp speed). The writing was great. The characters were likable. The plot was engaging but pretty underdeveloped. The sex was hot (BDSM elements).There was pretty much no angst and no OW or OM drama, and it was all wrapped up in a sweet little ending.
Since this ended up being the last book I had to read of the six, I will go ahead and leave some general comments about the crossover series in this review. All in all after finishing all six books I have to admit I was left a bit disappointed. Perhaps that is my fault for expecting something different with this crossover. Although after speaking to two of my friends who also share my confusion, I think maybe these were poorly promoted. *shrug* Except for Lexi Blake's contribution and maybe Carly Phillip's book, none of these really work 100% as standalones, and one even starts in the middle of an already ongoing story. Also, as I mentioned in a couple of other reviews, it was "MY" understanding that these books would be set in the M&M world, yet most of them only connect to the M&M world by the weakest of threads. Basically, all of them are continuations of the authors own ongoing series with an M&M character thrown in. Which again, isn't a big issue except I don't feel like they were promoted that way. So ya...anyways, that is just "MY" two cents so take it or leave it. *lol*
October 29, 2018
Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK
So far this is one of my favorite books from the Masters & Mercenaries Crossover series. It was short but packed full of romance and intrigue. There was a clear connection to both J. Kenner's world and Lexi Blake's but it wasn't confusing at all if you haven't read those other books. Definitely a recommend if you're looking for a short read.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
So far this is one of my favorite books from the Masters & Mercenaries Crossover series. It was short but packed full of romance and intrigue. There was a clear connection to both J. Kenner's world and Lexi Blake's but it wasn't confusing at all if you haven't read those other books. Definitely a recommend if you're looking for a short read.
April 16, 2018
“Hold me,” I say. “Hold me, and then find me in your dreams.”
Lexi Blake has come together with an AMAZING group of authors to bring us the Lexi Blake Crossover Collection. It’s pairing one of my favorites, the Masters & Mercenaries Series, with some of your beloved series from authors we all love and adore! Two different worlds come crashing together, giving fans something extremely special to read about.
I’m no stranger to the Stark International Series by J. Kenner, so when I saw she was a part of this crossover collection bringing together that SEXY series and Lexi Blake’s Masters and Mercenaries Series, I was elated! JUSTIFY ME brings us Riley Blade (freaking LOVE that name BTW) and Natasha Black! Their whirlwind SEXY as SIN romance took me by surprise in the best way possible! I adored these two together and of course with J. Kenner at the helm, this love story was SMOKIN’ HOT, exciting, and suspenseful! It will keep you on your toes, for sure! These two characters have a history and it’s always went a particular way, but when a stalker barges into Natasha’s life, Riley has no choice but to step up his game, DEMAND more, keep her safe, or die trying. This is one novella you don’t want to pass up.
Keep in mind this can be read as a standalone. Happy Reading!
Lexi Blake has come together with an AMAZING group of authors to bring us the Lexi Blake Crossover Collection. It’s pairing one of my favorites, the Masters & Mercenaries Series, with some of your beloved series from authors we all love and adore! Two different worlds come crashing together, giving fans something extremely special to read about.
I’m no stranger to the Stark International Series by J. Kenner, so when I saw she was a part of this crossover collection bringing together that SEXY series and Lexi Blake’s Masters and Mercenaries Series, I was elated! JUSTIFY ME brings us Riley Blade (freaking LOVE that name BTW) and Natasha Black! Their whirlwind SEXY as SIN romance took me by surprise in the best way possible! I adored these two together and of course with J. Kenner at the helm, this love story was SMOKIN’ HOT, exciting, and suspenseful! It will keep you on your toes, for sure! These two characters have a history and it’s always went a particular way, but when a stalker barges into Natasha’s life, Riley has no choice but to step up his game, DEMAND more, keep her safe, or die trying. This is one novella you don’t want to pass up.
Keep in mind this can be read as a standalone. Happy Reading!
April 10, 2018
Justify Me by J. Kenner is book 4.5 in the Masters & Mercenaries Crossover Collection Series. This is the story of Riley and Natasha. I haven't read the previous book yet so for me it was a standalone book.
Natasha has a stalker and her boss feels she needs protection so who shows up but Riley. Natasha and Riley have some history but Riley seems to be in the friend zone but that is about to change.
Great Short Read! Loved it!
Natasha has a stalker and her boss feels she needs protection so who shows up but Riley. Natasha and Riley have some history but Riley seems to be in the friend zone but that is about to change.
Great Short Read! Loved it!
April 11, 2018
As much as i love J Kenner's Stark series (and all the other subsequent series that were part of the same universe), i really wanted to see something that had less to do with that series, and part of something else. I also wanted to see just how she'd feel going out of her own brand of romance - and with Justify Me, i got exactly that.
I absolutely loved it. With the base of Lexi Blake's Masters & Mercenaries series, J Kenner brought to life two characters that were very loosely linked to the Stark world and made it her own. It was highly entertaining, engaging and it was sexy as i never would have thought it could be. It had BDSM elements that i enjoyed, and suspense, even romance that i wasn't expecting to enjoy as much as i did because while it was a novella, there was a history between these two that explained how they got to the point they were by the end of the story.
I think i enjoyed this book more than i would have initially thought and that is always a plus in my book. I only wish that i could get more from this author from this series because (unless my memory is horrible), it's very different from what i'm used to seeing from her in her Stark Universe!
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books
Contact Us Today: [email protected]
April 11, 2018
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
Sultry, sexy, steamy and suspenseful!!! J. Kenner reunites readers with the Stark world and of course Lexi Blake’s mercenaries series. A great crossover combination in my opinion. Justify Me was about two people who shared a history and so their transition to a romantic couple was believable in this quick novella read. A must read!
Sultry, sexy, steamy and suspenseful!!! J. Kenner reunites readers with the Stark world and of course Lexi Blake’s mercenaries series. A great crossover combination in my opinion. Justify Me was about two people who shared a history and so their transition to a romantic couple was believable in this quick novella read. A must read!
May 11, 2018
This was a book in a crossover between two series
"Stark International and Masters & Mercenaries"
. Riley Blade is a bodyguard for Ian Taggart who is one of my favorite characters. While on his way to` China he stops off in LA to do a favor for Ryan Hunter of Stark Riley is no stranger to LA he worked for the FBI swat team in LA. he even consulted on a film with a hot Hollywood mega star Lyle Tarpin’s whose personal assistant makes his blood boil when Lyle calls looking for a bodyguard for her he changes his plan because no one but him will be guarding her. Natasha Black has a stalker that she is trying to forget about and she was mad when her boss called the one man that makes her hot. Turns out these two have history Riley use to work with her father and he even asked her out she turned him down. Riley left LA after an operation he was working on went south and they lost a team member who turned out to be her father. This was a really good read that I wished was longer. I have read a few books in the Stark Trilogy and this book reminded me that I have to get back into. The sex between these two were hot while visiting a BDSM club Natasha found what she was missing and when she went with Riley she knew he was the man for her. I love reading Masters & Mercenaries series and I am glad that the bodyguards are finding love. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling. I am ooking forward to reading the next book.
April 18, 2018
Of all the books in this collection that I have read in this collection this one really felt like a stand-alone. Or maybe it was because it was the last one I read that I felt emersed enough in McKay-Taggart that this just seemed like it fit nicely.
I am not a stranger to this author's work but I have not read the Stark books and I am pretty sure I need to fix that. Riley is about to leave behind the place that holds nothing for him until he finds out that Natasha has a stalker. These two definitely have some history together and while one has pushed the other away, the attraction is not one-sided. Natasha loves her job and her life. And she really isn't taking this stalker thing serious, well at least not at first.
Riley comes up with a plan and executes it rather quickly to find who is after Natasha and why. Conveniently his plan also leads them closer to each other. The suspense portion of this book, while quick, made sense and I actually like that it wasn't drawn out. And there is a lot of heat packed into these short pages and a developed story. Now that my TBR list has just grown a bunch I need to backwards and learn more about this series.
March 30, 2018
"It wasn't the first time Riley had invaded my fantasies over the years."
I love crossover series that introduce me to new characters and give me the opportunity to catch up with well-loved characters that I've spent time with in the past. It was my love for J. Kenner's writing that put Justify Me on my radar, but I admit to being intrigued about the Masters & Mercenaries series now that I've met #BigTag.
I knew going into this short story that Riley and Natasha already knew each other and that for some reason she had her walls up, keeping him in the friend zone. I had a suspicion that she was equally attracted to him but there was some hidden reason keeping her from taking him up on his obvious desire for more. There's nothing like a secret to get my attention and have me panting for more details. And let me tell you, that's not the only thing that had me panting during this sexy story. 😉
I also enjoyed the thrill of 'stalking the stalker' who was after Natasha. I got to wear my virtual profiler cap and throw my impressive skills into the hunt. Too bad I was totally useless and the author managed to surprise me with the outcome. Now I'm even more in love with J. Kenner. I'm also looking forward to reading more of this crossover collection. The line forms here...
I love crossover series that introduce me to new characters and give me the opportunity to catch up with well-loved characters that I've spent time with in the past. It was my love for J. Kenner's writing that put Justify Me on my radar, but I admit to being intrigued about the Masters & Mercenaries series now that I've met #BigTag.
I knew going into this short story that Riley and Natasha already knew each other and that for some reason she had her walls up, keeping him in the friend zone. I had a suspicion that she was equally attracted to him but there was some hidden reason keeping her from taking him up on his obvious desire for more. There's nothing like a secret to get my attention and have me panting for more details. And let me tell you, that's not the only thing that had me panting during this sexy story. 😉
I also enjoyed the thrill of 'stalking the stalker' who was after Natasha. I got to wear my virtual profiler cap and throw my impressive skills into the hunt. Too bad I was totally useless and the author managed to surprise me with the outcome. Now I'm even more in love with J. Kenner. I'm also looking forward to reading more of this crossover collection. The line forms here...
April 15, 2018
***ARC Provided by the Author and InkSlingerPR***
Riley and Tasha were fun. And sexy, and it was great to get to know them, and to read their story.
All of the crossover books were great, and they did a wonderful job of ending the McKay/Taggart series, and tying up the lose ends with the characters who were secondary in earlier books, but left an impression.
I enjoy J. Kenner. I like her writing style, and her characters, and the situations she puts them in, they are always believable and feel authentic. This was so fun, and the whole masters and mercenaries has been a fun idea from the beginning, so I enjoyed the element in this title.
I am sorry to see this series end, but I have enjoyed my way through all of them and I recommend this title.
Riley and Tasha were fun. And sexy, and it was great to get to know them, and to read their story.
All of the crossover books were great, and they did a wonderful job of ending the McKay/Taggart series, and tying up the lose ends with the characters who were secondary in earlier books, but left an impression.
I enjoy J. Kenner. I like her writing style, and her characters, and the situations she puts them in, they are always believable and feel authentic. This was so fun, and the whole masters and mercenaries has been a fun idea from the beginning, so I enjoyed the element in this title.
I am sorry to see this series end, but I have enjoyed my way through all of them and I recommend this title.
April 10, 2018
The combination of J. Kenner’s sensual Stark world and one of Lexi Blake’s McKay-Taggart ’s operatives allows readers to enter an intriguing and suspenseful setting and immerse themselves in a story line that illustrates what happens when a hero and heroine are offered a new perspective on bad memories and finally let themselves give into sexual attraction that’s been building beneath the surface for almost eight years.
Although Justify Me is a short novella, the fact that the main characters have history together helps to set the stage for the actions that occur and the feelings that develop between Natasha Black, Lyle Tarpin’s personal assistant and Riley Blade, a dominant alpha male who has worked as a consultant for one of Tarpin’s films.
Riley has wanted to claim Natasha since their first interaction, but he’s never had a reason to breech the walls that Natasha has put up in order to live a safe and practical life until now and with that justification in place, Riley helps Natasha to let go…to give herself over to the sexual pleasure he provides, challenging her reasons for keeping him at a distance and giving her an outlet for her hidden desires and sexual needs.
Some readers may not like that Riley and Natasha’s story doesn’t ‘completely’ crossover into Lexi Blake’s Masters and Mercenaries series, but from my perspective, bringing the two worlds together, even with only one character, makes for an entertaining and intriguing read, which is exactly what I want when I read romantic suspense.
4 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
Although Justify Me is a short novella, the fact that the main characters have history together helps to set the stage for the actions that occur and the feelings that develop between Natasha Black, Lyle Tarpin’s personal assistant and Riley Blade, a dominant alpha male who has worked as a consultant for one of Tarpin’s films.
Riley has wanted to claim Natasha since their first interaction, but he’s never had a reason to breech the walls that Natasha has put up in order to live a safe and practical life until now and with that justification in place, Riley helps Natasha to let go…to give herself over to the sexual pleasure he provides, challenging her reasons for keeping him at a distance and giving her an outlet for her hidden desires and sexual needs.
Some readers may not like that Riley and Natasha’s story doesn’t ‘completely’ crossover into Lexi Blake’s Masters and Mercenaries series, but from my perspective, bringing the two worlds together, even with only one character, makes for an entertaining and intriguing read, which is exactly what I want when I read romantic suspense.
4 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
April 10, 2018
Justify Me is part of Lexi Blake's Crossover series and in this book, J. Kenner brings together her Stark International series with Lexi Blake's Maters and Mercenaries series. If you have not read either of these series from these two authors, you MUST!! You don't need to read them to understand this novella, but they are both soooo good, you just have to read them.
Anyway - the book.
Justify Me is very fast paced and hot read!! Riley is is McKay-Taggart operative and Natasha is a personal assistant to Lyle. They both have a past together, but one Natasha would prefer to forget.
Natasha finds herself having a stalker and her boss feels it's bad enough that she needs a body guard. And he hires none other than Riley. Riley never wanted to return to LA but can't turn down a friend and won't trust anyone else to protect Natasha.
As things escalate between these two, Natasha's stalker ups their game too. Julie does a fabulous job of giving us everything in this book from the suspense to the hot and sexy with the BDSM scenes.
Julie explains backstory on things very well so readers don't fell lost or like they jumped into the middle of a story and she keeps the story moving at this perfect pace. I am usually not a fan of quick reads that I can see easily being a full novel, but Julie wrote this one perfectly and I loved every bit of it.
Anyway - the book.
Justify Me is very fast paced and hot read!! Riley is is McKay-Taggart operative and Natasha is a personal assistant to Lyle. They both have a past together, but one Natasha would prefer to forget.
Natasha finds herself having a stalker and her boss feels it's bad enough that she needs a body guard. And he hires none other than Riley. Riley never wanted to return to LA but can't turn down a friend and won't trust anyone else to protect Natasha.
As things escalate between these two, Natasha's stalker ups their game too. Julie does a fabulous job of giving us everything in this book from the suspense to the hot and sexy with the BDSM scenes.
Julie explains backstory on things very well so readers don't fell lost or like they jumped into the middle of a story and she keeps the story moving at this perfect pace. I am usually not a fan of quick reads that I can see easily being a full novel, but Julie wrote this one perfectly and I loved every bit of it.
April 11, 2018
Smart. Sexy. Sensational. Three simple words to convey just how fantastic Justify Me is as an addition to the Masters & Mercenaries Crossover Collection.
I devoured Riley and Tasha’s story in one sitting! They’re amazing together. Riley’s fierce proactive nature and Tasha’s smart independence should have clashed. But didn’t. Their shared history adds so much depth to their story. Their love. Their hot AF sexy times. There was so much going on around them and the catching of Tasha’s stalker the utmost important facet . . . but there was also their romance. Their inability to stay away from each other—the draw, the connection too much to fight. And it was sheer perfection for me! ~ Missy, 5 stars
I devoured Riley and Tasha’s story in one sitting! They’re amazing together. Riley’s fierce proactive nature and Tasha’s smart independence should have clashed. But didn’t. Their shared history adds so much depth to their story. Their love. Their hot AF sexy times. There was so much going on around them and the catching of Tasha’s stalker the utmost important facet . . . but there was also their romance. Their inability to stay away from each other—the draw, the connection too much to fight. And it was sheer perfection for me! ~ Missy, 5 stars
May 20, 2018
This is an almost second chance romance. Riley and Natasha not only have a connection due to a past assignment but also one with her family. The connection to her father and a traumatic event has always made Natasha push the one man she wanted away. When Natasha attracts the attention of a stalker there will be nothing she can do this time to push Riley away. In true Masters and Mercenaries tradition and also that of what we expect from J Kenner their story is action packed and as hot and steamy as they come.
March 28, 2018
Riiley oozes alpha-ness, “I’m staying,” Riley said in the kind of voice that brooked no argument. “I’ll watch out for Natasha.” Riley has a way with his words, “because I need to be inside you, and you’re not ready for me to eff you in public.” I liked this book, I loved Riley.
August 29, 2021
DNF at 15%.
Couldn't push myself to go on with this series. It's too many novellas and story lines were almost the same, the only difference now are the MCs names.
I'm saying goodbye to the rest of the upcoming books too. So long... And may this series find reading success on another person's hands.
Couldn't push myself to go on with this series. It's too many novellas and story lines were almost the same, the only difference now are the MCs names.
I'm saying goodbye to the rest of the upcoming books too. So long... And may this series find reading success on another person's hands.
April 5, 2018
Riley Blade hates Los Angeles. He left the city to never look back, but when he finds himself in town for a few hour layover he gets word that that a childhood friend and old crush has a stalker. No matter how badly he wants out of the city, Riley knows he won’t trust her safety to anyone else even when the lovely Natasha has made it clear multiple times she isn’t interested in anything Riley has to offer.
Natasha Black may have a stalker, but it’s no big deal, right? When her boss insists she have a bodyguard, the last person she expects to appear is Riley Blade. They have a history together, and one she would rather forget which is why she has shot him down at every turn. But something is different this time. This time, her walls seem to be crumbling down around her and Riley’s about to burn her to the ground while she willingly crumbles. And, Riley’s not giving her up this time without a fight . . . he wants it all.
As Riley and Natasha’s relationship escalates, so does her stalker. Will they be able to draw him out before it’s too late or will Natasha end up paying the ultimate price if Riley can’t save her in time?
This was my first book by J. Kenner and I am in love! I thought she did a fabulous job of incorporating Justify Me into Lexi Blake’s Masters and Mercenaries world. The many references to Big Tag had me smiling ear to ear and it seemed that the two book worlds blended together seamlessly.
This book is off the charts hot and steamy with some BDSM themed scenes that will leave you fanning yourself. Riley and Natasha’s chemistry has never been the problem between them and sparks hot from the moment they are in the same room again. I especially loved watching Natasha learn and explore her own sexuality with Riley’s encouragement and protection.
I enjoyed how the author took the time to go into the backstory of why Natasha has pushed Riley away through the years. It made watching her walls cave in to him even sweeter as it felt like they were destined to be together.
There is plenty of suspense with Natasha’s stalker and it is a definite OMG moment when the big showdown happens. The entire book moves rather quickly and it made me wish it was a bit longer just so I had more to enjoy. 5 stars!
Natasha Black may have a stalker, but it’s no big deal, right? When her boss insists she have a bodyguard, the last person she expects to appear is Riley Blade. They have a history together, and one she would rather forget which is why she has shot him down at every turn. But something is different this time. This time, her walls seem to be crumbling down around her and Riley’s about to burn her to the ground while she willingly crumbles. And, Riley’s not giving her up this time without a fight . . . he wants it all.
As Riley and Natasha’s relationship escalates, so does her stalker. Will they be able to draw him out before it’s too late or will Natasha end up paying the ultimate price if Riley can’t save her in time?
This was my first book by J. Kenner and I am in love! I thought she did a fabulous job of incorporating Justify Me into Lexi Blake’s Masters and Mercenaries world. The many references to Big Tag had me smiling ear to ear and it seemed that the two book worlds blended together seamlessly.
This book is off the charts hot and steamy with some BDSM themed scenes that will leave you fanning yourself. Riley and Natasha’s chemistry has never been the problem between them and sparks hot from the moment they are in the same room again. I especially loved watching Natasha learn and explore her own sexuality with Riley’s encouragement and protection.
I enjoyed how the author took the time to go into the backstory of why Natasha has pushed Riley away through the years. It made watching her walls cave in to him even sweeter as it felt like they were destined to be together.
There is plenty of suspense with Natasha’s stalker and it is a definite OMG moment when the big showdown happens. The entire book moves rather quickly and it made me wish it was a bit longer just so I had more to enjoy. 5 stars!
April 11, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is part of the Masters and Mercenaries crossover series that is being released by a number of super talented authors. I am so happy to be reading these books and reviewing them. I am huge M and M fan, and this was another great addition to the series. In this book we get to revisit LA and Stark International, as this ties in with the Wicked Dirty book about Lyle Tarpin. Riley was on loan from McKay Taggart and discovered Natasha, the one that got away, but still means everything. Now we get their story.
I loved how interlinked this book was, with the next film Lyle is doing, being Serena's book, the BDSM angle that they have investigated for that purpose, and Riley's Dom tendencies coming to the fore. It was brilliant fun to connect the dots, but at the same time want to race through what is a romantic and very hot story. The drama is just right, and gives Riley and Tasha the chance to move forward and do it together.
Another good story in this collection, thank you Ms Jenner.
This is part of the Masters and Mercenaries crossover series that is being released by a number of super talented authors. I am so happy to be reading these books and reviewing them. I am huge M and M fan, and this was another great addition to the series. In this book we get to revisit LA and Stark International, as this ties in with the Wicked Dirty book about Lyle Tarpin. Riley was on loan from McKay Taggart and discovered Natasha, the one that got away, but still means everything. Now we get their story.
I loved how interlinked this book was, with the next film Lyle is doing, being Serena's book, the BDSM angle that they have investigated for that purpose, and Riley's Dom tendencies coming to the fore. It was brilliant fun to connect the dots, but at the same time want to race through what is a romantic and very hot story. The drama is just right, and gives Riley and Tasha the chance to move forward and do it together.
Another good story in this collection, thank you Ms Jenner.
April 7, 2018
Quick but intense and sexy read. Riley and Natasha had sort of a past but not in a sexual way. He’s always been attracted to her but he didn’t know that she’s always been attracted to him even though she shut him down several times. Riley is back in LA for work and can’t wait to leave until he’s told that Natasha is in possible danger and will need a bodyguard. He trusts no one but himself with her safety.
Natasha has a stalker and thinks her boss is overreacting to provide her a bodyguard; she just didn’t expect who the bodyguard was going to be. Seeing Riley stirred things in her. She was still shutting him down but then things changed between them one night. After that one night the rest is history.
Riley protected her from everything and everyone. And Natasha finally let her guards down completely with Riley. I enjoyed the crossover and the intensity between these two was off the charts.
Natasha has a stalker and thinks her boss is overreacting to provide her a bodyguard; she just didn’t expect who the bodyguard was going to be. Seeing Riley stirred things in her. She was still shutting him down but then things changed between them one night. After that one night the rest is history.
Riley protected her from everything and everyone. And Natasha finally let her guards down completely with Riley. I enjoyed the crossover and the intensity between these two was off the charts.
April 10, 2018
Justify Me (Masters & Mercenaries Crossover Collection) by J. Kenner & Lexi Blake
4.5 stars
M/F Thriller Romance with BDSM
Triggers: Stalker
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Riley is a hard man. He has lusted and loved Natasha for a long time. When he was an operative, he worked with her father a lot. When the worst happened, Natasha had to cut him out of her life - it was just too painful for her.
Natasha is loving her life. She has a great job, a great boss and she just loves where she is. The one caveat is that she misses Riley. Even when she is working closely with Riley, since he was helping her boss on a movie, she knows that she needs to keep her distance. Her boss and good friend doesn't truly understand why, but he doesn't push her.
When Natasha picks up a stalker, her boss asks Riley if he knows someone who can help protect Natasha. Riley immediately changes his plans and heads for Natasha.
This was fast paced and had some very hot scenes in it. The chemistry between Natasha and Riley was great and I felt that because they had history, it made their connection that much stronger. The mystery was great and it kept you guessing. The suspense was great too. I really enjoyed this short story.
4.5 stars
M/F Thriller Romance with BDSM
Triggers: Stalker
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Riley is a hard man. He has lusted and loved Natasha for a long time. When he was an operative, he worked with her father a lot. When the worst happened, Natasha had to cut him out of her life - it was just too painful for her.
Natasha is loving her life. She has a great job, a great boss and she just loves where she is. The one caveat is that she misses Riley. Even when she is working closely with Riley, since he was helping her boss on a movie, she knows that she needs to keep her distance. Her boss and good friend doesn't truly understand why, but he doesn't push her.
When Natasha picks up a stalker, her boss asks Riley if he knows someone who can help protect Natasha. Riley immediately changes his plans and heads for Natasha.
This was fast paced and had some very hot scenes in it. The chemistry between Natasha and Riley was great and I felt that because they had history, it made their connection that much stronger. The mystery was great and it kept you guessing. The suspense was great too. I really enjoyed this short story.
April 11, 2018
Justify Me by J. Kenner is part of The Lexi Blake Collection and was so steamy, even with all the suspense!
Riley Blade was supposed to pass right through Los Angeles, but when an old friend is in trouble, he knows he needs to protect her. But Natasha Black wants nothing to do with Riley. A stalker is not a big deal, right? But she is not shaking Riley.
Natasha ad Riley have a history together and not a good one. But every time they are together, you can feel the chemistry between them. Even as danger lurks closely, Riley and Natasha begin to explore what is between them. But even as they do, the stalker escalate. Can Riley catch him in time before Natasha is hurt?
Justify Me by J. Kenner was sexy, steamy and full of suspense. Natasha wanted nothing to do with Riley, but he slowly and very sexily broke down her walls. A quick read with all the feels!
Read and reviewed for Sultry Sirens Book Blog.
Happy reading!
April 7, 2018
This was the first M & M book for me but not the first with these characters. Riley and Natasha were brief characters in Lyle and Sugar's "Dirty" book and now they have their own all because Natasha has a stalker. She doesn't think she needs a bodyguard but with Lyle going out of the country and she is staying in Los Angeles to work he calls Riley looking for advice and he immediately changes he vacation plans and shows up taking the job himself. There have always been sparks between them and now in close quarters they cannot hide from them. Given the chance will they now explore them? Will they turn real? Oh, this was so good! I know this was set as a novella but it would have been great as a full length book because there was so much chemistry to be explored. What felt rushed was just a matter of this being a novella. Definitely recommend this one!
**Received this ARC for review**
**Received this ARC for review**
April 10, 2018
Totally engaging ...
This crossover story is written by one of my favorite authors and brings together two of my favorite worlds: Stark International and Masters and Mercenaries... Riley is a McKay/Taggart operative and Natasha is a personal assistant with a stalker problem...
This is another short read but the two MCs know each other so the instalust element, which can make the relationship seem unlikely, was avoided... in actual fact this was a compelling story which packed in both a thrilling plot and an erotic love story.... there are secrets to be revealed and mysteries to be solved and I was totally engaged throughout..
I presume that part of the reason for this collection is to showcase the writings of authors to a new readership and, if that is the case, from my perspective it has proved most successful... I have really enjoyed discovering new authors and gaining an initial insight into their series, and I have even dowloaded some of their books; in addition, Justify Me is written in such an engaging and easy to read style that it has reminded why I love this particular author’s books so much and has encouraged me to revisit her series’ again...this was an entertaining quick 4.5 stars read with the added bonus of managing to squeeze in an epilogue to tie everything up.. ....This novella was reviewed for Summer's Eve Reads
This crossover story is written by one of my favorite authors and brings together two of my favorite worlds: Stark International and Masters and Mercenaries... Riley is a McKay/Taggart operative and Natasha is a personal assistant with a stalker problem...
This is another short read but the two MCs know each other so the instalust element, which can make the relationship seem unlikely, was avoided... in actual fact this was a compelling story which packed in both a thrilling plot and an erotic love story.... there are secrets to be revealed and mysteries to be solved and I was totally engaged throughout..
I presume that part of the reason for this collection is to showcase the writings of authors to a new readership and, if that is the case, from my perspective it has proved most successful... I have really enjoyed discovering new authors and gaining an initial insight into their series, and I have even dowloaded some of their books; in addition, Justify Me is written in such an engaging and easy to read style that it has reminded why I love this particular author’s books so much and has encouraged me to revisit her series’ again...this was an entertaining quick 4.5 stars read with the added bonus of managing to squeeze in an epilogue to tie everything up.. ....This novella was reviewed for Summer's Eve Reads
April 12, 2018
4.5 Star Review of Justify Me by J Kenner
This is part of the current Lexi Blake Crossover Collection and written by an an author I am familiar with J Kenner.
Although I have read numerous books from J Kenner, I am yet to read her Stark series so I was a tad anxious that I would not be able to follow the characters who were unfamiliar to me. I needn’t have worried as I had no issues.
Justify Me is a quick second chance at love story, with elements of light BDSM and features Riley Blade (M & M) and PA Natasha Black (Stark). I loved the glimpse into the world of Stark with the chemistry between Riley and Natasha intense and at times overwhelming.
There was suspense, drama and intrigue and the story was well written.
This is part of the current Lexi Blake Crossover Collection and written by an an author I am familiar with J Kenner.
Although I have read numerous books from J Kenner, I am yet to read her Stark series so I was a tad anxious that I would not be able to follow the characters who were unfamiliar to me. I needn’t have worried as I had no issues.
Justify Me is a quick second chance at love story, with elements of light BDSM and features Riley Blade (M & M) and PA Natasha Black (Stark). I loved the glimpse into the world of Stark with the chemistry between Riley and Natasha intense and at times overwhelming.
There was suspense, drama and intrigue and the story was well written.
August 10, 2020
Actually 3.5 stars
When Natasha Black discovers that she has a stalker, McKay-Taggart operative Riley Blade rides in to the rescue, despite the fact that she's made it abundantly clear that she's not interested in him even though he's attracted to her.
This is a pretty good addition to the Master and Mercenaries Crossover Collection, which has books that range from "meh" to "wow." This one is somewhere in the middle. The characters are compelling, but the story line is predictable, which makes the book good, but nothing special.
When Natasha Black discovers that she has a stalker, McKay-Taggart operative Riley Blade rides in to the rescue, despite the fact that she's made it abundantly clear that she's not interested in him even though he's attracted to her.
This is a pretty good addition to the Master and Mercenaries Crossover Collection, which has books that range from "meh" to "wow." This one is somewhere in the middle. The characters are compelling, but the story line is predictable, which makes the book good, but nothing special.
June 7, 2022
3.5/5 stars
Of the three novellas I've read in this crossover collection, this one was by far the best and also felt the most like it "fit" with the Masters & Mercenaries world. It did a good job of making the crossover characters accessible to me, as a person who hasn't read anything else by Kenner. My only complaints were I wish this had been longer - I felt like there was a lot more that could be done with it - and I found the alternating first/third person POV to be a bit weird. I was generally engaged by the plot, though, and I'd read more by the author.
Of the three novellas I've read in this crossover collection, this one was by far the best and also felt the most like it "fit" with the Masters & Mercenaries world. It did a good job of making the crossover characters accessible to me, as a person who hasn't read anything else by Kenner. My only complaints were I wish this had been longer - I felt like there was a lot more that could be done with it - and I found the alternating first/third person POV to be a bit weird. I was generally engaged by the plot, though, and I'd read more by the author.
April 19, 2018
Justify Me by J. Kenner is part of the Masters & Mercenaries Crossover Collection. Riley Blade hates Los Angeles. It has memories and connections that he would rather forget. High on that list is Natasha Black, movie star Lyle Tarpin's assistant. When he is enticed into doing a quick job in LA for McKay-Taggart during a flight layover he is ready to be out and done and off on vacation, but when he is asked for a recommendation for personal security to protect Natasha, he knows no one will do as good a job as Riley himself. As they dig deeper into who is stalking Tasha the connection between Tasha and Riley heats up quickly. Their shared history, once keeping them apart, brings them closer together.
Justify Me by J. Kenner is a fast and fun story. The fire between them is only tempered by the danger of Tasha's stalker. As Riley brings out more of Tasha's hidden wants and desires their passion grows exponentially. Overall I recommend Justify Me. It was a quick read, but one that had it all. Riley and Tasha just clicked and I enjoyed every minute of them.
(I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book I received for free from the publisher in exchange for my open and honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.)
Justify Me by J. Kenner is a fast and fun story. The fire between them is only tempered by the danger of Tasha's stalker. As Riley brings out more of Tasha's hidden wants and desires their passion grows exponentially. Overall I recommend Justify Me. It was a quick read, but one that had it all. Riley and Tasha just clicked and I enjoyed every minute of them.
(I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book I received for free from the publisher in exchange for my open and honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.)
April 14, 2018
Riley a true alpha man that worked for the FBI and left after a tragic accident. He work now for an private agency that will bring him back to L.A. and a heroine name Natasha that has memories that comes back once a life is at stake. With common friends that brings them back together can they not feel the attraction among each other.
September 12, 2018
I enjoyed Riley & Natasha’s story - a second chance-ish romance, with heart, heat, action, suspense and spanking. While I read it as a stand-alone (as part of the M & M cross over collection), the bookish purist in me kinda wished (now that I know) I had read the “Stark” title they appeared in prior to this novella first.
April 18, 2018
Justify Me is J. Kenner's Stark International story and part of Lexi Blake's Masters & Mercenaries Crossover Collection where several different authors incorporate an M&M character into their existing series.
I'm new to Kenner's Stark Internat'l series, but I didn't feel lost as I read the story of Natasha Black, Tarpin’s personal assistant and McKay-Taggart operative Riley Blade because their story is a blip on the overall picture, I'm sure.
Riley, on his way out of the country for a much deserved vacation, receives a call from one of his old friends, Natasha's boss. Lyle wants a bodyguard for Natasha after hearing she's received creepy, stalker mail. As he and Natasha have history and he won't leave her safety to anyone else, he takes the job and heads back to the city he swore he'd never return to, LA.
Crossover Notes:
To be honest, I'm not entirely sure the correct order of the crossover stories, or if there even is one. I'm reading the stories in the order they're listed at the beginning of Close Cover, however Lexi's website shows the order slightly different (shown below).
Lexi Blake's Masters and Mercenaries Crossover Collection
(M&M crossover characters in bold; others are characters from the author's existing series)
Close Cover by Lexi Blake (Remy & Lisa ✮✮✮½ REVIEWED)
Justify Me by J. Kenner (Riley & Natasha ✮✮✮☆☆ REVIEWED)
His to Protect by Carly Phillips (Talia & Shane ✮✮✮½ REVIEWED)
Say You Won't Let Go by Corrine Michaels ( Emily & Cooper / Wade ✮✮✮½ REVIEWED)
Rescuing Sadie by Susan Stoker ( Sadie & Chase ✮✮✮☆☆ REVIEWED)
Her Guardian Angel by Larissa Ione (Declan & Suzanne ✮✮✮✮☆ REVIEWED)
I'm new to Kenner's Stark Internat'l series, but I didn't feel lost as I read the story of Natasha Black, Tarpin’s personal assistant and McKay-Taggart operative Riley Blade because their story is a blip on the overall picture, I'm sure.
Riley, on his way out of the country for a much deserved vacation, receives a call from one of his old friends, Natasha's boss. Lyle wants a bodyguard for Natasha after hearing she's received creepy, stalker mail. As he and Natasha have history and he won't leave her safety to anyone else, he takes the job and heads back to the city he swore he'd never return to, LA.
“Hold me,” I say. “Hold me, and then find me in your dreams.”I really like Riley and I liked Natasha okay, but their reason for being apart all these years fell flat for me. I couldn't really feel much for her, which might have been different had I read the other four books in this series, and I didn't feel she was good enough for Riley. ( A note left at the end by JK, "I love Riley and Natasha, and have since the moment they popped onto the page in Wicked Dirty," confirms these two have appeared in her series previously. )
Crossover Notes:
To be honest, I'm not entirely sure the correct order of the crossover stories, or if there even is one. I'm reading the stories in the order they're listed at the beginning of Close Cover, however Lexi's website shows the order slightly different (shown below).
Lexi Blake's Masters and Mercenaries Crossover Collection
(M&M crossover characters in bold; others are characters from the author's existing series)
Close Cover by Lexi Blake (Remy & Lisa ✮✮✮½ REVIEWED)
Justify Me by J. Kenner (Riley & Natasha ✮✮✮☆☆ REVIEWED)
His to Protect by Carly Phillips (Talia & Shane ✮✮✮½ REVIEWED)
Say You Won't Let Go by Corrine Michaels ( Emily & Cooper / Wade ✮✮✮½ REVIEWED)
Rescuing Sadie by Susan Stoker ( Sadie & Chase ✮✮✮☆☆ REVIEWED)
Her Guardian Angel by Larissa Ione (Declan & Suzanne ✮✮✮✮☆ REVIEWED)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews