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Hostile Takeover
A ruthless billionaire. A plus-size crisis manager who never loses control. When corporate warfare turns personal, their explosive attraction might be the most dangerous takeover of all.
Corporate crisis manager Paige Montgomery has built her reputation controlling narratives for the most powerful companies in the city. Her curvy figure is just another asset she strategically uses in male-dominated boardrooms. When billionaire investor Asher Harrington launches a hostile takeover against her largest client, she's ready for battle—not for the devastating attraction crackling between them.
Beneath his ruthless reputation, Asher harbors an unexpected ethical framework and a mission beyond profit margins. Their boardroom confrontations reveal a connection far more dangerous than professional rivalry. But when company executives are linked to financial crimes connecting to an international trafficking network, Paige must choose between client loyalty and exposing systematic corruption.
Forced into alliance with Asher and his brother's private intelligence firm, Paige watches her carefully constructed professional boundaries crumble. His protective instincts emerge with surprising tenderness, while her strategic expertise creates advantages beyond corporate calculations. Together, they navigate a conspiracy threatening both their professional reputations and survival itself.
As corrupt executives coordinate to eliminate them both, Paige discovers that true control comes through partnership, not isolation. But surrendering to the undeniable chemistry between them requires more courage than any corporate conquest.
This steamy corporate romance brilliant, curvy crisis manager who never loses control—until nowA billionaire who appreciates every inch of her curvesExplosive boardroom confrontations that turn personalForced proximity when danger threatens them bothProfessional rivals becoming intimate partnersCorporate power dynamics in and out of the bedroomProtective alpha hero with a justice missionHigh-stakes danger requiring complete trust
"I've never wanted a partner like this," she whispers against his mouth.
"Neither have I," he responds, hands tightening at her waist. "Someone whose expertise complements mine instead of competing with it."
HOSTILE TAKEOVER is book 2 in the Redline Security series but can be enjoyed as a standalone. This enemies-to-lovers corporate romance features a billionaire with a mission, a plus-size heroine losing control, and a guaranteed HEA despite all odds. Each book in the Redline Security series features a curvy, competent heroine finding love in the most dangerous places.
Corporate crisis manager Paige Montgomery has built her reputation controlling narratives for the most powerful companies in the city. Her curvy figure is just another asset she strategically uses in male-dominated boardrooms. When billionaire investor Asher Harrington launches a hostile takeover against her largest client, she's ready for battle—not for the devastating attraction crackling between them.
Beneath his ruthless reputation, Asher harbors an unexpected ethical framework and a mission beyond profit margins. Their boardroom confrontations reveal a connection far more dangerous than professional rivalry. But when company executives are linked to financial crimes connecting to an international trafficking network, Paige must choose between client loyalty and exposing systematic corruption.
Forced into alliance with Asher and his brother's private intelligence firm, Paige watches her carefully constructed professional boundaries crumble. His protective instincts emerge with surprising tenderness, while her strategic expertise creates advantages beyond corporate calculations. Together, they navigate a conspiracy threatening both their professional reputations and survival itself.
As corrupt executives coordinate to eliminate them both, Paige discovers that true control comes through partnership, not isolation. But surrendering to the undeniable chemistry between them requires more courage than any corporate conquest.
This steamy corporate romance brilliant, curvy crisis manager who never loses control—until nowA billionaire who appreciates every inch of her curvesExplosive boardroom confrontations that turn personalForced proximity when danger threatens them bothProfessional rivals becoming intimate partnersCorporate power dynamics in and out of the bedroomProtective alpha hero with a justice missionHigh-stakes danger requiring complete trust
"I've never wanted a partner like this," she whispers against his mouth.
"Neither have I," he responds, hands tightening at her waist. "Someone whose expertise complements mine instead of competing with it."
HOSTILE TAKEOVER is book 2 in the Redline Security series but can be enjoyed as a standalone. This enemies-to-lovers corporate romance features a billionaire with a mission, a plus-size heroine losing control, and a guaranteed HEA despite all odds. Each book in the Redline Security series features a curvy, competent heroine finding love in the most dangerous places.
172 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 22, 2025
1 person is currently reading
6 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
July 10, 2025
I need a cold shower ASAP.
I had the amazing opportunity to get an ARC of this book and let's just say... Daddy? Sorry 😅
Paige and Asher's story is hot, fast, and heavy with emotion. Paige is a Crisis Manager who fights to save corrupt companies and Asher is the millionaire corporate raider, who has no place in his life for love. That all changes after an intense meeting about a "Hostile Takeover".
The SPICE is 🔥🔥
The plot is AMAZING
Eve's writing always has a way of catching my attention and has me satisfied with steamy action packed novellas!!
Did you forget about our loveable Reid? This isn't the Redline Security Series for nothing. His protective broodiness strikes again in book 2!
I don't want to say too much to spoil the fun you're going to have reading this... so how about I just tell you to "let Daddy take care of you" 😉 have fuuuuun!
I had the amazing opportunity to get an ARC of this book and let's just say... Daddy? Sorry 😅
Paige and Asher's story is hot, fast, and heavy with emotion. Paige is a Crisis Manager who fights to save corrupt companies and Asher is the millionaire corporate raider, who has no place in his life for love. That all changes after an intense meeting about a "Hostile Takeover".
The SPICE is 🔥🔥
The plot is AMAZING
Eve's writing always has a way of catching my attention and has me satisfied with steamy action packed novellas!!
Did you forget about our loveable Reid? This isn't the Redline Security Series for nothing. His protective broodiness strikes again in book 2!
I don't want to say too much to spoil the fun you're going to have reading this... so how about I just tell you to "let Daddy take care of you" 😉 have fuuuuun!
July 17, 2025
Hostile Takeover is book two in the Redline Security series and is the story of Paige and Asher. This is a enemies to lovers, forced proximity romance with intrigue and corporate espionage.
Paige is a Crisis Manager for companies, controlling the narrative to successfully navigate business and avoid hostile takeovers from men like Asher Harrington. Asher is a billionaire corporate raider who has made it his personal mission to take down those responsible for financial and corrupt corporate gain.
Asher discovered that Paige's largest client is more corrupt than she was led to believe and they must work together to bring down the network involved in the financial corruption and the ties to human trafficking that they are involved in. As danger surrounds Paige, Asher realizes that Paige is much more to him than just someone involved in the takeover and that he will go to any length to keep her safe and by his side. Paige's need for control and independence is tested by Asher's need to care for her and to keep her safe.
This was a short, intriguing book that I did not expect. While the speed that which Asher and Paige came together was a little rushed (hard not to be in 170 pages), the way the story was written made the timeline work and the feelings that developed didn't feel unrealistic or fake. The connection between Paige and Asher was intense and Paige's ability to surrender to Asher when she wanted and needed to was lovely. If you are looking for a quick read that satisfies your need for romance, some intrigue and sweet moments between the characters, then this is the book for you.
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Paige is a Crisis Manager for companies, controlling the narrative to successfully navigate business and avoid hostile takeovers from men like Asher Harrington. Asher is a billionaire corporate raider who has made it his personal mission to take down those responsible for financial and corrupt corporate gain.
Asher discovered that Paige's largest client is more corrupt than she was led to believe and they must work together to bring down the network involved in the financial corruption and the ties to human trafficking that they are involved in. As danger surrounds Paige, Asher realizes that Paige is much more to him than just someone involved in the takeover and that he will go to any length to keep her safe and by his side. Paige's need for control and independence is tested by Asher's need to care for her and to keep her safe.
This was a short, intriguing book that I did not expect. While the speed that which Asher and Paige came together was a little rushed (hard not to be in 170 pages), the way the story was written made the timeline work and the feelings that developed didn't feel unrealistic or fake. The connection between Paige and Asher was intense and Paige's ability to surrender to Asher when she wanted and needed to was lovely. If you are looking for a quick read that satisfies your need for romance, some intrigue and sweet moments between the characters, then this is the book for you.
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
July 17, 2025
Absolutely unputdownable!
Hostile Takeover is a delicious blend of danger, desire, and corporate warfare. From the first page, Eve Thorne pulls you into a high-stakes world of power plays and secret passions. The chemistry between the main characters crackles with tension—equal parts enemies-to-lovers heat and emotional depth.
What really stands out is how layered the characters are. They’re strong, flawed, and achingly real. The female lead is no damsel—she’s sharp, ambitious, and holds her own in a world built to push her down. And the male lead? Complex, broody, and so easy to fall for, even when you want to slap him.
This book had me up late flipping pages, grinning at the banter, and fanning myself through the steamier scenes. It’s the perfect mix of suspense, romance, and revenge.
If you’re a fan of morally gray characters, cutthroat business games, and sizzling slow burns with just the right amount of spice—Hostile Takeover is your next obsession.
Hostile Takeover is a delicious blend of danger, desire, and corporate warfare. From the first page, Eve Thorne pulls you into a high-stakes world of power plays and secret passions. The chemistry between the main characters crackles with tension—equal parts enemies-to-lovers heat and emotional depth.
What really stands out is how layered the characters are. They’re strong, flawed, and achingly real. The female lead is no damsel—she’s sharp, ambitious, and holds her own in a world built to push her down. And the male lead? Complex, broody, and so easy to fall for, even when you want to slap him.
This book had me up late flipping pages, grinning at the banter, and fanning myself through the steamier scenes. It’s the perfect mix of suspense, romance, and revenge.
If you’re a fan of morally gray characters, cutthroat business games, and sizzling slow burns with just the right amount of spice—Hostile Takeover is your next obsession.
July 15, 2025
“Hostile Takeover by Eve Thorn stole a piece of my heart—and then set it on fire. Paige is a powerful, curvy woman who’s both confident and quietly battling her insecurities, and Asher? He’s the kind of alpha who doesn’t just take—he dominates with fierce desire but also protects, loves, and worships every inch of her.
Their chemistry is explosive, raw, and unrelenting—both in and out of the bedroom. Their connection isn’t just a corporate game; it’s a hostile takeover of each other’s souls, filled with moments of brutal intensity and vulnerable tenderness.
The Daddy Dom dynamic is beautifully done—dominant, yes, but layered with a deep care that breaks walls without breaking her. This book hits deep, especially for anyone who’s ever felt unseen or underestimated because of their size.
It’s a story of love, power, and healing that left me blushing—and I’m still blushing long after the last page.”
Their chemistry is explosive, raw, and unrelenting—both in and out of the bedroom. Their connection isn’t just a corporate game; it’s a hostile takeover of each other’s souls, filled with moments of brutal intensity and vulnerable tenderness.
The Daddy Dom dynamic is beautifully done—dominant, yes, but layered with a deep care that breaks walls without breaking her. This book hits deep, especially for anyone who’s ever felt unseen or underestimated because of their size.
It’s a story of love, power, and healing that left me blushing—and I’m still blushing long after the last page.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2025
Asher and Paige's story is a fast paced one. If you've read the 1st book in redline security then you already know our FMC is curvy, sassy, sexy, and our MMC is "yes, daddy." Asher comes in like a wrecking ball and lord have mercy Paige better brace for impact.
If you haven't read book 1 it isn't required but there is mention of the prior story in this novella which is a nice tie in from book 1. These can be read as standalones although I do recommend reading book 1 because it's a quick read and the story is well developed just as in book 2.
Asher and Paige do get a HEA after having a cavalry come after them for trying to do the right thing. & honestly, the spice in this book was much quicker BUT it was HOT HOT HOT.
Thank you to The House of King Publishing and author for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
If you haven't read book 1 it isn't required but there is mention of the prior story in this novella which is a nice tie in from book 1. These can be read as standalones although I do recommend reading book 1 because it's a quick read and the story is well developed just as in book 2.
Asher and Paige do get a HEA after having a cavalry come after them for trying to do the right thing. & honestly, the spice in this book was much quicker BUT it was HOT HOT HOT.
Thank you to The House of King Publishing and author for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 26, 2025
If you read book 1 then you know exactly what you're in for. Eve does not disappoint with book 2. Paige doesn't look after herself. She is stubborn, curvy and has a sharp mind. Asher is a daddy dom type that shows immense care, is tender, stubborn, builds Paige up to be even stronger and adores her sharp mind with a side of obsession for her.
Hostile Takeover is a hot, steamy novella with an enemy-to-lovers vibe. Full of sweet moments and a connection that is intense, tender and quick that it doesn't feel fake. So raw that it feels real and developed even faster due to forced proximity. The spice is a big step up from novel one. However, it is necessary and is still full of action and a plot that continues perfectly from novel one. It leaves you needing and wanting to read book three. But with the option not to if you wish.
As with book 1, I also did a beta read, arc read, bought an ebook version and I will buy a paperback copy (if there will be one cause I need a paperback copy). And I will say, she is a fantastic author who hit every mark straight off the bat with this novel as she did with book 1. I look forward to the rest of the series with great anticipation and excitement.
Hostile Takeover is a hot, steamy novella with an enemy-to-lovers vibe. Full of sweet moments and a connection that is intense, tender and quick that it doesn't feel fake. So raw that it feels real and developed even faster due to forced proximity. The spice is a big step up from novel one. However, it is necessary and is still full of action and a plot that continues perfectly from novel one. It leaves you needing and wanting to read book three. But with the option not to if you wish.
As with book 1, I also did a beta read, arc read, bought an ebook version and I will buy a paperback copy (if there will be one cause I need a paperback copy). And I will say, she is a fantastic author who hit every mark straight off the bat with this novel as she did with book 1. I look forward to the rest of the series with great anticipation and excitement.
July 13, 2025
personally im not a fan of the daddy thing... however if the story is good enough im still going to read it. I loved this fast paced spicy book. a stubborn fmc is one of the best things to read. and a demanding mmc who only cares about her chefs kiss 💋 can't get enough.
July 17, 2025
“I’ve learned that accepting care isn’t the same as surrendering my independence. That i can be strong and still need someone.”
“Need me”
Asher falls first & so hard! Love our curves fmcs and our golden retriever mmcs
“Need me”
Asher falls first & so hard! Love our curves fmcs and our golden retriever mmcs
July 29, 2025
Should I say more...
I super love it, How they chemistry between characters and but...The steamy scene...Yeah, I need it. Women need this to read people...It very worth it.
I super love it, How they chemistry between characters and but...The steamy scene...Yeah, I need it. Women need this to read people...It very worth it.
July 18, 2025
This is a fast-paced, spicy little novella that delivers everything; action, heat, drama, and one very delicious daddy-dom who does. not. play.
The story kicks off with Paige, a curvy, confident crisis manager who believes she’s working for the good guys… until Asher walks in and flips her entire world upside down. From that moment on, the tension never lets up. It’s corporate sabotage meets high-stakes romance, and I was glued to the pages.
I don’t want to spoil too much, but what I will say is this: Asher is the kind of MMC who will do anything to protect the woman he wants. He becomes obsessed with Paige … her body, her strength, her mind… and he makes sure she knows it. He sees her in a way she’s never seen herself before, and it gives her a kind of confidence that goes beyond surface-level attraction.
Their connection forms quickly, but it feels real. It’s intense, tender, and very spicy. The kind of dynamic that blends emotional depth with kink in a way that’s so satisfying to read. The daddy-dom element is playful, protective, and rooted in genuine care. He wants her fed, safe, happy, and thriving, and the way he moves from dangerous businessman to utterly devoted partner? Chef’s kiss.
If you’re looking for:
A quick read with maximum impact
Forced proximity + fast emotional connection
A plus-size FMC who is loved exactly as she is
A MMC who protects, praises, and pampers
Drama-fuelled action with a side of obsession
Then Hostile Takeover should absolutely be on your radar. FIVE stars from me and two-and-a-half chillies for steam. I can’t wait to see what Eve Thorne writes next.
The story kicks off with Paige, a curvy, confident crisis manager who believes she’s working for the good guys… until Asher walks in and flips her entire world upside down. From that moment on, the tension never lets up. It’s corporate sabotage meets high-stakes romance, and I was glued to the pages.
I don’t want to spoil too much, but what I will say is this: Asher is the kind of MMC who will do anything to protect the woman he wants. He becomes obsessed with Paige … her body, her strength, her mind… and he makes sure she knows it. He sees her in a way she’s never seen herself before, and it gives her a kind of confidence that goes beyond surface-level attraction.
Their connection forms quickly, but it feels real. It’s intense, tender, and very spicy. The kind of dynamic that blends emotional depth with kink in a way that’s so satisfying to read. The daddy-dom element is playful, protective, and rooted in genuine care. He wants her fed, safe, happy, and thriving, and the way he moves from dangerous businessman to utterly devoted partner? Chef’s kiss.
If you’re looking for:
A quick read with maximum impact
Forced proximity + fast emotional connection
A plus-size FMC who is loved exactly as she is
A MMC who protects, praises, and pampers
Drama-fuelled action with a side of obsession
Then Hostile Takeover should absolutely be on your radar. FIVE stars from me and two-and-a-half chillies for steam. I can’t wait to see what Eve Thorne writes next.
July 27, 2025
Hostile Takeover was an addicting story! Once I started, I couldn't stop until I was done. Paige and Asher are so good together and their instalove connection had me hooked. Paige is a crisis manager who has just learned that one of her clients is basically corrupt and goin illegal things behind the scenes and using the company as a cover. Asher is a the billionaire that is launching a hostile takeover of the company. Since Paige is basically forced into an alliance with Asher and they have to work together in close proximity, the tension becomes... well, tense. But when they find that the crimes are connected to international trafficking, both their lives are put at risk.
This story is action packed with the right amount of spice in between. It's well written and flows so well that you'll feel like the story finishes way before you want it to.
This story is action packed with the right amount of spice in between. It's well written and flows so well that you'll feel like the story finishes way before you want it to.
July 29, 2025
I really enjoyed this Novella! This short Steamy read was exactly what i needed while hibernating in my ice cold apartment to keep out of the summer heat! I couldn’t put it down once i picked it up. We love a Daddy dom MMC and love the plus size rep for the FMC! The banter is fun and the steamy is STEAMING HOT! I highly recommend it to anyone who loves morally grey characters!
I was gifted this novella and i am leaving a voluntary review!
I was gifted this novella and i am leaving a voluntary review!
July 30, 2025
Fast paced and steamy! This little book has all the stubborn, curvy FMC and possessive, obsessed MMC that you could want! It is very fast paced but I’m obsessed with how instantly Asher falls in love with Paige and how even through her stubbornness it doesn’t take him long to break down her walls and open up to him in every way possible!
Some of my fave quotes:
“The bossy, protective, impossible you.”
“You’re the only thing that matters in all this.”
“Sometimes the best things in life are the ones we don’t plan for.”
Some of my fave quotes:
“The bossy, protective, impossible you.”
“You’re the only thing that matters in all this.”
“Sometimes the best things in life are the ones we don’t plan for.”
July 8, 2025
Hostile, hot, & undeniably steamy—that’s what Paige & Asher bring to the page. Their clash of wills & desires pulls you in from the start, creating a fiery dynamic that crackles with tension. Action, excitement, & a gripping investigation keep the pace relentless as they fight to stay alive & take down the threat. Beneath the dominance & defiance, love shines through, raw & powerful.
July 21, 2025
I really enjoyed this ARC from Eve Thorne! Hostile Takeover is a short but spicy read! Paige Montgomery is a corporate crisis manager who finds out her biggest client has been corrupted. Asher Harrington launches a hostile takeover against that client. Despite her hesitance, Paige finds herself thrown into Asher's world.
Asher has insta love/lust feelings with Paige. They immediately connect with each other on many levels. It seems bossy to Paige at first, but she learns to enjoy that Asher loves taking care of her.
This is a short story filled with action in the boardroom, and in the bedroom!
Asher has insta love/lust feelings with Paige. They immediately connect with each other on many levels. It seems bossy to Paige at first, but she learns to enjoy that Asher loves taking care of her.
This is a short story filled with action in the boardroom, and in the bedroom!
July 23, 2025
~*~arc for honest review ~*~
Short little novella read in a hour
Plus size FMC
Daddy dom rich possessive MMC
HEA
Loved it!
This was a fun fast little spicy romance
Only reason for 4 as opposed to 5 stars is the image on cover is not plus sized and is a bit not on target if your trying to appeal to plus sized readers
But story was great
Short little novella read in a hour
Plus size FMC
Daddy dom rich possessive MMC
HEA
Loved it!
This was a fun fast little spicy romance
Only reason for 4 as opposed to 5 stars is the image on cover is not plus sized and is a bit not on target if your trying to appeal to plus sized readers
But story was great
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews