The enemy of my enemy is my friend...The Trainer is a pulse pounding psychological thriller by the bestselling author of Everybody Ain't Your Friend and The Quiet Ones series.
Trapped in a relationship that has become her prison, Adelle Roberts has learned to survive by making herself invisible. Alonzo controls every aspect of her life—who she sees, where she goes, even what she wears. His charm conceals a monster who punishes the slightest perceived betrayal.
When Alonzo forces Adelle to join a gym to lose weight, she stumbles across a kickboxing class and glimpses a possible escape. Except Latifa, her trainer, seems to be harder on her than Alonzo has ever been. What's more is that Latifa seems to be holding a few dark secrets of her own.
Adelle is desperate to escape Alonzo, yet freedom seems out of reach. Until she finally crafts a plan that seems like it will allow her to get away for good - if she survives it.
The Trainer explores the devastating reality of intimate partner violence and asks haunting questions about justice, vengeance, and whether some chains can ever truly be broken.
A pulse-pounding drama full of twists and turns. This series is fast-paced, straight to the point, and packs a powerful punch that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
The Red Series is composed of self-contained stories – they can be read in any order.
Wow! I can’t believe the red series is over, but it has been one wild & satisfying ride. It is hard to pick a favorite story so I won’t even try, because this entire 8 book series ate down!!
One thing you can almost always expect from a Tanisha Stewart book, is to experience almost every emotion known to mankind. Literally at 3% into this story, I was wishing ill thoughts on one of the characters. Alonzo was simply the worst, yet Adele captured our hearts very early on in the story - this is what I mean by going through a series of emotions, as you love and hate characters at the same time.
I really enjoyed the twists that were thrown in, and how she kept us guessing about one of the characters motives, making us doubt ourselves through a good portion of this book. If I had to give someone the “morale of this story” it will be that karma comes back, and sometimes has a mind of its own.
Overall, a very well written thriller that I would highly recommend! Although this is a part of a series, it can be read as a standalone as well as all of the other books in the red series. If you take the time to read all 8 of these books, you will not be disappointed.
What a fantastic way to end the series! These characters told the story of revenge very well. As usual many twists and turns. Just when I thought I had it figured out, I was far from it!! I’m sad to see the series end, but I understand. I have others I can dive into!
The Trainer by Tanisha Stewart is one of those books that lingers with you long after you’ve finished. it made me smile at times, but it also broke my heart—because the situations woven into this story reflect real-life experiences. that reality made it all the more haunting and impactful.
when i realized the reasoning behind Alonzo’s actions matched what i suspected, i had to pause. it struck me how often these same toxic cycles and justifications occur in real life. it’s no excuse, but the painful truth is that it happens far more than we think. that moment made this story feel like a true crime documentary unfolding before my eyes—only this time, the woman’s strength and survival are what define her story.
what stood out to me most was the girl power written into these pages. two women, each with their own heartbreaking circumstances, come together in strength and solidarity. the way their stories parallel and intertwine is both devastating and empowering, showing resilience in the face of pain.
and one more thing—Tanisha Stewart, we absolutely need a book from Latifa’s perspective. the way her POV ended left me wanting so much more. this is a must read!!
The Trainer x Tanisha Stewart Pages: 222 Genre: Psychological Thriller ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 💫/5 ••••• Adelle’s life isn’t her own. Every move she makes is dictated by Alonzo, the man who hides cruelty behind charm. She’s learned to survive by fading into the background… until he pushes her into joining a gym. • What starts as another act of control turns into something else entirely when Adelle finds a kickboxing class. For the first time, she sees a glimmer of escape. But her trainer, Latifa, is tougher than expected and hiding secrets of her own. • Chileeeeee The Trainer is an intense read about survival, resilience, and the heavy cost of freedom. I will definitely continue reading the “Red Series.” I’ve liked everything I’ve read so far by this author!
The Trainer was an absolute page-turner that had me hooked from beginning to end! This psychological thriller was intense, layered, and a perfect addition to the Red Series — it kept me guessing and glued to the story all the way through.
The twists and turns were chef’s kiss — just when I thought I knew where the plot was going, Stewart flipped the script in such a smooth, unexpected way. The tension never let up, and every chapter pulled me deeper into the mystery and the mind games unfolding between the characters.
I also loved pairing this book with the audiobook for a full immersive experience. The narration by J.R. Mason and Drama Simpson was phenomenal — their voices added so much depth, emotion, and suspense to every scene.
What really sealed this as a 5-star read for me was the way the ending drove home the message that karma is a b**.** Watching everything circle back around to Alonzo after the way he treated people and the choices he made was incredibly satisfying. It was the perfect reminder that bad decisions and bad behavior eventually come back to collect.
If you love psychological thrillers packed with tension, twists, and consequences, The Trainer is a must-read!
This is how you end a series! To me this book was different from the rest in that it had me reacting with every flip of the page. Adelle’s story of survival, pain, and strength pulled me in, and the author did an excellent job of showing the burden of being in an abusive relationship, and what that does to a person mentally, physically, and psychologically.
I went back and forth with my feelings about Latifa, the trainer. Her intentions weren’t clear, and I wasn’t sure what direction her character was taking, but by the end I was thoroughly satisfied that things weren’t what they initially seemed. The characters told the story of revenge in such a powerful way—there were so many twists and turns that just when I thought I had it figured out, I realized I was far from it. And that connection between Jeremy and Alonzo? I definitely did not see that coming at all! What a twist!
In the end, God don't like ugly and Alonzo definitely reaped what he sowed. Justice was served in a way that felt both shocking and well-deserved. A gripping, emotional, and satisfying read.
Hey, hey, my favorites 😁💚. #annieethebookiee is back with another book review.
📖 Published: 2025 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tanisha Stewart never misses when it comes to delivering psychological thrillers that get under your skin, and The Trainer is no exception. This book is raw, intense, and unflinching as it dives into the realities of control, manipulation, and survival.
Adelle’s story pulled me in right away, her journey is heartbreaking yet powerful, and you can’t help but root for her through every moment of tension. Stewart’s pacing is sharp and unforgiving; just when you think you know what’s coming, she throws in another twist that makes you rethink everything.
What stood out to me most was how this story doesn’t just entertain, it forces you to pause and reflect on resilience, strength, and the quiet battles people fight behind closed doors. It’s dark, emotional, and fast-paced, yet Stewart manages to weave hope and determination into the cracks.
If you’re looking for a psychological thriller that is both thought-provoking and edge-of-your-seat gripping, this one is a must-read.
Adelle’s stuck in a cycle of abuse with her boyfriend, Alonzo. She thinks he loves her—so how did she not see the red flags? One day, he tells her to join a gym, and she signs up for kickboxing. Sounds innocent enough, right?
That’s where she meets Latifa, a strong, grounded instructor who’s been through her own trauma and came out the other side tougher and wiser. She sees something familiar in Adelle—something that hits too close to home. And she’s determined to help, even if it means crossing a few lines.
This book really surprised me. It tackles heavy, real-life issues like domestic abuse and emotional manipulation, so definitely check for trigger warnings before reading. But at its core, it’s about reclaiming your power and finding the people who will fight for you when you can’t fight for yourself.
I felt empowered after reading this. It’s not always an easy read, but it’s an important one. I believe in the idea that what you put into the universe comes back around. Solid four stars from me.⭐️
Woah! Nisha!!! Why did you have to put this out??? This isn’t your typical story about just some regular trainer. THIS is the story of Adelle! A woman who is finding her voice even in fear and darkness. Thrown into the path of someone she didn’t even begin to think she’d be connected to. Yes she’s stuck in a relationship with Alonzo 😩 & he forces her to do something she doesn’t technically need to do but this leads to an event that flips their world completely upside down. Then you have the trainer herself, Latifa! A strong woman had has been in the dark. The one who sets to help others see the light. The one piece to the puzzle that you didn’t know was needed! The twist that eventually comes is what will have you officially on the floor! I have screamed, had a major shock, wanted to fight & yelled some obscenities! It’s fast paced but perfectly done!!!! Great work girlie & a great way to end this series!!!
Here we go again , as always, Tanisha Stewart brings us yet another great thriller. When I first read the title of this book, I was completely thrown off. Here I was thinking this was about someone who was into boxing. Lol. But as always her books take a turn. My heart went out to Adele and the life. She lived of abuse, not only physically but verbally. When she joined the gym, I just wanted her to fight fight to get strong so she could beat his ass. When I got to the ending to see what was done to Alonzo at one point I felt bad but then I realized was done in. The dark always comes to light. And he got what he deserved. Like they say karma is a B****
Wow Tanisha Stewart really gave us a banger with this last installment of the Red Series! I’m so proud of her. The Trainer was absolutely phenomenal and took me through every emotion you could think of. The storytelling was powerful, the twists were sharp, and the characters truly came alive on the page.Alonzo easily became my most hated character every scene with him had me frustrated and rolling my eyes. On the other hand, I completely adored Latifa and Adele. Their strength, depth, and growth made the book even more impactful.This was the perfect way to close out the series, and it left me both satisfied and still craving more from Tanisha Stewart.
Adelle was trapped in her own personal hell and then she finds hope. Or so she thinks. The lady can’t seem to catch a break and I just wanted to save her. To fight for her. Because it seems no one sees her and that’s what she strives for, to be invisible. She tries. She fails. But in true Tanisha Stewart fashion, the story takes a turn that is unexpected. While reading this I pictured one outcome, hoped for a different outcome and was pleasantly surprised with the outcome given. Everyone had a story. And I love the way it all come together. Kudos!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ As we all know: Karma is a B….you reap what you sow….IRONY!
I'm not sure why this one had such a heavy and empathetic tone, but it affected me differently. I felt so horrible for the main female character after everything she went through in her relationship. The author did an excellent job of illustrating the numerous drawbacks of abusive relationships, as well as the persistent lack of support and understanding that comes with them. I was quite delighted with the delicacy she employed in letting the plot come to peak, and I believe it was an exceedingly well thought-out finish to the series.
Whew! I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again—Tanisha Stewart is the queen of plot twists! The Trainer was such a good read. It not only delivered a gripping and entertaining storyline but also touched on the very real and important topic of domestic abuse in a powerful way. Stewart weaves it all together seamlessly, keeping you hooked while shedding light on an issue that matters. This is definitely one of my favorite books in the Red Series!
3.5. I really enjoyed this thriller following the lives of Adelle, Latifa, & that loser Alonzo. Adelle is trapped in a controlling & abusive relationship with Alonzo who forces her to go to the gym to lose weight but there she encounters a trainer who’s just as tough named Latifa. Latifa has her own demons from her past she’s running from but has a secret that eventually comes tumbling out. I really loved how the book ended bc the irony was everything. The only reason I didn’t give a solid four star rating was it got a bit repetitive in this book other than that a very solid read.
“Tanisha delivers a story full of emotion, clarity, and justice—simply unforgettable.”
Tanisha has a gift for weaving powerful, emotional stories. This book beautifully connected Adelle’s and Latifa’s journeys, bringing clarity and depth to their struggles. Alonzo’s character was frustrating to endure, but his downfall made for a satisfying ending. Another excellent read from Tanisha! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I don't know what ending I was hoping for but this was not it definitely caught me by surprise. I was totally rooting for Adelle just waiting for her to wake up and smell the coffee. Shoutout to the best friend we need more people like that in the world and glad that Adelle had her. For the trainer I don't even know what to say about her, home girl had problems and was taking it out on poor Adelle. The end results for Alonzo was crazy work. Good read!
3.5 This wasn’t my favorite installment of the series, but I’m actually very sad The series is over. Every book was a quick fast page turning read, all the books was at least 3 1/2 star for me personally. this last installment was actually quite hard for me to get through the descriptions of domestic violence were done in a way that definitely had me triggered and stressed out. I think the ending was perfection. Everybody got what they deserved.
Although I enjoyed this book, the interpersonal violence was triggering, making me despise one character. The author’s ability to tug at my emotions was powerful. The cycle of abuse was shown expertly, and it was easy to see why certain characters made the decisions they did. The characters were well written, and the ending was satisfying.
Ok Tanisha! This is another one that will have you on edge, blood pressure up, waiting and wondering. At the end I was like “oh hell no”… then it was “oh ok, good”. LOL with a smirk! That’s karma for you. That was a great ending to an awesome series. You sure you don’t want to write four more Red series books? I’m here for it!
Absolutely loved this book and couldn’t put it down. A story of triumph in the midst of domestic abuse. I pray this encourages someone to find their way out and helps friends standing by how to help without judgement and resent.
This book could honestly become its own series. I would love to see what’s next for Latifah
Rating 3.5⭐️ The audiobook is the move. The narration elevated every emotion, every breath, every moment of fear and resolve. That bonus chapter I’m not even going to hold you. I had the giggles. Gurlllll that man’s voice chefs kiss 💋
Karma showed up on time, clocked in and did overtime. This book closed the Red Series the way it deserved to be closed.
Adelle and Latifa are struggling to get away, Adelle is trying to get away from her current situation mean while Latifa is stuck between her past and her present, when the two worlds collide. Tanisha outdid herself with this one. Sit back and enjoy the ride, you can thank me later.
Trigger warning! Cheating, Domestic violence, and a few more
KARMA
This is a ride. I suggest you buckle up for this one. The roll coaster that you are about to ride will have you feeling a ways when you get off. I just want to say karma will always come to everyone.
This was a very good read. As usual, just when you think you’ve figured out what’s going to happen, something different happens. Very well written characters and story. Keeps you guessing almost until the end.
There’s a lot to unpack. First off, Alonzo was abusing that poor girl physically and mentally. Latifa was an Angel in disguise and karma wrapped in one package. Domestic violence is very serious and it’s rare that the story ends pleasantly for the victim. Great read.
This book was good as hell because the storyline went to total opposite than what I thought it was going to be. Alfonzo got exactly what he deserved after all that. Adele was a broken woman who didn't see her worth. Latifa was the strong woman who just wanted to help.
A fast-paced, emotionally charged psychological thriller that dove deep into control, survival, and the true cost of freedom.
With sharp twists and complex characters, Stewart kept readers questioning motives and rooting hard for justice as karma took center stage in a tense showdown.
I got this as an ARC & I just want to say, this is how you end a series!! I’ve never wanted to knock somebody off as much as Alonzo, I was very much happy with the end. Great work as always!