Big Easy Temptation (The Perfect Gentlemen)

This is the third story in the Perfect Gentleman series that brings the reader Dax Spencer’s story and what a suspenseful, action packed one it is. Dax is a Navy man who has worked hard to become one of the most powerful men in the United States along with his “brothers” from Creighton Academy. Holland Kirk is a feisty, sharp NCIS investigator who is Dax’s match and gives him a good run for his money.
This book combines the past with the present and finds all of the gentlemen back into another conspiracy stemming from some information that led to the supposed suicide of Dax’s father but something just does not add up. The investigation begins….There are so many twists and turns it is a challenge to distinguish who are the good guys and who are the bad guys. The Russian Mob gets involved and it all goes to bad to worse. What does the Mob want? Who is Sergei really?
Shayla Black and Lexi Blake are a powerful dynamic writing team and have outdone themselves with this collaboration. The reader is pulled in so many directions that just leaves one begging for more. I can’t wait to read the fourth book, Smoke and Sin, which will hopefully give the reader the answers he/she is seeking.

Big Easy Temptation (Perfect Gentlemen #3) by Shayla Black and Lexi Blake is an equal balance of intrigue and romance. The series and the authors are new to me, however, I had no problem pick up the rich storyline. After powering through is fabulously gripping book, I’m definitely going back for more of the Perfect Gentlemen series!

New readers are easily caught up with the story enough to appreciate Big Easy Temptation; Black and Blake creatively tell the backstory with the use of a converging timeline. Once the story setup is done, the novel is action-packed and zips along at mach speed.

I loved Holland and Dax both individually and as a couple. Dax is sinfully delicious. He oozes class and Southern charm. Holland is independent, confident and competent.

The conspiracy, intrigue and suspense in this story are off-the-charts intense. I was hooked on page one and couldn’t put the book down until I finished. The fast-paced, complex plot and richly developed characters make Big Easy Temptation a riveting book.

Aaaaaaaaahhhh Dax! Gimme gimme! Big Easy Temptation... one hella sexy and intense read. Steamy and suspenseful. Plus a second chance romance? Gah! Yes, please! Blake and Black know how to write one seriously pulse pounding, can't-put-it-down romance. Loved it!

So the gist of it is that Dax and his friends have found themselves smack in the middle of a conspiracy and new info has him questioning an old family scandal that led to his father's suicide years earlier. Something just doesn't add up and needing help he lands on the door step of a woman he loved years earlier and who betrayed him and his family in the worst way while they were dealing with their family tragedy.

So the set up for this one is done in two sections.
1] Three years ago as Dax and Holland were falling in love (gah it's good!) and then things going all to hell
2] and then Present Day as he's shown up back in her life and they're dealing with seeing each other again, mending fences and trying to solve his father's case.

It's full of yummy sexy romantic goodness, heartbreak, thrilling suspense. All those fabulous things I look for in a romantic escape. So these two. Dax is a Naval officer and Holland an NCIS agent so that was pretty neat seeing them in such fields. I liked both of them as well. Holland is pretty badass and fierce (though I did hate her for just a little while over some things but we got past it lol) and Dax is just sexy and heartwrenching. Man I felt for him as he faced his family's darkest secrets. The man has determination and honor and is just a great guy (he can throw a mean barb though, whew!). I loved them together and ached for them when they were apart.

The suspense in this series is excellent. I wouldn't call it romantic suspense really but the mystery/conspiracy is exciting and keeps you guessing as this group of friends tries to figure out a danger threatening the President (one of the grop members). Mobs, murders, cover ups. It's fascinating and horrible. Each book is a full HEA but the conspiracy itself unravels a bit at a time with each book so best to read these in order for best experience I think.

The one issue I had is something I've mentioned before that bothers me. The hero said something jerky which thoroughly pissed off the heroine and...she struck him. Followed by him thinking how he'd deserved it and then another woman saying "she should have punched you. Maybe she could have broken your jaw. An open handed slap reminds me of all those bitchy housewives on TV and that handprint shows. Real women punch. Or kick. You deserve a good kick in the gnads." Really? Meh. I hate seeing that in romance. That took half a star off this one.

All in all, though, other than that one quibble Big Easy Temptation hit all my good spots and left me eager for more from this group of friends. Addictive and simply captivating. Black & Blake are a smashing team and deliver time and time again.

*This review will contain spoilers for prior books in the series so read at your own risk!*

The Perfect Gentlemen have turned me into a heroine hater. With each successive book, I think I have found my favorite member of the group... but that's a lie. I want them all. I'm being a selfish catty bitchface because no female heroine is going to be good enough for one of these men... unless she is me, of course. First we had Gabriel Bond, the corporate mogul. Then came Conner Sparks, secret agggeent man. Now we get the story of Dax Spencer, the handsome Naval Captain. Up next is Roman Calder, protector of POTUS. And then, we certainly can't forget Zach Hayes, leader of the free world! But there is one Perfect Gentlemen missing - Maddox. Mad cannot be dead! I mean, come on, his penis has its own Twitter account! There is just too much awesomeness and hilarity for him to be gone. I don't think Lexi and Shayla are cruel enough for him to really be dead, but they are being very close-mouthed about it. What say you? Do you think he's at work behind the scenes? Is he Deep Throat? Much like Freddy, I have my own theories!

So I am actually enjoying the suspense/mystery/conspiracy of this series as much as (maybe even a little more) than the romance. Gasp! I can't believe I said that... but it's because I've been a heroine hater from the beginning, so I'm just inserting myself into the role and the heroines can go play somewhere else. In the last book, we uncovered much more about the conspiracy against Zach by the Russian Bratva. We found (and lost) Natalia Kulikov. And now we have this key piece of evidence - a deadpool. A hit list so to speak that has some very important names on it... namely, Constance Hayes, Joy Hayes and Admiral Spencer (Dax's father).

Dax never believed his father committed suicide, so he is taking off to New Orleans (my city- yay!) with this new information to confront the woman who broke his heart, and briefly looked into his Dad's death. Dax was another yummy hero, worthy of the Perfect Gentlemen. Handsome and brawny, he fills out his Naval officer uniform quite nicely. While he was portrayed as a manwhore in Seduction in Session, he did not come across that way in this book. He came off a little more tragic, dealing with the death of his dad, a huge scandal, and then a horrible betrayal by the woman he loved. He's one of those heroes that you want to get your hands on and fix... and fill up that hole in his heart.

Holland Kirk is a special agent with Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) in New Orleans. She was also friends with Joy Hayes, Zach's deceased wife, which is how she met Dax and the rest of the Perfect Gentlemen. While Holland has always had an attraction to Dax, she is wary of the reputation of the PGs. But not only that, she doesn't want to end up like her mother, who was a military wife always pining away for her husband. I kept looking for a reason not to like Holland because well, we already talked about me being a heroine hater. In all honesty, she was not an annoying heroine. She was fairly kickass in her role as NCIS agent and, when she wasn't betraying Dax, she was pretty even-keeled. Of course I hated her betrayal and the things she says to Dax... but I could not totally hate her even when that was happening.

I am usually not a big fan of the second chance romance because, well, the DRAMA. But Shayla and Lexi did it right in this story... they split into two parts - past and present. So we actually get the buildup of the first relationship when Dax and Bambi Holland fell in love. This always helps me get invested in the story and relationship because I like to start at the beginning. That way, when the couple does reconnect, I can deal better with the drama. That being said, Shayla and Lexi did not drag out the drama here, which made me very happy. So I enjoyed the relationship ups and downs, even knowing that I would be a much better match for Dax than Holland. I may even let her have him as long as I can keep Conner.

Because half of the story takes place in the past, we also get to see a little more of Maddox Crawford, playboy extraordinaire. Man, I love Mad. I really hope he isn't dead.

I received an advanced copy of this book from Berkley Publishing in exchange for an honest review.

Full review posted at Bambi Unbridled.

What a great addition to this series. Friends since Creighton Academy, these men have bonded like brothers through thick and thin. Dax and Holland go through an emotional journey to find love and of course his brothers are beside him until the end.

The Perfect Gentlemen are a group of boys who grew up together at school all becoming very successful men in their own right. After the death of Mad, a member of the group, their lives have been surrounded by a mysterious conspiracy of lies and deaths which has brought them back together.

When Dax was looking into his father’s death a few years ago, he was involved in a steamy romance with Holland, an NCIS agent. Then all hell broke loose when she promptly dropped him and he went into a spiral which ended in a disastrous marriage to her friend. They both were hurt by their actions and his father’s reputation was in ruin. Now several years later he has uncovered new information and is in New Orleans to confront his past and maybe rekindle something he lost with Holland.

Holland had her own reasons years ago for breaking it off with Dax and now that he is back in her life she can’t deny the attraction that never went away. They both have some explaining to do but as the two start looking at the new clues the danger mounts and the sparks fly.

I love these authors; they bring intrigue, danger, sexy heroes and heroines together for an incredible ride. This is the third installment about these Perfect Gentlemen and the women who capture their hearts. The overall story arc that surrounds the friends continues as they come closer to finding answers to the ever growing questions about uncertain deaths, disappearances and real danger.

Dax is an amazing hero whose heart was broken several years ago. He never believed what the evidence said about his father and has spent years trying to find the truth that now leads back to the one woman he has never forgotten. With Holland answering some of the questions from the past, he is piecing together the information, both new and old to find the truth.

The two together are explosive, and the chemistry is electric. The authors put them in some amazing scenes together to prove this fact. They not only have to work around their own feelings but also the issues that have dogged the Perfect Gentlemen for many years. There are unending mysteries, more questions than answers and ever present danger. I can’t wait for the next book to see what these two authors will throw our way next, I know it will be another thriller.

The pace is fast and non-stop for most of the book, and it works well even though I am not a huge fan of a long backstory, and this has a dozy. I tend to want to get to the heart of the book, usually present day, so I was in a hurry to get to the second part of this story, and then the book took off for me. I highly recommend this series for mystery, danger and the sexy heroes and heroines.

Copy from the publisher for an honest review

The Perfect Gentlemen series by Shayla Black and Lexi Blake is completely captivating. These five men – these “Perfect Gentlemen” – and the women who round them out are some of the most compelling characters I’ve met in suspenseful romance. They are so very far from perfect, and yet they wear the hero moniker well. None of the three books out so far in this series has disappointed, and in fact, the further down the rabbit hole we get, the better the books.

Big Easy Temptation lent an especially emotional aspect to the story’s building blocks. We’re still trying to find out who killed the sixth member of the group – Maddox – and how that all ties in to the current president and Perfect Gentleman, Zack. In this third book, though, we see the lengths a son will go to in order to clear his family name. More than that, though, we see how far a woman in love will go in order to protect her man.

In Big Easy Temptation, many more layers to the overarching conspiracy are revealed. Some questions are answered. Many others are asked in their place. But, the part of the puzzle that’s worked on in this book has a personal tie to Dax, the Perfect Gentleman who is the Naval officer. Dax’s father was disgraced, when a scandal was revealed and he committed suicide in its wake. Heartbroken and determined to get to the bottom of a situation that makes no sense to him, Dax turns to a woman he can’t get out of his mind for help – NCIS prosecutor Holland Kirk.

Nearly half of this book occurs in the past – three years in the past, to be exact. We know in the beginning that Dax and Holland fell in love. We know they were working on clearing his dad’s name together. And we know that they bitterly broke up and that Dax has neither forgiven her or forgotten her. And, now he needs her help again. So, we spend most of the first half of the book rehashing their backstory so that the story in the present makes more sense.

At first I just wanted to get to the NOW, so I didn’t want to be bothered by so much THEN. But, after a chapter or two, I was very glad that the authors did things this way. That backstory is absolutely vital to what’s happening in the present. And, it added so much feeling and understanding as to why Holland and Dax broke up and why they both are still so torn up about it after so much time has passed.

I loved Dax from the moment I met him in book 1. I loved him so much more in this book. He has so much love for his mother and his sister. He doesn’t want to clear his father’s name to pave an easier way for him in his career – he wants to do it so that his loved ones can breathe easier and be content with their memories. He’s compassionate and protective and so loving toward the women in his life.

But Holland- just, WOW. I don’t think I’ve ever met a stronger female character. She fell in love and made a hard choice – the hardest choice ever. But, for her, it was the only choice in order to protect the people SHE loved. And then she lived with that for a very long time. I love that she didn’t make Dax’s road to redemption easy – he had A LOT to apologize for. I also love that she didn’t wait too long before she admitted that there was no way she would turn him away for good.

As has been the case with every other Perfect Gentleman novel, Big Easy Temptation was action-packed and full of many nail-biting moments. The closer we get to Zack’s story and the final book in the series, the more dangerous things seem to get. The wait in between books is such delicious torture, but one I will gladly endure since I want answers as much as these characters do.

4.5 stars---BIG EASY TEMPTATON is the third installment in Shayla Black and Lexi Blake’s adult, contemporary The Perfect Gentlemen erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on six friends –Gabe, Connor, Dax, Zach, Roman and Maddox. This is Naval Officer Daxton ‘Dax’ Spencer, and NCIS agent Holland Kirk’s story line. BIG EASY TEMPTATION should not be read as a standalone as the continuing series focuses on the death of several people close to the Perfect Gentlemen, and the search for the truth.

SOME BACKGROUND: Following the mysterious airplane crash and subsequent death of their friend Maddox Crawford, the remaining friends Gabe Bond, Dax Spencer, Connor Sparks, Roman and US president Zach Hayes finds themselves searching for the truth that somehow involves the Russian mob and the deaths of a number of people connected to their group known as The Perfect Gentlemen. THE PERFECT GENTLEMEN series are their stories

Told from dual third person perspectives (Dax and Holland), following three different timelines, BIG EASY TEMPTATION focuses on the rekindling of the relationship between Dax and Holland once destroyed by secrets and lies. With the mysterious death of his father, ruled a suicide, and the subsequent reopening of the investigation, Dax Spencer finds himself in the Big Easy-New Orleans-working with the woman who has stolen his heart. Holland Kirk is an investigator with the NCIS, and the death of Dax’s father was a closed case as far as the service was concerned. But Dax has never been able to let go of the past, and believes his father’s death was something more. What ensues is the further investigation into the elder Spencer’s death, and the threats aimed at Holland and Dax as they get too close to the truth.

The relationship between Dax and Holland is one of second and third chances. Years before Dax immediately fell for Holland Kirk-a woman on the fast track to joining the Navy’s NCIS but a woman who knew the history and tabloid ramblings about the Perfect Gentlemen and their conquest of lovers and scandals. Fast forward several years wherein our couple will work together investigating the suicide of Dax’s father only to fall victim to betrayals and lies. Present day will find our couple, once again, joining forces to uncover the truth, but a truth that will threaten everyone that they love. The sizzling chemistry and burning attraction between our leading couple is palpable but the elephant in the room may be too much to overcome. The $ex scenes are intimate, intense and seductive.

The world building continues to focus on the conspiracy and investigation into a series of unexplained deaths surrounding the Perfect Gentlemen and the people they love. From Washington DC to New Orleans to Russia, the Perfect Gentlemen search for the truth, and the connection to their friend- US president Zach Hayes-and the Russian mob. We get up close and personal into the private lives of six friends whose life of privilege is tainted by scandal and deceit.

BIG EASY TEMPTATION is a fantastic read; a suspense filled story where life long friends have been targeted in a game involving cold war enemies, and the potential fall out of betrayal and revenge. Long buried secrets and lies have come to the surface, and the Perfect Gentlemen have been caught in the battle of their lives. The premise is thrilling and enticing; the characters are engaging and dynamic; the romance is a second chance at a happily ever after. Shayla Black and Lexi Blake add a fascinating and spell-binding addition to The Perfect Gentlemen series.

Review of Big Easy Temptation - Shayla Black / Lexi Blake.
****5 Stars But 10 would be more accurate****
This review is written on behalf of THE BOOK NUTS REVIEWERS.

Book #3 in the Perfect Gentlemen series, Big Easy Temptation is centred around captain Daxton Spencer, a career Navy man.
He's one of the Perfect Gentlemen originally formed at Creighton Academy, but now a group of wealthy and privileged men who hold powerful positions in well healed society. Daxton, or Dax to his close friends, comes from a long line of career navy men. Dax's father Admiral Harold Spencer, disgraced the family after a major scandal involving an underage prostitute. He was found dead in his study, presumed to have committed suicide. The scandal that followed for the family, Dax's mother and his sister Augustine (Gus), was brutal and they only wanted to forget it all and move on.
Dax wasn't so sure of the finding of suicide or of the evidence presented, implicating his father in the whole sordid affair. He was determined to clear his fathers name and with the investigative resources of his well connected friends he'll stop at nothing to have his fathers record expunged.

Holland Kirk is an law enforcement officer with NCIS in New Orleans. She's known Dax for years, having met him through her connection with Zack Hayes wife, Joy. Their connection had always been incendiary, burning bright but Holland knew the reputation of The Perfect Gentlemen as womaniser. She chose to walk away from Dax ten years ago but now Dax has stepped back into her life, investigating a lead on his fathers murder.

Dax must use all his resources, including Holland, to try and solve the mystery of these interconnected murders, with ramifications all the way to the White House.

This book has it all. Intrigue, mystery, a stunningly gorgeous Navy officer who fell hard for a woman he met years ago and who now needs his protection from a mysterious Russian Bratva hit squad, hell bent on silencing anyone associated with The Perfect Gentlemen.

Ms Black and Blake have thoroughly secured their place in my all time favourite list of books with this scorching series. Each book singularly taking me on another seductive, sensual and secretive mystery ride. I eagerly await the release of their next book in this series, although I've not seen any preliminary information, I can only hope that the next book takes in the story of Roman and Augustine's non-romance and will continue to uncover the mystery surrounding these Perfect Gentlemen.

Bravo ladies. Beautifully crafted stories with wonderful characters that the reader can easily relate to or at least fantasise about! Wicked good reads!!

Review by Kathryn Dee

Years ago, Naval officer Dax Spencer and NCIS agent Holland Kirk indulged in a steamy affair—until she betrayed him in the wake of his father’s death. Dax tried to put her behind him with a payback of his own. But he never forgot Holland…

Now, as Dax and his fellow Perfect Gentlemen unravel a web of lies, he discovers his family’s tragedy is part of a much larger conspiracy. Soon, all clues point him back to New Orleans…where Holland waits, protecting her deadly secret and holding a torch for the only man she’s ever loved.

Once reunited, they can’t fight the passion flaring hot and wild. But something sinister lurks around every corner, from the elegance of the Garden district to the beauty of the bayou. Dax and Holland may find their way back to each other—if they survive...

Review:

This is my favorite of the series so far!

I don't want to spoil this for those who will not read until release date, so I will keep this spoiler free.

Let me just say that if you have read any other Black/Blake stories you will not be disappointed. This book was sexy, emotional , intriguing and excellently written, just as I come to expect from these two. This time around it is Dax's story and he really does come off as the perfect gentleman and so darn romantic! Love, love, love him!!!! Dax and Holland together are perfect, until it shatters and I was crying so hard when that happened. Theirs is a love torn apart. I really loved the range of emotions in this story. I could feel where both Dax and Holland were coming from and really felt their ups and downs. I also liked the on-going mystery to this series and how it was tied to this story. They did a really good job at keeping me guessing on who is in on the mystery and trying to keep it under wraps and who is not. Now, this is the third book in the series and because of events and mystery that threads its way through all three books, I would definitely recommend reading them in order.

I know this was a really vague review, but I don't want to give anything away or spoil things for others. Again, I will say this is my new favorite from these two Authors and I highly recommend this book and series.

5Stars

*Received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.*

4 Mr. Officer Dax Stars

Big Easy Temptation is a standalone and is part of The Perfect Gentlemen series. I’ve been reading this series from the beginning, each book builds upon each other, so if you haven’t started this series I would suggest you start with the first one, but you do not have to read the prior books.

This is Dax and Holland’s story.

Out of all the books in the series, Big Easy Temptation was written a little different. The book is structured in two parts and the first half of the book we get a glimpse of how Holland and Dax meet, we also get a glimpse of the gang, prior to Mad’s death. I have always been interested in Mad’s character (and I secretly want a book on him) so this was an interesting treat.

Also this book is a bit more mysterious and reads more crime thriller (in my opinion).

Dax and Holland have this unstoppable attraction for each other but the timing has never been right. Dax wants to be with Holland and has told her several times how much he wants it. Dax and Holland shared a kiss and that was it, but it was enough to leave an impression.

Now, Holland is working on her career and Dax needs a favor. Holland is strong, smart and loyal. Her career is her number one priority and as much as she wants to be with Dax, she doesn’t want to be a doormat wife. I understood her needs, but I wanted her to just give it all up and be with Dax.

Dax’s father commits suicide and Dax is determined to prove everyone wrong, no matter the cost. This is the focal point of the book and the mysterious aspect of it. Holland is assigned the case and Dax works with Holland to pursue the truth. He also pursues Holland at the same time.

I liked the mysterious element of the book and there’s a slight angst and tension between Holland and Dax, since we know something happens (it’s implied and foreshadowed in the book).

The second part of the book shifts and I really like this part. I really enjoyed reading Dax and I loved his determination for the truth and working out his issues towards Holland. The book has a lot of elements going on and you get the gang sprinkled throughout the read. Overall, a thrilling and mysterious read that keeps you on your toes.

I absolutely LOVED this book! If you’ve been following my reviews, then you know that I am OBSESSED with this series from the uber talented Shayla and Lexi! I knew this installment in the series was not going to disappoint when I am laughing on page 2. Literally. They were calling dibs. On women.
Big Easy temptation is the story of Dax and Holland, and their not-so-typical romance. Their romance has everything I crave in my relationships; betrayal, lies, deception, second and third chances, and a plethora of steam! I love the relationships that, at one point, seems there is no hope for reconciliation, but the talented authors find a way to make them fall in love again.
The book is split into two parts. I loved that they broke the book out this way. Many times, you read a book that hops around from past to present from chapter to chapter, and the next thing you know, you have no clue what decade you’re in! This was written very clearly, so I was able to keep up with the back and forth.
We have been following the main plot line, the mystery of Maddox’s death, the list and finding out what happened to Zack’s wife, interwoven throughout all the installments of the series. It seems just when you think you’ve figured it out, another twist comes along and BAM, back to square one with your theories! There is an abundance of talented authors out there right now, but so very few who can master more than one sub-genre in romance. Some are very good at the erotica, some are funny, and some write a really good suspense. It is so rare to find an author (or collaborative piece from two authors) than can cover two of these categories, but Shayla and Lexi have mastered all three! I laughed, I cried, all while my head was racing to try to predict what was going to happen next!
I still have a couple of theories that have yet to be proven or disproven for this series, but I think we are going to have to wait and see what comes about in the next books! I cannot WAIT for the next book!

This is book 3 in the Perfect Gentlemen series. I have not read book 1 or 2 (I will go back and read) and I wasn't lost while reading this one, but I think it would have helped to have read them because this book is so fast paced.

Some books are so good, you just want your review to say.....READ IT! I'm sure my review won't do it justice, but I'll do my best. This was a very deep book, with lots of twists and for me, is hard to put into words.

Jax was part of the Creighton Academy manwhores in his school. Since then Zack is married and hopefully on his way to becoming the next president of the United States. Conner, Maddox and Gabe were also in his "pack".

At Zack's wedding Jax sees Holland and he's still smitten with her. But she still thinks he's immature (he assumes). There's chemistry between these two (plus a little history)!! Now, Holland is NCIS and she's so a "in charge" woman! Love the hard time she continually gives Jax!!

People are getting killed because of a list. Zack's wife got killed and they thought the target was Zack. Jax's dad committed suicide...or did he? Jax wants the investigation reopened to find out what really happened. But, can he convince Holland to reopen it. And if it gets reopened, what kind of can of worms are they opening? What if it puts other lives in danger?

This book was fast paced, with lots of characters to keep track of and lots of deception, twist and turns! Some parts for me, were kinda hard to keep up with because I tend to glaze over when ever anything political happens (in books and real life). So, I had to really pay attention at what I was reading.

There was just so many things in this book I didn't see coming! It was an amazing book!! I love these two authors, they always keep me captivated at what they write!! I loved how the Creighton Academy boys, even as adults always have each other's back! Loved Holland and her spitfire self!! The whole time I was reading this I was thinking, it would make a great movie!!

Received in exchange for an honest review

Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha

Sexy…Addictive…Explosive…SENSATIONAL! This writing duo can DO NO WRONG! Shayla Black and Lexi Blake are two bright stars in my literary world! I count on them to build me up and to make my day brighter with their wonderful romance, suspense, and undeniable intrigue. They have never steered me wrong and I’m guaranteed a wonderful escape from reality when it comes to their work, separately and as co-writers. BIG EASY TEMPTATION has to be my FAVORITE of The Perfect Gentlemen series! From the beginning, I had a huge crush on Dax Spencer and I was thrilled to start his happily ever after. The woman these ladies picked for this gorgeous perfect gentlemen, is Holland Kirk. She is no weeping willow. She is strong, independent, and tells it like it is. The chemistry that they shared was intense and beautiful. Even years apart, couldn’t extinguish the passion they have when they are together. These two strong-willed individuals clash and come together over and over and it just makes the flame burn brighter.

Betrayal, death, and tragedy will not keep these two away from each other . But an enemy threatens to tear apart everything they worked so hard to accomplish. There is no skimping on the sex, thrills, and suspense in book #3 of Black and Blake’s stunning Perfect Gentlemen series. Whether it is the blush on my cheeks from the dirty talk, or the pit in my stomach from the heartbreak, the journey of Dax and Holland is not an easy one, but it’s one that will captivate and amaze you. You will NOT be able to put this down once you start. There is adventure, passion, and angst around every corner! These incredibly talented ladies gives us an AWESOME romance with tons of heart and tons of passion. There is even a nice little surprise at that end that made me smile! Do yourself a favor and immerse yourself into the world of The Perfect Gentlemen. You will be so glad you did!

*Gifted copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*

In the wake of his father’s death, NCIS agent Holland Kirk betrayed him, so Naval officer Dax Spencer has tried to put her behind him but in unraveling a web of lies, the clues send him back to New Orleans where Holland waits in this commanding romance.

Holland is protecting a deadly secret and holding a torch for the only man she’s ever loved and the readers can’t help but get caught up in this powerful and gripping tale as the passion flares hot and wild between Dax and Holland once again. With the sizzling chemistry between these two the readers can’t help but feel as if they belong together but this relationship is in quite a bit of trouble which grips readers by the heart with the potent emotional turmoil that flows from the pages. These strong characters are captivating and easily engage readers which adds to the allure of the fast paced, smooth flowing plot full of suspense, excitement and romance.

This is one relationship that really speaks to readers because of the very long and hard road that it takes, which keeps anticipation building while something sinister lurks around every corner and keeps the adrenaline pumping excitement flowing which if you have kept up with the series so far you know that this intriguing conspiracy just keeps getting more compelling and deadly with lots of twists and turns that keep readers guessing, especially as it seems that the more the Perfect Gentlemen uncover, the more they realize just how deep the rabbit hole goes.

As usual the scenes are well written and full of great details that really made it easy for me to become caught up in all the intrigue and romance, so it didn’t surprise me one bit when I realized that I forgot all about the real world (much to my family’s annoyance) and I can’t wait to find out what happens next.

well isn't this just filled with twists and turns. so our good old Naval captain gets his shot at love. and one, might i add, he almost didn't get at all.

this love story is full of alot, alot, of hurt and betrayal... from both Dax and Holland. but it's also full of alot of sweet too. the way this story is written is interesting. we're in present day, then it's almost as if someone hit rewind and we go to the past .. everything plays out, hearts bleed red, and the story unfolds to current day. and I loved how that was done.

i also really liked the twists and turns the authors threw in this book. we have alot of. very unexpected twists and I'm dying to know the truth behind the conspiracy. I'm also dying to know if all our Perfect Gentlemen will get a HEA or not. i mean they have to, right? LB and SB won't dole out anymore heartbreak, will they?

i loved the story of Dax and Holland , even if my heart broke a little. but LB and SB did a great job of keeping me on the edge of my seat with all the angst from the emotional drama and the suspense of the truths being unveiled. it seems like every time something is unveiled, we have fifty more questions. i really hope we get them all answered.

i love when it came to Holland And Dax, they were both super strong charaxters who were able to have a softer, vulnerable side when together. Dax doesn't have to save that side just for the PGs , Holland now gets that too.. she has for years. it was a great balance to the characters. and how the authors wove all the characters together was perfection.

*paperback provided by the publisher for an honest review*

This is Book 3 of The Perfect Gentlemen series. This can be read as a stand-alone, but you will learn things about the previous books, so if you don’t want any spoilers – start from the beginning.

This series revolves around “The Perfect Gentlemen” boyhood friends from Creighton Academy – Maddox, Gabe, Connor, Zack, and Daxton. This story is about Dax and the woman he’s loved for 10 years, Holland Kirk. Dax is a captain in the Navy and commands his own ship while Holland is a NCIS agent. They knew each other from school, but Holland walked away after an intense first kiss.

The story oscillates from the recent past to the present. Several years ago – Holland betrayed Dax and he’s never forgiven her, but he is determined to find out the circumstances surrounding his father’s death and Holland is the one to help him unravel it.

I really enjoyed the bond between the 5 friends and the women in their lives. I look forward to Gus’ (aka Augustine, Dax’s sister) story in the next book. The book was a little long, so there were times when I felt the story dragged a little bit, but parts of it were very riveting. And it does keep you guessing as to how all the pieces will fall together.

My favorite part was near the end when the guys were together talking about their loves. I thought it was really revealing and it is refreshing to read about mature, masculine men who can talk to their best friends about their feelings.

This looks to be a good series and I look forward to reading more from these two authors.

Reviewed by K S for The Book Nuts.

Angst, suspense, second chance romance, witty banter --- sign me up! The writing duo of Shayla Black and Lexi Blake is fabulous and seamless. These two authors have yet again struck it out of the ballpark with the third installment of The Perfect Gentlemen series. As readers, we aren't just thrown into an already rolling relationship, or new love, we are first introduced to Holland and Dax 10 years prior when their attraction began. Assumed betrayals and separations ensued. But then, in order to figure out what happened to Dax' father, they must come back together. Sigh.

The storyline is wrapped up in a nice package, the men that we have grown to love in the first two books make appearances (no, I'm not weighing in on the Mad is dead debate), and we are left waiting with baited breath for the next book. Which will come soon...right ladies?

I have always enjoyed Shayla Black and Lexi Blake stories as they write seamlessly together. Big Easy Temptation is the first book I have read in The Perfect Gentlemen Series. It can be read as a standalone as each book is about a different couple, but there are events and characters that are interspersed between the three stories. This one is about the gorgeous and sexy Marine Dax and NCIS superwoman Holland. This story covers a number of years between when they first meet, share a steamy kiss, and meet again after the apparent suicide of Dax’s father when he asks Holland to help him investigate it. Ms. Black and Ms. Blake, as always, write some sexy steamy scenes, I want my own Dax in my bed! There is a conspiracy involved that involves the White House and a Russian mob and unfortunately, Holland gets caught in the crossfire and is made to seem as though she betrayed Dax. Dax is devastated and ends up with a drunken marriage to Holland’s best friend, Courtney. Fast forward 3 more years and Dax returns back to New Orleans, divorced, with new leads and with the help of his high level friends, recruits Holland to open the investigation again. There is murder, gunfights, drama, some combustible, sexy scenes, family betrayal, you name it, this story has it all! Does Dax and Holland get their HEA? You will need to read the rest of this awesome story! I will definitely be going back and reading the first 2 books in this series!

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Barb from Alpha Book Club

3.5 Stars
Reviewed by Francesca and posted at Under The Covers Book Blog

The intrigue in this series always keeps me interested and this book seemed like it could’ve moved things along quite nicely. Instead, it was more of a tease. BIG EASY TEMPTATION features Dax Spencer and his one and only love, NCIS agent Holland Kirk. He’s been in love with her as long as he can remember but he’s also been badly betrayed by her. Or so he thought.

This book goes back and forth in time just a bit to give us a good glimpse of what that betrayal was and how it affects their relationship today. But personally, I wish that past would’ve been glossed over more and that we had gotten more in terms of moving forward in the present. Both for the relationship between Dax and Holland and for the overall answers we want in the series plot.

As far as the heat? Dax and Holland sizzled! He’s very alpha and she’s a tough chick and when these two head strong characters crash, there’s definitely lots of sparks flying. It was so easy to see and believe that they were IT for each other and that love was what kept them from finding other people to be happy with even in the years they were apart.

This book definitely leaves us with lots of questions and anxious to continue reading to get to the bottom of this whole conspiracy. And of course to see Zach and Roman get their HEAs. As it’s obvious the President will be last, I hope Roman’s book is next so Dax’s sister can shake up his perfect world.

Three years ago, in the wake of his father’s scandalous affair and subsequent death, Dax Spencer found comfort in the arms of Holland Kirk. Holland and Dax had a quick, steamy affair that ended when Holland’s betrayal came to light. After cutting all ties, Dax is thrust back into Holland's life when more details of the conspiracy surrounding the deaths of some of the Perfect Gentlemen’s loved ones come to light.

Holland is an NCIS agent stationed in New Orleans, and all current clues point Dax in that direction. Dax doesn't realize Holland's been keeping a secret from him for all this time—one that could prove deadly. As Dax and Holland get reacquainted, they can't deny their feelings, but as more details of the conspiracy are revealed, will Dax and Holland survive long enough to truly reunite?

Man, oh man, I love this series. I cannot get enough to of Dax, Zack, Connor, Roman and Gabe! And I adore strong-minded, determined female leads—Holland is amazing, and so is Dax. I love the two of them together and was heartbroken when circumstances split them apart. I found myself silently cheering for them to work it all out—I had to keep turning the pages to find out where things between them ended up, because it could have gone either way. Now I'm dying to read Roman and Gus’ story!

Reviewed on behalf of Give Me Books

✦Spotlight & Review: BIG EASY TEMPTATION: The Perfect Gentlemen Series by Shayla Black and Lexi Blake[...]
Publication Date: May 3, 2016
Genre: Contemporary Romance/ Romantic Suspense
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Cori
Rated: 5 Stars

REVIEW:
Big Easy Temptation is my new series favorite! I loved it! It's one of those books you end up staying up all night reading because you can't put it down and that's exactly what I did. Big Easy Temptation is the third book in Shayla Black and Lexi Blake's Perfect Gentlemen series and I recommend reading the first two books before picking up this one. While they can be read as standalones each book is about a different gentleman in a group of powerful men that met in boarding school. I love all of Shayla Black and Lexi Blake's Perfect Gentlemen in this series but Dax *fans face* is the perfect man. He's ultimate alpha male hero material. Holland Kirk and Dax Spencer's story is a second chance romance full of hot romance and page turning suspense. I recommend this book for romantic suspense lovers that want a hot love story with the thrills of a great suspense story. I can't wait to read the rest of the Perfect Gentlemen's stories. This series is on my favorites list and I can't wait to see what happens next in the next release.

*Review copy provided by Penguin in exchange for an honest review.

“Big Easy Temptation” by Shayla Black and Lexi Blake is the third installment of “The Perfect Gentlemen” series. You will need to start at the beginning!

He’s a Naval Officer and she’s a NCIS agent and a year ago they had an affair that was off the charts— until she betrayed him. He’s tried to put her behind him, but when he gets the chance to give her a taste of her own medicine, he can’t pass it up.

First, I have to say that Dax is mine! Shannon, you can’t have him! Mwahaha! Okay, back to the reviewing part. Dax and Holland are both strong headed, but one thing I really love about these two is that Dax knows that Holland doesn’t need coddling. She can handle a gun just as good, perhaps even better than Dax. She also has an attitude where she won’t take any BS from anyone including Dax’s friends.

Dax..oh mama I want to write an essay about him, but maybe I’ll do that for another time. He’s a slick charmer with a heart of gold. Lethal, intelligent, strong and a man who isn’t afraid to show is soft side! What more could I possibly ask for?

Now, reunited these two seem to igniting a flame that should have been extinguish years ago, but as they slowly give in to their secrets a greater danger lurks in the bayou. Dax and Holland might get a second chance of what could have been—if they survive…

Review On Behalf Of Once Upon An Alpha
**ARC for Honest Review**

Yay!!!!! Dax's story! I could not wait for this book! Especially after the tid bits of information we were fed in book 2, .
Dax heads back to his home turf of New Orleans when the mystery unfolded enough to reveal his father's death may be tied into the big conspiracy the Perfect Gentlemen have been dealing with. Dax intends to finally get to the bottom of how his father died and unravel what actually happened in his fathers last few months.
Also waiting for Dax in New Orleans is Holland, the one who got away. And they certainly did not leave things on a good note the last time they spoke!
I really enjoyed how the story flashed back to the past so we got the full story on what occurred between these two in the past and I thought it very clever how the story was woven together nicely.
I admired Holland, I thought she was a great character, she's an NCIS cop and takes no crap from anyone. She's not a demure and quiet woman who easily submits; I really admired her strength. She certainly gave Dax a run for his money, being an alpha male his protective streak is strong but Holland won't be wrapped in cotton wool, she's a fierce chick who can certainly hold her own when the going gets tough.
This is a great series, one I'd highly recommend and I can't wait for more from the Perfect Gentlemen! I'm looking forward to seeing the fierce and sassy Gus run rings around Roman!

Absolutely loved this book. This is the third book of a series, and I recommend reading the other three books before this one. It helps to understand the whole conspiracy their all trying to figure out. As usual, Shayla Black and Lexi Blake don't disappoint! I especially love the types of characters who have so much attraction to each other, yet are haunted by their past interactions and misconceived perceptions. Although they both genuinely cared for each other, because of Dax's fathers death, their pulled apart. Thus ensues many years of angst and longings unfulfilled. Then their thrown into each others lives again, and must decide if they can forgive their pasts, and each other. As usual, this was a book I had a hard time putting down. I just loved it!

***ARC provided in exchange for an honest review - Jacquie / Scandalous Book Blog***
This is the third book in the Perfect Gentlemen series and these must be read in order as a story unfold through the books.
In this outing we deal with the revelations from the end of book two, and it’s Dax’s turn to investigate as he’s thrown together with his ex Holland to re investigate the death of his father.
You just know when Lexi Blake and Shayla Black team up your looking at a fabulous story line with a hot alpha male, but this series is the best they’ve ever written. The first two books were wonderful but I think this was possible my favourite it had it all suspense, sex, scandal and Captain Awesome in all his glory. As with the first two books it ends on a bit of a cliff hanger as we await the next Perfect Gentleman’s story. I seriously can’t wait for the next book I’ll be stalking both authors !

Big Easy Temptation is the third book in the Perfect Gentleman Series by Shayla Black and Lexi Blake. These books are interconnected standalones. Each book is about a new couple but the storyline is a continuing story. I don't believe these books could be read out of order. I truly believe you would be very confused and lost if this series isn't started with the first book (Scandal Never Sleeps).

As with the previous books, I can’t talk too much about the mystery storyline. Anything I say pertaining to the continuing plot would be a spoiler. I will say this….this book does answer some of the questions that the other books raise. Things start to make sense after reading this book. NO the mystery isn’t completely solved in this book, but one aspect was. You will be left with more questions after reading this book, that I am sure will be answered in the next book. As with the other books, the authors set up the next book nicely in the last chapter. I think Roman’s book will be an interesting one. I feel a lot of angst coming!!!

Besides this book being an amazing romantic suspense story, this third book is actually also a second chance romance between Holland and Dax. This book is broken into 2 parts. Part 1 is Dax and Holland in the past and their relationship. Part 2 is told in the present time and takes off exactly where the second book ended. I will say that my only real complaint with this book was, I felt that it focused too much on the past between Holland and Dax. I didn’t think half of the book needed to be taken up to explain everything. To me it took away from the mystery of the story and kind of slowed the pace down too much. With that said I still enjoyed this book, but just not as much as the first book in the series.

The mystery line of the plot is my favorite part of this series. These authors have me on the edge of my seat, just waiting to see how this will all work out in the end. I want all the answers to my questions!!!! The love story of each of the books is also good, but it wouldn’t upset me if it wasn’t as big of a part as the suspense aspect.

These authors do know how to create a steamy book though. The sex scenes in this book and the others are off the charts. I also love that they didn’t overload the book with sex. These books are a great mix of romance, mystery, suspense and sex. Their writing styles mesh so well everything is just seamless!!

Again if you are a fan of the romantic suspense type love story, or just someone looking for something new and different to read, then I would definitely recommend this book/ series. This is also a great book for anyone who is a fan of the second chance romance. But don’t forget….READ these books in order!!! If you love a storyline with a lot of twists and turns, then this is a series you don’t want to miss. You won’t see anything coming….these authors will keep you guessing ;)

Dax just may be my favorite of the Perfect Gentlemen. I mean really, how am I supposed to resist a warm, caring, protective military man who will give everything to protect those he loves? It’s a simple answer: I can’t. And sweet, sweet Holland is the perfect mirror for him. Just as warm, caring, and protective as he is. The mystery and scandal surrounding them gets deeper and more complex, and I can’t wait to see what happens next for this band of brothers.

I was gifted this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

This was an easy book to get lost in. I enjoyed every moment of getting to know the characters. This book could have gone in many different directions easily. I loved Holland. She was a spitfire who could hold her own in a man's world. Dax knows what he wants and isn't afraid to stop until he gets it. He has a way to him that makes you want to know him. He has his sights set on Holland and that’s what he wants. I couldn't wait to read more. There are lots of twists that will make you turn the pages quickly. I don't want to give anything away, but this book is well worth the read. I can't wait to see what is next for this series. Lindsey, Reviewer for Mommy's Naughty Playground.

did the authors abandon this series?? it's been a year since this book came out & i can't find any information on the next. now i'm stuck with all these questions on the plot and zero conclusion. i wouldn't have started the series if i realized it wouldn't be finished. :/

Shayla Black and Lexi Blake have done it again with an amazing plot driven with twists and turns no one could predict book. I loved see Dax Spencer fall for Holland Kirk and be a true guy aka idiot who makes mistakes. The book does spend time leading up to the main portion gaoing back several years and see them grow together. Black and Blake are known for their steamy make you blush romance, this wasn't it to me. I felt the plot was a huge driving force and they kept it going, yes we see some sexy times but not overly done. Besides, who wouldn't want a Perfect Gentleman of their own?

Big Easy Temptation is the third book in the Perfect Gentleman Series by Shayla Black and Lexi Blake. These books are interconnected standalones. Each book is about a new couple but the storyline is a continuing story. I don't believe these books could be read out of order. I truly believe you would be very confused and lost if this series isn't started with the first book (Scandal Never Sleeps).

As with the previous books, I can’t talk too much about the mystery storyline. Anything I say pertaining to the continuing plot would be a spoiler. I will say this….this book does answer some of the questions that the other books raise. Things start to make sense after reading this book. NO the mystery isn’t completely solved in this book, but one aspect was. You will be left with more questions after reading this book, that I am sure will be answered in the next book. As with the other books, the authors set up the next book nicely in the last chapter. I think Roman’s book will be an interesting one. I feel a lot of angst coming!!!

Besides this book being an amazing romantic suspense story, this third book is actually also a second chance romance between Holland and Dax. This book is broken into 2 parts. Part 1 is Dax and Holland in the past and their relationship. Part 2 is told in the present time and takes off exactly where the second book ended. I will say that my only real complaint with this book was, I felt that it focused too much on the past between Holland and Dax. I didn’t think half of the book needed to be taken up to explain everything. To me it took away from the mystery of the story and kind of slowed the pace down too much. With that said I still enjoyed this book, but just not as much as the first book in the series.

The mystery line of the plot is my favorite part of this series. These authors have me on the edge of my seat, just waiting to see how this will all work out in the end. I want all the answers to my questions!!!! The love story of each of the books is also good, but it wouldn’t upset me if it wasn’t as big of a part as the suspense aspect.

These authors do know how to create a steamy book though. The sex scenes in this book and the others are off the charts. I also love that they didn’t overload the book with sex. These books are a great mix of romance, mystery, suspense and sex. Their writing styles mesh so well everything is just seamless!!

Again if you are a fan of the romantic suspense type love story, or just someone looking for something new and different to read, then I would definitely recommend this book/ series. This is also a great book for anyone who is a fan of the second chance romance. But don’t forget….READ these books in order!!! If you love a storyline with a lot of twists and turns, then this is a series you don’t want to miss. You won’t see anything coming….these authors will keep you guessing ;)

Book three in the Perfect Gentlemen series has us no closer to answers in this crazy tangle of mystery but what we do find is another one of our PG's succumbing to love in all it's gruesome glory. So far Gabe and Connor have found the women they plan on spending the rest of their lives with now it's Dax's turn but the only problem is that he already has met the love of his life and he can't stand the sight of her...

Holland Kirk has known all of the PG's for years and even served as bridesmaid during the now deceased Joy's wedding to Zack. While being an NCIS officer and investigating less than desirable things life has to offer Holland really had no interest in dating any of the guys but there was just something about Dax that called to her. After a missed connection at the wedding Dax and Holland get to meet up again down the road when Dax is investigating his father's death in NOLA. Things turned hot and heavy fairly quickly until Holland is warned off from Dax all together...

Dax Spencer is more or less the quiet one of Creighton Academy's Perfect Gentlemen. Where his friend's enjoy the high life and party scene, Dax just seems to be along for the ride. Three years ago he was in NOLA ready to propose to the love of his life when she ripped his heart out in the most spectacular way and now he has to go back home and talk to her again. After finding all the new evidence regarding his father and the investigation Dax can't rest until he knows for sure what really happened that night. The only problem is the one person that can help him is the woman who sold his family out and crushed his heart in the process...

So many questions and even more theories are running through my head on just who could be pulling the puppet strings. I am dying to find out all the answers in the next 2-3 books :)

Loved the ongoing plot line under the main story of the relationship between Dax and Holland. The story line takes you back to the beginning of their relationship 3 years ago and how it ended, with the other none the wiser. Scorching scenes and second chances leave you breathless. Can't wait for the next installment!!

I got this book not knowing it was a third book in a series.. While I like both authors as writers; I didn't like them writing together.. Like another reader said this book was too much in the past.. I didn't care for it at all.. I may the next book since I liked Dax sister a lot.. I just hope the authors don't spend too much in the past like this book..

This has been a great series so far... I love the suspense and romance!!!! Holland and Dax have made mistakes in the past based on being manipulated by people we are still learning who are behind the danger.... The romance is HOT!!!! Can't wait until the next book is released.

I loved Dax and Holland's story. All the intrigue going on with Dax's father case keeps you guessing, I have been waiting for the next book in the series! Shayla Black and Lexi Blake have done a wonderful job!