Imagine heading the entire Irish Mafia…and despising it.
Fred Brennan’s father was a brutal man, both professionally and personally. When the kingpin died a few years ago, Fred welcomed it, but not the brutal role he was thrust into. As a successful doctor, he’s devoted his life to helping people in a career he loves. The last thing he wants is to continue to fill his father’s shoes, but after three years, he’s no closer to offloading his dad’s title onto someone else. As a mafia boss, he’s forced to deal with the elite assassin organization, Lex Talionis…bringing him face to face with the infuriating man who runs it.
As head of Lex Talionis, secrecy is vital to Vincenzo Belini and his organization. Nothing could coax him into the light to reveal himself to Fred. That is until dangerous adversaries emerge from the shadows, all vying for Fred’s life. Vincenzo knows the enemy is closer than Fred realizes. He just has to convince Fred he’s not one of them because for as much of a pain Fred can be, Vincenzo is exactly the right man to keep him focused—both in and out of the bedroom.
Someone is threatening Fred’s throne, power, and all the responsibilities that come with the title. Despite Fred not wanting any of these things, he can’t let them fall into the wrong hands. Can he rely on Vincenzo to help take down the growing enemy and give Fred the happy ending he’s always wanted?
Enemy Mine is a spinoff series within the Haven Hart series. It doesn’t follow the main story arc. Fred was introduced in Secret Simon, Head Rush, and Law of Retaliation. While it is a standalone it’s recommended you read those three books first.
Davidson King, always had a hope that someday her daydreams would become real-life stories. As a child, you would often find her in her own world, thinking up the most insane situations. It may have taken her awhile, but she made her dream come true with her first published work, Snow Falling.
She managed to wrangle herself a husband who matched her crazy and they hatched three wonderful children.
If you were to ask her what gave her the courage to finally publish, she’d tell you it was her amazing family and friends. Support is vital in all things and when you’re afraid of your dreams, it will be your cheering section that will lift you up.
As always the classic Davidson King writing that I absolutely devour. However, I didn't love that the "bad guy" was so obvious pretty much from the get go. I kept thinkin' ... "It can't be that obvious. That's not right. What am I missing?" Unfortunately, it was that obvious. You're better than that, Davidson!
He gripped my neck again and this time squeezed until my breath was cut off. Darkness creeped in at the edges, and all I could think about was Vincenzo.
His million-dollar smile, the way every touch left a mark that sunk deep into my skin and tattooed itself to my soul. The taste of his tongue and the power it had to short-circuit my brain and calm the chaos. How he truly saw me.
I could search the world ten times over and never find anyone who looked at me the way he did. Like I mattered, like I was precious and could do anything. How he saw in me the fighter and didn’t ignore my vulnerabilities; instead he made me own them and see where they took me.
5 stars for a nonstop feels for Fred. First off I’ll say I absolutely loved the Secret Simon novel, and jumped at this one for Fred’s story.
Fred was the head of a mafia assassin organisation after his fathers death. Running it wasn't what he wanted as a doctor but life has other plans. Vincenzo was the Talionis Org head man who kept his identity hidden for his own safety.
A good start as Dr Fred juggles his hospital work with mafia business leaving him exhausted. Vino, 35, was concerned about Fred as rumours were high of a takeover and not in a good way. Trouble starts and bullets fly. Yeah Fred was in deep danger, which is where he officially meets the elusive Vincenzo. Scenes progress and a mystery forms who killed Fred’s family members. I loved Fred's cheeky brat personality which was his other side of his coin to the business personia. 🔥🔥Sexy scenes involved heating up the sheets with Fred’s submissive side. This book being a mafia themed story includes all the violence and dangers for all of them. A great book to read with all the dangers in play for Fred and his man. I received an advance reader copy and this is my honest thoughts of the book.
This book was so good! I know this was a spin off but this was a first for me and it was super easy to understand and piece together all the back story. I loved the writing and the world they created within the Irish Mob and Lex Talionis. Fred and Vin are so great together and their chemistry is perfect! I liked how the story was told even if you did suspect who the bad guy was it was told so well with not too much back and forth crap. Every character played their part and did an amazing job!!!!
If you've read Secret Simon, Head Rush, or Law Of Retaliation, (Or all of the above), then you've been introduced to Fred's character. Who admittedly was a bit of a bully in those stories but eventually became nicer to those he was treating poorly. In those books we got glimpses of the real Fred, the one behind the mask, we learned little details here and there that made him behave the way he did. In this story we learned even more about who Fred really is, what he cares for, what he fears, and who he cares about the most. We also got to know the real Fred, not the version that's been outwardly portrayed in those other stories.
The real Fred is kind, loyal, stubborn, and a bit bratty. I enjoyed learning about his character and reading about his journey. His dream has always been to be a doctor and to help people, but the other part of his life won't let him be just a doctor. I thought the way this whole story was written was done excellently. Especially when it came to Fred's character. I could feel the yearning that Fred has towards wanting out of the crime life, and how much he wants his cousin to take over. I thought it was impressive that this author could write Fred's character in such a way that makes you sympathize with him, and truly understand what he really wants.
Vincenzo's character is mysterious, he was in Law Of Retaliation and he still continues to be in this book as well. His organization is one I find quite intriguing, it's a very unique concept and I loved the way Davidson brought his persona and his job to life. Even though he never met Fred he was looking out for the stubborn red head. Upon meeting him, sparks flew for both of these men.
The buildup of Vince and Fred's relationship was such a good slow burn! They had wonderful dialogue, and had great chemistry! They just fit together. The action scenes were described well and with great attention to details. The world building was excellent, the side characters helped move the story along and they each had their own personalities. The buildup of who was behind attacking Fred was done so well! I loved the unknown aspect of what was going to happen next, and what else they were going to discover the more the story went on.
I loved the cameos from the Haven Hart characters, that was such an amazing attribute to this story, and I loved seeing those characters again. This was an incredible story and I can't wait to see what Davidson King is going to write next!!
This was so good. I'm so happy Fred gets the chance of having his own romance, he goes through a lot in Secret Simon, Head Rush and law of retaliation. Including being saddled with being head of his mafia family when he actually wanted to be a doctor and help people in peace. Vincenzo showing up when he needed a prince with assassins in tow was perfect. And I loved how the story developed, both in the romance, action and character development. I believe Westford will have more stories, and I look forward to all of them. Although I cannot begin to guess if it will star Fred and Vin again or bring in someone new to the spotlight
Enemy Mine is the first book in the Westford Series. While it is a standalone it’s recommended you read these three books first, Secret Simon, Head Rush, and Law of Retaliation. Fred one of the main characters is introduced and mentioned in these books. This is Fred and Vincenzos story. Fred is the head of the Irish Mafia but he never wanted that role. Vincenzo is the head of the Lex Talionis an assassin organization. I couldn't put this book down once I started it. I fell in love with Fred from the first time he was introduced and this book just made me love him even more. Vincenzo is just perfect for Fred. This book had me in tears several times, it also brought out so many other emotions. I love the way Davidson King brings the characters to life. This book has it all. I would definitely recommend it as a 5 star read.
Amazing book, I loved it! I read this in one sitting, I couldn’t put it down. It was suspenseful, angsty, action packed, steamy and sweet. I loved Fred and Vin and loved that Vin stayed with Fred and stayed by his side, swoon… It was great to read more of other characters from Haven Hart. I’m looking forward to the next book in this new series/spinoff, wondering whose story is next and fingers crossed Thomas survives… A Must Read!!
I love the first book in a new series by a favourite author, especially when we've already had a glimpse or two of (one or both of) the main characters. That's very much the case here - see the author's recommended reading order. We've already met Fred, the reluctant head of the Irish Mob in Westford and we've seen Vincenzo lurking in the shadows as the head of Lex Talionis, an elite company of assassins.
So, a couple of things that I like right off the bat. Firstly, I love that the MCs are of equal standing as heads of their organisations - that's not a combination often found. I also love Fred’s determination to have a ‘normal’ career as a doctor. The world building is great - it's different enough that Westford doesn't feel like Haven Hart but it's clearly part of the same universe (nice cameos by some old favourites). This author’s writing style works for me too…a true storyteller.
As for the main characters, we know Fred's origin story from previous books so here we get a closer look at the after effects. He's by turns bratty and vulnerable but also incredibly strong willed. He's a great example of what happens if you push a man too far. Then there's Vincenzo who's possessive as anything and a respected leader, but he's also a fantastic caregiver who instinctively knows what Fred needs from him.
It's a solid plot, too, with plenty of action and intrigue as Fred and Vincenzo have to work out who's threatening everything that Fred must protect. Who can Fred really trust? He doesn't know…and the jeopardy just keeps building the closer he and Vincenzo get to the answer.
This was an excellent first visit to Westford...can't wait for more. 4.5*
An e-copy was provided by the author. This is my honest review.
Fred Brennan’s father was a brutal man, both professionally and personally. When the kingpin died a few years ago, Fred welcomed it, but not the brutal role he was thrust into. As a successful doctor, he’s devoted his life to helping people in a career he loves. The last thing he wants is to continue to fill his father’s shoes as head of the Irish Mafia, but after three years, he’s no closer to offloading his dad’s title onto someone else. As a mafia boss, he’s forced to deal with the elite assassin organization, Lex Talionis bringing him face to face with the infuriating man who runs it. As head of Lex Talionis, secrecy is vital to Vincenzo Belini and his organization. Nothing could coax him into the light to reveal himself to Fred. That is until dangerous adversaries emerge from the shadows, all vying for Fred’s life. Vincenzo knows the enemy is closer than Fred realizes. He just has to convince Fred he’s not one of them because for as much of a pain Fred can be, Vincenzo is exactly the right man to keep him focused both in and out of the bedroom. Someone is threatening Fred’s throne, power, and all the responsibilities that come with the title. Despite Fred not wanting any of these things, he can’t let them fall into the wrong hands. Can he rely on Vincenzo to help take down the growing enemy and give Fred the happy ending he’s always wanted?
I loved this spin-off series and the whole plot of this dramatic story where it was hard to work out who to trust. The story was full of passion, betrayal and at times joy. I loved Fred and Vin who were such a great couple. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
I don't know what it is about Davidson's books but they are always a comfort for me. There might be dark moments but you always feel the love and protectiveness of the other characters. Fred needed his hea and he finally got it and who better than the mysterious Vin. I loved this pairing so much! I loved seeing Fred reluctantly fall into his role as the head of the Irish. He never wanted it to begin with but when people force him into it, he flourishes into his role. He can be a boss and still be a doctor too because he has the most powerful people backing him up and he won't let anyone run his life for himself.
Vin came in to be a bodyguard of sorts to Fred but he knew he wanted it more than that with Fred. I liked that Vin just knew what Fred needed but never pushed him one way or the other.
Haven Hart made a brief appearance and I loved seeing them again. Snow has even more wisdom as he gets older. Poe is still the same because he still hates when people call him unless it's a life or death situation but also not really. Simon and Rush too! 🥰 I just loved that they came to Westford to show Fred's enemies they were a united front. Aiden was so sus that by the end of it I wasn't surprised at all. It was just sad that he was like he was when if he had ask, he could probably have what he wanted. Fred's biological family is gone but he has his foster one and no one will ever leave him alone.
I had such a great time with this book and I can't wait for the next one.
I am the odd one out. Everyone seems to love this book, but it was really meh for me.
The huge, huge things for me is that Vin and the Lex Talionis are supposed to be badass assassins who don't get caught, know their shit, and are great at figuring out who the bad guys are. And YET! Vin was suspicious of the person fight off the bat, but he didn't think to check the guys phone when he was unconscious? Have him looked up or followed? Or put cameras in his room? Or ANYTHING? The incompetence was astounding. Given who they are supposed to be. I knew who it was from the very beginning, and every time they let the guy be by himself or let him text someone right in from of them was ridiculous! I got annoyed very quickly.
Then there are Fred and Vin. I was not a fan of their relationship or even them in general. Fred was be better of the two, but still. Vin calling Fred a brat when Fred had every reason to be mad and upset with the situation was not great for me. Yeah, sure, Vin was "liked" him being a brat, but when you first meet someone, you don't call them a brat. Vin was just a jerk. His personality did not work for me. Fred was okay, but I just didn't like him much.
Overall, not happy with this book. The narration was okay, too, which makes me sad. I love Alexander Cendese, but his Irish didn't really work for me (it was also on and off?). John Solo was good, but he could have made Vin a bit gruffer (for me). I love both of them, so I am sad.
I’ve wanted Fred’s story since Secret Simon, and it’s as great as I wanted it to be! Fred’s had a hard life made even tougher by being thrust into a job he never wanted. All he wants to do is save lives, and his role as head of a crime family goes against everything he ever wanted for his life. But he’s never had choices. His life has never been his own. It’s Vincenzo’s job to exact vengeance on those deserving of it, and he knows Fred isn’t deserving. Vincenzo sees Fred for who he is: too good for the world Fred’s been forced into. Now Fred’s life is in more danger than he’s ever been in, and Vincenzo is determined to help Fred make it out alive. Their story is one of love, and the undeniable truth that if you have even one person that believes in you, you can fight through anything. So many feels in this book! I wanted Fred to get his HEA because he was introduced in Secret Simon as someone I immediately didn’t like. But I was able to see his reasons, and he turned from someone I thought was a spoiled brat, to someone who was just making bad choices in bad situations, just to fight for survival and his right to live his life on his terms. He’s only human, just like the rest of is. And Vincenzo is the swoon worthy knight who has his back. I love Davidson King’s writing, and Fred and Vincenzo’s story is a wild and steamy ride!
The first time I met Fred was in Secret Simon. He was a young man in a relationship with a much older, manipulative man. In Head Rush, Fred was a very different and traumatized young man than before. His father, Liam Brennan, head of the Irish mafia, conducted his version of a conversion camp to try to remake Fred in his image. Finally, Law of Retaliation presents Fred who stepped up as the head of the mafia, finished medical school, and has struggled to find the life he dreamt of.
I enjoyed Enemy Mine. Fred is a fully dimensional character. He has more reality than more fictional characters. What I mean by that is the author lets you feel Fred's satisfaction working as a medical doctor, his frustration still dealing with the mafia aspects of his life, and the exhaustion that rides him every moment of every day. Fred rises and falls with events beyond his control as the book progresses. It is relatable to how much people live their lives, just not with such violence.
The new characters from the Lex Talionis are interesting and varied. Vincenzo is a big, deadly, cinnamon roll, but only for Fred. I loved their relationship. It was so good to finally see someone in Fred's corner, for Fred's sake, not their own. The action was non-stop and unpredictable.
I received an advance review copy from the author. After reading the book twice, I wrote an honest review. I had pre-ordered the book a month in advance of its release.
Fred, Fred, Fred!!!!! I’ll be the first to admit I’ve had a lot of feelings where he’s concerned, but my everlasting one I will happily shout is love. I love that he finally found his happiness, I love that he has his own stalwart and dangerous protector, and I love that we have the honor of seeing this sweet and spiky man come into his own.
“I’ve seen you, I know the type of man you are, and I’m enamored. I don’t want to extinguish the flame that flickers inside you; I want to pour gasoline on it and watch you burn away your demons.”
Yes please and may I have some more. No one who knows Fred’s history can argue that he had it easy, and I’d posit that his journey to love tests him even more but how this amazing man soars! No, I haven’t forgotten about Vincenzo, who is definitely a yummy, lethal treat, but the heart of this story is Fred, and he is walking away with mine.
Fred has has inherited the role of mob boss. He despises the job. It’s pretty much ruined his life. He just wants to be a doctor. When he has to have protection, he’s forced to depend on a man that is secretive and infuriating. Vincenzo is the head of Lex Talionis an elite assassin organization. But that doesn’t necessarily make him a bad guy.
This was a swoopy roller coaster ride of a book. I’ve liked Fred from the beginning. He’s a sweetie if you can accept the mob boss thing. Vincenzo is also very likable in his own way. I didn’t expect him to be sweetheart either. I really liked them together. Vincenzo’s people were interesting in their own right.
Peripherally, this story is connected to the Haven Hart universe. I believe a reader can enjoy this book without having read that series. However…to get a better feel for Fred, the author suggests reading Secret Simon, Head Rush, and Law of Retaliation.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
What a great start to Davidson King's new Westford Series. If you've read and loved the Haven Hart series which this series is a spin off you'll really Enemy Mine. MC Fred is the reluctant head of the Irish Mob and we've met him in the Haven Hart books. All he wants is to be a doctor and hand over the reins to the family business to his female cousin. The family won't allow that and when things take a tragic turn he is forced to turn to the mysterious Vincenzo. Vincenzo is the head of Lex Talionis, an elite company of assassins and very rarely makes his identity know but there is something about Fred and makes him reveal himself. I love how Vincenzo is besotted with Fred quite quickly and will stop at nothing to protect the man. With Vincenzo, Fred can let his guard down and trusts him to keep him alive. Mobster boss, secret assassins, betrayal and swoon feelings Enemy Mine has all of it.
Enemy Mine is the first book in the Westford Series, though it’s best enjoyed after reading Secret Simon, Head Rush, and Law of Retaliation, which introduce Fred, a central character in this novel. Fred, the reluctant head of the Irish Mafia, and Vincenzo, the leader of the assassin organization Lex Talionis, are at the heart of the story. The book captivated me from start to finish, deepening my affection for Fred and highlighting his perfect match in Vincenzo. The book features a well-crafted slow-burn romance between Fred and Vincenzo, with engaging dialogue and chemistry. The action scenes are dynamic, the world-building is robust, and the secondary characters add depth. The mystery surrounding the attacks on Fred is skillfully woven, keeping readers guessing. Overall, the story is gripping, emotionally resonant, and leaves readers eager for more from Davidson King.
I was so eager for Fred's story and Enemy Mine by Davidson King did not disappoint! Fred has been through so much trauma in his life yet still wants to devote himself to healing others. Now the boss of the Irish Mob he yearns to be free from this life. When those closest to him are targeted he is ready to burn down everything in his way. He gets more than he bargained for when Vincenzo shows up offering his protection. Their connection is so profound. Neither was expecting what they find together. I loved the way their trust and love was so organic. Everything felt natural and right. The flow of this story is perfection. I could not stop turning the pages, eager for more. This just may be my new favorite Davidson King book! I can't wait for more in the Westford series.
Automatic buy and read, every time from Davidson King!
Fred Brennan is not a new to us character, he has appeared in other books from the Haven Hart series. It’s time for Fred to grow up and get his own book. Everyday Fred is a doctor, then there’s his double life as head of the Irish Mob.
Every time I read a story by Davidson King, I think to myself this one is the best and my favorite, then she releases something new and I think the same about the next one. I quite enjoy her character building, world creating skill. I get sucked in and I can’t put it down, every time!
A definite must read.
*Reader Note: I received a free copy of this book directly from the author and this is my honest review.
"3.9 ⭐️ 2🌶 Fred and Vin are super sweet together. Both from organized crime syndicates, thrown together due to sad circumstances. I definitely felt from Fred and his loss and trials and tribulations. Vin is sweet with him without being a pushover and always so supportive.
Thus wasn't a 5 star for me because I wanted more from the spicy scenes. Also, this is marketed as a standalone stating you don't need to read the previous books, so I didn't, but you 100% need to read them. There are SO many names, people, and places thrown at you in the first 50 pages it gets confusing and hard to follow if you aren't caught up on the world. Also, the overuse of the word brat was annoying lol. Overall, good book and I would recommend."
This is an awesome start to a spin off series of Haven Hart. Fred was made the head of the Irish mafia after his father passed away. Even though he didn’t want the position, preferring to being a doctor, he had no choice until he found someone to replace him. He has wanted to meet the head of Lex Taliomis to no avail until he lost his uncle and cousin. When he met Vincenzo, sparks flew between them but he needed to find out who killed them. This is a great read with Vin doing everything in his power to keep Fred safe. Great world building, lots of action and betrayal, with heat and chemistry. Cannot wait to see what happens next.
3.9 ⭐️ 2🌶 Fred and Vin are super sweet together. Both from organized crime syndicates, thrown together due to sad circumstances. I definitely felt from Fred and his loss and trials and tribulations. Vin is sweet with him without being a pushover and always so supportive.
Thus wasn't a 5 star for me because I wanted more from the spicy scenes. Also, this is marketed as a standalone stating you don't need to read the previous books, so I didn't, but you 100% need to read them. There are SO many names, people, and places thrown at you in the first 50 pages it gets confusing and hard to follow if you aren't caught up on the world. Overall, good book and I would recommend.
I love, love, loved Fred and Vincenzo’s story! There’s plenty of action and heat, and I loved the twists in the plot. This was an amazing read and I absolutely recommend reading their story. Fred is first introduced in Secret Simon and appears in two others books following that one. You do not have to read all of them before reading this one, as Davidson King did amazing with including details from the previous books into this one to give a good background story. I highly recommend picking up Fred and Vin’s story. It is truly amazing!
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
Fred and Vin are so cute and funny together. The Brat and the Handler is more their personalities with each other. It broke my heart the way they came together. Sean and Aine were there for Fred, gave him the confidence he needed. Fred blamed himself, and a certain someone really helped him along in that regard. That betrayal was soul/love deep. But the way Fred showed his courage and his smarts, helped along by Vincenzo’s encouragement was a breath of fresh air to me. Fred was never alone, he had allies and friends. Never realizing that Sean and Aine weren’t his only family. Sometimes family isn’t always blood.
Thank you for the ARC, I voluntarily give it an honest review. Talk about OMG! Poor Fred, an he couldn't even break down a process the grief as he was with Strangers.. I laughed when Fred outburst was the undoing of Vincenzo holding back. A job unwanted, only Fred was unwilling to die in order to live his dream. That is until some unknown took it into their own hands to remove him that way. Vincenzo was the man behind the muscle of the Lex Talionis. Drawn out into the open for one brat that was in dire need of someone to trust, when he was surrounded by enemies..was it was wise to interfere or just good managing.
Absolutely loved seeing sweet Fred step up as a Mafia leader to ensure power did not transfer into the wrong hands. Fred had to be smart, cautious, and make hard decisions. I knew the second Vin became his protection he was going to be so much more. Very enjoyable romantic dynamic amidst all the power struggles and danger. And Vin was a dangerous man, and yep, I am going to cheesy write it, a danger to Fred's heart. Enjoyed every page with these two and their unique situation and relationship. Going to be another page turning series here!
This story was awesome, with a detailed plot Fred and Vencenzo will keep you turning pages. Filled with betrayal, lies and retribution this story shows us why we have all fallen in love with this author.
With steamy scenes, action packed plot line the story takes you on a journey that will make you forget that these two men and this world are not real. I loved how Vencenzo was able to step back and watch Fred being in charge while out in the public eye, but later when they were alone he gave Fred the ability to just let go.
I loved this story about Fred, a doctor and the head of the Irish mob in Westford and Vincenzo, the head of an elite assassin organization. I loved how Vin was enamored with Fred even before he met him and when he found out Fred was in trouble, he was on his way to help. There was suspense, a little angst and some swoony moments. You kind of knew early on who was behind everything but Davidson King does a great job of making you second guess things. Bravo! I can't wait for more from the city of Westford.
This was the first book of the spinoff of the Haven Hart series and man oh man this author started with a bang!! Fred didn’t want to take over for the Irish Mafia after his father passed. His uncle and cousin always supported him and his rise to power (even though he didn’t want it). When they were suddenly taken from him he was devastated and wanted revenge. In comes Lex Talionis and Vincenzo to help him get that revenge. Buckle up because you’re in for a wild ride with lots of twists and turns.
I still fondly remember reading Snow for the first time and proceeded to devour all the book in that series and other related books. I was excited to see the start of a new series that still had connections with characters from previous books and this did t disappoint.
I enjoyed Fred and Vin’s story, getting to know them, the element of mystery and action contained in the book.
I stayed up til 2am reading it and couldn’t put it down. I look forward to reading more in this series.