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Red Stone Security #9

Under His Protection

Julieta’s stalker doesn’t play by the rules...

Lingerie shop owner Julieta Mederos has worked hard to get her business off the ground. Now she’s looking forward to some quality time with her friends and her big, boisterous family. But explicit texts from random phone numbers and vandalism at her shop makes it clear someone dangerous has fixated on her. Without any solid leads, the police can’t help her and she’s forced to turn to the last man she wants to depend on.

…but neither does Ivan.

Former Army Ranger and newest Red Stone Security employee Ivan Mitchell has gotten used to being alone in the world. He never even thinks about it anymore—until he meets sexy, independent Julieta. She’s everything he could ever want…but she seems determined to keep him at arm’s length. Until now. Maybe the cops can’t do anything to protect her, but he can. When things escalate faster than even he expected, he finds himself pulling out his most extreme combat skills to protect her. He’ll do what it takes to save her life—and prove to her she belongs in his.

175 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2014

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About the author

Katie Reus

166 books3,272 followers
Katie 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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5 stars
560 (39%)
4 stars
538 (37%)
3 stars
272 (19%)
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43 (3%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
Profile Image for XxTainaxX Curvy and Nerdy.
1,574 reviews515 followers
August 30, 2014
Julietta and Ivan have great chemistry. I liked the plot and the twist. The action at the end, however, felt a bit rushed and abrupt. We had a nice build up then it was over quickly. The writing is great the characters are relatable , though a bit more time would have added more depth to them. The supporting characters have a good set up for future stories as well. The love scenes aren't plentiful but they are quality.
Profile Image for Syndi.
3,963 reviews1,068 followers
January 26, 2021
It turns out Miss Reus is a popular romance author and this is my first read. Under His Protection is typical security romance novel. As usual it involved stalker.

After finished listening to the audiobook, I am not that impress. I do not hate it either. In my opninon it is so so book. Luke warm. Mediocre. I want more of everything. The plot, the chemistry between the character, more drama.

Overall this is OK read.

3 stars
Profile Image for Alecia (The Staircase Reader).
1,119 reviews78 followers
March 2, 2021
*3.5 Stars*

I normally wouldn't start a book that is so high up in a series but after reading the blurb, I couldn't wait!

In My Own Words:

Under His Protection is a sexy romance told from both Julieta and Ivan's point of view, which is your basic run of the mill romance. What makes this novel intriguing is that we also have a third point of view. This point of view is a hidden mystery and adds quite a bit of suspense throughout the novel. This person is a bad seed with an eerie agenda.

Julieta wears her independence with pride. But sometimes that independence comes with a high cost. She's thrived on becoming successful and owning her own lingerie business. But all her plans may be washed right down the drain, when she discovers she has her very own stalker to track down. She'll do whatever it takes to catch this person before they destroy every single thing she's built.

Ivan has wanted Julieta from the moment he walked into her lingerie boutique. As a member of Red Stone Security, his first instinct is to always protect. So months later when Ivan finds out Julieta has acquired a stalker he'll do whatever it takes to make sure this person doesn't get too close. Even if he has to secretly take matters into his own hands... He'll do whatever it takes to protect Julieta.

My Thoughts:

After reading Under His Protection, it’s clear as day, I am definitely adding this series to my tbr. I feel like I’m missing out on these characters. I need to further understand the friendship aspect. I felt a bit lost when they all entered the scene.That is a reader error and not an error within this novel. It was my choice to start the series off by reading the ninth book within the series.

Katie Reus is a new to me author, and I can truly see myself reading more from her in the near future. So let’s start with the characters.

I love the take on an independent woman having no issue with working for all she wants out of life. Julieta is exactly that. She’s a lingerie boutique owner in a small town, and she started her business on her own. Now she’s a workaholic with no time for a relationship. But who needs a man when you have an unlimited supply of toys at your disposal! I found her character to be sweet with a feisty side. She wants what she wants and there's no stopping her. So to see such a sassy spirit get torn down by an anonymous stalker had me on the edge of my seat. I needed to see this woman get her ultimate redemption.

Ivan has lived his life with the purpose of protecting and helping others. It’s carved in his DNA and when he sees a woman in distress he is there for her, whether she wants his help or not. Ivan hasn’t been able to get Julieta off his mind. The moment he walked into her lingerie store, he knew he was a goner. One look is all it took for this man’s heart to become completely infatuated. My heart swooned so hard for these two. I loved his primitive urge to protect her, but I also loved his understanding of when he crossed the line. For instance, calling her brother to sit in the shop with her while he went in search of her stalker. That was a huge mistake in his book, especially given how independent and self sufficient Julieta is. But instead of her sweeping this issue under the rug, she let her feelings be known to him. There was no communication error between them, and I loved this small fact most of all!

Katie Reus definitely knows how to give a romance a suspense twist. I simply loved her take on suspense. Add that to the fact, all my guesses for who the third point of view was, were wrong was another added bonus. Usually when suspense is incorporated into a romance novel, I can predict the ‘who is it’ character right from the start. This one, however, had me scratching my head and I loved every minute of not knowing! This is a main reason why I plan on reading more from this author. She let me feel that true suspense throughout the novel. I was flipping pages so fast! I needed to know who this person was!!

Now onto why I rated this book a 3 ½ star rating. I felt some moments in this novel were rushed. I loved the protective vibes throughout the novel, but I needed more moments where the characters, specifically Julieta and Ivan, were just the characters. She wasn’t a lingerie owner with a stalker and he wasn’t a bodyguard looking to save her. I needed more one on one moments where she was a female and he was a red blooded male looking to impress the woman he unknowingly gave his heart to. Basically to sum it all up, I needed more moments where they grew that connection flowing between the two of them.

Overall, I look forward to reading more from Katie Reus in the near future.

________________

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Profile Image for Sunny.
1,456 reviews
September 7, 2014
ARC Review
This is my favorite addition to the Red Stone Security since the reading the first three. I simply adore the characters. Julieta Mederos has style and panache. I love the fact that she is a modern woman. A lingerie storeowner and self-made entrepreneur, she is smart, sassy, independent and feminine. AND she has STYLE – a halter-style red and white gingham retro dress with spiked pumps? Yes! Paired with a tight-lipped, brooding, Über alpha, with a protective streak a mile long, they are the perfect ying and yang.

Julieta is being stalked by a sexual predator who likes to send her disturbing text messages. At first she ignores them until they start escalating. And after many months of admiring her from afar, Ivan takes initiative to protect Julieta from this stalker.

This mystery is one of the best in the series. The story keeps the reader guessing. Furthermore, the author lets us get into the mind of the stalker, and he is creepy. For a full length novel on the shorter side, this is a tightly developed narrative.

IN A NUTSHELL:
A fantastic add to the Red Stone series, this one is not to be missed.

Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Bev .
2,332 reviews493 followers
February 7, 2015
As my GR buddy Victoria said, this is another predictable KR romantic suspense read that follows the formula of the previous 8 books in the series. That said, I still really enjoyed it, I was keen for Ivan's story after he was introduced in the previous book. We get a hot protective alpha, a damsel in distress that didn't pull any TSTL moves, solid writing and a great all-round quick 4 star read.
Profile Image for Book Reading Gals  .
1,062 reviews38 followers
October 1, 2014
Title: Under His Protection

Series: Red Stone Security Book #9

Author: Katie Reus

Genre: Romance/Suspence

Blurb: Julieta’s stalker doesn’t play by the rules

Lingerie shop owner Julieta Mederos has worked hard to get her business off the ground. Now she’s looking forward to some quality time with her friends and her big, boisterous family. But explicit texts from random phone numbers and vandalism at her shop makes it clear someone dangerous has fixated on her. Without any solid leads, the police can’t help her and she’s forced to turn to the last man she wants to depend on.

…but neither does Ivan.

Former Army Ranger and newest Red Stone Security employee Ivan Mitchell has gotten used to being alone in the world. He never even thinks about it anymore—until he meets sexy, independent Julieta. She’s everything he could ever want…but she seems determined to keep him at arm’s length. Until now. Maybe the cops can’t do anything to protect her, but he can. When things escalate faster than even he expected, he finds himself pulling out his most extreme combat skills to protect her. He’ll do what it takes to save her life—and prove to her she belongs in his.



Thoughts: One thing I love about Katie Reus is her ability to create such an intense connection between her characters. The emotions she captures is so poignant - the yearning, the desire, the temptation - that every word is simply spellbinding. I only recently discovered her in the last year or so, and every time I finish another of her books I want to kick myself for not discovering her sooner. This is first one from the Red Stone Security series for me, and it was easily read as a stand alone novel - and, needless to say, I will definitely be getting the other books ASAP.

In this book we have Juliete and Ivan, who have kind of been attracted to each other but have managed to ignore it up until Juliete acquires a stalker. They had little interaction - none really - up until that point, only seeing each other when Ivan was on duty to guard a friend of hers who frequents her boutique. Ivan quickly steps up to protect the woman he has been fascinated with for the past few months, but the closer he is to her the harder he finds it to hide how he feels. But Juliete is under the impression that he only does casual relationships - little does she know he has his sights set on her for more than just playtime fun. But someone else has her in his sights, too - and his intentions are far more sinister.

I loved both the characters and the story - and I love the author's ability to really draw out that sexual tension. It's really a skill of hers to pull these characters so close together, to feel that desire between them, yet leave you hanging and just waiting with bated breath for these characters to finally come together. And not just in a sexual way, but an emotional one as well. Reus is just the best at what she does, and I am a huge fan of hers. Definitely a recommended read!

Rate: A
Review by: Sarah
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
Profile Image for Jennifer.
2,514 reviews87 followers
August 18, 2014
Received an ARC for review from NetGalley

First book I've read in this series and by this author, but I'm sure it won't be the last. Loved Ivan and Jules. They were just yummy together. There was the right amount of romance, mystery, sex, and suspense. It just ended way too soon for me. I was really enjoying it. Great epilogue.
Profile Image for Jessica Frances.
Author 29 books403 followers
June 14, 2018
I really enjoyed this entry into the Red Stone Security series. It was much darker than the others, and getting a glimpse into the mind of Julieta's stalker was creepy. It added a tension that ran throughout the story, and I for one was pleasantly surprised by who the bad guy was. Add in the amazingly hot sexual tension between Ivan and Jules, and this was one exciting, thrilling story which had me on the edge of my seat. I liked that there was a shared history between both Ivan and Jules, that they had already been circling each other for a couple of months before things progressed, and Ivan was just the sweetest hero! I adored him! All and all, I loved this addition to the series and wholeheartedly recommend to fans of this series, as well as romantic suspense readers.
Profile Image for Jeannie Zelos.
2,853 reviews58 followers
September 1, 2014
Under His Protection, Red Stone Security Series, Katie Reus
Review from jeannie zelos book reviews
 
I’ve read several of Katie’s paranormal series but somehow – despite this being book nine – this series has eluded me. Maybe because its shorter than I usually like at 42K words, but sometimes a shorter read fits in well with my schedule and this though shorter was packed with heat, sensuality and action. I like suspense when its part of a growing romance and not too bogged down with technical details. I don’t need to know all about the type of guns and ammunition used, bullet proof cars that can traverse all terrains, or what sort of protection the hero is using ( no!! not THAT sort of protection – the stuff that stops bullets not babies) Anyway also worth noting is that although this is part of a series its also a stand alone, so its not necessary to have read the others.
I know I enjoy Katie's writing style and this mirrored what I’ve found with her paranormals, characters that are well fleshed, and that I can feel for and understand, and a basic but well established plot that makes sense. I’ve said before and stand by it – I’d rather have a book with one well written plot than one that has loads of ones that don’t make sense, wouldn’t work in reality, and stretch fiction a step too far. That last part is very important with non supernatural novels, if it feels unreal then for me I just switch off.
Anyway Julieta, I liked her character. Not an out and out OTT person but one who works hard, loves her family, values her friends. The sort of lady you’d like as one of your close friends. She’s got her own shop but is always looking to improve, to boost business and is an excellent businesswoman. She meets Ivan when he comes in as security for a new customer, and its instant attraction for both of them but they hold back. Julieta is careful about men, and though she likes Ivan she doesn’t really know him, and they don’t really get the opportunity to interact til out of the shop where they’re both at a function. She gets a text that shocks her, she’s recently had a couple of these unpleasant and threatening texts, and has no idea who or what's behind it. Ivan sees her shock, and reads the text. It brings out his protective side and he talks to his bosses, who know of Julieta from mutual friends and he starts to watch over her using his own free time. Things escalate quickly, both the dangers and the action between Ivan and Julieta, and they are quickly into some sensual and erotic scenes. There’s hints over who may be behind the danger, but  Julieta is such a nice lady she hasn’t any real enemies, so its all a bit of a shot in the dark, trying to protect her but not knowing where the danger is coming from. When it does hit it’s all systems go....
Its a fun read, easy to follow with a perfect (for me) combination of romance, sex and danger.
Stars: Five, though as a shorter read its one I'm unlikely to re read.
ARC supplied via Netgalley and publishers
Profile Image for Tammy.
932 reviews41 followers
September 25, 2014
This is my favorite of the Red Stone Security series, I think.

Under His Protection was a quick book for me to grab up to read because I love the Red Stone Security series, but it was very, very hard for me to put it down once I started reading it.

Ivan meets Juliet one day while working when he comes into her lingerie shop with someone he is protecting. Then they come into contact with each other in the next few months and while Ivan steals looks at Juliet, she gets the feeling that he doesn’t like her. Julieta has been warned that Ivan is a player, so that makes her hesitant to trust him in the beginning, but when Ivan discovers that Julieta has a stalker he uses that as his opportunity to help protect her and to admit to his feelings for her. Protecting her causes them to wind up under the same roof and that causes the sparks to fly between them. Ivan will do what it takes to save her life and in the process prove to Julieta that she belongs in his life for good.

Julieta is a strong woman who tries to everything on her own and that includes trying to take care of the stalker by herself. She is building her business from the ground up by herself and doesn’t think that she needs any help. The scenes with the stalker were very intense and kept you on the edge of your seat and hooked to see what would happen next.

Even though this is the 9th book in the Red Stone Security series, it can be read as a stand- alone book and you will not feel lost or confused.

Received a copy from Netgalley for an honest review
Profile Image for Eva Millien.
3,115 reviews43 followers
September 29, 2014
Julieta Mederos is looking forward to spending quality time with friends and family, but a stalker has other plans for her. With the police unable to help her, Red Stone Security employee, Ivan Mitchell will have to pull out all his combat skills to protect her in this riveting contemporary romance.

This fast paced and smooth flowing plot keeps reader’s hovering on the edge of anticipation with suspense and romance. The well written words and details bring the story to life and make the reader feel as if they part of the story and the strong compelling characters draw the reader deeper into the story.

The attraction between Ivan and Julieta burns up the pages, the sex scenes are hot and steamy and the danger from the stalker brings them closer together. The reader can’t help but get caught up in their story as Ivan tries to protect her, find the psycho and convince Julieta that he’s through with being a player at the same time.

Tensions build throughout as the stalker’s crimes against Julieta increase and did I mention that Julieta has a large, boisterous family that Ivan will have to get past if he wants a chance with her, not to mention all of Julieta’s friends at Red Stone Security who are working hard at trying to find the stalker’s identity. As always Katie Reus brings readers a passionate story with intriguing danger and captivating characters and there is never a dull moment in this one and it was over much too quickly for me, I can’t wait to read the next one.

4 ½ STARS
Profile Image for Alima Livzletlivz.
767 reviews2 followers
September 3, 2014
I love Katie Rues’s Red Stone Security Series!! They are full of testosterone alpha males protecting their own no matter what. As much as there’s plenty of action and thrill, I love the way they are one big family, not that blood is what’s important, but relationships made from the heart bring the members and family of the Red Stone Security together and they kick ass when needed.

The latest addition to the Red Stone Team is Ivan – big, bulky and all soft in the inside. A loner by nature, he joins Red Stone and the entire team as a family got his six covered. And he ends up falling in love with Julieta, a lingerie shop owner, family to the Red Stone team, witty and charming and victim of a stalker. When Julieta’s life is threatened from an unknown stalker, Ivan jumps in to protect her, and both end up under the same roof. A perfect arrangement to test the attraction, sizzling between them.

I can never get bored of Katie’s characters. Under His Protection is another enjoyable read of passion, danger and love. It keeps you guessing as to whom the stalker is and Ivan and Jules make an endearing pair.

Received a copy from Netgalley for an honest review
Profile Image for Dísir.
1,807 reviews191 followers
August 29, 2014
Throw in:
A. A cookie-cutter, muscled hero (choose between tall, dark, sinfully handsome and tall, blond and otherworldly sexy) with some cave-mannish, possessive and protective behaviour, typically ex-military and a steadfast believer in casual relationships until he meets the heroine.

B. A beautiful but feisty and brave heroine (more variations of hair colour, skin tone, ethnicity, height and eye colour available from the dropdown menu in an appearance generated program) who finds herself in trouble. Typically not one for casual screw-arounds, and has been without smexy times for a while.

C. Overwhelming sexual tension and quick hook-ups and almost insta-love.

D. A baddie who gets caught fairly easily, despite the obstacles he throws in the way of the H/hr.



Et voilà…

A Red-stone security novella is born. A short, entertaining read as always by Katie Reus, perfect for a lazy day.
Profile Image for Tanja ~ KT Book Reviews .
1,580 reviews210 followers
August 30, 2014
At a 175 pages, Under His Protection is a great way to spend the afternoon. It’s a great little mystery/thriller of a read. Quick and easy to pick up and put down, this book is perfect for what I call “waiting room reads”.

The case is not a puzzling one, as we change back and forth from the villain to our two main characters. It is written in third person so getting truly attached to these guys doesn’t really happen for me; however I did find them extremely likable.

All in all, a solid 3.5 star read.
T~

www.ktbookreviews.com
Profile Image for CC.
1,782 reviews247 followers
November 26, 2016
Loved Juliette and Ivan! Great addition to the series! I think the books are getting better, which is pretty rare in a long running series. They are still the same formula and quick, but I am enjoying them!

I did not think I would like Ivan after the last book, but I really did! I enjoyed his broody but protective behavior. Plus the drama was ramped up a bit in this one. But as always the Red Stone team are a bunch of badasses!

I am also intrigued by the possibilities for Cora? (the shop helper) and Juliette's brother. Hope we get more of that in the future!

Profile Image for Linda.
2,042 reviews64 followers
August 19, 2014
When Julieta finds herself being stalked, she´s lucky enough not only to have connections with Red Stone Security, but Ivan is more than willing to step up and protect her. Someone is targeting her and her shop, but Ivan is not about to let her come to harm.
Quick read, suspense, action and smutty fluff in a great combo. Love this series and the men of Red Stone =)
ARC is provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
Profile Image for Wild_irish_rose.
494 reviews9 followers
June 10, 2018
I enjoyed the story, loved Ivan and Jules, but had a problem connecting to the characters. A nice addition to the series.
Profile Image for Sandy S.
8,790 reviews216 followers
September 9, 2014
4.25 stars

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 1, 2014

Julieta’s stalker doesn’t play by the rules

Lingerie shop owner Julieta Mederos has worked hard to get her business off the ground. Now she’s looking forward to some quality time with her friends and her big, boisterous family. But explicit texts from random phone numbers and vandalism at her shop makes it clear someone dangerous has fixated on her. Without any solid leads, the police can’t help her and she’s forced to turn to the last man she wants to depend on.

…but neither does Ivan.

Former Army Ranger and newest Red Stone Security employee Ivan Mitchell has gotten used to being alone in the world. He never even thinks about it anymore—until he meets sexy, independent Julieta. She’s everything he could ever want…but she seems determined to keep him at arm’s length. Until now. Maybe the cops can’t do anything to protect her, but he can. When things escalate faster than even he expected, he finds himself pulling out his most extreme combat skills to protect her. He’ll do what it takes to save her life—and prove to her she belongs in his.

~~~~~~~

REVIEW: 4.25 stars--UNDER HIS PROTECTION is the ninth instalment in Katie Reus’s contemporary, adult Red Stone Security romantic suspense series focusing on the men and women who work for RSS. This is lingerie shop owner Juieta Mederos and Ivan Mitchell-Red Stone Security’s newest employee -storyline. Under His Protection can be read as a stand alone.

Told from several close third person POVs, the storyline focuses on the mysterious threats and phone calls against Julieta Mederos. Julieta has a stalker and doesn’t know who or why. Having met two months earlier, and believing Ivan wanted nothing to do with her, Julieta is reluctant to accept Ivan’s assistance until her stalker’s threats become more sexually explicit and physical. With Ivan working the investigation everyone becomes a suspect.

Julieta and Ivan were first introduced two months earlier through a mutual ‘friend’ Mina (RSS #8) whose fiancé –Alexander Blue- works for RSS. As Mina’s bodyguard Ivan will get up close and personal with Mina’s friends including Julieta Mederos. Ivan’s attraction to Julieta is immediate but he bides his time waiting for an opportunity. When the threats against Julieta escalate, Ivan becomes her protector both at her business and at home, while losing his heart at the same time. Julieta is an independent young woman who knows that without Ivan’s help, she may not live to see another day. The relationship and love is quick to develop but we do learn a little bit about each of their backgrounds-from childhood to present day.

The secondary characters include a few of the characters from previous Red Stone Security storylines. We are introduced to Julieta’s large extended family as well as her employee Ruby who may have a storyline in the future.

UNDER HIS PROTECTION is a fast paced story of romance and suspense. Katie pulls the reader into a sensual, passionate and intense tale where two people find one another under dark and dangerous circumstances. The Red Stone Security series is addicting, captivating and worth the time to read.

Copy supplied by the author.

www.thereadingcafe.com
Profile Image for Twin Sisters Rockin' Book Reviews.
884 reviews92 followers
August 31, 2014
Overall Rating: 4.5 Rockin’ ★★★★☆

Katie Reus' newest Red Stone Security novel, Under His Protection is yet again undeniably an amazing experience and a must read book. Her spin on adventure is unparalleled and the characters are well created and in-depth. I couldn't put the book down once I started reading. A story filled with need, adventure, love and lust creates a world that I yearned to be a part of.

Ivan Mitchell, ex Army Ranger, turned professional security has had his pick of women all his life. Never wanting to settle down, always the player, his reputation was just that, no strings attached. Until the day he laid eyes upon a woman that he can't stop thinking about, a woman that stole his heart by just a look. If anything Ivan is a patient man, a take charge kind of man. And when things get complicated for the woman he is captured by, he finally gets his chance to make his move.

Julieta Mederos is a successful lingerie small business owner. Her independence has always been an issue for her with her huge smothering family. Instead of going into the "family" restaurant business, Julieta wanted to break out of the mold and have something of her own. Having been on the receiving end of a broken heart, Julieta never wants to hurt like that again. However, on a chance meeting her new found friend's body guard, Ivan has captured her in a way that no other ever has. When a stalker moves in on her, she must trust in the her friends and family to help. Unsure of his intentions, but longing to have him, Julieta trusts her instincts and becomes ensnared by the tempting man that is Ivan.

Can Ivan protect Julieta and stop the stalker before he strikes? Will Julieta believe that Ivan has her best interests at heart? Can the two come together in a windstorm of craziness and have the love they both crave for desperately? Read this book to find out! You will not be disappointed!

I am a big fan of mystery, adventure and romance. This combination is something that I have come to love about Katie's books. Never to be dissatisfied, this author will make you feel as if you are part of the story in a way that you will long to have more. Thank you Katie for another suspense filled story! ~TSRBR

Hero - Ivan Mitchell 4.5 stars
Heroine - Julieta Mederos 4.5 stars
Steam Level: 4.5 stars
Plot: 4.5 stars
Cliffhanger: No

Would I recommend this book: Yes! This book will make you crazy and then calm you in the next breath. Such a great book to read! I highly recommend reading this book in Katie's Red Stone Security series.

Would I read other books by this author: Yes! Love, love, love, Katie Reus as an author. Her sense of adventure in her books matches no other!

***Received an ARC of this book from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review***

Under His Protection
Katie Reus
Profile Image for Shauni.
1,061 reviews28 followers
August 28, 2014
Originally Reviewed For: Tea and Book

Katie Reus writes.. Every time I turn around she has another book out (Makes this reader one very happy camper). The thing is, she writes.. ok, I already said that but it totally impresses me. She reminds me of the early Nora Roberts days when she seemed to have a book out every other month. Yes, I just compared her to the incomparable Nora Roberts. And Ms. Reus has earned it. Not just with her prolific work but because she writes one exceptional book after another.  And not just one series. Nope she has several series going. How does she keep it all straight?

Under His Protection is book nine in her Red Stone Security Series. It's Ivan's story and it steams!!

Julieta Mederos, independent woman.. That pretty much explains who and what she is. She comes from a large and loving family who have been restaurant owners in the Miami area for a long time. A prominent family in the business community. But Julieta wants more for herself and has a business of her own, an exclusive lingerie shop. One that caters to the women of the Red Stone Security company. So of course Nina (from Sinful Seduction) is a regular customer and where Nina goes, so does her bodyguard Ivan. Strong, silent, glaring, Ivan. The star of many of Julieta's dreams.

Ivan Mitchell is floored after one look at Julieta. Everytime they enter her shop he loses focus of his job because all he sees is Julieta. Gorgeous, sensuous, smiling, Julieta. So when she starts receiving lewd and threatening txts Ivan steps up. Offers to take point on the investigation. His need to protect her overrides even his desire to claim her.

Intense, fast paced and thoroughly engaging. Ivan and Julieta are the embodiment of opposites attract. Strong, Silent type meet gregarious, friendly type.But with all their differences there is no clash of personalities. There is instant combustion.

The fact that Julieta has a stalker brings them together and it makes for an intense story. The escalation of the attacks and Ivan's feelings of frustration fairly bleeds from the pages. A man whose entire career has been on saving others can not figure out how to save the woman who is capturing his heart.

Especially intriguing are the breadcrumbs Katie drops, leaving a trail to the stalker... or is it? Well done..<

Shauni

This review is based on the ARC of Under His Protection, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on September 1, 2014
Profile Image for Marie.
36 reviews
September 2, 2014
This 9th installment in the Red Stone Security series has lived up to my expectations. Katie makes it so difficult to put down a book once you start reading, and I love when that happens!
Ivan Mitchell, has been known by his friends as the "playboy". Never looking for more then the casual, sexual relationship. No strings attached had been how he preferred it until he laid his on Julieta, now he has eyes for no one else. Ex army Ranger, now working in security for Red Stone Security, he is going to help Julieta when she is in trouble, and hopes he can show her he wants more then anything casual with her.
Julieta Mederos, an independent business owner of a lingerie and sex toy store, sees Ivan for the first time when Mina, a first time customer walks through her shop doors. Mina and Julietta become fast friends, and that friendship lets her see Ivan fairly often, too bad he hates her. Every time she is in the vicinity of Ivan he is glaring at her, and she has no idea why she has earned such hostility from him. But that couldn't stop her fantasies about him when she was alone. Suddenly Julietas world is thrown when she starts getting texts from a stalker, and Ivan is there to help and protect her. As if having someone stalking her wasn't enough, finding out that Ivan didn't hate her, that he actually really was very interested in her, well, that was almost enough to forget the whole stalker.
The two of them are put together under such an awful circumstance, but the chemistry between the two of them is undeniable. Many times Ivan is there for her when she needs him most, and she can't help but fall for him. Her friends warn her he is only into casual, and as they get to know each other she hopes it can be more.
The story was sexy, and sweet, suspenseful and mysterious. I would definitely recommend this book. It can be read as a stand alone, even though it is part of a larger series. I gave it 5 stars, I just love how Katie makes me feel like part of the story and keeps me hooked until the last words.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review, and I can't be any more honest when i say how much i loved this story.
Profile Image for Quinn.
688 reviews58 followers
December 31, 2016
Katie Reus's Red Stone Security series really hits the spot for me. Under His Protection by Katie Reus is the 9th book in the series, sucked me in immediately. While the plots in this series are very similar, I never can get enough.
What I Liked:

Ivan! I don't think I will ever get enough of strong, alpha-heroes, who are also kind and respectful of women. And who also understand that women are strong themselves. And that is Ivan.
I thought it was pretty adorable how Ivan and Julietta had both been admiring each other from afar.
I loved how Ivan immediately stepped in when he realized that someone was harrassing Julietta. Those protective dudes, just get me every time.
I respected Julietta a lot. She's worked hard making her Lingerie shop a success, and she's proud of herself. I also liked that when she thought Ivan was only into no-strings attached relationships, she wasn't interested.
I also loved how Ivan wanted to prove to her that he wanted something more lasting with her.

What I Struggled With:

While I love this series so much, the plots are all really similar, and once I'm finished with the book, I can't really remember anything about the story. And I can't remember which book was which.

Final Thoughts:
Under His Protection is classic Katie Reus, and that's a great thing. While I couldn't put this one down, it hasn't stuck with me either.This review was originally posted on Quinn's Book Nook
Profile Image for April Symes.
5,016 reviews450 followers
August 18, 2014
****A gifted copy was provided by the author for an honest review****

This is the 9th story in the Red Stone Security series.

Ivan has recently joined the staff but before he was head security for Mina. Mina is very wealthy and high profile but now has Alex and Red Stone so she had them recruit Ivan into Red Stone.

On a trip into town one morning, Mina wanted to surprise Alex with some “toys” and took a trip into a certain store called “Silk and Lace” run by Julieta. Julieta really felt this instant connection with Ivan but didn’t think he felt that with her. She ended up helping Mina with her shopping and never was able to get Ivan to talk with her.

Two months later, Julieta ran into Ivan at Mina’s bridal shower. While there she gets distressing news and Ivan takes command.
Someone is taking literal pot shots at Julieta’s store. Then Julieta admits she has been receiving nasty text messages. But who would be doing this? That is the mystery and this is where the mystery deepens and where Ivan wants to break things (and people) to get to the bottom of who is hurting Julieta.
We find out things about Ivan and his silence toward Julieta. There is a HUGE mystery between Sandro ,Montez and Ruby. It was a passing comment but that needs to be addressed someday soon.

This was a very fast paced read and I loved the chemistry between Ivan and Julieta. HAWT!! The whole Red Stone crew is great. AND the twist on who the stalker is……OMG just read on who it is. ITS GOOD!!!

My Rating: 5 STARS *****
4,517 reviews25 followers
September 1, 2014
Under His Protection by Katie Reus is now my favorite of the Red Stone Security Series. The story line centering on Ivan and Julieta is a wonderful romantic suspense. The focus is on the intriguing story line of danger with a serial killer stalking Julieta. The Miami setting, word images created by the author and edgy tension build up makes Under His Protection a fast page-turner. I know I stayed up long after the lights should have been out to finish this book!

The characters are very well developed for a short novel as this one is. Ivan is protective but not overbearing which is a turn off for me when the male character does that. Julieta is independent as well as loving both to her family and to friends. She has the qualities you would want in a friend. The beginning starts with her confusion of how Ivan felt but quickly turns to mutual interest. While the action is fast paced and the story flows. However, the romantic build up between them as the story progresses is not rushed. I really liked that.

One last thing I appreciated is catching up with some of the couples from previous books in the series. That is just an added bonus to this story, though it would easily read as a stand-alone. This is a fantastic addition to this series.

Copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
Profile Image for T.M. Payne.
Author 37 books93 followers
August 9, 2014
Under His Protection is all about Ivan and Julieta. As per all the Red Stone Security books we get a sexy , strong, and dominate alpha male and women who can be just as dominate. Ivan is bodyguard to Alexander Blue’s fiancé Mina Hollingsworth. He was also on the force for Mina’s father who past away leaving her extremely wealthy and vulnerable to attacks.

Alexander has had to go out of town and Ivan is charge of protecting Mina. Well Mina decides she wants to go to a friends sex shop to gather some things to surprise her man. Julieta owns a very upscale sex shop that sells toys and lingerie.

Julieta takes one look at Ivan and fire shoots through her although by the looks of him he is not interested. She hears from Mina that Ivan is a player.

Things begin to take a turn for the worse when someone is trying to hurt Julieta.

This book is one of the best ones yet. We get a ton of Action , Suspense and OMG the heat level is off the charts. And we have some guest appearances by others from previous books in the series and I totally enjoy that. I highly recommend it.

I was gifted a copy of this book from the Author for my honest review <3
Profile Image for Kristi Hudecek-Ashwill.
Author 2 books48 followers
August 17, 2014
This was a really good book with action,adventure, mystery and a love story to boot. It was fast and easy to read and follow. Although it is part of a series, it can hold its own as a stand-alone book.

Ivan is a part of Red Stone Security and takes some time away from his job to do some personal security to Julieta who is the owner of a lingerie shop and is being stalked by some mental case.

The mystery in the story revolves around this stalker and Julieta and I have to say, I found that more intriguing than the love story between Ivan and Julieta. The author did an amazing job with that part of the story and the love story was a byline. I don't know if it was intended to be that way but I wanted to get past the stuff with Ivan and Julieta and see how Ivan was going to take care of the stalker.

I also wanted to know about this deal with Ruby and what I thought would be a potential relationship with Sandro (Julieta's brother) only to find out that she had a thing for Julieta's other brother, Montez. It was said in passing but I would like to see where that would go. *hint hint* ;)

It was definitely worth the time it took to read it. The whole series is very good.
Profile Image for Laura.
2,558 reviews
August 12, 2014
Great Series!!

I love this series; this is the 9th book in the Red Stone Security series. It can be read as a standalone book. But once you read it you will want to read the other books in the series as well. I have to say this book is just as good if not better than the other books in this series.
Julieta owns a lingerie shop, her best friend Lizzy works for Red Stone Security. Lizzy has been sending in all of her friends to shop at Julieta’s new shop. Julieta has started to get some explicit and threatening texts and then someone vandalizes her shop. Ivan is a former Army Ranger and also works for Red Stone Security, he has been attracted to Julieta since he first met her. When she gets the threatening texts he steps in and starts protecting her. He will do anything to protect her. This book has humor, mystery, suspense, strong willed females, and sexy alpha males. I can’t wait until the next book in this series comes out.

A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
2,131 reviews46 followers
September 2, 2014
Julieta is a strong, independent woman who can take care of herself. When she meets Ivan, he is working as a bodyguard for Mina Hollingsworth. She is deeply attracted, but he's a mystery to her. What she doesn't know is that he feels the same powerful emotion. When a deranged stalker makes Julieta his target, Ivan is there for her. No one will harm her while he's her protector. I love these two characters. Julieta and Ivan have such a powerful chemistry. Ivan's tenderness and protectiveness toward Julieta touched me. I loved that this Alpha male put her needs and desires first. Under His Protection is a roller coaster ride of action and suspense. I couldn't put this book down. It's always fun to see familiar characters make an appearance. I would like to see more of Detective Carlito Durate. He has definitely caught my interest. Katie Reus has outdone herself with this Red Stone Security book.
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