Jackson Now that Leland’s decided to give up his life as a hitman and take a walk on the mild side, we’ve been enjoying a simple life of taking down bad guys the legal way. I didn’t know he would be just as reckless as a PI, but it’s not my fault if I happen to enjoy helping him hunt down the occasional criminal. If only I could keep the house from being overrun by Leland’s gun shrine—or stop him … shrine—or stop him from making our cases “more exciting” by terrorizing people into confessing. Overall, life seems perfect, right?
Wrong.
We’ve been called in to investigate a suspicious murder committed by someone claiming to be the Sandman. When we find a note on the victim’s body, we realize that this could ruin our lives forever.
Leland:
I wasn’t involved in the murder. It might look like my writing and my note, but I wouldn’t do that to Jackson—especially after I promised him that I wouldn’t take a hit ever again. At least, not without telling him. I’m finally starting to learn that we’re stronger together, and I’m not going to jeopardize that.
Luckily for both of us, this copycat doesn’t know who he’s dealing with. Game’s on, fake Sandman. You think you can mess with me? Well, maybe you can, but that’s beside the point, because I will protect Jackson no matter what, even if I almost drown him in the process. (Really, that wasn’t my fault. He should learn how to swim better.)
This 110k word book contains: Disco ball piñata, camping with Sasquatch, an acrobatic housekeeper named “Mr. Cleanyface,” a questionable massage table, weapons everywhere, Jackson’s nemesis—the fence, a turkey showdown, aerial silk antics, a reappearance of Blow-up Randy, over-the-top body armor, too many hitmen, and so many emotions that Leland’s chest might explode. This is the second book in a series—while you could read and enjoy it on its own, you really should read The Hitman’s Guide to Making Friends and Finding Love for maximum enjoyment.
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A rating. Both of these books in this series are brilliant, but I loved the way that Jackson embraced Leland’s crazy brand of humor in this one. When they would gang up on Henry (and others)…I constantly found myself laughing out loud. A great, fun, entertaining series, but be warned…Leland is beyond quirky when it comes to his sense of humor.
The second book in the Hitman’s Guide series is just as fast paced, action-packed, and incredibly funny as the first book. This book could be read as a standalone, but I highly suggest the series is read in order for maximum enjoyment. Alice Winters is the master of snarky humor and highly entertaining banter. The main characters are already an established couple, but their relationship is still extremely enjoyable to read about, plus there’s plenty of steamy scenes that pair really well Alice’s trademark humor. The audiobook is also well done and was a fun listen.
**********Contains Spoilers**********
I thoroughly enjoyed this book but I found in places it dragged a wee bit. I still love Leland and Jackson and think they’re perfect for each other, who else would put up with Leland? Leland’s past comes back to haunt him when he finds out that Lucas his ab*sive mentor who trained him and other teenagers including Cassel to be the ruthless ass*ssins but Leland thought he’d k*lled him after Lucas told him to k*ll Henry’s partner as he’s a dirty cop but he was completely innocent, he was just getting to close to Lucas aka the original Sandman so he needed taking out, after Henry’s partner was sh*t he told Leland that he was being lied too so it made Leland realise that he’s had enough of taking orders from Lucas and the only way to escape is to k*ll him. I loved Cassel being added into the mix, he’s the brother Leland now has but never would’ve asked for. I laughed out loud so many times during this book. When Leland st*bbed the driver with a kn*fe held between his toes in the neck was completely bada*se when him and Jackson had been abd*cted when Cassel set them up by telling them that it could get them close to Grim one of Lucas’s ass*ssins’ but really he had a plan to get them close to Lucas by sending them into a trap. Cassel was lucky both Leland and Jackson didn’t get hurt as he wouldn’t be alive for very long. I’m looking forward to seeing how the Cassel and Jeremy situation plays out. I just love how Henry puts up with Leland but I have to say that him pushing Leland’s chair out the door of his office and slamming the door in his face when Leland kept on telling Daddy Henry to sit on his lap was priceless. I’m looking to seeing what antics Jackson and Leland to in the next book. I’d definitely recommend this book, series and author to everyone.
Flowers & balls
I must admit Leland makes a lot sense. It’s a weird, hilarious sort of sense—like his saints—but he has a way with words and people. He and Jackson also have the most entertaining forms of role play, which are strangely sexy. I really enjoy how Leland holds entire conversations about NSFW topics while making them out to be about mundane things and how he twists them to suit his side of things and I so want to celebrate the holidays with Jackson, Leland and the family.
“It’s too late, I’ve involved myself with the king of mischief and fell in love. There’s no turning back now.” Gah, I love how much Jackson loves Leland and will do anything for him. I also love how silly they are with each other and how Leland is “allergic” to emotions but has such strong ones when anything involves his Jackson. They are incredible, funny, heartwarming and are an outstanding team. They stole my heart from the very first page. I adore this wonderful family and there’s one in particular I hope we see lots more of. A laugh out loud, adrenaline-fueled adventure with a twist that may have you searching for a handy exit via a back door.
I haven’t laughed so much since the last Hitmams Guide.
Alice Winters knows how to make her characters come to life and Michael really added the final touches.
Comedy is written throughout this book, with loving touches and maybe a few deaths. You really can’t describe this book, it’s one you have to read or listen to, to really appreciate it. Having read and then listened to them, I have a big silly grin on my face. I probably look a little manic just like the MC. Such a great book/audio.
Alice writes what is arguably the funniest characters in the genre. This second book in the Hitman series is no exception with plenty of hilarious antics and even more character development from the friends we made in book 1. There is plenty of action, oodles of heat and the laughs are abundant. Michael Ferraiuolo’s narration is on point and brings further enjoyment to already sharp dialogue, sweet scenes and exciting tension!
The first book in this series set a really high standard for this second book but Ms Winters was totally up to the challenge. Now Leland and Jackson are evolving as a couple, while fighting some foes from Leland’s past and trying to kept their family and friends in one piece. Again full of hilarious dialogues and situations in between action, danger, romance and hot scenes, this book have me laughing throughout all the pages. And the amazing epilogue??? So sweet and wonderful!!! Loved it!
KU. Unfortunately this is going in my DNF stack. I gave the first one 3 stars, but this fell flat for me. Jackson began to sound more and more like Leland. There was back and forth between them without any indicator of who was actually speaking, and I couldn’t always tell. I found myself re-reading paragraphs trying to figure out who was saying what.
Also, the “shtick” drowned out the story. Pages of jokes & OTT banter left me trying to remember the plot.
I’d be willing to give the author another try as I liked the “In Darkness” books, but this series just isn’t clicking for me.
With the same level of awesome as book 1, I was so very pleased. The humor was just as fantastic, but this time around I felt a level of depth that made it so much richer. From the through-the-roof ridiculousness to Jackson’s sappy, constant declarations, Leland is firmly ensconced on the path of personal healing, but not without his special brand of humor to lighten all the feely moments.
Jackson’s heart continues to be just as sentimental and the perfect level of cheesy goodness for Leland’s seemingly cavalier responses to human emotion. His adamant and dramatic response to the heart-tingles is pretty much my favorite funny bits. That and their sexual shenanigans continue to be hugely, inappropriately hilarious and on point for their relationship. I like that Jackson is so clearly whipped and will give in to all of Leland’s outlandish ideas and yet it doesn’t feel like he’s being taken advantage of…well, not in a negative or viciously manipulative way.
What’s nice in this story is that Jackson is finally getting through to Leland without making empty promises or assurances of “I’ll be fine” or anything similar to that platitude, instead he emphasizes choices and those who truly bear responsibility for them. It helps with his perspective regarding the whole Lucas thing too.
That brings me to the Lucas drama. I wasn’t convinced. There was just something off here. Either the build-up was too much, the confessions were too stereotypical or predictable, the accomplices were slight caricatures, or just something else, but I wasn’t really feeling that whole scene. The two characters that chose sides by the end were suspect for me so I won’t say I was surprised the the “baddies”, especially with an instance of pronoun usage that caused me to lean a certain way in my suspicions. I think one of them became more complicated in a good way while the other was demoted from a thinker and a doer to a mindless, emotionless puppet and I can’t say I was thrilled with that last one, though I kind of forgive the cast off because it wasn’t like I was completely drawn in by them before that point.
There’s more depth to this story than the last one and the trite romantic pitfalls and conflicts that could have been used were non-issues which I absolutely appreciated. The family tensions were there as before, but I am thinking I’m going to like where we eventually end up, especially if Lewis continues to interject his bits of surprising playfulness. Overall I was so pleased that we got more from these men and I’m looking forward to anything else they get up to going forward. Especially if we get more from Jeremy and his admirer =].
Sorry, it seemed like it took me for freaking ever to read this book…and it certainly wasn’t because I didn’t like it. I COULD…NOT…STOP…LAUGHING. Yes there is some super steamy and serious subject matter in this story. I mean, Leland was a Hitman and as always, the minute life seems to be going too well, you know that other shoe is going to drop. This storyline was a doozy shoe dropper. But holy heck, I could not love a couple more than these two. Leland and Jackson = relationship goals. (Okay, maybe not the danger and guns but….everything else? YES). The humor this book has is some of the best I have read. Sure it can be over the top….but we all have that one friend (and yes I have one of them…I call him Frank lol) who just comes up with some seriously insane comments and you sit there and wonder how they can come up with it. I laughed to tears and then had to stop, read it to my husband (oh I STILL love saying that now lol), and then keep laughing because, yes that stuff is truly funny. A must read for rom – com…even if you don’t generally read MM.
5+ stars
Heat Level: 4
Just when I thought I couldn’t love Leland more…
OMG, this book, the main characters, the side characters, the writing, the shenanigans…it all comes together for the perfectly witty, laugh-out-loud hilarity that is the talent of Alice Winters!
Reader warning: do not drink while trying to read this book. It will most definitely result in a few spit-takes or liquids up nostrils or down the wrong pines. You have been warned!
I don’t know how Alice comes up with some of Leland’s one-lines but they are to be treasured! This book kicks off from the first and Leland and Jackson are very much together and “in love”. Working together, living together and adapting to their new lives, very much together.
Leland could NEVER be confused for boring and is always there to inject humor, share something inappropriate or tell anyone who would listen how he met Jackson (the ever-present fence run-in LOL). I love the wit and banter between Leland and Jackson and how Jackson “handles” Leland is endearing, funny and cute all in one.
With Leland’s past coming back to haunt and threaten in present. Jackson and Leland must work together, stay together and call in the cavalry to escape Leland’s past alive and whole. I loved the progress and growth Leland makes throughout this adventure and his “dying/pain” with regards to feelings and love are a great and very unique Leland reality check; add-in Leleand’s continued banter and inappropriateness with Jackson’s mum and there is laughter at every turn, even while you’re fighting for your life.
This was easily a standout read for the year for me and Leland and Jackson just keep getting better! I really hope we get to see more of Leland and Jackson and perhaps a little spin-off with the delightful Jerebear and Cassel which could be a mismatched adventure waiting to happen!
I totally loved it and if you haven’t read this series or this author YOU. NEED. TOO!!!
Hilarity guaranteed!!!
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This book has done it. My mouth is now permanently sore from grinning and laughing non-stop! I swear, if you didn’t think it was possible, Leland has once again outdone himself with his jokes and outrageous hilarity. We have some great additions to the sex dungeon, plenty of costume changes for Jackson, and as always, the loveable and sarcastic banter between them (and between Leland and literally everyone else he ever talks too)!
Like the first in the series, it was amazingly well-written and not once was there a lull or an unnecessary dip in the pacing of the story. It was the perfect blend of page-turning action and mystery, and all the heart fluttering feels. Leland and Jackson are absolute perfection and I have not yet had nearly enough of them! I cannot recommend The Hitman’s Guide #2 highly enough (definitely start with book 1 if you haven’t read it yet so you can see the beginning of their amazing journey).
[I received an ARC from the author in exchange for my honest review].
While this book is hysterical, there is no way to overlook the action and suspense story weaved throughout Jackson and Leland’s romance. I’m pretty sure I like this book better than the first, but it’s a tough call.
In this, Leland’s past comes back to haunt him in a big way. The whole mystery starts off with a case that Henry brings to the P.I.’s. It strikes home with Leland, and he and Jackson are immediately on the case.
In the meantime, Leland is up to his outrageous, over-the-top banter, and Jackson gives his typical dry responses (even though he finds Leland absolutely irresistible). When Henry walks in on Leland brutally murdering cleaning appliances, and then Jackson finds out, Leland decides to hire a housekeeper. Now that’s a story of its own.
As they investigate leads, the hilarity continues. That is until they simultaneously realize who their suspect is; though all is not as it seems. When they arrive to stake out the address of this person of interest, things get crazy dangerous really fast; but whose side is the bad guy really on? They soon realize that the situation is a lot more in depth than they had anticipated, and a stray memory from Jackson gives Leland a whole new perspective.
It’s not just a case anymore; it’s Leland and everyone he knows and loves in mortal danger. The past thought long buried wants Leland back, and it’s willing to use every weapon in its arsenal to bring him home. He tries to leave; he can’t put Jackson and his family in danger. But Jackson is a force to be reckoned with in this story, and he is determined to stand by Leland’s side no matter what.
The suspense and danger escalates with every new lead they discover. Betrayal comes at a heavy price, but the fight is not over yet. Life goes on during this intense battle, and Leland, Jackson, and now a new…ally/sympathizer/??…team up to beat the big bad at their own game. Henry is a big help, and even the ever-lazy Mason does his part.
But Jackson’s evil mom and family are getting used to Leland’s antics, and he still can’t deal with strong emotions. He knows he loves Jackson with his entire being, and being included in the family is very important for his self-esteem. Even Henry and Jeremy are starting to come around; well, mostly Henry.
The denouement comes from an unexpected source, and the men are left scrambling. But when faced with the choice, Leland capitulates, and allows backup to be called in to help. The final battle is fraught with emotions and fear, but Leland realizes just how much he has changed since falling in love and just learning to FEEL.
Overall, I absolutely loved this book. The love Jackson has for Leland is unshakable, and even though Leland jokes and carries on, his feelings run just as deep. The ending is fun, and I am hoping for another story just to see it come to fruition. This is definitely a happily ever after for now ending…I say that because I am really hopeful there will be more adventures to come.
Happy reading!
* I received an ARC of this book and I am leaving my honest review. *
I love the way Alice Winters mind works. She has given her readers some of the best characters out there. I didn’t think it was possible but I love Leland more than ever. He is the perfect combination of snark, humor and feelings. He has met his perfect person with Jackson.
Of course they can’t stay out of trouble and once again are dodging hitmen, bullets and so much more.
They take their family and friends along for the ride. Amid all the fun and terror there are such beautiful moments of tenderness between Leland and Jackson. The love they share is full of acceptance and joy.Seeing the progression of their relationship takes the readers on quite the journey.
I think Henry is my new favorite secondary character, along with the addition of Cassel!
I don’t ever want their adventures to stop! Keep these stories coming!
I honestly didn’t think Leland and Jackson’s relationship could get anymore ridiculous but oh man was I wrong! Jackson now helps Leland torture everyone with inappropriateness! This book is so delightfully funny. There are of course serious moments….we learn a little more about Leland and his training. I’m of course hoping for more books with these guys…especially more interactions between Leland and Ava(Jackson’s mom).
The Hitman’s Guide to Staying Alive Despite Past Mistakes is the second book in The Hitman’s Guide series by Alice Winters. Jackson and Leland are back and so is the hilarity, the sexiness and the absolute perfection that is this series!
Jackson and Leland are living their new life together and working cases as PIs. Life is going well until the past comes for Leland. And then the crazy and hilarious adventure really begins.
I absolutely love the humor found within these pages. Although there is a suspense/danger aspect, these characters and their antics make me laugh out loud throughout. I definitely see myself rereading these books in the series.
I received an advanced reader’s copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
Can you absolutely adore a hitman? Yes,you can,if the hitman in question is Leland. Because he’s like a hurricane, swiping you off your feet,with craziness, laughter,emotions and intrigue.
In this book Jackson and Leland seem to have created some sort of a new normality, a new rhythm in their life together. And then Leland’s past comes out to bite them in their a$$es. I’ve come to realize that it’s exactly when he’s in dangerous situations that the reformed hitman gives his worst. Or his best… for the readers… Because I’ve never laughed so much,or cried so much as I did watching Lelend relive his past,while trying to defend his present and his future.
The Hitman’s Guide To Stay Alive Despite Past Mistakes is yet another awesome, brilliant book by Alice Winters. I can never get enough of Jackson and Leland together, of their hilarious dynamics,funny banter and hot chemistry.
LOVED IT!
“It’s too late, I’ve involved myself with the king of mischief and fell in love. There’s no turning back now.”
“He clamps his hand over my mouth. ‘Shh, you’re prettier when you don’t talk, especially while looking like a pastel crayon.’ ‘You know your way right into my heart,’ I say as I kiss his cheek. ‘So where are we going on our date?’ ‘It’s a secret.’ ‘Oh my god, are you taking us to the fence where we first met? Are you going to reenact it?'”
It seems fitting that I finished this book and am writing the review for it on the first day of fall. Alice Winter’s, “The Hitman’s Guide to Making Friends and Finding Love,” was my favorite book of the Summer. Now this one is an early contender for my favorite book of the fall. In her Facebook group, Winters was opening up some spots in her ARC team to review it. I confess I channeled Meredith Grey as filled out the form to apply. (Imagine her saying, “Pick me. Choose me. Love me.”)
So here we are. Leland and Jackson are back and I loved every moment of it. And if you thought Leland was going to let Jackson forget how they met, spoiler alert, he doesn’t.
“‘You two are meant for each other,’ Mason grumbles. ‘I know, right?’ Leland asks with a huge smile. ‘Butthole at first sight.'”
Leland is settling into life with Jackson, working at his detective agency. (That is, as much as Leland can settle.) But it’s not long before trouble comes calling. There’s a new hitman in town and he’s pretending to be Leland’s retired Sandman persona. For Leland, this simply will not do and him and Jackson are soon on an adventure to find this ballsy imposter and clear Leland’s name.
As usual, I like to keep my reviews as spoiler free as possible. I will say that the pair’s adventure is filled with hilarity, heart and heat.
“I didn’t know Jackson’s eyes could get so wide, but they’re nearly falling out as he looks at my arsenal. ‘Why do you have so many weapons on you at once?’ he cries. ‘So they don’t feel lonely. I rotate who I take to work with me every day.’ ‘There is something wrong with you,’ he decides. ‘Which means there’s something wrong with me since I picked you.”
“‘This is why I love you,’ I say as I look up at him. He gives me an amused smile. ‘Because I put ice cubes on your mosquito bites?’ ‘Yes. Because you care, and even though it makes me feel all weird inside, it makes me so happy.'”
One of my favorite things about Leland and Jackson is how ride or die for each other they are. It’s truly the best and it makes my heart happy.
And no spoilers but that ending? Perfection.
Get this book the minute it comes out. If you haven’t read the first one, do that first. Then get this book. Truly, everyone needs Leland and Jackson in their life. So do it!
ARC provided by the author for a review. All opinions are my own.
If you thought Leland was inappropriate and out of control before, you ain’t seen nothing yet…lord help us all.
Hitman’s Guide #2 had me laughing out loud- so loudly and so often, it’s a good thing I live alone! Not only is Leland just as out of control as before, he now has Jackson as an accomplice. And OMG did these 2 crack me up! From the silly things Leland talks Jackson into, to the trouble they get into when they’re on the job. They are just so fun and perfect together. And I just adore how Jackson loves Leland, it’s really the sweetest thing.
“I shake my head, but I know that I’ll chuckle at anything he needs me to because I’m a sucker and I love him. And his newness hasn’t worn off yet. I’m not sure it ever will. I can picture him keeping me entertained decades from now.”
You and me both Jackson!
Leland had me all up in my feels this go ’round, in addition to all the laughs, which I was not ready for- I’ve gotten so used to his over-the-top ways that it was hard to see him so vulnerable. And yet I loved seeing that side of him. I really liked getting the look into his past, heartbreaking as it was.
Nothing gets Leland down for long though, and soon enough we’re back to driving the bad guys crazy.
I am really loving Leland and Jackson, so much more than I thought or expected. I’m so glad Ms. Winters is making the Hitman’s books into a series- I will happily read about Leland and Jackson’s adventures and antics for as long as she’s willing to write them.
So I didn’t think it could be better than the first book but I was so wrong! This funnier and Leland is even more ridiculous. I laughed so much reading this book, which shouldn’t be a surprise where Leland is concerned.
I still don’t know why he ran, though. All he had to do was answer my questions.” I pick up the fake ax in the passenger seat. “Maybe because you were holding this when he answered the door.”
There were some serious moments ofcourse, especially since we learn more about Leland’s childhood. My heart broke for him.
Jackson. Fuck, that guy is so whipped, I don’t even know what to say. Like that Sasquatch costume? Fuuck lol.
“You know what you’d be good at?”I ask.
“Aerial sex?”
“What?”
“Like on those yoga rope things.”
Loved Jackson’s family and especially Ava’s lunch with Leland. She’s proof that Leland sort of grows on you
Awww Henry, you poor poor soul!! I don’t envy you for dealing with those two children (more now). Also I love Cassal and I want more of him. Please tell me he’ll get a book. With Jerebear hopefully???
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review