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Red Stone Security #21
Protecting Rebel
Return to the action-packed USA Today bestselling Red Stone Security series with another red-hot book!
They’ve been friends since they were kids…
Musical superstar Rebel doesn’t have many people in her life she trusts. The majority have always wanted something from her; fame, money, influence. She’s learned to keep her protective walls high, but it’s made having a real life impossible. Then a funeral sends her home and into the arms of her childhood friend who protected her from danger when they were young—the only man she’s ever truly wanted.
But he’s always wanted more than friendship…
Weston is stunned when Rebel shows up to his aunt’s funeral. They’ve stayed in touch over the years but he always thought she was with someone and out of his league. When he discovers she’s single, the billionaire knows it’s time to make his move. But danger strikes before he can, and keeping her safe is the only thing that matters. The threat is closer than anyone imagined, and Weston will do whatever it takes to protect the woman who stole his heart so many years ago.
Author this book is a stand-alone in the Red Stone Security series, complete with HEA and no cliffhanger.
They’ve been friends since they were kids…
Musical superstar Rebel doesn’t have many people in her life she trusts. The majority have always wanted something from her; fame, money, influence. She’s learned to keep her protective walls high, but it’s made having a real life impossible. Then a funeral sends her home and into the arms of her childhood friend who protected her from danger when they were young—the only man she’s ever truly wanted.
But he’s always wanted more than friendship…
Weston is stunned when Rebel shows up to his aunt’s funeral. They’ve stayed in touch over the years but he always thought she was with someone and out of his league. When he discovers she’s single, the billionaire knows it’s time to make his move. But danger strikes before he can, and keeping her safe is the only thing that matters. The threat is closer than anyone imagined, and Weston will do whatever it takes to protect the woman who stole his heart so many years ago.
Author this book is a stand-alone in the Red Stone Security series, complete with HEA and no cliffhanger.
205 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 29, 2023
115 people are currently reading
1237 people want to read
About the author
Katie Reus
164 books3,243 followersKatie Reus® is the USA Today bestselling author of the Endgame trilogy, the MacArthur Family series and the Deadly Ops series. She fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom's stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it. However, she didn't always know she wanted to be a writer. After changing majors many times, she finally graduated with a degree in psychology. Not long after that she discovered a new love. Writing. She now spends her days writing paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
August 30, 2023
Protecting Rebel by Katie Reus
Red Stone Security series #21. Romantic suspense. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Rebel and Westin were best friends at 17. At graduation, he went into the military, she followed her dream to be a singer. Over the next ten years, rarely saw each other but stayed in touch via email letters. At the end of her current music tour, an accident proved to be a warning that wasn’t taken seriously from stalker letters. Westin saves her and decides it’s past time to tell her he’s been in love with her all along. Rebel has felt the same way but the threat is real out in the public and before they can easily be together, they need to neutralize the threat.
Action packed, and sizzling attraction. I loved the relationship between Rebel and Westin. Friends to lovers troupe, sure, but first comforting like a good hug, to teasing, to steamy and the true heart mates. Expected suspense and twists, and hea. Also love Elliana for her hacking skills and in-your-face snarky attitude while at the same time fan-girling Rebel.
Red Stone Security series #21. Romantic suspense. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Rebel and Westin were best friends at 17. At graduation, he went into the military, she followed her dream to be a singer. Over the next ten years, rarely saw each other but stayed in touch via email letters. At the end of her current music tour, an accident proved to be a warning that wasn’t taken seriously from stalker letters. Westin saves her and decides it’s past time to tell her he’s been in love with her all along. Rebel has felt the same way but the threat is real out in the public and before they can easily be together, they need to neutralize the threat.
Action packed, and sizzling attraction. I loved the relationship between Rebel and Westin. Friends to lovers troupe, sure, but first comforting like a good hug, to teasing, to steamy and the true heart mates. Expected suspense and twists, and hea. Also love Elliana for her hacking skills and in-your-face snarky attitude while at the same time fan-girling Rebel.
August 29, 2023
A story of a couple who starts out bonding as young kids, who then later had to separate to live their dreams, but always staying in touch. Never really growing apart. Their dedication to staying in each others lives even if not physically showed what a deep bond they had for each other. The book begins at the time in their lives when they were able to finally be in the same location and could finally let their feelings out.
I enjoyed this couple and their story, but Weston is the reason for my love of this book. He's the alpha type I love to read about. He's the protective, take charge, but didn't run over type. He made the decision it was finally time to steer their relationship where he's wanted it for years and he wouldn't let anything get in the way. Rebel is one lucky girl!
I enjoyed this couple and their story, but Weston is the reason for my love of this book. He's the alpha type I love to read about. He's the protective, take charge, but didn't run over type. He made the decision it was finally time to steer their relationship where he's wanted it for years and he wouldn't let anything get in the way. Rebel is one lucky girl!
August 23, 2023
I’m not a big fan of the friends-to-lovers trope but I have to admit, Rebel and Weston’s story was absolutely perfect. I loved that it was a sweet love born out of deep friendship and security.
Rebel’s past was quite unsettling and as a result this led to her connection with not only Weston but his Aunt Margaret as well. They gave her what her own family was lacking and I loved that they did so. Unfortunately, she still carried the emotional scars of her childhood into adulthood.
Weston was awesome! He’s the type of hero that I love. Strong, protective and so in love with Rebel that I ached for him. Their letters to each other really added to their story and showed what their relationship existed of long before they became a couple.
This is a fast paced read that never bogs down. It has a bit of drama, some tension and suspense and a good dose of steamy chemistry. Protecting Rebel can be read as a standalone.
Hero, Heroine and Villain’s POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
Rebel’s past was quite unsettling and as a result this led to her connection with not only Weston but his Aunt Margaret as well. They gave her what her own family was lacking and I loved that they did so. Unfortunately, she still carried the emotional scars of her childhood into adulthood.
Weston was awesome! He’s the type of hero that I love. Strong, protective and so in love with Rebel that I ached for him. Their letters to each other really added to their story and showed what their relationship existed of long before they became a couple.
This is a fast paced read that never bogs down. It has a bit of drama, some tension and suspense and a good dose of steamy chemistry. Protecting Rebel can be read as a standalone.
Hero, Heroine and Villain’s POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
November 23, 2023
Ok this author has become an instant favourite for me.
She writes scary situations in a way that isn’t too scary if that makes sense.
So much longing and pining and sex feelings.
I cannot get enough.
Also I read this out of order because this couple was in the Christmas Hitman book and it was fine, I was not lost.
She writes scary situations in a way that isn’t too scary if that makes sense.
So much longing and pining and sex feelings.
I cannot get enough.
Also I read this out of order because this couple was in the Christmas Hitman book and it was fine, I was not lost.
August 29, 2023
I truly relished every moment of this story, seeing Rebel and Weston both come to understood they have loved one another from the beginning. Katie Reus has such a way with her characters, bringing them to life and showing us that even the richest billionaires, the brightest music stars, are just people, looking for love and hoping to connect. Rebel has overcome her upbringing in order to dazzle music fans the world over, but she’s never gotten over the boy that touched her heart in her teens. Returning home she knows she’ll be confronted with seeing him, possibly on another woman’s arm, but she can’t resist seeing him again. Weston hopes to see Rebel again, but he has no hope of making her his, until he discovers the truth of her freedom and then he pulls out all the stops in order to make her his. Together they will work to protect Rebel from a vicious stalker dedicated to stopping Rebel’s career no matter what it takes, including murder. So they understand their love is deeper than either ever imagined and there is nothing they won’t do to have a bright future together. The passion between these two once they opened the door to the emotions was red-hot and I loved experiencing it with them. I am dying for the next story but nothing new there as I always beg for more from Katie at the end of every story.
Keep the magic coming Katie!
For full review see the blog at https://romancewitchreviews.blogspot....
Keep the magic coming Katie!
For full review see the blog at https://romancewitchreviews.blogspot....
September 1, 2023
Protecting Rebel is another fun visit to the Red Stone Security world.
Rebel didn’t have it easy growing up. With an unstable home, she found her peace and support from best friend and neighbor, Weston and his Aunt Margaret.
Years later with both of their career goals met, Rebel returns home to attend Aunt Margaret’s funeral and reunites with Weston.
This friends-to-lovers story is filled with action, suspense, friendships, loyalty, and romance. I highly enjoyed Protecting Rebel and look forward to the next Red Stone Security installment!
Highly recommend this book and the series! Each book can be read as a standalone.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Rebel didn’t have it easy growing up. With an unstable home, she found her peace and support from best friend and neighbor, Weston and his Aunt Margaret.
Years later with both of their career goals met, Rebel returns home to attend Aunt Margaret’s funeral and reunites with Weston.
This friends-to-lovers story is filled with action, suspense, friendships, loyalty, and romance. I highly enjoyed Protecting Rebel and look forward to the next Red Stone Security installment!
Highly recommend this book and the series! Each book can be read as a standalone.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
September 5, 2023
I liked that this one we finally got to see Rebel and Weston's timing work out, so that the crush they had as teens came to fruition. The flashbacks were fun to see how they still made sure to check in with each other even as they were apart through the years and then learning how Weston gave a huge push to Rebels career, so great!
I hated the threat that Rebel was under, but loved that Weston jumped into help her, right after she was there to support him after his loss. Glad to see they got to the bottom of things quickly and then these two could start to live their life together.
I hated the threat that Rebel was under, but loved that Weston jumped into help her, right after she was there to support him after his loss. Glad to see they got to the bottom of things quickly and then these two could start to live their life together.
August 13, 2023
Protecting Rebel, book 21 of the Red Stone Security Series was a terrific addition to the series. Weston Davis and Rebel Martinez have known and secretly loved each other since they were teens. Rebel, a successful rockstar and Weston a veteran and now a very wealthy entrepreneur still feel that romantic pull, but are they willing to take a chance on love? When danger strikes, Weston will do whatever is necessary to protect Rebel. As the action, suspense and a surprise twist heat up so does their slow burn romance, but once ignited there’s no going back for these two. Secondary characters new and old add good depth to this well written story by Katie.
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book.
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book.
September 2, 2023
Thank you to Katie Reus, KR Press and NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This was a quick fun and low angst read. The book features Rebel and Weston, childhood friends whose dreams and goals took them in opposite directions, but remained close in each others lives. Each of them was crushing on the other, but never wanted to risk their friendship until things suddenly change.
While I enjoyed the book, I do wish there was more chemistry and tension between Weston and Rebel. I wasn't a huge fan of the flashback chapters and sometimes I felt their inner monologues got a bit repetitive. Besides that, I thought the main couple was very sweet together.
This book features friends to lovers trope, as well as slow burn and a famous FMC and ex military MMC. If those interest you I think this book is right up your alley!
This was a quick fun and low angst read. The book features Rebel and Weston, childhood friends whose dreams and goals took them in opposite directions, but remained close in each others lives. Each of them was crushing on the other, but never wanted to risk their friendship until things suddenly change.
While I enjoyed the book, I do wish there was more chemistry and tension between Weston and Rebel. I wasn't a huge fan of the flashback chapters and sometimes I felt their inner monologues got a bit repetitive. Besides that, I thought the main couple was very sweet together.
This book features friends to lovers trope, as well as slow burn and a famous FMC and ex military MMC. If those interest you I think this book is right up your alley!
September 9, 2023
The twenty first book in Red Stone Security, Protecting Rebel is a great read. Rebel and Weston are engaging characters and well suited in this friend to lover’s romance with the story is driven by jealousy, contempt, and love. A good overall read and one I would recommend.
September 26, 2023
This book is twenty something of the series and all I know is that I am going back to catch up! The romantic aspect of this story was the sweetest friends to lovers, lifelong pining and beautiful growth story you’ll read. The suspense aspect was also well portrayed, I didn’t peg the right person at all and lived the entire book thinking I knew who it was. The ending was well rounded, satisfying and completely swoon worthy,
August 20, 2023
Protecting Rebel❤️
Protecting Rebel is the next book in the Red Stone Security series and features Rebel and Weston. They’ve known each other since they were kids and even though their jobs have kept them physically separated, they have kept in touch.
Attending a funeral to be by Weston’s side, finally allows Rebel and Weston to acknowledge that they want more than friendship but unfortunately due to Rebel’s fame, someone is gunning for her and they need to figure it quickly❣️Then they can focus on their future, hopefully together😍
Loved this story and I can’t wait for more🤩 I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my honest review😁
Protecting Rebel is the next book in the Red Stone Security series and features Rebel and Weston. They’ve known each other since they were kids and even though their jobs have kept them physically separated, they have kept in touch.
Attending a funeral to be by Weston’s side, finally allows Rebel and Weston to acknowledge that they want more than friendship but unfortunately due to Rebel’s fame, someone is gunning for her and they need to figure it quickly❣️Then they can focus on their future, hopefully together😍
Loved this story and I can’t wait for more🤩 I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my honest review😁
September 12, 2023
*ARC provided via Netgalley and I am leaving an honest review*
✓Contemporary romance
✓Romantic suspense
✓Military romance
✓Billionaire romance
✓Friends to lovers
✓Slow-burn
✓Musical superstar heroine who never got over our hero who touched her heart in teens
✓A strong, protective hero in love with his childhood friend
✓Gripping/gritty/raw
✓Emotional roller-coaster
✓Page turner
✓Fast-paced
✓Action packed suspense with combustible sizzling chemistry
✓Unpredictable twists and turns
✓The mystery / danger they are thrown into
✓Enough twisty suspense and emotional baggage to fill a room
✓Fun cast of supporting – secondary characters that add to the story and development
Red Stone Security series is how I found Katie Reus. So, to see it grow with new books and characters to fall for, makes my heart happy, sappy and overwhelmed. Protecting Rebel is twenty-first book in this series. Every book can be read as a standalone in an interconnected series of standalones. A fantastic read and another thrilling addition to this series. Simply amazing, sexy, dangerous and captivating. The writing is engaging - keeps reader glued to pages; the storyline is brilliant, well-paced and well-written.
Rebel and Weston are sweet and swoon worthy. Their story is filled with tension, danger, a love that was born out of security when her life was uncertain, friendship and unique understanding. He is her refuge. Weston always felt very protective of Rebel and continues to be. Rebel hasn't had an easy childhood and upbringing. This leads to her meeting Weston and his aunt who basically adopted her, giving her everything what her family couldn't / lacked. After graduation, their paths separated: Weston went into military while Rebel started chasing her dreams. They rarely saw each other but kept in touch. I really loved how their relationship developed. They both have insecurities that they needed to work on in order for them to have a future. The passion between these two ran red-hot and their sizzling,off-the-charts chemistry lit the pages. The pace of the story, secondary characters added to their romance and plot. Weston and Rebel are layered, fast paced, real, emotional, dangerous with an edge and depth with an occasional banter - laugh out loud moment. Their transformation and growth throughout the book is heartwarming.
Protecting Rebel is everything I could have asked for: a healing journey, a protective hero, a vulnerable strong heroine, second chance and beautiful friends to lovers story. I inhaled the pages, was invested in drama, though frustrated at times, rooting for Weston and Rebel's HEA, and didn’t want it to end too soon. You need to start this series today. Believe me it will be your all-time favorite.
✓Contemporary romance
✓Romantic suspense
✓Military romance
✓Billionaire romance
✓Friends to lovers
✓Slow-burn
✓Musical superstar heroine who never got over our hero who touched her heart in teens
✓A strong, protective hero in love with his childhood friend
✓Gripping/gritty/raw
✓Emotional roller-coaster
✓Page turner
✓Fast-paced
✓Action packed suspense with combustible sizzling chemistry
✓Unpredictable twists and turns
✓The mystery / danger they are thrown into
✓Enough twisty suspense and emotional baggage to fill a room
✓Fun cast of supporting – secondary characters that add to the story and development
Red Stone Security series is how I found Katie Reus. So, to see it grow with new books and characters to fall for, makes my heart happy, sappy and overwhelmed. Protecting Rebel is twenty-first book in this series. Every book can be read as a standalone in an interconnected series of standalones. A fantastic read and another thrilling addition to this series. Simply amazing, sexy, dangerous and captivating. The writing is engaging - keeps reader glued to pages; the storyline is brilliant, well-paced and well-written.
Rebel and Weston are sweet and swoon worthy. Their story is filled with tension, danger, a love that was born out of security when her life was uncertain, friendship and unique understanding. He is her refuge. Weston always felt very protective of Rebel and continues to be. Rebel hasn't had an easy childhood and upbringing. This leads to her meeting Weston and his aunt who basically adopted her, giving her everything what her family couldn't / lacked. After graduation, their paths separated: Weston went into military while Rebel started chasing her dreams. They rarely saw each other but kept in touch. I really loved how their relationship developed. They both have insecurities that they needed to work on in order for them to have a future. The passion between these two ran red-hot and their sizzling,off-the-charts chemistry lit the pages. The pace of the story, secondary characters added to their romance and plot. Weston and Rebel are layered, fast paced, real, emotional, dangerous with an edge and depth with an occasional banter - laugh out loud moment. Their transformation and growth throughout the book is heartwarming.
Protecting Rebel is everything I could have asked for: a healing journey, a protective hero, a vulnerable strong heroine, second chance and beautiful friends to lovers story. I inhaled the pages, was invested in drama, though frustrated at times, rooting for Weston and Rebel's HEA, and didn’t want it to end too soon. You need to start this series today. Believe me it will be your all-time favorite.
August 26, 2023
PROTECTING REBEL is the twenty-first instalment in Katie Reus’ contemporary, adult RED STONE SECURITY romantic suspense series. This is thirty-two year old, billionaire investor/app developer Weston Davis, and musician Rebel Martinez’ story line. PROTECTING REBEL can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from omniscient third person perspectives PROTECTING REBEL follows the rekindling relationship between Weston Davis and Rebel Martinez. Weston and Rebel were childhood friends but their future careers sent them in opposite directions. Weston joined the Marines then became a successful investor while Rebel’s music star rose around the world. Rebel’s return home to Miami is met with an increase of threats, and Weston is about to take control of the woman he has always loved. Rebel has a stalker so Weston hires the team at Red Stone Security when the threats against Rebel become dangerous and dark. What ensues is the best friends to lovers relationship between Rebel and Weston, and the potential fall-out when threats against Rebel hit too close to home.
The relationship between Rebel and Weston is one of second chances, of a sort. Rebel and Weston were childhood friends but Rebel’s home life was questionable at best, and when Weston joined the Marines, Rebel went to live with the woman who had raised the man that she loved. Having always kept in contact, Rebel was surprised to discover just how often Weston kept track of her life, a life that was about to a little more complicated. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.
The secondary and supporting characters include several members of Rebel’s entourage and team, singers and roadies, assistants and agents, as well as a guest appearance from a couple of RSS agents.
PROTECTING REBEL is a story of jealousy and obsession, friendships and relationships, second chances and love. The character driven premise is intriguing and entertaining but there is only an outside /tentative connection to the Red Stone Security characters ; the romance is seductive and fated; the characters are energetic and dynamic.
www.thereadingcafe.com
copy supplied for review
Told from omniscient third person perspectives PROTECTING REBEL follows the rekindling relationship between Weston Davis and Rebel Martinez. Weston and Rebel were childhood friends but their future careers sent them in opposite directions. Weston joined the Marines then became a successful investor while Rebel’s music star rose around the world. Rebel’s return home to Miami is met with an increase of threats, and Weston is about to take control of the woman he has always loved. Rebel has a stalker so Weston hires the team at Red Stone Security when the threats against Rebel become dangerous and dark. What ensues is the best friends to lovers relationship between Rebel and Weston, and the potential fall-out when threats against Rebel hit too close to home.
The relationship between Rebel and Weston is one of second chances, of a sort. Rebel and Weston were childhood friends but Rebel’s home life was questionable at best, and when Weston joined the Marines, Rebel went to live with the woman who had raised the man that she loved. Having always kept in contact, Rebel was surprised to discover just how often Weston kept track of her life, a life that was about to a little more complicated. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.
The secondary and supporting characters include several members of Rebel’s entourage and team, singers and roadies, assistants and agents, as well as a guest appearance from a couple of RSS agents.
PROTECTING REBEL is a story of jealousy and obsession, friendships and relationships, second chances and love. The character driven premise is intriguing and entertaining but there is only an outside /tentative connection to the Red Stone Security characters ; the romance is seductive and fated; the characters are energetic and dynamic.
www.thereadingcafe.com
copy supplied for review
July 24, 2025
🖤 Friends-to-lovers | Famous girl x protective boy | Romantic suspense
Weston and Rebel are the childhood besties who never quite stopped orbiting each other even when the years, careers, and distance piled up.
She's a global music star with trust issues.
He’s a protective, ex-military billionaire who’s always loved her quietly from the sidelines.
But when a funeral brings her back to town... and danger follows close behind... Weston decides it’s time to make his move. And y’all? I melted.
This is a romance with:
💫 A hero who’s always seen her worth
💫 A heroine who’s scared of being used again
💫 A second chance that’s been years in the making
💫 And a stalker subplot that raises the stakes
The Vibes:
🎶 Pop-star returns home
👀 Oh no, he got hotter?!
💥 Stalker alert. Feelings unlocked. Protectiveness ON.
🔥 “I’ll burn the world down for her” energy
This story is soft and spicy in all the right ways. Weston is the kind of man who shows up every single time from teenage protector to grown man who refuses to let her face danger alone. Rebel’s journey is one of healing, reconnection, and realizing the one man she always wanted was never out of reach.
The romantic tension builds slowly but hits hard when it finally breaks. While I personally would’ve loved just a little more angst and chemistry dialed to eleven, there’s something deeply comforting and mature about how these two come together. It’s friends-to-lovers with a backbone of loyalty, sizzling chemistry, and a whole lot of heart.
Final Thoughts:
If you love books with low drama but high emotion, romantic suspense that keeps the pages flying, and a man who’s been silently waiting for his girl to come back to him this one’s for you. Add in a stalker plot, a second-chance vibe, and a whole lot of swoony lines and you’ve got a binge-worthy, feel-good ride.
Weston and Rebel are the childhood besties who never quite stopped orbiting each other even when the years, careers, and distance piled up.
She's a global music star with trust issues.
He’s a protective, ex-military billionaire who’s always loved her quietly from the sidelines.
But when a funeral brings her back to town... and danger follows close behind... Weston decides it’s time to make his move. And y’all? I melted.
This is a romance with:
💫 A hero who’s always seen her worth
💫 A heroine who’s scared of being used again
💫 A second chance that’s been years in the making
💫 And a stalker subplot that raises the stakes
The Vibes:
🎶 Pop-star returns home
👀 Oh no, he got hotter?!
💥 Stalker alert. Feelings unlocked. Protectiveness ON.
🔥 “I’ll burn the world down for her” energy
This story is soft and spicy in all the right ways. Weston is the kind of man who shows up every single time from teenage protector to grown man who refuses to let her face danger alone. Rebel’s journey is one of healing, reconnection, and realizing the one man she always wanted was never out of reach.
The romantic tension builds slowly but hits hard when it finally breaks. While I personally would’ve loved just a little more angst and chemistry dialed to eleven, there’s something deeply comforting and mature about how these two come together. It’s friends-to-lovers with a backbone of loyalty, sizzling chemistry, and a whole lot of heart.
Final Thoughts:
If you love books with low drama but high emotion, romantic suspense that keeps the pages flying, and a man who’s been silently waiting for his girl to come back to him this one’s for you. Add in a stalker plot, a second-chance vibe, and a whole lot of swoony lines and you’ve got a binge-worthy, feel-good ride.
August 31, 2023
First I wanted to thank Author Collective 20 for providing an ARC in exchange for a honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I was fortunate enough to get a copy of the previous books in this series, and I really enjoyed all of them. As soon as I saw the next book in the series was available for request on NetGalley I put my request in. As soon as this book hit my kindle I wanted to read it right away.
This is the story of Rebel, popstar, and Weston, ex-military billionaire, childhood friends who have been secretly in love with each other but never told the other. When Rebel starts to get threats while finishing up her tour in Miami, Weston will do anything to keep her safe including hiring Red Stone Security to help.
Similar to the other books in this series there was a lot in this book that I really liked and I am just a sucker for a good romantic suspense.
Protecting Rebel
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
What I loved:
-Series, this is part of the larger Red Stone Security Series and I’m so excited to dive into all of the other books
- Shared backstory, I love a friends to lovers romance and with Rebel and Weston growing up together and him always being her protector is just warmed my heart
- Jupiter/Lucky, Rebel visits a dog shelter and falls in love with a senior dog Jupiter but its a packaged deal with the Jupiter's buddy Lucky. Who doesn't love pets in a book especially when its two bonded senior dogs
- Family, as both Rebel and Weston don't have a lot of actual family I love the found family they build together
- Rebel Rockstar, while reading this I got a lot of Taylor Swift vibes which I thought was fun and I just loved how she wanted to make as many people as she safely could feel included
Overall this book had everything I look for in a romantic suspense, great romance, spice, and believable relationship building between the main characters. Once I started this book it was really hard to put down and I am already eyeing how quickly I can get to the other books in the series cause I can’t wait to learn about the rest of the Red Stone team. If you love romantic suspense then PLEASE go pick this one up as soon as you can cause its a great stand alone story with a whole series behind it so you can live in this world for a while!
I was fortunate enough to get a copy of the previous books in this series, and I really enjoyed all of them. As soon as I saw the next book in the series was available for request on NetGalley I put my request in. As soon as this book hit my kindle I wanted to read it right away.
This is the story of Rebel, popstar, and Weston, ex-military billionaire, childhood friends who have been secretly in love with each other but never told the other. When Rebel starts to get threats while finishing up her tour in Miami, Weston will do anything to keep her safe including hiring Red Stone Security to help.
Similar to the other books in this series there was a lot in this book that I really liked and I am just a sucker for a good romantic suspense.
Protecting Rebel
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
What I loved:
-Series, this is part of the larger Red Stone Security Series and I’m so excited to dive into all of the other books
- Shared backstory, I love a friends to lovers romance and with Rebel and Weston growing up together and him always being her protector is just warmed my heart
- Jupiter/Lucky, Rebel visits a dog shelter and falls in love with a senior dog Jupiter but its a packaged deal with the Jupiter's buddy Lucky. Who doesn't love pets in a book especially when its two bonded senior dogs
- Family, as both Rebel and Weston don't have a lot of actual family I love the found family they build together
- Rebel Rockstar, while reading this I got a lot of Taylor Swift vibes which I thought was fun and I just loved how she wanted to make as many people as she safely could feel included
Overall this book had everything I look for in a romantic suspense, great romance, spice, and believable relationship building between the main characters. Once I started this book it was really hard to put down and I am already eyeing how quickly I can get to the other books in the series cause I can’t wait to learn about the rest of the Red Stone team. If you love romantic suspense then PLEASE go pick this one up as soon as you can cause its a great stand alone story with a whole series behind it so you can live in this world for a while!
August 8, 2023
I'm not particularly a fan of rock star romance, but I'm a big fan of Katie Reus and a huge one of the friends-to-lovers trope. Throw in romantic suspense, and picking up this novel was a no brainer. And for the most part, I liked it. Reus writes exceedingly well, so even when a plot doesn't fully do it for me, it's still a pleasure to read her books.
I think the kicker for me with friends-to-lovers is that the transition from one to the other has to hit all the right notes. When you've known someone as long as Rebel and Weston have, and you've been there for each other through all kinds of stuff, the first kiss and first intimacy need to be filled with wonder, like a sigh of, "there we are." Rebel and Weston show promise with the first brush of a kiss he gives her, but then suddenly—without any real dialog between them—they move straight into sexting. Considering neither knew of the other's feelings, there was a great opportunity for connecting that was missed.
Otherwise, the suspense part is okay, even if the villain is easy to figure out. Reus does a good job offering up a few potential suspects, though motive and opportunity could be better explained.
Fans of this extensive series will enjoy seeing a few familiar faces, even if the connection with Red Stone Security is more tangential than not, and a few teasing lines here and there promise more books are coming soon.
I received an ARC of this book for free from the publisher and Netgalley. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
I think the kicker for me with friends-to-lovers is that the transition from one to the other has to hit all the right notes. When you've known someone as long as Rebel and Weston have, and you've been there for each other through all kinds of stuff, the first kiss and first intimacy need to be filled with wonder, like a sigh of, "there we are." Rebel and Weston show promise with the first brush of a kiss he gives her, but then suddenly—without any real dialog between them—they move straight into sexting. Considering neither knew of the other's feelings, there was a great opportunity for connecting that was missed.
Otherwise, the suspense part is okay, even if the villain is easy to figure out. Reus does a good job offering up a few potential suspects, though motive and opportunity could be better explained.
Fans of this extensive series will enjoy seeing a few familiar faces, even if the connection with Red Stone Security is more tangential than not, and a few teasing lines here and there promise more books are coming soon.
I received an ARC of this book for free from the publisher and Netgalley. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
September 1, 2023
A friends to lovers story with Protecting Rebel. They had been childhood friends with Rebel even moving in with Weston and his aunt to keep safe from her neglectful mother’s string of boyfriends and there was always a spark between them, but it was never the right time, and both were probably hesitant to do anything that might’ve risked their friendship. Both went their separate ways following their dreams, Weston into the army and Rebel on her path to stardom but they’d always kept in touch via email. Now singing superstar Rebel reunites with Weston, now a billionaire security expert at his aunt’s funeral. Finally, the place and time is right for them both to finally give into their feelings… well once they deal with Rebel’s stalker that is!
This is a quick, angst free read albeit relatively slow burn when it came to the romance side of things, with great characters in Rebel and Weston although I didn’t really sense much chemistry between them. The love, they had for each other was apparent but for me they had more of a married twenty years and comfortable with each other vibe than can’t keep their hands off each other. I did enjoy the whole stalker storyline, but I would’ve loved it to have been fleshed out a bit more, building up the tension but I have to award bonus points for several characters from previous books making appearances, in this case Nash and Juan. Protecting Rebel is a great addition to the Redstone security series but can easily be read as a standalone without spoiling earlier books for you.
This is a quick, angst free read albeit relatively slow burn when it came to the romance side of things, with great characters in Rebel and Weston although I didn’t really sense much chemistry between them. The love, they had for each other was apparent but for me they had more of a married twenty years and comfortable with each other vibe than can’t keep their hands off each other. I did enjoy the whole stalker storyline, but I would’ve loved it to have been fleshed out a bit more, building up the tension but I have to award bonus points for several characters from previous books making appearances, in this case Nash and Juan. Protecting Rebel is a great addition to the Redstone security series but can easily be read as a standalone without spoiling earlier books for you.
October 3, 2023
This is book 21 in the Red Stone Security series and it can absolutely be read as a standalone. They’ve been friends since they were kids. Musical superstar Rebel doesn’t have many people in her life she trusts. The majority have always wanted something from her; fame, money, influence. She’s learned to keep her protective walls high, but it’s made having a real life impossible. Then a funeral sends her home and into the arms of her childhood friend who protected her from danger when they were young—the only man she’s ever truly wanted. But he’s always wanted more than friendship. Weston is stunned when Rebel shows up to his aunt’s funeral. They’ve stayed in touch over the years but he always thought she was with someone and out of his league. When he discovers she’s single, the billionaire knows it’s time to make his move. But danger strikes before he can, and keeping her safe is the only thing that matters. The threat is closer than anyone imagined, and Weston will do whatever it takes to protect the woman who stole his heart so many years ago.
I really enjoyed this story! Rebel and Weston both love each other and want the best for each other, but both are afraid of moving their relationship beyond best friends and losing each other. I really liked how this whole story plays out, complete with them both realizing that they would never find true happiness without each other. I really liked the side characters as well, and wouldn't mind some stories for them too!!
I really enjoyed this story! Rebel and Weston both love each other and want the best for each other, but both are afraid of moving their relationship beyond best friends and losing each other. I really liked how this whole story plays out, complete with them both realizing that they would never find true happiness without each other. I really liked the side characters as well, and wouldn't mind some stories for them too!!
August 28, 2023
Protecting Rebel is the 21st book (yes, you read that right!) in this author’s Red Stone Security series, but each one is a stand-alone title. However, this series was my introduction to the incredible talent of this author, and I’ve loved every Red Stone Security book to date. So, if you’re looking for a great romantic suspense series to binge, I highly recommend this one!
Rebel and Weston were best friends when they were younger and almost took a chance with each other, but life got in the way. So not only is this a friends-to-lovers trope, it’s a kind of a second-chance romance trope as well. Since both tropes are my top favorites, I literally couldn’t stop reading and finished it in one sitting. I enjoyed how the letters told our hero and heroine’s backstory, so the timeline isn’t linear, and the villain wasn’t who I expected.
There’s a reason Katie Reus is one of my go-to authors for romantic suspense. She consistently delivers quality stories with wonderfully heartfelt characters and engaging and sexy suspense. I know when I pick up one of her books, I had better have a lot of free time because I will not want to put it down, and this one was no exception. Protecting Rebel is yet another winner in this author's fantastic line-up of books.
NICUnurse’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rebel and Weston were best friends when they were younger and almost took a chance with each other, but life got in the way. So not only is this a friends-to-lovers trope, it’s a kind of a second-chance romance trope as well. Since both tropes are my top favorites, I literally couldn’t stop reading and finished it in one sitting. I enjoyed how the letters told our hero and heroine’s backstory, so the timeline isn’t linear, and the villain wasn’t who I expected.
There’s a reason Katie Reus is one of my go-to authors for romantic suspense. She consistently delivers quality stories with wonderfully heartfelt characters and engaging and sexy suspense. I know when I pick up one of her books, I had better have a lot of free time because I will not want to put it down, and this one was no exception. Protecting Rebel is yet another winner in this author's fantastic line-up of books.
NICUnurse’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
September 4, 2023
This was one of Katie's better Red Stone Security romantic suspense stories. I really enjoyed reading it and was very surprised who the villain was at the end. It's my favorite type of story, friends to lovers. These two, Rebel and Weston have known each other since they were twelve being next door neighbors. They were besties and Weston's house was a safe haven for her with her mother's alcohol and drug use along with her handsy boyfriends. His Aunt Margaret even had her move in with her before graduation to give her a loving and safe environment.
Weston Davis always planned to follow in his father's footsteps and become a Marine. He signed up right after graduation. He knew his best friend Rebel Martinez was gifted with a voice that would make her a star. Aunt Margaret helped her get her start. We jump to years later after he's out of the service and made his millions with a security app, and Rebel is a huge star. He quickly realizes she's got a stalker and takes over her protection bringing in Red Stone Security to help. What follows was a guessing game as to who was after her. Weston becomes her guardian protector which brings to the surface the love they have for each other. I enjoyed this story immensely.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Weston Davis always planned to follow in his father's footsteps and become a Marine. He signed up right after graduation. He knew his best friend Rebel Martinez was gifted with a voice that would make her a star. Aunt Margaret helped her get her start. We jump to years later after he's out of the service and made his millions with a security app, and Rebel is a huge star. He quickly realizes she's got a stalker and takes over her protection bringing in Red Stone Security to help. What follows was a guessing game as to who was after her. Weston becomes her guardian protector which brings to the surface the love they have for each other. I enjoyed this story immensely.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 8, 2023
The author takes us back to Miami where Weston Davis and Rebel Martinez became best friends as kids, when Weston went to live with his aunt Margaret after the death of a parent. Rebel lived close by, in a toxic home and spent most of her time with Weston and Margaret.
Even when these two went their separate ways, him to the military and later becoming a billionaire and her to a singing career and nowadays world famous, the bond was never severed. Neither revealing they were in love with the other.
When Aunt Margaret passes, Rebel is back for the funeral. She’ll also be doing her last shows before ending her tour. This gives them time to spend time together, bonding even more. It’s also the right opportunity for Weston to declare his love.
The moment danger comes upon Rebel, and before he does anything else, he’s determined to keep her safe doing this with the help of the Red Stone Security bodyguards.
This was a sweet story about reuniting and opening their hearts to love and a future together.
The story was touching, sweet, filled with action, drama and romance.
Though it’s part of the Red Stone Security series , they carry a secondary role.
Another winner by this author.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Even when these two went their separate ways, him to the military and later becoming a billionaire and her to a singing career and nowadays world famous, the bond was never severed. Neither revealing they were in love with the other.
When Aunt Margaret passes, Rebel is back for the funeral. She’ll also be doing her last shows before ending her tour. This gives them time to spend time together, bonding even more. It’s also the right opportunity for Weston to declare his love.
The moment danger comes upon Rebel, and before he does anything else, he’s determined to keep her safe doing this with the help of the Red Stone Security bodyguards.
This was a sweet story about reuniting and opening their hearts to love and a future together.
The story was touching, sweet, filled with action, drama and romance.
Though it’s part of the Red Stone Security series , they carry a secondary role.
Another winner by this author.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
August 12, 2023
This time Katie gives us the story of Weston and Rebel who meet when both are still kids. Weston is coming to live with his aunt after his parents deaths and immediately bonds with the girl next door who's got a very bad relationship with her mother. They become the best of friends, are each others confidants and even when Weston joins the military and later a self-made millionaire and Rebel becomes a famous singer, the bond remains.
Fast forward a few years and Rebel and Weston meet again at his aunts funeral. Both have had a torch for the other for years and now with Rebel back home, Weston knows it's time to make his move. Rebel is ending her tour in Miami and will be staying home afterwards.
When he finds out she's got a stalker and is receiving threatening letters, his protectiveness over her appears and he turns in her fierest bodyguard.
Even though I knew rather quick who the villain was in the story, this was a very engaging book as are all Katie's books. It was great to see some of the older Red Stone Security characters as well as being introduced to new ones.
Can't wait for the next in the series.
*I kindly received an ARC from the author via Bookfunnel. This is my honest opinion.*
Fast forward a few years and Rebel and Weston meet again at his aunts funeral. Both have had a torch for the other for years and now with Rebel back home, Weston knows it's time to make his move. Rebel is ending her tour in Miami and will be staying home afterwards.
When he finds out she's got a stalker and is receiving threatening letters, his protectiveness over her appears and he turns in her fierest bodyguard.
Even though I knew rather quick who the villain was in the story, this was a very engaging book as are all Katie's books. It was great to see some of the older Red Stone Security characters as well as being introduced to new ones.
Can't wait for the next in the series.
*I kindly received an ARC from the author via Bookfunnel. This is my honest opinion.*
August 28, 2023
Rebel and Weston have been friends for decades - drifting in and out of each others lives as his military career and her steady climb to stardom allowed. But Weston has decided he's finally all in and determined to let Rebel know just what she means to him. Pity that's right when she gets an influx of stalker nastiness.
Weston never minded sharing his Aunt Margaret with Rebel and she loved him for it. But now she's at the top of her game she needs a rest and has come home to Miami to do it. But someone wants everything Rebel has and is willing to kill to get it!
They may have been brought back together due to Margaret's sad passing but they both seem to be on the same page emotionally finally and when they decide to break the friends-only rule, they really do go all in!
The emails/letters to each other, sprinkled between the chapters and taken from throughout their friendship, shows just how much they cared for each other so the slow-burn to intense love affair makes absolute sense.
I really thought I'd sussed the stalker and then - blam - plot twist! I really do enjoy this series so much, each book feels fresh and previous couples and characters crop up to keep you updated on their lives.
Weston never minded sharing his Aunt Margaret with Rebel and she loved him for it. But now she's at the top of her game she needs a rest and has come home to Miami to do it. But someone wants everything Rebel has and is willing to kill to get it!
They may have been brought back together due to Margaret's sad passing but they both seem to be on the same page emotionally finally and when they decide to break the friends-only rule, they really do go all in!
The emails/letters to each other, sprinkled between the chapters and taken from throughout their friendship, shows just how much they cared for each other so the slow-burn to intense love affair makes absolute sense.
I really thought I'd sussed the stalker and then - blam - plot twist! I really do enjoy this series so much, each book feels fresh and previous couples and characters crop up to keep you updated on their lives.
August 26, 2023
Protecting Rebel is Red Stone Security #21 with the agents providing bodyguard duty for a rising superstar in the musical world. By Katie Reus, Weston works with the company but not exactly for the company. However, member of the agency is there to be the security that Rebel needs. Two hwo have been handpicked by Weston. Boy, does she need it now. There is jealousy, stalking and murder on minds of some dangerously unstable characters. Still it is difficult to know where the murderous danger is actually coming from in this story until the villain strikes.
Rebel and Weston have been friends since childhood. It is so wonderful in this story that they both had Weston’s Aunt Margaret to guide and support them in this life. Both have pursued their goals in adulthood, getting in touch, and loving each other from a far. Now their time has come. An amazing story of a true protective male, a talented intelligent female and a love that was not to be denied. Suspense, danger, and hot romance all in one story as only Katie Reus can write.
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Rebel and Weston have been friends since childhood. It is so wonderful in this story that they both had Weston’s Aunt Margaret to guide and support them in this life. Both have pursued their goals in adulthood, getting in touch, and loving each other from a far. Now their time has come. An amazing story of a true protective male, a talented intelligent female and a love that was not to be denied. Suspense, danger, and hot romance all in one story as only Katie Reus can write.
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 9, 2023
Protecting Rebel is the twenty-first book in Katie Reus’ Red Stone Security Series. It is a suspenseful romance novel filled with fantastic characters, a great storyline and a happily ever after.
Weston and Rebel have been friends since childhood. Both have strong romantic feelings for each other, yet neither are brave enough to risk their friendship for a chance at love. But when danger begins stalking Rebel, Weston will do anything to protect the love of his life. Will it be enough? Read it and find out!
Sweet, fantastic read! The chemistry between Weston and Rebel was evident from childhood. They were amazing together and supportive of what each other needed. This book can be read as a standalone, but when read in order, a greater appreciation for the series is achieved. Reus does an excellent job weaving old and introducing new characters into the Red Stone Security series. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series!
This is a voluntary review of an advanced readers copy received from Netgalley.
Weston and Rebel have been friends since childhood. Both have strong romantic feelings for each other, yet neither are brave enough to risk their friendship for a chance at love. But when danger begins stalking Rebel, Weston will do anything to protect the love of his life. Will it be enough? Read it and find out!
Sweet, fantastic read! The chemistry between Weston and Rebel was evident from childhood. They were amazing together and supportive of what each other needed. This book can be read as a standalone, but when read in order, a greater appreciation for the series is achieved. Reus does an excellent job weaving old and introducing new characters into the Red Stone Security series. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series!
This is a voluntary review of an advanced readers copy received from Netgalley.
August 13, 2023
I haven’t read all of the Red Stone Security series which is a shame, but I’ve read a few, and I can assure you that those I have read, I’ve loved, but I have to say, I think Protecting Rebel is my favourite. Note, they can all be read as stand-alones. Protecting Rebel is a friends to lovers rockstar romance and throughout the whole story neither of the characters lose sight of their friendship. As Rebel’s singing career takes off and she leaves her hometown, so too does Weston (he joins the military), and throughout their separation they keep in touch, and even though they both have hidden feelings for each other, neither one thinks they stand a chance with the other. However when Rebel’s life is threatened Weston does everything in his power to protect her, all while making it clear about his true feelings for her. A wonderful sexy romance, highly entertaining, emotional and suspenseful, it kept me guessing to the very end. I loved it. I received an advanced copy of this book. This is my honest review.
August 22, 2023
This was the 21st book in the Red Stone Security series, and although it was mentioned several times, it very much took the back seat in this story. Weston and Rebel had been childhood friends, then grew apart as Weston went into he Marines, and Rebel made a name for herself as a singer. The story really begins as they get back together, with Weston being a collaborator with Red Stone Security and wanting / needing to protect Rebel. She has been getting viscous emails that her manager has kept from her, but Weston knows about them and needs to keep her safe. Along the way we see their romance blossom as danger comes closer to Rebel. These are always fun stories, but I wish we saw a few more other couples from the previous books. These are considered to be romantic suspense, and this was light on the suspense and more of the romance. I always enjoy Katie Reus and she is one of the most prolific writers of today. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
August 27, 2023
Weston Davis has always protected Rebel Martinez. Even after he left for the military, they still kept in touch. Rebel spent more time at Weston’s house where he and his Aunt Margaret provided her a safe place. Now Rebel has achieved an amazing singing career and Weston has established a very profitable business along with some of his former military teammates. Rebel has always been in love with Weston, but never wanted him to have to deal with the loss of privacy that would be a part of her career. Weston has loved her since they were teens and has always been in the background of her life. When he learns that she has been receiving threatening letters, he contacts Red Stone Security to make sure that she has, along with himself, qualified bodyguards. Someone wants to destroy Rebel and her career, but it is his job to make sure that doesn’t happen. Now together every day, can he remain her friend or is it time to become her lover? I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
September 1, 2023
'You are my dream. My family'
Gah! Rebel and Weston steal your heart as teens, they break your heart again and again in their twenties, as they wander, lost, trying to find themselves and prove themselves worthy of love...but finally they heal your heart as they (very) eventually admit their love for each other. Even when they begin their tentative steps into a relationship, they are hesitant and wary, not wanting to scare the other, not committing fully and your heart hurts for those scared teens who found each other and a woman with a huge heart and open arms that offered safety and acceptance. A woman who taught them to love unconditionally, to value their own talents and who would be overjoyed that they have finally found each other again.
Rebel and Weston are amazing characters, who love and respect each other, want the best for each other, but doubt their own worth. Seeing them finally embrace their feelings and accept the others love is beautiful. They may be soul mates, but they needed the time apart to mature and grow before they finally become 'them'.
Gah! Rebel and Weston steal your heart as teens, they break your heart again and again in their twenties, as they wander, lost, trying to find themselves and prove themselves worthy of love...but finally they heal your heart as they (very) eventually admit their love for each other. Even when they begin their tentative steps into a relationship, they are hesitant and wary, not wanting to scare the other, not committing fully and your heart hurts for those scared teens who found each other and a woman with a huge heart and open arms that offered safety and acceptance. A woman who taught them to love unconditionally, to value their own talents and who would be overjoyed that they have finally found each other again.
Rebel and Weston are amazing characters, who love and respect each other, want the best for each other, but doubt their own worth. Seeing them finally embrace their feelings and accept the others love is beautiful. They may be soul mates, but they needed the time apart to mature and grow before they finally become 'them'.
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