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The Pact #1

The Mocking Man

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A boyhood pact. A dangerous deception. A woman who could ruin it all.

Deception. Lies. Corruption.

I was innocent once. Not today.

My carefree days vanished the night my best friend was kidnapped, and my world fell apart.

I built it up again, weaving a web of deceit.

Now I survive in the shadows, surrounded by danger.

Watching over her.

My best friend’s sister.

Isabella.

A woman who burns me alive even from afar. She doesn’t know how my heart longs for her. She doesn’t even know I exist.

A pact from my childhood has been rekindled.

And she is in the center of it all.

I must keep my distance, remain out of sight. But I can’t seem to let her go.

She’s my world even when I have none.

In this life of ghosts, how can I give her a future when I am nothing but a Mocking Man?

373 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 3, 2020

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About the author

Leslie Georgeson

27 books321 followers
From bad boys to rock stars, super soldiers to mafia bosses, Leslie Georgeson blends romance and suspense to create stories that are laced with danger, action, and plenty of steam.

An avid reader of all things romance, Leslie unabashedly carries her kindle with her everywhere. In addition to reading and writing, she also has an obsession with rare and exotic tropical plants, and can often be found in her greenhouse tending to her many plant babies. Leslie lives with her husband, daughter, two horses, a cat, and a flock of friendly chickens on a quiet country acreage in Idaho.

For more info about Leslie's books, visit her webpage at: http://lesliegeorgeson.com.

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Leslie-Georges...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorleslie...

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/lesli...

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Join Leslie's email list and receive a free book: https://mailchi.mp/8080a03f7379/yuj0u...

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for Carla Bulian.
1,408 reviews385 followers
February 18, 2020
I started reading this book totally unprepared and what a great surprise.
This book was so well written and uncomplicated, this story was amazing, maybe some lies.
It’s worth the reading.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Connor.
1,293 reviews26 followers
February 16, 2020
This is an intriguing, on-the-edge-of-your-seat romance that I couldn't put down. As each chapter ended, I was compelled to continue to the next. The plot is exciting and uncertain, and luckily, it has a clear and complete ending.

Mostly, this was very well executed. My problem was with characters and dialogue. There was a lot of internal debate on the parts of Alex and Isabella as the narration switched from one POV to the next. There was too much reflection on the sizzling chemistry between the two of them and Alex's unwillingness to "take advantage" of Isabella despite her clear desire for him. When she finally convinces him to do the deed, they both feel blissful about it until he laments that there can never be anything between them because he cannot reveal his true identity to anyone else, and she is suddenly overcome by emotion as she realizes he's right. He had warned her about this, but apparently, she could only wrap her head around it after having sex with him.

I guess my problem with the storytelling is that I felt as if the author told us how much Alex and Isabella cared for one another rather than just allowing them to show us. The thing is, they did show it. I think the author just wanted to be sure we didn't miss it, so she told us too. As a result, some of the scenes got mired in maudlin musings. (Sorry, but if I see an opportunity for alliteration, I'm gonna take it.)

Anyway, I enjoyed the story and I'd recommend it. It's different and I loved the superhero aspect of "the mocking man."
Profile Image for Dawn.
1,011 reviews47 followers
February 18, 2020
A good fantasy romance. When Alex and Rafe met they had no clue how important the other would become in their lives. Follow their journey here in this book.

When Izzy becomes involved in their lives they once again take a dramatic turn and she becomes the very reason they do what they do. A pact that could cost either one their own lives at any moment.
Excitement, anxiety, loyalty, love, honor, friendship, and hatred all live in the pages of this book.

I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
2,200 reviews
February 5, 2020
This is book one the The Pact Duet. Two friends and one pact. Meet Rafe, his sister - Isabella and Alex. This story is told in Alex's POV and what an amazing read it is. This story covers so many topics and basis all while flowing so smoothly and effortlessly through the story. I loved the twists and turns that were worked in to enhance the story and encouraged you to read on as the story unfolds. I loved the characters as well, they each had their contribution to the story and made it more real. I cannot wait to read Rafe's story. Enjoy!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
749 reviews4 followers
February 3, 2020
This was a great start to the series. This had you from the start, made you want to finish to see what was next. It was well thought out and written. The characters were great. It had you feeling what the characters did. It was about family blood and not, friendship, bonds, righting wrongs. It had some twists and turns, it was fast paced. It had you rooting for the Mocking Man, hoping for Alex, falling for Isabella. The story unfolds beautifully, reads smooth and has you thinking about it for days after you finish. I loved the ending. I can't wait for the next in the series. Leslie does such a great job. Thank you. I received this as an arc and this is my voluntary review.
Profile Image for Heather W.
4,025 reviews30 followers
February 5, 2020
The Mocking Man is the first book in The Pact duet and is Alex's story.

This romantic suspense story has well-developed characters that are strong, intelligent, and have amazing chemistry together. The storyline is well written and intriguing, with a boyhood pact, kidnapping, human trafficking, family issues, danger, suspense, twists and turns, and a chance for romance.

I cannot wait to read Rafe's story next.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
7,813 reviews63 followers
February 5, 2020
I had a great time reading this book. The characters are well written and engaging and had plenty of chemistry that helped keep me entertained from page one to the last word.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,458 reviews9 followers
February 2, 2020
Great story line. Alex and Rafael become friends after Rafael and his mother move in the neighborhood. Rafael's father is the head of a drug cartel and he captures him. Alex goes looking to rescue Rafael. Alex has to stay hidden from the cartel and Rafael has to do his father's bidding. Miguel Alvarez is the head of the cartel and finds out he has a daughter. I could not put this novel down as it captured my attention from the start. A page turner and a thriller.
Profile Image for Kathy Mccalmon.
3,721 reviews29 followers
February 4, 2020
This is an incredible book. It will take you on an emotional roller coaster ride. This has everything you need for a great book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sue.
1,214 reviews
February 1, 2020
I absolutely love Romantic suspense and am always excited to find a new to me author that can do it, and do it well. Enter Leslie Georgeson and The Mocking Man. I loved it and cannot wait for book 2.
Profile Image for Shalini (shaliniandbooks).
2,571 reviews212 followers
May 29, 2020
Quite a shocker the book was as the subplots were intriguing with plenty of twists. I got a few pulse spikes while reading this. The story kept the pitch high. Tension enveloped the scenes where some were read with my heart in my mouth.

Alex and Izzy make delectable pair. They scorched my kindle screen with their chemistry. Being on opposite sides, it was fun to see them get closer.

Best friend Rafe was a wonderful support. Their friendship and Pact was heart warming.

Overall, quite entertaining.
2,015 reviews5 followers
February 3, 2020
Another great book by Leslie!! It was A very intense book, I cried and once I started reading this book I couldn’t put it down. Rafe and Isabella just had to make it out of under their father’s business alive and also his friend Alex. With all of the problems that they had going on it just didn’t seem possible but they prevailed and the ending was so worth it. Can’t wait for Rafe’s story next! I was on the edge of my seat the whole time I was reading this book routing for them.
Profile Image for Brenda.
901 reviews15 followers
August 31, 2020
The Mocking Man (The Pact Book 1) by Leslie Georgeson is the first romantic suspense book in a series, telling the story of one of the main characters, Alex. Part two is the story of Rafael, the other main character and very good friend of Alex. I would recommend following the authors order so you get the whole picture about this story and don’t miss anything or get confused. 

The story goes about these two friends with a solid bond since they were little and a pact they made to keep each other’s safe. The suspense begins when one of them happens to be kidnapped by the head of the cartel known for doing dirty and illegal businesses, and his friend will do all within his power to rescue him. Time passed and a new character arrived, it's Rafe’s sister and in order to be safe, she has to contact someone she doesn’t know, but who is going to become a very important person in her life, The Mocking Man.

I think it’s a good read to pass time, but for some reason it took me a few days to finish it. But as I mentioned before, it’s a good read when we have little breaks between appointments or while travelling by bus to school.
Profile Image for Alfredo R.
603 reviews7 followers
August 26, 2020
The perfect romantic novel to give ourselves a break
Leslie Georgeson is the writer of this 2-part, romantic suspense novel. In her book, she shows us how talented she is as she is able to immerse us into this hard-to-put-down novel.
Throughout the 370 pages that there are in this book, the author lets us enter this twisted world where two friends' lives are joined together forever, specially after one of these friends have been kidnapped.
Georgeson is excellent in describing the settings, the situations and in making us feel that we actually know the characters. The story is easy-to-follow but it is recommended to read the second part of this novel so as to get a better understanding of the incidents.
As the author mentions, this book should not be read by children since it contains colourful language and controversial topics. However, adults will definitely enjoy this novel. It’s a great story to read in a week or so and to have a break from our daily routines.
Profile Image for Celeste.
917 reviews18 followers
August 27, 2020
I loved this book from the first page and I couldn’t stop reading until I finished it. In my opinion that is what good stories do, they capture our attention and don’t let us go until we are satisfied and happy.
“The Mocking Man” written by Leslie Georgeson is the first book in a romantic suspense duet. It tells the story of Alex and Rafael from Alex’s perspective. Alex and Rafe forged a strong bond when they were teenagers. That friendship forced Alex to take action into his own hands when Rafe was kidnapped. Now, he lives in the shadows helping Rafe and keeping Isabella, Rafe’s sister, safe. Will the Mocking Man be able give love a chance?
This novel has all the ingredients to be absorving: romance, suspense, family and friendship issues and controversial and sensitive matters such as drug dealing and human trafficking. The characters are well-developed, and the descriptions and dialogues are exceptional. I strongly recommend it. Don’t miss it!
Profile Image for Rachel Kester.
487 reviews8 followers
September 19, 2020
Author Leslie Georgeson tells the story of two teenage friends, Alex and Rafe, who made a pact to rely solely on one another to survive. As the years pass, they keep this promise, that is, until Rafe is kidnapped. Alex tries to keep the pact, but finds it to be very difficult. In addition to this, he feels an obligation to secretly guard his friend’s sister from potential danger. However, she soon finds out and becomes part of the pact, much to Alex’s distress. Alex must try to help Rafe while figuring out what to do with his sister.

If you enjoy romantic suspense novels, you might want to check this one out. Not only is it filled with steamy scenes, but intense plot twists. Keep in mind though that there is a bit of adult content. Overall, definitely consider reading this book if you enjoy romance or just want something unique to read.
Profile Image for Cyrene Olson.
1,252 reviews16 followers
December 9, 2020
For a romantic suspense, this is a good one and even though most suspense/thriller/crime novels include some of the same formulas, this one mixes it up a bit. Alex and Rafe are best friends, and when Rafe gets kidnapped by a drug cartel, Alex will do his best to try and save him and protect his sister, Isabella.

There are a lot of twists and turns to this book, and the book kept me interested, but I wasn’t overly attached to the book once I set it down. Some books will have me carrying them around and reading every chance I get, and this one did not do that, but I do think it’s a well written plot with suspense, friendship and loyalty, romance, lies, deceit and a bit of steam.
Profile Image for Kathleen Bradbury (Bulfon).
16.4k reviews193 followers
April 2, 2020
It Grabbed My attention and focus so strong I could not put it down. A word of advice when you get your copy. Grab a snack, a comfy seat, kick back and relax. You will not be moving until you finish this bad boy here. Remarkable job. Thanks for sharing.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Danielle Marlowe.
1,926 reviews7 followers
May 4, 2020
Leslie Georgeson did a great job on this story, the plot and characters were strong, the story was written well with many feelings. A lot happened in this story. The characters journey was far from easy, they went through so much. This was a great start to this Duet. I'm looking forward to reading more of this story.
Thank you, Leslie Georgeson. Great work :)
634 reviews5 followers
March 22, 2021
So much action at every level.

I had to keep so many characters straight for this action filled story. It was sad and gruesome but really does happen in real life. It was a well told story because I was able to go along with it. And love was truly great between lovers, siblings, friends and parents.
7 reviews
April 24, 2022
Titillating read

This story was awe-inspiring! I couldn't put it down. The characters, the drama,the intrigue had me at the end of wits.i would put it down then pick it up again.it had a little bit of everything. It touched my emotions.it tested my patience. I would laugh ,cry,get angry,smile,rejoice, cheer and pray.fantastic storyline.I applaud the author.
Profile Image for Pam Steinacher.
87 reviews
September 19, 2022
Very good

A lot of action!! Very suspenseful as well. It was very good at holding my attention; I didn't want to put it down!
Profile Image for Karen Roma.
2,752 reviews33 followers
February 23, 2020
The Mocking Man is the first book in Leslie Georgeson’s The Pact series and sets a fast and intriguing pace from the beginning to end. This story is packed with amazing characters, and the storyline is an edge-of-your-seat, can’t put down romance that keeps you riveted till the last page is turned. A thoroughly enjoyable book that whets the appetite for more to come.
2,198 reviews17 followers
February 3, 2020
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "THE MOCKING MAN" OMG!!!! Leslie Georgeson outdid herself writing this phenominal storyline it grabs you right from the beginning so much intense drama, suspense, intrigue, deception, secrets, lies, kidnapping, human trafficking, danger, twists you never saw coming.
Alex Davies meets Rafe when he and his mom Sophie Ortiz move in next door both the same age 14yrs became inseparable made a pact to always have one another's backs no matter what.
One night Rafe was kidnapped by two thugs that worked for his father Miguel Alveraz making him part of his Cartel against his will he was 17 at the time that's the same time Alex disappeared and became the "THE MOCKING MAN" never to see his mom Vivian it's been 15yrs presumed dead.
Isabella Santiago was the daughter of Maria and Miguel Alvarez she's an ADA prosecutes criminal and put them behind bars she doesn't know she has a brother who's been protecting her all these years with Alex to keep Miguel Alveraz from knowing he has a daughter.
What a talented writer Leslie Georgeson is she really knows how to pull her readers right into the story and not let go her characters are simply amazingly well written I absolutely like everything she writes so well worth the read I definitely recommend this is a duet so can't wait for the next book. ADDICTING READ!!!!!




Profile Image for Robin.
276 reviews
February 9, 2020
This book was fabulous! I had a joy, heartache, fear, and happiness all through this book! Izzy is nosy and can't keep from getting her butt in trouble. Rafe is an unknown until Izzy found out. Then, there is our man, Alex. Dang! I want him. An man of many mysteries. Perfect men rolled into one. Mystery and romance are a plus and this is a definite plus! Read it!

Free read from Booksprout!
460 reviews2 followers
February 3, 2020
Best friends Alex and Rafe have a childhood bond of brotherhood. When Rafe is kidnapped by his criminal father, Alex tries to free him. The situation gets worse when Isabella discovers she has a brother, Rafe, but she doesn't count on being kidnapped as well by their evil father. Can Alex save them both?
I loved this book about two honorable and brave young men! It takes you through a roller coaster of emotions as good struggles to overcome evil, and I admit to shedding a few tears when Alex and Isabella fall in love. I am eagerly awaiting the next book!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for smuttyaudiophile.
316 reviews21 followers
January 22, 2020
When young Alex moves into a new neighborhood, he meets the boy next door, Rafe. They quickly become inseparable and make a pact that they will always be there for each other. Fast forward... the boys are 17 and Rafe is kidnapped by his father, the head of a cartel known for drugs, guns, and human trafficking. Soon after Alex disappears and isn’t seen or heard from again. 15 years later... Isabella is shocked to discover that she has an older brother from the same father, the father she has never met and knows nothing about. Her brother, Rafe, is currently in jail. Isabella soon discovers who her father is and in an effort to protect her from their father, Rafe tells her to stay away and to contact The Mocking Man if she needs help. The desire to meet her brother leads Isabella down a dangerous and delightful path.
Who is The Mocking Man? Who isn’t The Mocking Man?

Leslie Georgeson absolutely blew me away! This book hooked me from the start and I didn’t come up for air until I was done! A day later I’m still thinking about how much I enjoyed it. I feel like I can typically predict most twists and turns in a book, but this one truly shocked me, and not just once! The friendship and commitment between Rafe and Alex was truly special, while the chemistry and connection between Isabella and Alex was next level! What these three are willing to give up for each other will make you fall in love with each of them. This is an epic romantic suspense novel and I cannot wait to read the second book that tells Rafe’s story!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews

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