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Redemption Harbor #7

Chasing Vengeance

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From USA Today bestselling author Katie Reus comes the next story in the explosive Redemption Harbor series where sparks fly and so do bullets…

Wanting her means putting a target on her back…

Layla’s taste in men runs toward the epic side of awful. With one murderous ex-fiancé already behind her, she’s attempting to start over in Redemption Harbor with the help of her bestie, Nova. And wine. Lots of wine. The very thing that helps her make another epic mistake—trying to kiss Xavier, one of her newest friends. So what if he’s sexy, funny, and has completely taken over her fantasies? Relationships and Layla don’t mix. And Xavier is clearly not interested anyway.

But it’s too late to walk away…

Any good hitman has no business forging a personal life…no matter how great the temptation. And Xavier is an exceptionally good hitman, with a long list of enemies. Even if Layla could somehow look past his profession, he’d never put her in jeopardy. But everyone has their breaking point—and when Layla accepts a date with someone else, Xavier’s possessiveness is unleashed. The greater the risk, the sweeter the reward…until Xavier’s sweet Layla is used against him by someone from his past. Now he’ll do whatever it takes to protect her from the enemy hunting her from the shadows.

Length: Novel
Author note: This is a stand-alone novel in the Redemption Harbor series complete with an HEA and no cliffhanger.

Redemption Harbor Series
1. Resurrection
2. Savage Rising
3. Dangerous Witness
4. Innocent Target
5. Hunting Danger
6. Covert Games
7. Chasing Vengeance

253 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 9, 2019

214 people are currently reading
484 people want to read

About the author

Katie Reus

164 books3,245 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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews
Profile Image for Carvanz.
2,383 reviews898 followers
April 9, 2019
What a wonderful ending to this awesome series!

We met Layla in a previous book after she had witnessed her fiancée kill a man. Now she has moved to Redemption Harbor and is trying to settle down. After meeting Xavier they have become friends and while she feels things she normally doesn’t feel for a friend, she’s aware that he doesn’t share those same desires. But after a night out with another man, Xavier confronts her and holy heck, it was spectacular…until she woke up the next morning.

description

Xavier lives a life that doesn’t allow room for close relationships. Despite that hard and fast rule, he’s drawn to Layla, too much so. He struggles with his feelings until he finds her on a date with another man. It’s all he can take and he makes his move. While it’s the most amazing night of his life, he knows he can’t bring her any further into his life. Not only does his present and past cause potential danger for her, she’s simply too good for him.

description

There’s a lot of push and pull here, mostly that of Xavier. And I felt it was justified. But even as he’s pushing her away, Layla’s broken past rises up to taunt her with dark memories of not being worthy. When she finds herself in danger, Xavier steps in immediately to protect her. What follows is an action packed, emotionally filled story as they struggle to find a place where they can face each other head on and confront their feelings.

“She was already under his skin and he wanted to be under hers. Because he would take her with him wherever he went. She would live inside him.”

I loved how Xavier was so protective over Layla and wanted only what was best for her despite the fact that meant he would not be in her life. Add in the fact that Layla was strong enough to let him know exactly how she felt about his decisions as well as accepting what he did for a living made for a very enjoyable read.

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All of the previous characters from Redemption make an appearance here helping this couple along not only with their special talents but with their friendship. This had a few surprises and no stupid decisions by the heroine, which I appreciated. The steam and chemistry between Layla and Xavier was evident form the very beginning and only accelerated each time they were together.

With a wonderful epilogue that brought us back full circle to the beginning of this series I’m recommending this to everyone who enjoys full on protective alpha heroes and the strong, kick a$$ women who own their hearts.

Dual POV with a few from the villain
Safe
Triggers
Profile Image for Nicola.
1,390 reviews287 followers
March 31, 2019
Sadly the time is upon us to wave farewell to the Redemption Harbor team and seeing us out are Layla and Xavier,

description ...he was a killer who didn’t deserve her, but here they were.”

This is a couple who soon discover being together brings danger to their door and, as has become the MO with this series, Chasing Vengeance is fast paced, steamy and heartfelt featuring a guy who is just the right amount of alpha and a woman strong enough to test his resolve.

description She owned a part of him he’d thought was long dead.

With no shortage of action and suspense to boot this was an enjoyable finale to the series which introduced me to Katie Reus’ writing. And, if she ever does decide to take us back to Redemption Harbor, I’d be totally onboard with that.

description A team. A family.
description
Profile Image for Madison Warner Fairbanks.
3,417 reviews496 followers
March 25, 2019
Chasing Vengeance by Katie Reus

Romantic suspense. Last book in the Redemption Harbor series. It could be read as a standalone but because all the characters from the prior books are in this one, it's better read subsequent to the prior books.

The hit man falls in love, decides to give up his profession for he heroine but the past isn't that easy to walk away from. She's now in danger and it's up to the whole crew at Redemption Harbor Security to protect her.

This series was fast moving adventure, danger, romantic connections and generous, deep friendships. Be warned: there is quite a bit of killing bad guys throughout the entire series. It's not graphic but the head count is high.
My favorite character was Sky. She was a truly unique agent.
I enjoyed the pattern found in each book. It ramps the tension until the very end.

I received a copy of this from NetGalley. I also purchased a copy of this to share.
Profile Image for Mindy Lou's Book Review.
3,010 reviews798 followers
April 9, 2019
I'm sad to see this is the final book in the series. I love the mix of good and anti-hero characters that have come together to form this security team. They don't always follows the rules but they do only target the bad.

Xavier is a hit man, friend to former hit man and one of the newer members of the Redemption Harbor Consulting team, Axel. He met Layla at Axel and Hadley's wedding and he just can't seem to walk away. Unfortunately, he believes he isn't good enough for so he keeps them in the friend zone.

If anyone deserves a happy life, it's Layla. Her story is pretty sad and man did I feel for her. I wanted to kick Xavier for holding back with her. I did love the moments of jealous and possessive behavior he portrays with her and he was super protective of her. It just took him a bit longer to learn to be protective of her feelings as well.

As much as I have loved all the couples in this series, Skye is still my favorite. She plays a big role in all the books and I just love her character! This is a great series and I highly recommend it for all the romantic suspense lovers.
Profile Image for Claire.
2,324 reviews739 followers
April 9, 2019
4 - "I was doing the right thing..." Stars!

We return to Redemption Harbor for the final time with Chasing Vengeance giving us Layla and Xavier’s story.

Nothing about his feelings for her were plain or simple…

Being a hitman, certainly puts a crimp in Xavier’s dating style, it’s not a profession that really works alongside a long-term relationship, settling down and starting a family. And for Xavier, it’s not been something he has ever aspired to really want, that is until he meets Layla at a mutual acquaintance’s wedding. Sparks fly and attraction simmers from the offset, all the while and even in the following months Xavier insists on keeping it in the friend-zone.

"I’m not asking for a future… I just want a right now."

Layla, not knowing what it is Xavier truly does for work, doesn’t care for his reticence in progressing things out of the friend-zone, and makes the mistake of trying to kiss him. And although initially reluctant it doesn’t take Xavier long to get on-board with the plan, well for one night only anyway. Before he ups and leaves for ‘work’ purposes.

She owned a part of him he’d thought was long dead… Now that it had woken up, it was going to slice him up to let her go…

What Xavier doesn’t realize is that by leaving he puts Layla more at risk, because a face from his past is back, and intent on getting revenge for the loss he holds Xavier solely responsible for… An eye for an eye and all that.

"I bet you never thought you’d be here…"

An enjoyable end to a pretty decent series, this was a quick and easy-going read. I loved the inclusion of a most of the Redemption crew, and the epilogue rounded things off nicely. It may be the end, but never say never, Katie could definitely get more from this series at some point in the future if the right story came to mind, and I would absolutely be on-board with reading more if that was the case.

ARC generously provided by the author, in exchange for the above honest review.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
2,512 reviews86 followers
March 2, 2022
ARC received for review

I'm sad this series in now over, but this was a great book to end it with.

We met Layla in her BFF, Nova's, book after she escapes her ex-fiancee. Xavier is a hired killer and friends with Alex. They hook up and Xavier's past comes back to haunt him and hurt her. All the Redemption Security gang comes in to help.

Great epilogue with Skye and Colt. Tears that it's now over...maybe one day she could do Valencia's HEA
Profile Image for Eva Millien.
3,115 reviews45 followers
April 7, 2019
Layla is attempting to start over in Redemption Harbor with the help of her bestie and lots of wine and since her and relationships don’t mix she has no business fantasizing about her sexy and funny new friend, Xavier. A good hitman has no business forging a personal life and no matter how much he wants Layla, wanting her puts a target on her back and Xavier is determined to keep her safe.

The final book in the Redemption Harbor is an exciting, explosive and emotional story that holds readers captive from the very beginning. Xavier and Layla are strong, vivid characters that are full of volatile chemistry that flows from the pages as they easily draw readers into their tempestuous romance. Xavier and Layla prove the adage that opposites attract in that Layla is quite feisty and Xavier is reserved but there is no denying the sparks and the magnetic attraction between these two as they navigate the their rocky relationship which if full of emotional turmoil as Xavier is determined to stay away.

This fast paced and smooth flowing plot steadily builds up the thrilling suspense with adrenaline pumping action and unexpected twists that ensure that the hero and heroine along with the readers are surprised. During all the excitement of this story, readers may want to pay special attention to an explosive car chase and the creative way Xavier puts a stop to it (chills). While readers are sad that the series is ending, they can’t help but enjoy this spectacular conclusion from beginning to end.
Profile Image for Rachel.
1,629 reviews27 followers
April 9, 2019
This is the final installment of the Redemption Harbor Security series, and while I am sad to see the series end, I also feel like this is a good place to tie it all up.

Layla hasn’t had the best of luck with men, and that’s an understatement. After running to her best friend, Nova, in order to save herself from her ex-fiance, Layla isn’t in a hurry to start a new relationship. But meeting Axel’s friend, Xavier, at a wedding sparks a new friendship and a flame that Layla does her best to keep hidden. After all, she isn’t confident that she can pick a good man anymore, though Xavier doesn’t always look like a good man.

Xavier is blown away by Layla, but knows he needs to keep his attraction on the down low. He isn’t the man she thinks he is, and he isn’t ready for her to meet his truth. It’s easier if they remain friends, keep in touch via technology, and get together platonically when he is in town. But his best efforts to keep the two sides of his life separate have crumbled, and his worst fears are brought forth: Layla is in danger because of him.

I loved these two together. Layla is everything sweet and good, while Xavier is hard and dangerous, at least on the outside. Layla has more strength than she gives herself credit for and Xavier has a protective streak that is clear when one sees how much he has done for his family. I loved when these two stopped hiding the feelings that were clearly building between them. Layla is exactly what Xavier needs: soft, yet strong enough to challenge him when needed.

This was a fitting wrap to the series, with cameos from many of the previous couples and all the pieces of Redemption Harbor safe for now. It is full of suspense and danger, heat and heart. The epilogue ties things up nicely and leaves a warm feeling in its wake for the characters and the series as a whole.

I received this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Profile Image for April Symes.
5,013 reviews445 followers
April 9, 2019
Chasing Vengeance by Katie Reus is book 7 in the Redemption Harbor series and the final installment in this series. I'm so sorry that this is the end because this series had it all- suspense, passion, action, adventure, heat, drama, angst, romance and love- the couples that came out of each book was amazing and book 7 is no different. We have Layla and Xavier’s story in Chasing Vengeance.
We actually met Layla in a previous RH book after she witnessed her fiancée kill a man. Now in book 7, she has moved to Redemption Harbor and is trying to get past the bad memories and make new friends along with happier memories.She met Xavier and they developed a friendship, one that had her feeling safe. During that time in which their friendship developed she also developed deeper feelings which she fell in love with him. We see as the book starts, that she's cant share her feelings because he wont share her feelings which leaves her feeling down and confused and hurt. She doesn't want to rock the boat on their friendship but will she be able to keep her feelings inside? What she doesn't know is the deep, dark secrets Xavier has that could shatter their friendship if he were to pursue a relationship with Layla. It all pertains to his job. He pulls back and tries to avoid Layla after their last outing but then Layla goes on a date with another man.. cue the fireworks and angry man tantrum. This story has everything that I loved- angst , secrets, push/pull, denied love, action, friendship, love, passion, ... it was truly a great way to end a fabulous series. It was awesome to see previous characters make appearances in this story. I enjoyed the characters, plot and epilogue.


My Rating: 4.8 stars *******
Profile Image for JoRead.
365 reviews39 followers
Want to read
March 12, 2019
Duuuuude! I thought Covert Games (Book 6) was the last one but then I found this!! I love this series <3
Profile Image for T.M. Payne.
Author 37 books93 followers
April 9, 2019
Book Review: Chasing Vengeance (Redemption Harbor #7)
My Rating: 5 Stars
Author: Katie Reus
Publication Date: 4/9/2019
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts

REVIEW
Absolutely Best Book in this series!!!!
This book kept me glued to it from the first page.
This is Xavier and Layla's story and wowzers what a story.
Layla thought all bad things were behind her, that is until Xavier...
Xavier is a bad boy to the core, and Layla well her life wasn't all daisies.
We get all the friends from Redemption Harbor in this one which made me smile.
Fantastic ending to a high suspense series.

Katie Reus
Profile Image for A Klue.
1,500 reviews326 followers
April 2, 2019
Katie Reus really seems to have a sure fire romance recipe when she whips up romantic reads in her Redemption Harbor series. Now up to book 7, we once again find ourselves surrounded by intrigue, danger, and a destined to be together love struggling to conquer all, if only Xavier, the hero, would put his hands and heart up in complete surrender.

Quiet, sweet, former damsel in distress Layla was more than ready to be this guy’s leading lady. She’s been patient but seems to be on the brink of having had enough of his mixed, hot and cold signals. In his defense, Xavier’s afraid his current occupation comes with an unacceptable, extreme hazard, the ones he loves could become casualties of his line of work. Not surprisingly, he’d do anything to keep Layla safe.

Fate and Xavier’s worst nightmare collide in a multi-step showdown that ultimately keep these destined to be together lovebirds together once and for always. As usual, in a large part due to the backup of brains, mountain of muscle, and fire power packed by the Redemption Harbor security team.

Title: Chasing Vengeance, Series: Redemption Harbor (Book 7), Author: Katie Reus, Pages: 253, stand-alone but part of a series, good guy assassin hero, both are celibate after meeting, no love triangle, goes to a fundraiser with a guy hoping to move on, very steamy scenes, back and forth conflicted, afraid to love hero, no OW drama.

Book 1 - Resurrection (Skye & Colt), Pages: 250, 7/11/17
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 2 - Savage Rising (Olivia & Savage), Pages: 250, 9/26/17
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 3 - Dangerous Witness (Darcy & Brooks), Pages: 300, 1/30/18
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 4 - Innocent Target (Axel & Hadley), Pages: 250, 5/22/18
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 5 - Hunting Danger (Nova & Gage), Pages: 261, 9/25/18
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 6 - Covert Games (Leighton & Lucy), Pages: 300, 1/22/19
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 7 - Chasing Vengeance (Layla & Xavier), 4/9/19

(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review, nor is there any affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)

Profile Image for Nikki Brooks.
3,555 reviews54 followers
April 9, 2019
A stunning conclusion to the series. I'm sad to say goodbye but hope that we may get little updates from the gang from time to time!

Xavier is a hitman, a good one. He sees himself as a necessary evil, taking out those who deserve it. But although he is secure in his profession, he also doesn't think he deserved to have a HEA. Especially not one with Layle in it. She deserves nothing but happiness and a good man after the last guy she loved turned out to be a murdering jackass!

Layla thinks she is doomed in the romance department. Her last guy was outwardly perfect, but rotten to the core. Her new infatuation with Xavier seems to be similarly doomed. Especially when she realises what he does for a living. But Xavier is a walking contradiction. He is a good guy who does bad things. He's kind of a hero with a dirty halo!

But as they slip from friends to something else, Xavier realises that he has some work to do if he wants to get out of the friend, then the no strings zone into the permanent entanglement area. He has some competition and Layla is unsure which direction to take. But danger has found her once again and Xavier can't help but blame himself. Now he may have to show her exactly how good he is at his job!

Poor Xavier. He is more confused than anything. He is jealous and possessive of his time with Layla but also thinks he is unworthy of anything more with her. Layla thinks her taste in men is already in question, even before she realises Xavier's profession. Really engaging story and I loved all the layers, you never quite know which way the action is going to go.

Hoping we get to drop on on Sky and the crew in the future - Sky is still my favourite. That woman is scary nutty!!!!
Profile Image for Kari Hansen.
12.3k reviews91 followers
April 11, 2019
After the way her last relationship ended all Layla wants is a new start in Redemption Harbor. When she met Xavier at Axel and Hadley’s wedding she knows that the last thing she needs is to get involved with another man so quickly but her feelings for him are starting to run much deeper than friends.

Xavier is looking to leave his past behind him and is now working for the Redemption Harbor Consulting team. He knows that he should stay away from Layla as he believes she deserves a better man than he will ever be but when another man enters the picture all his good intentions go up in smoke.

When his past resurfaces and Layla gets caught in the crossfire Xavier and the team will do whatever is necessary to keep her safe but will he realize that they are stronger together than apart?

Layla and Xavier were perfect together. He will do whatever is necessary to protect her while she is determined to show him that he is exactly what she not only wants in her life but needs as well. It was great to get to know Layla and Xavier and catch up with all the characters we know and love.
Profile Image for Sissy's Romance Book Review .
8,992 reviews16 followers
April 10, 2019
Chasing Vengeance by Katie Reus is book 7 in the Redemption Harbor Series. This is the story of Xavier and Layla. This could be made into a standalone book but it is a great series so you might not want to miss it.
Layla is feeling bruised after some bad choices she has made one being almost married to a murder and another big one was trying to kiss Xavier. Now she is just trying to move forward making better decisions...or trying too. Xavier is a hit man who is now working with Redemption Harbor Consulting team but he knows someone as sweet as Layla shouldn't be for him. Layla would have to accept his lifestyle and she would also possibly be put in danger....so he tries to stand his resisting ground. But when he realizes she going to be stepping out with someone else he can not longer stand on the sidelines. But of course there is danger adding to their story.
Exciting Read!
Profile Image for Marie Andersson.
Author 13 books118 followers
March 17, 2019
It feels a bit bittersweet this is the last book in the Redemption Harbor series. I have enjoyed this series. Katie writes great alpha men. Sigh. 😍❤️💜❤️And Skye is a cool bad ass woman.
Chasing Vengeance is Layla's book. She is Nova's best friend. Layla had been saved from her dangerous fiance and thinks her taste in men is bad. There is something about Xavier and maybe he can become more than a friend? Xavier is interested but someone from his past wants to use it against him. Someone who wants to hurt him. Will Xavier and Layla survive and get their happily ever after? If you want to know read this book. I really recommend it!
Profile Image for Speed.
995 reviews2 followers
April 11, 2019
What an awesome read! I truly am sad as this is the last book in this series and my heart is broken. I fell in love with all these characters and Xavier and Layla was no exception. Layla and Xavier were friends with deep feelings for each other but Xavier felt he couldn't be with her because of his current lifestyle. After some angst and Xavier finally getting his act together, him and Layla find their HEA! Filled with all past characters, action, humor, hot sex and so much love between all of them made for a marvelous read. I loved it. 4.5 Strong stars****

******I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book provided by NetGalley******
849 reviews14 followers
March 29, 2019
Wow, what a wild ride! I should be embarrassed to say this, but I've purchased many books written by this author, but I haven't read them yet - yikes! Now, I'm wondering what took me so long because she certainly knows how to write alpha men/military/romantic suspense. I'm a bit upset with myself that I started reading this series with this book (I think it's the series finale) but that being said, I still thoroughly enjoyed it and wasn't confused reading about the other characters from the previous books. Obviously, I'm off to read the rest of the series now -- in order! I loved Xavier and Layla's chemistry and their interactions with the other characters, but I especially liked the action/suspense and unique storyline. It felt like I was watching a really good action movie unfold! Excellent writing and a very enjoyable 5-star read. I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC for NetGalley.
Profile Image for Kristi Hudecek-Ashwill.
Author 2 books48 followers
March 27, 2019
Layla, a character from a previous novel, has found herself in a situation with Xavier, a hit man, that nobody ever wants to be in. She has more feelings for him than just friendship and he seems to want to stay just friends. They aren't dating, but they do hang out when he's in town.

But he has a surprise for her. He likes her, too and wants more with her. He finally breaks and they end up in the same bed. But the next day, he's gone, leaving her with an impersonal note. She's angry, as anybody would be, but she's heartbroken, too. He doesn't think he's good enough for her because of his profession and she's a school teacher. He figured there was no way she would ever go for him once she discovered that he killed people for a living.

They're quickly thrown together when someone runs Layla off the road. Layla is Nova's best friend and Gage is Nova's love interest. Layla is connected with the Redemption Harbor Consulting firm through them and Gage is hot on this deal, trying to figure out if the target is actually Layla, since her deceased ex was a drug dealer and had killed a DEA agent, or if it's Xavier, who has a lot of enemies. Gage, being the sharp cookie that he is, figures it out and then it's a matter of trying to get these guys before they get Layla or Xavier.

There were a lot of things I liked about this book, but what stands out is Layla is a straight forward kind of person. She's demure and well-mannered, but she's the one making advances on Xavier. She's honest with him--brutally honest. It makes him squirm at times, but he's got ideas of his own that don't necessarily coincide with hers. I liked how these two danced around their true feelings, adding more tension to the story and making me wonder how it was all going to end.

I wasn't sure if I was going to get my happily ever after. I had to be okay with that, especially considering what happened after Xavier pulled a disappearing act again. I thought he was gone for good this time, even after all the good and bad things that had happened to him. I thought the guy had lost his flipping mind. What he'd really lost was his heart. Xavier turned out to be a knight in shining armor, rescuing his damsel in distress in more ways than one.

I liked the epilogue, too. I always like to see how all of the characters end up, especially in the last book of the series. The series made a full circle, starting with Skye and Colt and ending the same way. It was done well with finesse and left me with a good feeling. I have to admit that while I read this series, I wasn't all that keen on Skye, but she grew on me and I liked her a lot at the end. She'd come a long way as had all of the characters.

It's easy to give this book and this series five stars. The characters were believable and easy to care about, the tension between them was high, and there was a lot of action to take it all to a great climax.

I do recommend that these books be read in order. All the characters have their own stories and will give the reader a sigh of satisfaction at the conclusion.

Not that this matters, but I'm going to throw this out there anyway. When you read any series, you get to pick a favorite character. Mine was Savage from Savage Rising. I looked for him in every book I read. He never disappointed me on any level. I loved all the characters, but he was just a cut above the rest.

I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily left a review.
Profile Image for Kim.
2,851 reviews178 followers
March 24, 2019
This is the final book in the Redemption Harbor series and features Nova's best friend, Layla who was saved by the team previously, and Axel's friend, Xavier. After meeting at Axel's wedding, Layla and Xavier became friends. Friends who text, facetime, and get together when he is in town.

Layla is attracted to him, but tries not to let it show. Xavier has it bad for her, but he hides it. He is not who Layla thinks he is and knows he is not good enough for her. She has already escaped one dangerous ex and he cares enough not to want to put her in danger due to his own activities.

Layla is sweet, caring, and just getting back on her feet. She already has some deep self worth issues, and rejection only exacerbates them. Xavier is sexy, funny, and intelligent. He just has one really big secret. A secret that makes him feel unworthy of love or a future, and that secret keeps him from going after what he really wants. Well, it stops him until he just cannot take it anymore and slips. He runs hot and cold. He pushes her away then pulls her back in. He confuses and hurts her feelings, and makes her angry.

But when his biggest fear comes true and she seems to be a target, he will need to pull her in close. Despite how volatile their friendship/relationship has become, he is the man who vows to keep her safe one way or another. But they are going to need some help figuring out who is coming after them.

This installment has friendship, romance, steam, danger, and suspense. I liked this couple and how they both had their strengths and weaknesses, but balanced each other well. They both had reasons to feel not good enough, but together they had great potential. Sometimes the world is not black and white, and it shows the importance of acceptance, forgiveness, and priorities. It brings back the whole Redemption Harbor crew. I love this group and how they take care of each other and bring new people into the fold. I am sad to see this series go, but all of the main characters have found their mates and she wraps it up nicely in an epilogue.

I received this book for free from netgalley/publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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Profile Image for Sandy Kelly.
1,253 reviews12 followers
March 26, 2019
This is book 7 in the Redemption Harbor Security series and while it can be read as a stand alone, I would at least read book 5 before this one as it introduces us to Layla and you see exactly what happened to her. Layla has moved to Redemption Harbor to be closer to her best friend and to start over after what happened. Xavier is a hit man and is friends with Axel and meets Layla at Axel's wedding. They are friends but there is also a lot of chemistry although Xavier is doing his best to stay away from Layla, but only to keep her safe. But when he see's her with another man, he realizes that he can't stay away. Until someone goes after her. Now he will do anything and everything to keep her safe.

I absolutely loved most of this book. The only drawback for me was at times Xavier seemed to be a little too wishy washy. I understand why, I just didn't necessarily like it. But I would give it a solid 4.5 stars! On a whole, Xavier is this alpha male who has a code that he lives by. And he does what he thinks is best for the people he cares about. Regardless of it is accurate or what they want. Btw, I loved his Abuela!! Layla has been through a lot in her young life, but she has come through the other side stronger than ever! She knows not only what she wants out of her life, but what she needs in order to be happy. And they have some seriously HOT chemistry! I loved them together, and the fact that they were friends before anything else. They know each other and can understand what the other is thinking or feeling to a point because of that. I hate to see this series end, but at least it ended on a high note and we got to see the rest of the characters and know that everyone got their HEA's!
Profile Image for Alex (HEABookNerd).
2,443 reviews
August 9, 2021
CHASING VENGEANCE is the last book in the REDEMPTION HARBOR series and while it doesn't involve one of the main characters of RHC it does involve members of this found family. This was a good book but overall just meh in terms of long lasting impressions for me, especially against Katie Reus's large catalog of romantic suspense books.

Layla was a sweet, kind, and incredibly loyal heroine, but she's had her heart and confidence banged up pretty good and she's not sure she can trust herself when it comes to men. Growing up as a foster child has created a craving for family in Layla but after her last bad mistake she's unsure she'll ever find that. I liked Layla's growth in the story and while I wish she had been a bit more assertive with her feelings, I did understand that wasn't really her personality type.

As a hero Xavier is wrapped in shades of grey and while he certainly has a code of honor as a contract killer, he also believes there's no way Layla will accept what he's done and where he comes from. Xavier's push-and-pull attitude toward Layla got on my nerves through the second half of the book and I'm especially not a fan of a hero who refuses to be with the heroine but then gets ridiculously possessive when he sees her with someone else. Other than those few moments, Xavier is not too growly and he actually comes across as a very quiet and steadfast man.

Overall, the REDEMPTION HARBOR series has not been one of my favorite by Katie Reus but it certainly brought some very unique characters to the table (looking at you Skye) and I was happy to see them all find love and happiness.
189 reviews1 follower
March 31, 2019
Layla and Xavier's love story keeps the reader on the edge of their seat through all the action. Layla is Nova's best friend and non-blood sister from their formative years in foster care. Layla just recently escaped from her mob connected fiancee's clutches - with the help or Nova and Gage. She relocated to Redemption Harbor to be closer to Nova and possible repercussions from turning states evidence against her ex-fiancee's mob connections. It has been a year and now and she is attempting to get her life back on track again - working as a teacher and possibly finding love again.

Xavier and Layla meet at their mutual friends wedding. Axle and Xavier served together in the military and were both contract killers for the CIA and others. Xavier is taken in by the beauty of Layla - but is afraid to tell her what he really does for a living. He too lost his parents when he was young - the difference is that his grandmother and aunts raised him. He joined the military at the suggestion of a judge - he was told that if he didn't he would be dead before he was thirty (by being a gang-banger). Little does Xavier know that a person from his past is seeking revenge - by targeting Layla to get to him.

The reader wants the two to get together - but we know that there has to be some type of struggle to make them realize that they truly love each-other. I don't want to give the story away - so I recommend anyone loving Cherry Adair's books or Lucy Monroe to read Katie Reus.

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Profile Image for Glittergirl.
938 reviews16 followers
April 7, 2019
Katie Reus brings us the conclusion of Redemption Harbor Security with the addition of the last member of their team, Xavier, Axel's old military buddy who is also a contract killer. I've loved this journey watching the team grow and work together to keep others safe. I love the couples chemistry, the action and the suspense Katie weaves into her stories with a touch of humor. Perfection. Thank you Katie for the copy of this story for my voluntary and honest review.

Layla Ferrer, Nova's foster sister that she rescued in Covert Games, is starting over in Redemption Harbor. She's a substitute school teacher and currently staying in Nova's house while she's looking for her own. She met Xavier at one of the company celebrations and they really hit it off. Xavier knows he has no business being around Layla because he's a very dangerous man and he endangers those close to him. Unfortunately he can't seem to stay away from Layla and they develop a comfortable friendship. The chemistry between them is hard to fight and eventually he gives in. Unfortunately for Layla, he's got a killer after him who wants vengeance and he's gonna make Xavier hurt by hurting his loved ones first. It doesn't take long for the crew to figure out Layla's being threatened and Xavier sticks to her like glue to keep her safe. In all honesty this is not the strongest story in the series but it brings the series to a satisfying conclusion.
Profile Image for KDRBCK.
7,395 reviews67 followers
March 28, 2019
Chasing Vengeance by Katie Reus is book seven and the conclusion in her Redemption Harbor Security series.
Every book in this series, while somehow connected, is about another couple and can easily be read as standalones.
Meet Layla. She's a woman with bad taste in men. She choses one loser after the next. Now she's in Redemption Harbor to start over. The teacher loves her job, her friends are great, only hwer personal life is somehow lackingh. And there he comes into the picture.
Xavier is a hitman, works now for Redmption Harbor Security and his list of enemies is a long one. Layla is on his list of people to protect. Xavier is a just in case guy, and oh boy do I get him. I love making plans and when plan a doesn't work, there's still b,c and d. But when his past brings deadly danger to Layla's doorstep he has enough.

Chasing Vengeance is a fast paced, nailbiting pageturner that had me on the edge of my seat and made me read the book in one sitting. The story is excellent written and gave me all the feels. I loved the writing and the characters and give 4,5 stars.
Profile Image for Nancy Ku.
1,496 reviews17 followers
April 1, 2019
Chasing Vengeance (Redemption Harbor Security, #7) by Katie Reus ...This is the final book in this series and I will miss all my friends at Redemption Harbor Security. Thanks so much to the publisher and #NetGalley for allowing me to preview this book. This is Layla and Xavier's story.. ( she was saved by the gang at RHS from her evil ex who wanted to kill her) (he is a hit man sometimes for the CIA and sometimes not) He doesn't think he is good enough for her and that he'll put her in danger...she has insecurity problems caused by her no good mother. I fell into this book from the first page and didn't want to leave...there are plenty of twists and turns, laughter, tears, so many old friends, danger and steamy sex all getting us to our final HEA. This book can be read as a stand alone ...but I suggest you read the complete series..you will love it.

Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Witty Romantic Happily Ever After Entertaining Easy-to-read Great world building Wonderful characters Action-packed Steamy Page-turner Funny
Profile Image for Niken Widyastuti.
380 reviews1 follower
April 7, 2019
The last book in the Redemption Harbor series. One of my favourite series of Katie Reus’.

Overall, the book was great. As usual, it was fast paced, full of action and sexy times. Characters development also great, complicated yet lovable characters. Plus we got to see all other characters from previous books. And their stories round up nice and well here.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t give this book a 5-star rating. The theme of “she’s too good for me” was getting old, very fast. So, though I still enjoyed the book, there were parts where I simply rolled my eyes.

I was provided a complementary copy by the author / publisher through NetGalley, but this in no way influenced my thoughts or opinions.
Profile Image for angelblue.
189 reviews26 followers
April 14, 2019
I'm so sad to say goodbye to this series! Chasing Vengeance was a great finale for one of my favorite romantic suspense series.

Layla is attempting to start over in Redemption Harbor after surviving a sadistic ex. Xavier is a hitman who met Layla through a mutual friend. Because of his profession, he knows that he should stay away from Layla but he finds himself unable to.

I thought Layla and Xavier were perfect for each other. She brings light into his otherwise dark life. This was no easy HEA though. There is someone that wants to destroy Xavier and that person has just found out how much Layla means to him.

Great storyline, tons of action and romance. I highly recommend you grab a copy!
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