Red Stone Security employee Dominique Castle knows all too well that there are people in this world she just can’t trust. After losing both her parents, she keeps her distance from anyone tied to her past—especially the man she’s hated for years. And Viktor Ivanov isn’t going to change her mind about who he really is, no matter how determined the infuriatingly sexy Russian is.
He refuses to give her a choice.
She may dislike him, but Viktor is determined to crack through Dominique’s icy exterior one way or another, for her own good. With a past like Viktor’s, he’s made more than a few enemies along the way, enemies who’ll stop at nothing to take him down. When he realizes Dominique’s life is in danger because of him, he’ll stop at nothing to protect her—whether she likes it or not.
Dominique’s safety depends on trusting the one man who’s linked to the agony of her past. Can she find a way to love the enemy she always loathed?
Author each book in this series may be read as a stand-alone, complete with HEA and no cliffhangers.
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.
Love Thy Enemy was pretty darn sweet! You actually get two stories in one. The main couple is Viktor and Dominique. Then you get Abram and Lucy's story. Both Viktor and Abram are son's of a dead mob boss and perceived to be cold and ruthless. They hated their father and wanted nothing to do with him, breaking away from those ties to become ligit business men but never really leaving the reputation behind.
Viktor notices Dominique at an event and he can’t take his eyes off of her. He wants to know who she is immediately but one look from Dominique and he realizes she hates him. He has her background looked into and finds that his dead father was the reason for her parents downfall. Dominique learns that Viktor is not his father when he makes amends for what his father has done to her family.
To see this big, strong guy turn to complete mush for Dominique was incredibly sweet. Then you got Abram who thinks he isn’t good enough for their assistant Lucy but can’t stay away from her either. This story has insta-love and protective and possessive hero’s. I’m thrilled I have found another amazing author. This is the 2nd book I have read of Katie Reus and I have loved them both.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Book thirteen in Katie Reus’ Red Stone Security series offers up another stellar romantic suspense treat. I like these books as they are always a quick read, but never leave you disappointed or expecting more. The author really excels at delivering a fully developed story without a massive page count.
The dual POV always helps as well, and I loved that we got too see into Viktor Ivanov’s head in this one, he has played a secondary part in some of the previous books, so it was nice to finally get into the cold, hard, blue-eyed Russians head. Dominique as you would expect with one of Katie’s heroines, is a strong sassy woman in her own right. And I loved that her initial assumptions about the man she hates (and for good reason) are proved wrong as the book progresses.
He’d learned that the world operated in shades of grey…
Love Thy Enemy is almost a twofer in that the story between Abram and Lucy (Viktor’s bother and assistant) also plays out through this book as well. Both brothers have one main thing in common when it comes to women, and that is that they both believe they are incapable of having a functioning relationship with one.
"You really are big all over."
Lucy and Dominique prove them both wrong on that assumption, and as their connections deepen the sexy-times between both couples are stellar. As you would expect though, trouble looms on the horizon for the Ivanov brothers…
Walking away from her was something he just couldn’t do.
And having significant others that both men have deep feelings for, proves more than tempting for one of their enemies. With the inevitable action and suspense taking over the latter stages of the book.
"I want to keep you safe…"
Another great addition to the series, I cannot wait to see what adventure the author takes us on with the next book due for release soon.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
Viktor and Dominque were amazing together. I loved that they both steered clear of the clichéd love/hate trope. Because although Dominque had every reason to be put off by Vikto, when she realized that he was nothing like his father, she gave him the benefit of the doubt. She didn’t needlessly push him away or rage at him for his father’s sins. I loved that Viktor was so open with Dominque, he also had reasons to be guarded and to always question peoples motives but he never entertained thoughts of Dominque because he wanted to always be upfront with her. His father was a piece of work, that even in death, he still haunted both MCs. What I liked/loved about it: This was a quicky read, to my review will be short too (plus I’m sick so I’m really pushing myself to finish this before the holidays come up for a much needed break!) I loved the characters, the story was low on angst, had some minor drama that kicked up the suspense and had pretty awesome side characters. As always when there’s a secondary story happening simultaneously with secondary characters (Abram and Lucy) I wish they would have had their own separate story. They were adorable together but we don’t get to see their whole evolution because it sort of happens behind the scenes of Vik and Dominque’s. What I didn't like:
Oh how I love Katie Reus. She does romantic suspense so well. Growly alpha males, insta-love, and gun fire! I love it! Full review to come on The Book Disciple
This was a tightly written romantic suspense. A change of pace from other in the series, this story does not feature a Red Stone Security employee as the hero. Dominque works for Red Stone but Ivan does not. Instead, he is the son of a former mob boss and although, Ivan tries to keep his companies clean, he is definitely an anti-hero. A welcome and refreshing edition. How Ms. Reus establishes their history is clever, but I still find myself a little skeptical about their relationship. It is dubious to me that after hating and blaming Viktor and his family for the death of her mother and father, she would fall in love with Viktor so easily. One of Viktor's most endearing qualities is his social awkwardness. I wish that angle was developed more. I also appreciate the dual stories of the brothers. Ms. Reus spares us no extras in her compact style, she gets down to the nitty gritty, just the way I like it.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Another great read by Katie Reus, I loved Love Thy Enemy!
The storyline was gripping, entertaining and kept me turning the pages. I loved how we got to watch Dom and Viktor slowly connect, loved their chemistry and together they were perfect for each other. Another plus was the side romance between Abram and Lucy (Viktor’s bother and assistant) they were fun and entertaining that added to my overall enjoyment.
*Thank you to KR Press, LLC via Netgalley for the advance copy*
"Love Thy Enemy" is the thirteenth book of the Redstone Security series and my favorite so far.
Dominique Castle has some adverse feelings toward Viktor Ivanov. His father was a crime boss and set Dominique and her mother in a bad way when Dominique was young. She held the grudge against Viktor, since Viktor's father was dead. She thought Viktor was carrying on the shady business dealings his father had started and believed the rumors that Viktor was totally cruel and evil.
Viktor and Dominique end up at a party together. She's shooting him hateful glares while he doesn't know who she is. He is immediately enamored with her and his interest is more than piqued. Once he finds out why she dislikes him so intensely, he wants to make it right. He wants to prove to her that he is not like his father.
After that, the romance steps up with them and the suspense kicks in. Somebody wants to see Viktor dead but he doesn't know who. Dominique is a target just because she's been seen with him and it doesn't take long for the bad guys to figure out that she's much more than an escort.
The love story between Dominique and Viktor is beautiful. There's no other way to put it. Viktor is a big, tattooed guy who is known for being ruthless and wicked. But deep down inside, he is vulnerable and just wants to be loved. The only sex partners he's ever had were escorts who he paid to be nice to him. He thought he wasn't good enough for Dominique for many reasons but he also had doubts about her intentions. He wasn't sure if she was in it for him or if she had ulterior motives. It made me sad.
Dominique was the genuine article. She was very beautiful, of course but she was emotional, too. She didn't have a lot of experience with dating or men in the romantic way. She was innocent and that innocence and her emotions drew me to her.
I liked her. I liked him. I loved them together.
While Viktor and Dominique were trying to get in their first kiss (yes, the tension between them was high), Abrams, Viktor's brother, was trying to get Lucy's attention. He was smitten and she was a bit aloof but she was spunky and didn't back down to him, not that he was trying to flex his muscle with her. They worked.
This book was a fast-paced story with lots of action, steamy love scenes, and a tight plot. The writing was excellent.
Wow, I loved this book so much; I don't know where to start! The Red Stone Security series by Katie Reus is one of my absolute favorite reads and the newest installment, Love Thy Enemy only adds to the fabulousness of this series!
We take a deeper look into the lives & businesses of the Ivanov brothers, Viktor (who we met in the previous RSS book, Secret Obsession) and his brother Abram. At a local chefs function, restaurant owner, Viktor takes an instant liking to RSS employee Dominique Castle, and is determined to meet her, but she intentionally manages to avoid him at all costs. Not understanding her dislike of him, before they’ve actually met, Viktor looks into her past for any previous connection and discovers that his father had in fact, wronged Dominique’s family. Horrified by this Viktor is determined to make it right and show her that he is not the same type of man his father was.
While our main story centers on Viktor and Dominique, we also enjoy the budding relationship between Abram and Lucy, a no-nonsense woman who works for Viktor and Abram.
Still furious with Viktor, Dominique decides to confront him about his “make-it-right” offer, only to discover he’s not the hateful man she’d assumed him to be. Almost to her horror, she can’t believe that she really likes him and wants to get to know him better. This is all music to Viktor’s ears who can’t wait to get closer to Dominique. But when she is mugged and her purse stolen on their first date and gunfire erupts at a secluded restaurant on their second date, Viktor believes things are not as random as they seem. Knowing he has enemies from his past, he’s determined to discover who’s after him and the woman who is quickly stealing his heart.
Ms. Reus weaves a wonderful web of suspense, romance, and super steamy encounters, all with a beautiful Miami backdrop. Grab this one and enjoy the ride!
Highly recommended read and series!
*ARC received by author in exchange for an honest review.
This series continues to be one of my favorites! I LOVED Dominique and Viktor (and Abram and Lucy, too)! Great characters combined with a great storyline, just like with all the other books!
Dominique Castle was an employee of Red Stone Security, after losing her parents she tended to stay away from anyone connected to her past. Especially one man who she'd hated for years, Viktor Ivanov.
Viktor Ivanov was determined to win Dominique over, even though he knew she hated him with a passion. With a past not so innocent past, Viktor made lots of enemies. When he found out that Dominique's life was in danger, Viktor made it his mission to protect her, no matter what.
As she came to know more about Viktor, Dominique realized that she'd misjudged him. Facing danger, Dominique relied on the man who had slowly stolen her heart away. Viktor was willing to give his life to keep Dominique safe.
I really enjoyed the way the secondary couple found their HEA as well, Abram and Lucy were too adorable. Despite her being his & his half-brother Viktor's employee, Abram couldn't help but fall for Lucy. And vice versa.
LOVE THY ENEMY, the 13th installment in Katie Reus' RED STONE SECURITY series was a fast-paced romantic suspense. Katie Reus did it again, she brought us another pièce de résistance.
****ARC given in exchange for an honest review.****
Book: Love Thy Enemy (Red Stone Security #13) Author: Katie Reus Publication Date: 6/7/2016 Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts My Rating: 5 Stars
REVIEW
*May contain spoilers *
Every time a new book comes out in this series, I say it is my favorite so this time I will say this one is my ultimate favorite. I love the chemistry between Dominique and Viktor. Although Viktor has to prove, he is not his father. As his father caused incredible heartache to the woman, he wants more than life itself.
The author actually gives us two couples in this book, which was fantastic. Brother Abram has his heart set on Lucy although he knows she deserves so much better.
Can Viktor win Dominique' heart? Will both brothers win their girls?
Fantastic book and I whole-heartedly cannot wait for the next book in this series.
I was gifted a copy of this book for my honest review. Katie Reus
Ok I was more prepared for the dual storyline and enjoyed this one more. Plus I liked the characters a lot more! Dominique and Viktor were such an unlikely couple but I really rooted for them! And I loved his brother's story.
This was much better than the last couple of books in the series. It deals with some heavy issues though.
Love Thy Enemy is book thirteen in the Red Stone Security series and it can be read as a standalone.
I loved that you get two great stories in one book and none of them seem rushed or confusing. There’s Viktor, a ruthless businessman and son of a Russian mob boss and Dominique, who works at Red Stone Security as the main couple. But we also get the story of Viktor’s brother, Abram and Lucy, who is Viktor and Abram’s assistant. The characters are well-rounded and unique and I liked each of them a lot.
The story is fast-paced and filled with action, sizzle and suspense. In short, another great addition to this exciting series.
Can’t wait to read book number fourteen!
* I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Tropes : romantic suspense, enemies-to-lovers Ending : HFN (they’re engaged) Triggers : violence, death of parents, mention of sexual assault, suicide Spice : 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5 Angst : 🔥🔥🔥/5 OM/OW drama : no Kink: virgin h, no condoms but h on pills, oral
Hero : Viktor Ivanov (30s) Heroine: Dominique Castle (25)
This is a story about a woman that was wronged by her dad and the H’s dad. Her dad was a gambling addict that racked up a debt from Viktor’s dad and eventually he died bcs he was messing with someone in a bar.
Viktor killed his dad, at least that’s what he said and there was never details about that.
The mom committed suicide bcs she couldn’t take how Viktor’s dad kept harassing her and blackmailing her to do sexual stuff with him.
Then a couple years later both MCs met. She hated him bcs of his association with his dad. But soon after they talked they liked each other and started going on dates.
Everything was nice until the villain came into the picture. I couldn’t guess who the bad guy was, but the informant was easier to guess, but since there was not enough clue, I couldn’t guess until it was almost by the end of the book.
It got insta love vibes but I like how possessive Viktor was with Dominique. This is a short read.
I enjoyed it quite a lot. The ending could be better, maybe set a couple years later with them having kids, but other than that, it was a good read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
His gaze strayed to her mouth as her tongue darted out to swipe cream off her bottom lip. He had to actually bite back a groan at the sight. He'd been with women who knew how to seduce, how to do everything right - because it was all choreographed and fake. With Dominique, he knew there was not artifice. Even if she was driving him crazy.
LOVE THY ENEMY is the thirteenth book in the author's fabulous Red Stone Security series. Let me just say that Katie doesn't disappoint in the slightest with LOVE THY ENEMY! Every one of her books can be counted on to deliver.
I've been dying to read Dominique's & Viktor's story since the previous book, SECRET OBSESSION. Dominique has vehemently loathed Viktor, an infuriatingly sexy Russian, for years. Viktor is unequivocally going to have to perform some miracles to break through Dominique's icy exterior.
Red Stone Security employee Dominique has a serious grudge against Viktor because his father was a cutthroat crime boss and had treated Dominique's family badly when she was young. She thought Viktor was supportive of and committed to carry on his family's shady business dealings.
Viktor didn't even know who Dominique was until he saw her at a party shooting evil glances his way. He was smitten with her from the first time he saw her and cannot understand why she dislikes him so intently. But, Viktor has a bigger problem as someone else seriously wants him dead...
Viktor is an ex-cage fighter, big and tattooed with a ruthless reputation. That's just a facade as he's actually vulnerable inside and has only previously had short assignations with paid escorts. Dominique, on the other hand is a naive innocent; yet, she finds herself insanely attracted to Viktor despite her best intentions. They were both broken individuals and I loved them together.
There's a secondary love story included featuring Abram and Lucy. Abram is Viktor's brother. (The Ivanov brothers were both HOT, HOT, HOT!) Abram and Lucy have been fighting their attraction for months. Their story is a wonderful addition to LOVE THY ENEMY making this book a fantastic two-for-one. I honestly can't get enough of Katie's writing AND her matched pairs.
It is not necessary to read any of the previous books in this series to fully enjoy LOVE THY ENEMY. Every book in this series stands well on its own. That said, there are interconnected characters whose stories will captivate you. So, just know that your pleasure in the series will be increased the more books in the series you read. It really doesn't matter if the books are read in order. I'm betting once you read one, you'll want to read more!!!! Go for it!
Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from this sexy read:
"Tell me what you want," he demanded. "Say the words." Because he needed to hear them. Some primal part of him wanted her to spell it out. Her cheeks were flushed, her eyes heavy-lidded. "Kiss me." "Where?" --- He couldn't live in a world with her and not have her in his life. Nope. Not happening. "You're mine," he growled against her swollen lips. The words came out guttural as he held back the urge to slam into her. --- He laughed, the sound so sweet to her ears because he rarely seemed to do it. "I think it's time I got you fed." He reached a hand down, palmed her ass before squeezing possessively. "Then I plan to eat you. Slowly."
Katie is one of my very favorite authors. LOVE THY ENEMY is a highly emotional read with characterizations that will draw you in forthwith. It's fast-paced with a plethora of life-threatening action and ultra steamy love scenes. I highly recommend LOVE THY ENEMY to anyone who enjoys well-orchestrated romantic suspense!
* A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review.
For years Dominique Castle has hated Viktor Ivanov because of his connection to her tragic past yet when he becomes interested in her, she can’t seem to resist him. He is determined to convince Dominique to give him a chance and to get to know him but with his dark past it isn’t long before Dominique is in danger and she has no choice but to trust Viktor to keep her safe. Which means spending a lot of time with him.
I’ve yet to read a Katie Reus romance that didn’t impress me. Love Thy Enemy is the thirteenth book (I know right? Thirteen and not a dud among them) in the Red Stone Security series and it lived up to its predecessors with no problem.
Love Thy Enemy is a great example of a well written romantic suspense without the clutter of too many unnecessary scenes. Katie Reus does it all in under 70,000 words. That’s one of my favorite things about this series, I get fun characters, steamy romance, a pinch of humor, and plenty of action at just a fraction of the size of other novels yet I’ve never been unsatisfied with the way these books end.
Long time fans FINALLY got to see who Viktor really was and he didn’t disappoint. He was an interesting character who didn’t want to be the monster his father was yet he didn’t hesitate to use his reputation or mafia type methods in order to protect those he cared about. While Love Thy Enemy was Viktor’s book, he still kept some of the mystery around him a secret. Not that I didn’t connect with him because I did, I understood how much he wanted to escape his brutal past but at the same time, with Dominique being threatened, the only way to ensure her safety was to tap into that part of him that could cause pain and death. It was a tough line for him to straddle but that’s what made him interesting to me.
In typical Reus fashion, the heroine was completely capable of handling herself in tough situations and never acted like a weakling, even when the odds were not in her favor. Dominique was feisty, confident, and likable. She was young and a bit naïve but I liked that she was quick to learn and to admit when she was wrong. But back to her naiveté, she was inexperienced in relationships but didn’t allow that to make her incompetent in the other areas of her life. She was a good employee, a good friend, and a strong match for Viktor. Once she put her hatred of Viktor in the spotlight and dealt with the facts, Dominique became a different character towards him. She showed him that there was goodness and happiness in life and that he didn’t have to be the scary guy that no one could get to know. Gotta love a heroine who brings softness into the hero’s life all while still being a tough girl.
Viktor and Dominique’s romance wasn’t the only romance going on in Love Thy Enemy though. Viktor’s brother Abram also has a romance happening with Lucy who works for both brothers. I will say that Lucy was my favorite though. There was just something about her that worked for me.
Final Verdict: Such a quick read but Love Thy Enemy had what I needed to make it a good time. Katie Reus is one of my go-to authors for romantic suspense because she never leaves her female characters out of the action, nor does she make them weak. Enjoyed this latest installment of the Red Stone Security series!
Here is another explosive and fantastic read with Dominique and Viktor as the main couple and there is a secondary couple in the story-- Viktor’s brother, Abram’s story with Lucy. Viktor had noticed Dominique at an event and he can’t take his eyes off of her. He immediately wants to know who she is and get to know her more intimately. But Dominique doesn’t want to get to know him, she has some rough feelings toward Viktor- his father did damage to her family and those feelings she has toward his father have been travelled over to his son. Viktor ends up making her see he isn’t his father and showing her he is completely different. The romance between the two steps up and about that time, the suspense ramps up. Someone is trying to kill Viktor and thru him, Dominique. In between finding out who is trying to kill them, there is a fabulous love story between Dominique and Viktor. It is showing forgiveness and also showing an alpha male who is gentle with his mate . I loved how good he was with his mate , Dominique. Their love was great to see and the 2nd love story with Viktor’s brother I really enjoyed too. I also enjoyed seeing the other characters from RSS. This is a wonderful book with a good storyline that flowed from start to end. It is a book that you will want to immediately go back and re-read.
My rating: 4.8 stars **** **I was given an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review***
Two Russians, two sassy women and a whole lot of shady business in between, with a little cheese and smut thrown in.
It's a winning combination strangely, put together in a self-contained, compact romantic suspense type of story I crave from time to time, which Katie Reus can and does provide. The male protagonists walk in the shades of grey - there're hints of previous illegal activities - unlike the 'Boy Scouts' at Red Stone Security, made the book more alluringly forbidden somehow. Even as similar as Viktor and Abram are as brothers and somewhat alike even in their speech and mannerisms, I found myself liking both Dominique and Lucy who aren't pushovers themselves.
I'm simply compelled to write something about this series now because it seems Reus has taken a step up in her game. The sheer boldness of handling two developing love stories (and both enemies to lovers - employee/friends to lovers tropes) amidst the pounding suspense floored me, perhaps all the more so because Reus pulls if off well enough that I didn't feel as though I'd been short-changed or wanting more by the end of the novella.
Though this series of books is typically shorter than what I usually read, I appreciate that they read like longer books and never feel rushed. This book in particular actually ended being two stories short of intertwined. Though it is about Viktor and Dominique, Viktor's brother, Abram, and his assistant, Lucy, also feature prominently. Basically, Dominique blames Viktor for an event from the past and hates him with a passion. He, on the other hand, feels inexplicably drawn to her. When the two of them are finally in a place where the truth can come out, their relationship hearts up quick. Unfortunately, Viktor has an enemy who wants to take away everything he cares about, and Dominique is at the top of that list. Abram and Lucy also end up in the crosshairs, but neither Viktor or Abram plan to let their women get hurt.
As is typical for this series, the passion was white hot, the ladies were kick butt even without the totally alpha guys backing them up, and the suspense was consistent throughout the story. I know I will keep reading this series as long as Katie Reus keeps writing it.
Every so often, you will find that one book that no matter how late it is, you must complete said book before bed. That book to me was Love Thy Enemy by Katie Reus. It is her latest book in the Red Stone Security series and can be read as a stand-alone. If you never picked up one of Katie Reus books, Love Thy Enemy is a romantic suspense with emphases on romance.
Dominique should hate anyone with the name of Ivanov. Since it was the last name of the person who had a strong hand in her mother’s death. But with Viktor, the sins of father shall always stay with the father.
Once Viktor realize what his father has done to Dominique family. He takes it upon himself to righting the wrong…It doesn’t hurt that he finds Dominique very alluring.
Love Thy Enemy was an excellent book from start to finish. I never read two romance stories simultaneously before, but that just goes to show, how good a story teller Katie Reus is. Love Thy Enemy was a very fast-pace narrative with a sweet HEA for all couples.
Viktor!!!! Talk about alpha to the extreme and sexy to boot!
In the beginning Dominique was very mean to Viktor. I didn't like her attitude at all, I have to admit that was only because I was totally biased and was totally digging Viktor right off the bat, Team Viktor
He was my ultimate tall, dark and deadly! but deep down he is super sensitive! big teddy bear! Squee!!
Dominique had a lot of trust issues with Viktor, their past or shall I say their parents past played a big role in the distrust/caution Dominique had towards Viktor, Once everything is cleared up its full steam ahead! This book is full of sexual tension, sweetness and suspense. Viktor was so protective and to watch them come together and overcome their insecurities is a beautiful thing. Another winner from our favorite author! OOH oh and Abrams and Lucy! Gah! so cute!
***Arc kindly provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review***
Love Thy Enemy is the 13th book in the Redstone Security series. And although it's Viktor and Dominique's story, the secondary story of Abram and Lucy is what I really enjoyed about the book. The Ivanov brothers are ruthless and rich and someone is trying to take Viktor out, and doesn't care about who gets hurt or killed in the process. Falling for Dominique seems to be easier than keeping her alive but Viktor will do anything to keep her from being hurt again. Abram and Lucy have been fighting their attraction to each other for months and it finally comes to a head in an explosive way. Hopefully the Ivanov brothers will be featured an future book because they are forces to be reckoned with.
ARC received from author in exchange for an honest review.
Viktor really does have a firecracker on his hands, Dominique could be quite demanding at times, not that Viktor minded, "she took the condom from him and tossed it away as she grasped his hard length. “I’m on the pill and I don’t want a barrier between us the first time.” I really liked this book, I loved Viktor.
I actually liked this more than I thought I would.
I liked both Viktor and Dominique. Viktor was sweet and kind of awkward in an endearing way. I wish he'd opened up more to Dominique about his past and his killing his own father, but overall their romance was sweet and well-developed.
I liked Abram (Viktor's brother) and Lucy's story as well, but there was less development.
The suspense was done decently, and nothing was too obvious.
Overall this was a surprisingly good read and refreshing, especially when all the books were starting to sound the same.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Viktor and Dominique. Great story! It did not go the direction I initially assumed after they introduced his character in a previous story which made me excited. There is also a secondary romance with his brother and their assistant which was fun especially since Lucy is a strong opinionated character. The red stone teams were not as present, but still played an important role. The story was fast paced and full of emotions from their background moments. The ending was chef kiss and I can’t wait to see how they are doing in future books.
Red Stone Security employee Dominique Castle knows all too well that there are people in this world she just can't trust. After losing both her parents, Dominique keeps her distance from anyone tied to her past—especially the man she's hated for years. And Viktor Ivanov isn't going to change her mind about who he really is—no matter how determined the infuriatingly sexy Russian is.
He's determined to win her over.
She may hate him and not trust him, but Viktor is determined to crack through Dominique's icy exterior one way or another—even if it means taking the game into his own hands. With a past like Viktor's, he's made more than a few enemies along the way—enemies who'll stop at nothing to take him down. When Viktor realizes Dominique's life is in danger because of him, he’ll stop at nothing to protect her—whether she likes it or not. Now it's up to Dominique to trust the one man who's linked to the agony of her past. Can she find a way to love the enemy she always loathed?
Length: 54,000 words Author Note: All books in the Red Stone Security series can be read as stand-alone books and in any order.
••••••
REVIEW: LOVE THY ENEMY is the thirteenth installment in Katie Reus’s contemporary, adult RED STONE SECURITY romantic, suspense series focusing on the men and women who work for RSS. LOVE THY ENEMY is a storyline that follows two building relationships: Red Stone Security employee Dominique Castle, and Russian business man Viktor Ivanov; as well as Victor’s brother Abram Ivanov, and his personal assistant Lucy. LOVE THY ENEMY like all of the other installments can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Some characters cross over from previous installments.
Told from several third person perspectives LOVE THY ENEMY focuses on attacks against Viktor Ivanov from an unknown assailant. As local businessmen Viktor and his brother Abram are well known on the real estate market but their father’s criminal past has marked the brothers guilty by association and especially to Dominique Castle – a woman who lost everything to some from the brother’s past. As Viktor pursues Dominique and offers to pay his family’s debt, Abram decides it is time to get closer to the woman who has called to his heart for close to a year. But someone has targeted Viktor, and the enemy could be someone close.
Dominique is a strong woman whose life has been torn apart by grief and loss. Meeting Viktor Ivanov brings back all of the horrific memories from her childhood and teens, and with it the icy barrier around her broken heart. Viktor is a man far separated from the criminal life his father once led- a life Viktor and his brother know only too well. Now that their personal and business life is no longer connected to crime, the brothers have set out to win the hearts of the women they love. Viktor is totally out of his element as he tries to woo and date Dominique, and it doesn’t help that every time they are out in public, someone makes an attempt against their lives. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and passionate.
Several of the Red Story Security employees play secondary and supporting roles. Abram and Lucy’s relationship builds on the periphery of Viktor and Dominique’s story, but it was nice to see two happily ever afters in one story.
LOVE THY ENEMY is a story packed with mystery, suspense, and action. The premise is captivating; the characters are animated, charismatic and fated; the romance is inspiring and intense. Another winner from the pen of Katie Reus.
This is the thirteenth book in the Red Stone Security series that can be read as a stand-alone.
Viktor Ivanov has come a long way from his roots, he’s a businessman with a shady past though his interests are now legitimate. Attending an event one night he spots a stunning tall blonde. It’s not often a woman attracts him so much so he follows her and makes eye contact and the look of hatred she gives him is undeniable. He doesn’t know her or what he could have done to earn such depth of negativity but he’ll find out. Learning of their connection he understands the enmity she showed him and tries to make amends expecting nothing in return yet wishing more were possible.
Dominique Castle is an employee of Red Stone Security. Business one night brought her into contact with a man she hates, the son of a man who caused her family serious harm, as far as she’s concerned like father like son until proven otherwise. Not sure what to do with his trying to atone for the sins of his father when papers are delivered to her or if she should trust his motives she feels the need to confront the man. He’s a contradiction to his familial connections or so it seems and his sexy male presence draws and confuses her, around him she’s off her game which is not normal.
There’s strong chemistry between Viktor and Dominique that neither is sure what to do with, they’ve both been defined by their pasts and unexpectedly find much in common. They reach out to see where this attraction might lead them. It’s rather sweet how out of his depth in relationships this Alpha was yet he’ll definitely try for it to have a chance with this woman. Dominique is a combination of toughness and innocence, she’s one to admit mistakes when proven wrong.
The author seems to have a trend lately of two romances in one book. Both sexy Ivanov brothers find their love connections. I’m not sure which couple I liked more, Viktor and Dominque or Abram and Lucy who were so cute together, their antics made this reader smile often, their attraction has been brewing for a while until it inevitably exploded. Abram is Viktor’s half-brother who is so protective of the well-being of Lucy, the brother’s fantastic sassy assistant, nothing is too good for her. I liked how neither brother felt they were good enough for their women but they couldn’t help themselves.
And being a Red Stone Security book of course there’s a good dose of suspense with a villain whose identity is elusive until the ending. Viktor has made enemies over the years but it is only when he has someone that he truly cares for that one strikes to maximize hurting him. As always there are multiple points of view in these stories to let us into the psyche of the players. This was a good addition to the series with very likable characters.
An advanced reading copy was obtained from the author.
Sexy, suspenseful, satisfying, and everything I expected from Katie Reus!
Viktor Ivanov cannot get Dominique Castle out of his head once he takes notice of her at one of Red Stone Security events (and if you read the last book you’ll know where that takes place) and neither can he understand the hate he perceives in her eyes when she looks at him. Dominique has tried to forget her past as much as possible and looking at Viktor has only brought back the anger and hate she’s felt for years and now because of her job she’s going to have to work with him.
This story does not pick up right after the last book in the series but rather takes place at the same time. I thought that was such a wonderful idea because all the characters from the last book are at least mentioned in this story and it became sort of a “connect the dots” for me. Besides the tie-in to the previous book we also have another couple, that of Viktor’s brother, Abram, and Lucy, the brothers’ sweet but sharp assistant.
The chemistry between each couple was smoking hot. Viktor, for all his possessiveness and controlling nature, and all the toughness he was showing on the outside, he was just a wounded man trying to do the right thing for once. And when he realized his feelings for Dominique he decided to protect her even though he thought she was too good for him. Although there were times when he went a little overboard on his protectiveness but I I suppose that was part of his characterization and I can overlook that side of him for the sake of the story. On the other hand I liked that supposedly inexperienced Dominique always knew her own mind and sounded mature for her age. Lucy and Abram were so adorable. Lucy was trying to avoid her boss for obvious reasons (Hello, it’s the boss!) Abram was always jealous of Lucy and Viktor’s relationship; everyone was always afraid of Viktor but Lucy always spoke her mind and to her Viktor was simply Viktor. Why couldn’t she behave the same way with him? I’m hoping we get to see more about this couple in the future, even if they get to share a book with another couple again.
All in all it was a great read and although I said this story is sort of a tie-in it can definitely be read as a stand alone as any of the other books in the series and I recommend it to anyone that likes romantic suspense.
*** I received a copy of this story from the author in exchange of an honest review***
The Red Stone Security Series by Katie Reus is one of my top favorites to-go-to-when-I-need-a-lift-kind of books, and I’ve revisited times innumerable, utterly captivating, intense and full of passion and danger.
“Love Thy Enemy” is another intense and passionate love story bringing Dominique Castle into the sight of Viktor Ivanov. Employed with Red Stone Security and under their family circle, Dominique is making a new life leaving a painful past; a past that is connected to Viktor’s father and a past that gives caution to her fluttering heart when she sees Viktor.
Viktor and his brother Abram have toiled night and day to erase the past of evil that connects them. Working hard to make sure their lives and business are legitimate, they have come long ways in reaching the pinnacle of success with sheer determination. And that determination is what Viktor is fielding to get close to Dominique and prove that his present is as good as it can get.
As attraction flares, so does danger that puts Dominique in the crosshairs of a past that lost everything and wants to avenge by taking away the love that Viktor has by his side. As Viktor moves heaven and earth to keep Dominique safe, Abram gets his own story as he falls in love with Lucy, Viktor’s assistant.
Another wonderful love story, and I just loved Viktor; maybe because I believe in second chances and we become what we are depending on our circumstances and not so much of blood relations and Viktor sets that example. The relationship between brothers is solid and loved their dynamics.
“Love Thy Enemy” is a quick and a really, really captivating story and the cover is gorgeous!!!!