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Red Stone Security #19
Deadly Protector
Return to the USA Today bestselling Red Stone Security series with Deadly Protector!
He’s a former thief.
Dimitri’s world is turned upside down when he meets Zamira. The sweet single mom knows nothing about who he used to be. He should stay away, because he’s the last thing she needs in her life. But when she’s targeted by a threat from her past, he can’t keep his distance any longer.
She’s been burned before.
Zamira is a widow raising her twins with the help of her big family. After a devastating betrayal by her deceased husband, dating hasn’t been on her radar in years—until she meets a man who makes her feel alive again. But before she can think about taking the next step with him, a deadly secret threatens to rip her world apart. She knows she can’t handle things alone, yet when Dimitri steps in she realizes he has secrets too. He’s more dangerous than anyone she’s ever met. And the biggest threat he poses is to her heart.
He’s a former thief.
Dimitri’s world is turned upside down when he meets Zamira. The sweet single mom knows nothing about who he used to be. He should stay away, because he’s the last thing she needs in her life. But when she’s targeted by a threat from her past, he can’t keep his distance any longer.
She’s been burned before.
Zamira is a widow raising her twins with the help of her big family. After a devastating betrayal by her deceased husband, dating hasn’t been on her radar in years—until she meets a man who makes her feel alive again. But before she can think about taking the next step with him, a deadly secret threatens to rip her world apart. She knows she can’t handle things alone, yet when Dimitri steps in she realizes he has secrets too. He’s more dangerous than anyone she’s ever met. And the biggest threat he poses is to her heart.
196 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 12, 2022
106 people are currently reading
1888 people want to read
About the author
Katie Reus
164 books3,245 followersKatie 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 100 reviews
July 12, 2022
Deadly Protector by Katie Reus
Red Stone Security series book 19. Romantic suspense. Can be read as a stand-alone romance but better as part of the series.
Prior series characters are intracrul to the extended family connections that is growing from Red Security including Lizzy and Porter; Benny and Chrissy; Lyosha, Mila, Isa, Graysen, Ryba, Angel and others. This story is Zamira who is the sister to a prior character. She connects with the hero at the wedding in the previous book.
Zamira and Dimitri are attracted to each other but both are hesitant to peruse a relationship. When the past threatens Zamira, Dimitri is quick to step in to protect her.
Lots of action, suspense and sexy heat. While the children are mostly absent, it was cute that the daughter was pushing her Mon to start re-dating.
4.5
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
Red Stone Security series book 19. Romantic suspense. Can be read as a stand-alone romance but better as part of the series.
Prior series characters are intracrul to the extended family connections that is growing from Red Security including Lizzy and Porter; Benny and Chrissy; Lyosha, Mila, Isa, Graysen, Ryba, Angel and others. This story is Zamira who is the sister to a prior character. She connects with the hero at the wedding in the previous book.
Zamira and Dimitri are attracted to each other but both are hesitant to peruse a relationship. When the past threatens Zamira, Dimitri is quick to step in to protect her.
Lots of action, suspense and sexy heat. While the children are mostly absent, it was cute that the daughter was pushing her Mon to start re-dating.
4.5
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
June 27, 2022
Dimitri was awesome! He's that anti-hero that I just love finding. The way he was so protective over Zamira, and he proved he would do absolutely anything for her.
Zamira was pretty awesome herself. I love that she didn't hold back, even with a past that burned her. If anyone would have trust issues, it would be her, and yet she didn't let that get in the way of giving Dimitri a chance.
The way these two were with each other is what really what made me love this book. It also didn't hurt to have a few of my favorite past characters in it as well. This was a good read for Sunday afternoon.
Zamira was pretty awesome herself. I love that she didn't hold back, even with a past that burned her. If anyone would have trust issues, it would be her, and yet she didn't let that get in the way of giving Dimitri a chance.
The way these two were with each other is what really what made me love this book. It also didn't hurt to have a few of my favorite past characters in it as well. This was a good read for Sunday afternoon.
June 29, 2022
Katie Reus' Red Stone Security Series is back with a standalone story that's well paced, engaging, and one that perfectly mixes romance with suspense.
As former high end thief and now occasional Red Stone contractor Dimitiri comes to the aid of Zamira. A single mum of two who's been threatened by an old friend of her dead husbands.
But what starts out as a guy just looking for information and doesn't mind who he scares to get it soon turns into more. When an old acquaintance gets wind of a heist being pulled without her knowledge or say so.
And as Dimitiri is pulled back into a life he left behind to save the woman he's falling in love with. Zamira is left to fear the consequences and wonder whether one heist will be enough to satisfy a dangerous foe and keep everyone she loves safe.
Would happily recommend.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
As former high end thief and now occasional Red Stone contractor Dimitiri comes to the aid of Zamira. A single mum of two who's been threatened by an old friend of her dead husbands.
But what starts out as a guy just looking for information and doesn't mind who he scares to get it soon turns into more. When an old acquaintance gets wind of a heist being pulled without her knowledge or say so.
And as Dimitiri is pulled back into a life he left behind to save the woman he's falling in love with. Zamira is left to fear the consequences and wonder whether one heist will be enough to satisfy a dangerous foe and keep everyone she loves safe.
Would happily recommend.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
July 21, 2022
Zamira and Dimitri were super cute in this one. I was happy when they took a chance on things at the start, happier later when Zamira ran into trouble and she had someone at her back. Not that her family and those connected to her family wouldn't have stepped up, but someone just there for her to lean on was great! It really allowed them to get to know each other fast with all the time they spent together. It was fun to see Dimitri go up against the bad guys and make them stop to think again, better was when Dimitri's friends were at his back and the bad guys got scared themselves.
I loved how this one ended, loved how Zamira's kids cornered Dimitri to ask questions and give some advice, it was good on all fronts.
I loved how this one ended, loved how Zamira's kids cornered Dimitri to ask questions and give some advice, it was good on all fronts.
Read
July 1, 2022Wow! This was filled with lots of action and Dimitri was the perfect hero to take care of it.
Zamira was not the usual type of heroine this author usually writes and I really enjoyed getting to know her. She had the perfect combination of strength and vulnerability. As a mother of two teenagers, I was expecting a lot of scenes with the kids but that was not the case. However, when they were on the page, they totally stole the story as they were so cute and a bit wacky and absolutely adorable.
Dimitri was the type of hero that keeps me coming back to this author’s work. He knew what he wanted, didn’t want to push too hard but once he had his foot in the door he was all protective, quick a bit possessive and yet still wanted to make sure she was taken care of even if it cost him to give it to her. Let’s just say that last part made me want to smack him for a moment.
This had a full cast of characters, some from previous books, as well as villains and I was consumed with them all from the beginning. As Dimitri and Zamira were falling in love there was danger that was linked to her past which added an element of danger and from there it seemed to just escalate. Once I started, I couldn’t put it down. With plenty of steam and an epilogue that was just too freaking perfect, this was everything I love!
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
Zamira was not the usual type of heroine this author usually writes and I really enjoyed getting to know her. She had the perfect combination of strength and vulnerability. As a mother of two teenagers, I was expecting a lot of scenes with the kids but that was not the case. However, when they were on the page, they totally stole the story as they were so cute and a bit wacky and absolutely adorable.
Dimitri was the type of hero that keeps me coming back to this author’s work. He knew what he wanted, didn’t want to push too hard but once he had his foot in the door he was all protective, quick a bit possessive and yet still wanted to make sure she was taken care of even if it cost him to give it to her. Let’s just say that last part made me want to smack him for a moment.
This had a full cast of characters, some from previous books, as well as villains and I was consumed with them all from the beginning. As Dimitri and Zamira were falling in love there was danger that was linked to her past which added an element of danger and from there it seemed to just escalate. Once I started, I couldn’t put it down. With plenty of steam and an epilogue that was just too freaking perfect, this was everything I love!
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
July 6, 2022
4.25 stars--DEADLY PROTECTOR is the nineteenth instalment in Katie Reus’ contemporary, adult RED STONE SECURITY erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on the men and women who work for Red Stone Security. This is thirty-two year old, physical therapist and single mother Zamira Nowak LeBlanc, former thief turned businessman/security specialist Dimitri Lenkov’s story line. DEADLY PROTECTOR can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Zamira is Mila’s sister (Secret Enemy 16).
Told from several third person perspectives including Dimitri and Zamira DEADLY PROTECTOR follows the building romance and relationship between thirty-two year old, physical therapist and single mother Zamira Nowak LeBlanc, former thief turned businessman/security specialist Dimitri Lenkov. Zamira Nowak was Dimitri Lenkov’s physical therapist but now that their relationship was no longer professional, Dimitri crossed the invisible line asking Zamira out on a date but a a former acquaintance of Zamira’s late husband is demanding something Zamira does not have, a demand that pulls in the Red Stone Security team to protect our story line heroine. All does not go according to plan when Dimitri is recognized for who and what he once was, and our hero gets pulled into a world of which he is no longer a member. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Dimitri and Zamira, and the potential fall-out as Dimitri’s guilt about his past forces our hero to reconsider his plans for the future/
The relationship between Dimitri and Zamira is one of immediate attraction but Dimitri began as Zamira’s client, and neither one was willing to cross the line. With her children on vacation, Zamira accepts Dimitri’s invitation for a night on the town, wherein our couple will begin their courtship that is threatened by people from their pasts. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and provocative without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
The secondary and supporting characters included several members of the Red Stone Security Team including Porter and Lizzy Caldwell (No One To Trust 1),Lyosha Vasiliev and Mila (Secret Enemy 16), as well as hotelier and businessman Viktor Ivanov. The requisite evil has many faces.
DEADLY PROTECTOR is a story of obsession and vengeance, betrayal and greed, family, friendships, relationships and love. The fast paced, character driven premise is intriguing and entertaining; the romance is seductive and intense; the characters are captivating, determined and strong willed.
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from several third person perspectives including Dimitri and Zamira DEADLY PROTECTOR follows the building romance and relationship between thirty-two year old, physical therapist and single mother Zamira Nowak LeBlanc, former thief turned businessman/security specialist Dimitri Lenkov. Zamira Nowak was Dimitri Lenkov’s physical therapist but now that their relationship was no longer professional, Dimitri crossed the invisible line asking Zamira out on a date but a a former acquaintance of Zamira’s late husband is demanding something Zamira does not have, a demand that pulls in the Red Stone Security team to protect our story line heroine. All does not go according to plan when Dimitri is recognized for who and what he once was, and our hero gets pulled into a world of which he is no longer a member. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Dimitri and Zamira, and the potential fall-out as Dimitri’s guilt about his past forces our hero to reconsider his plans for the future/
The relationship between Dimitri and Zamira is one of immediate attraction but Dimitri began as Zamira’s client, and neither one was willing to cross the line. With her children on vacation, Zamira accepts Dimitri’s invitation for a night on the town, wherein our couple will begin their courtship that is threatened by people from their pasts. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and provocative without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
The secondary and supporting characters included several members of the Red Stone Security Team including Porter and Lizzy Caldwell (No One To Trust 1),Lyosha Vasiliev and Mila (Secret Enemy 16), as well as hotelier and businessman Viktor Ivanov. The requisite evil has many faces.
DEADLY PROTECTOR is a story of obsession and vengeance, betrayal and greed, family, friendships, relationships and love. The fast paced, character driven premise is intriguing and entertaining; the romance is seductive and intense; the characters are captivating, determined and strong willed.
www.thereadingcafe.com
September 10, 2022
Wow what a complicated but amazing read. Zamira and Dimitri were awesome together.
Full review coming soon to the blog.
Full review coming soon to the blog.
September 12, 2025
3rd read September 2025: Gotta love a man who knows what he wants!
Re-read March 2024: I just love how all in Dimitri is from the very beginning. Katie sure knows how to write a fantastic romantic suspense!! ♥️
Original review:
What a fantastic ride! This was actually the first book I’ve read in the series and it didn’t disappoint and totally worked as a standalone (even though I can imagine it being even better if you’ve read the previous books). Dimitri is so protective, I lurve it! I also really liked Zamira, she was strong, smart and didn’t make any TSTL decisions. Even though she is a single mother we hardly see her kids as they are staying with their grandparents throughout the book. The steam was hottt, the action thrilling and the romance sweet. The other couples intrigued me so I will be looking into their books! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Safety:
No OW/OM
No cheating
No separation
Safe
Re-read March 2024: I just love how all in Dimitri is from the very beginning. Katie sure knows how to write a fantastic romantic suspense!! ♥️
Original review:
What a fantastic ride! This was actually the first book I’ve read in the series and it didn’t disappoint and totally worked as a standalone (even though I can imagine it being even better if you’ve read the previous books). Dimitri is so protective, I lurve it! I also really liked Zamira, she was strong, smart and didn’t make any TSTL decisions. Even though she is a single mother we hardly see her kids as they are staying with their grandparents throughout the book. The steam was hottt, the action thrilling and the romance sweet. The other couples intrigued me so I will be looking into their books! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Safety:
No OW/OM
No cheating
No separation
Safe
June 25, 2022
This latest addition to the series belongs to widow and mother of twins, Zamira, and former thief, Dimitri.
If you have read the series, she’s Angel’s sister, who is married to a Red Stone Security operative.
These two have become friends since Angel’s wedding and the attraction is evident. But after Zamira’s husband’s betrayal, she has not only dedicated her time to her children, but has also stayed away from any relationships.
When Zamira’s life is in danger, Dimitri is determined to keep her safe and in doing so, each begins to trust the other with their hearts. But what are Dimitri’s secrets?
The plot was engaging, and the characters perfect in their imperfections. I enjoyed that the characters were mature and once again, we are presented with the reminder that life is not black and white, but shades of gray.
If you have read the series, this one is a little different since the main character, Dimitri, contracts on occasion with Red Stone Security, and is friend’s with the group, but he is not a member.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
If you have read the series, she’s Angel’s sister, who is married to a Red Stone Security operative.
These two have become friends since Angel’s wedding and the attraction is evident. But after Zamira’s husband’s betrayal, she has not only dedicated her time to her children, but has also stayed away from any relationships.
When Zamira’s life is in danger, Dimitri is determined to keep her safe and in doing so, each begins to trust the other with their hearts. But what are Dimitri’s secrets?
The plot was engaging, and the characters perfect in their imperfections. I enjoyed that the characters were mature and once again, we are presented with the reminder that life is not black and white, but shades of gray.
If you have read the series, this one is a little different since the main character, Dimitri, contracts on occasion with Red Stone Security, and is friend’s with the group, but he is not a member.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
July 12, 2022
While this book can be read as a stand alone it is part of a wonderful world that you should read and I do believe that it is a better read if you know the world as there are many characters mentioned from previous books
Dimitri Lenkov now works for Red Stone Security as a contractor but he wasn't always on the right side of the law after all he used to be a high end jewel thief but that is in his past Now he is just trying to live the best life he can Part of that life is Zamira Nowak LeBlanc Zamira used to be his physical therapist and he knew that they couldn't have anything but now that she is no longer treating him he wants to make a move When the single mum has a child free weekend he takes her on a date but things don't go according to plan Her husbands past is about to put her in danger and when Dimitri tries to help he is recognised dragging him back into his past as well. Can they have the future and will the Red Stone Security help with that You will have to read to see
Dimitri Lenkov now works for Red Stone Security as a contractor but he wasn't always on the right side of the law after all he used to be a high end jewel thief but that is in his past Now he is just trying to live the best life he can Part of that life is Zamira Nowak LeBlanc Zamira used to be his physical therapist and he knew that they couldn't have anything but now that she is no longer treating him he wants to make a move When the single mum has a child free weekend he takes her on a date but things don't go according to plan Her husbands past is about to put her in danger and when Dimitri tries to help he is recognised dragging him back into his past as well. Can they have the future and will the Red Stone Security help with that You will have to read to see
June 28, 2022
This book has a serious friends to lovers vibe, with both Dimitri and Zamira becoming friends first and foremost despite their simmering attraction to each other. However when the opportunity arises to take things further they jump at the chance. Pushed together by circumstances beyond their control things heat up both in and out of the bedroom, but are they so combustible due to the situation they have found themselves in, or is there a possibility of forever? Lots of action, suspense, and of course sexy time, make for an entertaining and addictive story as Dimitri uses all his savvy to protect Zamira and her family from a deranged criminal. Great characters throughout, including some cameos from previous books. I’ve not read every book in this series, but I’ve read a few, and I’ve loved each and every one. All books are interlinked, but can be read as standalones. I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. This is my honest review.
June 24, 2022
I really enjoy that this series doesn’t require that you read every single book to catch up. Granted, the ones I have read are fabulous, but the subtle explanations of connections and people make for an excellent reminder without hitting you over the head with it all. And this time we finally got to see Zamira and Dmitri get their forever! After all, he’s danced around her enough. I was beginning to think he’d never make his approach. I’m glad I was wrong.
Zamira is trying to be okay with her life. She’s a mom. She’s busy. And oh, she’s attracted to Dmitri. But she’s sure he won’t want her complications and loud, messy life. So when he ends up calling, then stepping in to keep her safe, she’s sure she’s just a distraction for him. And Dmitri makes a few mistakes that leave her feeling exactly as ghosted as she thought she’d be. But he loves her. And he’s scared of a few things. Luckily, they communicate, he shows at just the right moment several times, and maybe some prodding from friends can get him over his fear of messing up. Between the angst, worry, danger, fear, and heat, this made one heck of a read that I’m glad for this week!
Zamira is trying to be okay with her life. She’s a mom. She’s busy. And oh, she’s attracted to Dmitri. But she’s sure he won’t want her complications and loud, messy life. So when he ends up calling, then stepping in to keep her safe, she’s sure she’s just a distraction for him. And Dmitri makes a few mistakes that leave her feeling exactly as ghosted as she thought she’d be. But he loves her. And he’s scared of a few things. Luckily, they communicate, he shows at just the right moment several times, and maybe some prodding from friends can get him over his fear of messing up. Between the angst, worry, danger, fear, and heat, this made one heck of a read that I’m glad for this week!
June 20, 2022
Deadly Protector😍
Zamira is finally living the life she wants with her kids. Other than not dating and having no time for dating, when her deceased husband’s friend shows up - she has no idea what he’s after🤷♀️
Dimitri and Zamira have been dancing circles around each other and Dimitri takes a chance and invites her out to dinner with him❣️When he discovers what happened with the old husband’s “friend”, he steps in to ensure her safety and deal with the problem😳
A great story, full of suspense and action…I really enjoyed these characters and I’m praying for more stories in the Red Stone world🤩 I received an advanced copy via Netgalley and voluntarily leave my honest review❤️
Zamira is finally living the life she wants with her kids. Other than not dating and having no time for dating, when her deceased husband’s friend shows up - she has no idea what he’s after🤷♀️
Dimitri and Zamira have been dancing circles around each other and Dimitri takes a chance and invites her out to dinner with him❣️When he discovers what happened with the old husband’s “friend”, he steps in to ensure her safety and deal with the problem😳
A great story, full of suspense and action…I really enjoyed these characters and I’m praying for more stories in the Red Stone world🤩 I received an advanced copy via Netgalley and voluntarily leave my honest review❤️
July 13, 2022
Deadly Protectori is Book 19 in Red Stone Security series by Katie Reus. This is Dimitri and Zamira's story. Zamira is Angel sister who is married to a Red Stone Security agent. Zamira is a physical therapist & widow and mom to twins while Dimitri is a former thief now businessman and "security specialist". Zamira and Dimitri met at her sister's wedding and became friends. Zamira ended up in danger and friends turned into blazing inferno. This is a great read with action, excitement, suspense, intrigue, drama, passion , romance, heat , feels, attraction and HEA. Enjoyed the cast of characters that were introduced. Hope to read more about them.
My Rating: 4.5 stars *********
My Rating: 4.5 stars *********
July 13, 2022
Dimitri has been holding back about his feelings for Zamira. Finally these two get serious. Zamira has some trouble from her husbands past. Dimitri and Zamsoon find themselves navigating drama, suspense and their new found relationship. HEA.
July 14, 2022
Loved Dimitri and Zamira’s story. Great chemistry, edge-of-your-seat suspense, and lots of fun RSS party time. A complete page-turner. I didn’t want it to end!
Highly recommended story and series.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Highly recommended story and series.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
July 14, 2022
Single mom in danger! Protector romance lovers will really enjoy Deadly Protector! Enjoyable characters, lots of action, and plenty of steam!
January 22, 2023
5 Protector Stars
RTC
RTC
July 21, 2022
awesome story
So so good.
Loved every thing about it
Dimitri and Zamira are amazing together.
Another great red stone story.
Action, drama and love
So so good.
Loved every thing about it
Dimitri and Zamira are amazing together.
Another great red stone story.
Action, drama and love
July 7, 2022
When single mom, and widow, Zamira goes on vacation herself as her kids go visit their grandparents she gets a very unwanted blast from the past. The man her husband committed a robbery with and died for comes wanting his money after he gets released from prison.
When a former patient asks her out again she finally decides to give it a try and see if there is a connection. There is definitely a connection, at least physical.
When Dimitri hears about Ryba wanting his money from her he decides to protect and keep her safe.
Their relationship goes off the charts and she decides to give love another chance.
Read about Dimitri and Zamira in this Red Stone security book. Love this series and love the authors writing!
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When a former patient asks her out again she finally decides to give it a try and see if there is a connection. There is definitely a connection, at least physical.
When Dimitri hears about Ryba wanting his money from her he decides to protect and keep her safe.
Their relationship goes off the charts and she decides to give love another chance.
Read about Dimitri and Zamira in this Red Stone security book. Love this series and love the authors writing!
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 7, 2022
This is book nineteen in The Red Stone Security Series and it is Dimitri and Zamira's story and omg it is definitely a must read. Zamira is a widow and a single mom to her twins Elisa and Andres and even though her life is hectic she wouldn't have it any other way but as the twins were staying with there grandparents for the next two weeks she was looking forward to some rest but now her husband's last has reared it's ugly head making her nervous and out of control but she is also glad that her children are away and out of danger. Dimitri and Zamira met at a wedding and the attraction and chemistry between them had been so strong but she had enough on her plate so they are just friend's even though they both want more. Dimitri has had real feelings for Zamira but he felt like he wasn't good enough for her especially with his past and even though he was now working for Red Stone Security and owned his own businesses he didn't know what to do but while they were at dinner and she told him what had happened his need to protect and keep her safe override everything else and he would do anything for her regardless of the situation. Danger is just around the corner watching and waiting to strike but will Dimitri be able to keep Zamira safe and out of danger because failing is not a option especially as he wants a future with her and become a family but will it all work out for them. This Book was absolutely amazing and it pulled you into the story right from the first page and kept your attention throughout and I couldn't put it down as it was a real page turner and so addictive. Katie Reus is an amazing author and writer and she certainly knows how to keep her reader's attention and on the edge of their seats and the depth of her story's are what makes you go back time and time again to read her book's. I definitely recommend you read this book and other's by her and you will not be disappointed.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
July 12, 2022
Zamira is a widow that is raising twins, with the help of her family. When he husband died, she found out a huge secret about his life and actions-something that she never would have thought he would do. Since then, she hasn't been interested in dating. She just wants to raise her kids and live her life. But when she meets a man who makes her feel like she is more than just a Mom, her husband's secret world comes back to haunt her. Dimitri's world changed when he met Zamira. He knows she is something special, but he doesn't think he is good enough for her. He has his own secrets that he has kept, and he doesn't want her to think differently of him-even if he isn't the same man anymore. But when she is threatened, he will step in and do anything and everything to keep her safe. Even if it means stepping back into the world he left behind.
I absolutely loved Zamira and Dimitri!! They both have pasts that have shaped who they are now, but they don't let those pasts define them either. Zamira is a strong woman who has raised her kids to be happy and healthy. She still has fun and is joy filled, even after what happened with her husband. I loved that about her! It didn't make her bitter or let it define her future, and not many people can say that. Dimitri is also this stand up man who did the things he did for his own reasons. But when he saw a chance to be on the right side of the law, he took it and made friends along the way! Their chemistry is extremely hot but they also can just talk and be friends which I loved. It was great seeing snippets of previous characters in previous books, all while seeing how they all will always come together to help their friends. And let me just say, the fact that Dimitri falls in love with her kids too? Beautiful!! I loved their interactions and how they know that they can trust him. I would like to know more about a certain person in on the heist though! She has me intrigued!!
I absolutely loved Zamira and Dimitri!! They both have pasts that have shaped who they are now, but they don't let those pasts define them either. Zamira is a strong woman who has raised her kids to be happy and healthy. She still has fun and is joy filled, even after what happened with her husband. I loved that about her! It didn't make her bitter or let it define her future, and not many people can say that. Dimitri is also this stand up man who did the things he did for his own reasons. But when he saw a chance to be on the right side of the law, he took it and made friends along the way! Their chemistry is extremely hot but they also can just talk and be friends which I loved. It was great seeing snippets of previous characters in previous books, all while seeing how they all will always come together to help their friends. And let me just say, the fact that Dimitri falls in love with her kids too? Beautiful!! I loved their interactions and how they know that they can trust him. I would like to know more about a certain person in on the heist though! She has me intrigued!!
June 27, 2022
In number of in the Red Stone Security series, we finally get to see widowed single parent Zamira get her HEA with Dmitri, former crook turned occasional Red Stone consultant. The previous few books in this series had focused on Zamira's sisters, and although it can be read as a standalone, I recommend tracking down at least some of the previous books and reading them first.
Zamira has been a widow a long time and, until meeting Dmitri through work and friends, was more or less okay with her single status. But when Dmitri finally asks her out on a proper date, she's ready to jump in with both feet. Dmitri's timing is excellent; a guy from far in Zamira's past (a crook acquaintance of her deceased husband) had confronted her on the beach just hours before, looking for something he claims her husband had.
So Zamira and Dmitri get to combine dating and sexy times with puzzling out the threat against Zamira. Throw in a giant cast of characters from previous books, and we've got ourselves a pretty good romantic suspense novel. I will confess to being a tiny bit bored at times; the bad guys seem a little more bark than bite, and the novel didn't have a secondary storyline running through it like the last few books did. I also feel like though the conflict resolves, several loose ends remained, possibly unnecessarily (unless there's a book 20 that uses them).
Overall though, I liked this fast read, and I'm grateful to see the last of the sisters find happiness too.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion. Thanks!
Zamira has been a widow a long time and, until meeting Dmitri through work and friends, was more or less okay with her single status. But when Dmitri finally asks her out on a proper date, she's ready to jump in with both feet. Dmitri's timing is excellent; a guy from far in Zamira's past (a crook acquaintance of her deceased husband) had confronted her on the beach just hours before, looking for something he claims her husband had.
So Zamira and Dmitri get to combine dating and sexy times with puzzling out the threat against Zamira. Throw in a giant cast of characters from previous books, and we've got ourselves a pretty good romantic suspense novel. I will confess to being a tiny bit bored at times; the bad guys seem a little more bark than bite, and the novel didn't have a secondary storyline running through it like the last few books did. I also feel like though the conflict resolves, several loose ends remained, possibly unnecessarily (unless there's a book 20 that uses them).
Overall though, I liked this fast read, and I'm grateful to see the last of the sisters find happiness too.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion. Thanks!
July 4, 2022
Deadly Protector is book 19 in the Red Stone Security series and can be read as a standalone although there are characters from other books involved in the story.
Zamira is a single mom with two kids whose criminal father died years ago. Dimitri is a former thief who now owns several hardware stores and does freelance security work for Red Stone. When a man from Zamira’s husband’s past shows up looking for something, she is in danger. Dimitri goes into alpha protective mode to make sure Zamira is safe, moving her into his home while the threat is still active. Over time, the two get closer and form a romantic bond. It’s clear they’re attracted to one another and care about each other. In order to protect Zamira, Dimitri is pulled back into to the crime world and will have to pull one more big theft. He might be killed in the process, and it still might not be enough to save Zamira.
Deadly Protector is usually the type of book I love - protective alpha male, heroine in danger - but this one was not great for me. It’s a bit plodding, and I had to keep forcing myself to read on. There’s a lot of telling and not enough showing of action. The story is good, the characters and world building are fine, it’s just slow. Maybe at book 19, the series is getting a bit stale - I don’t know.
If you like a book with a lot of romantic suspense and danger with a great band of brothers, I’d recommend this one to you. If you want a fast-paced read, this might not be the one. If you read it, I’d love to discuss and get your take.
Thank you @netgalley - I was given an ARC of this book to read in exchange for an honest review.
Zamira is a single mom with two kids whose criminal father died years ago. Dimitri is a former thief who now owns several hardware stores and does freelance security work for Red Stone. When a man from Zamira’s husband’s past shows up looking for something, she is in danger. Dimitri goes into alpha protective mode to make sure Zamira is safe, moving her into his home while the threat is still active. Over time, the two get closer and form a romantic bond. It’s clear they’re attracted to one another and care about each other. In order to protect Zamira, Dimitri is pulled back into to the crime world and will have to pull one more big theft. He might be killed in the process, and it still might not be enough to save Zamira.
Deadly Protector is usually the type of book I love - protective alpha male, heroine in danger - but this one was not great for me. It’s a bit plodding, and I had to keep forcing myself to read on. There’s a lot of telling and not enough showing of action. The story is good, the characters and world building are fine, it’s just slow. Maybe at book 19, the series is getting a bit stale - I don’t know.
If you like a book with a lot of romantic suspense and danger with a great band of brothers, I’d recommend this one to you. If you want a fast-paced read, this might not be the one. If you read it, I’d love to discuss and get your take.
Thank you @netgalley - I was given an ARC of this book to read in exchange for an honest review.
July 16, 2022
The nineteenth book in the Red Stone Security series and for me this one of the best ones I’ve read. It’s in the romantic suspense genre and while it can be read as a stand-alone without giving away too many spoilers about earlier books, I’d recommend reading this series in order as previous characters appear so it might help to keep the various relationships straight. These books follow a standard format where the hero, usually a borderline bad boy made good who either works for or has some connection to Red Stone Security falls for the strong willed and independent heroine who then finds herself in danger at some point with the hero riding to the rescue but in the last few books the suspense element has seemed a bit of an after thought and felt rushed. In Deadly Protector however it’s a return to form as the action kicks off pretty much from the start and doesn’t let up until the closing chapters when widow Zamira is accosted by an old acquaintance of her dead husband who then proceeds to threaten her. This gives the hero Dimitri an ‘in’ with Zamira but events soon escalate when Dimitri’s past comes back to haunt him and if he’s to save Zamira he must become an unwilling participant in something he thought he’d put behind him.
I love that you know exactly what you’re getting with this series. Great characters with chemistry,. A story that’s quick and easy to read without any angst and best of all catching up with previous characters and seeing what’s happening in their lives. All in all it’s great way to while away a rainy afternoon reading this book.
I love that you know exactly what you’re getting with this series. Great characters with chemistry,. A story that’s quick and easy to read without any angst and best of all catching up with previous characters and seeing what’s happening in their lives. All in all it’s great way to while away a rainy afternoon reading this book.
July 13, 2022
One of my all-time favorite authors and series! Zamira, along with her two children, are learning to live without her husband Lucas, after his death. When a man from his past approaches Zamira, she is frightened. Dimitri Lenkov is attracted to Zamira, but has given her time to recover from her husband’s death. They met at her sister’s wedding, she had worked on his physical therapy after an injury and he is friends with her family through his employment with Red Stone Security. He is paid, by Red Stone, to break into businesses to evaluate their security systems. He learned some of his skills, although not legally, when he was younger. During their first date, she sees the man who approached her at the restaurant. Noticing her distress, she explains her concerns to Dimitri. When not only Zamira, but her family, is targeted, Dimitri and his friends at Red Stone will step in to do their best to keep her safe and end the threats. Suspense, danger, and a beautiful, emotional and intimate love story. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
July 13, 2022
This book can be read as a stand-alone though there are some characters from previous books. Zamira is a single mother of twins and when they go away to their grandparents for a few weeks she is glad for some of her time. Spending a day at the beach she is surprised by a man you want to know why she did not answer any of his letters while he was in prison? Because she has known idea who he is, her only guess was that he was someone in her husband’s past but he passed away many years ago and she only found out about his other life when he passed. Getting away from that man and home she feels safe. She agrees to go out to dinner with Dimitri who she met at a wedding only to be surprised on seeing the same man again at the restaurant. after telling Dimitri what happened he makes some calls and they begin looking into this man’s background.
The story picks up from here with the man becoming more violent and Dimitri more protective. Also, he and Zamira work and become a couple which at one point scares him because of her children. Overall, this is a very good story with wonderful characters. I received this book from Netgalley.com
The story picks up from here with the man becoming more violent and Dimitri more protective. Also, he and Zamira work and become a couple which at one point scares him because of her children. Overall, this is a very good story with wonderful characters. I received this book from Netgalley.com
July 17, 2022
Red Stone Security series amasses it’s nineteenth instalment as one more of their operatives finds his happily ever after in the midst of danger. Widowed and raising twins with the support of her ever growing family, Zamira never saw the danger from her husband’s past coming for her. Dimitri has been in love with this sweet mother for the longest time, but his past keeps him at a safe distance. But once Zamira gets into the cross hairs of evil, all bets are off for Dimitri and he would lay down his life for her and her twins.
All books in this series can be read as stand alones, but Katie weaves stories bringing in past characters and who can resist going back to read the entire series. Another winner for Katie Reus as she highlights the dynamics of a large family with unconditional support, a team of strong and protective operatives always having each other’s backs, and splashes of children and their histrionics, make this story as well as all others in this series, an exceptional read and I have revisited these stories so many times, for comfort and enjoyment.
This light and quick read from Katie Reus is perfect for the romantic at heart.
All books in this series can be read as stand alones, but Katie weaves stories bringing in past characters and who can resist going back to read the entire series. Another winner for Katie Reus as she highlights the dynamics of a large family with unconditional support, a team of strong and protective operatives always having each other’s backs, and splashes of children and their histrionics, make this story as well as all others in this series, an exceptional read and I have revisited these stories so many times, for comfort and enjoyment.
This light and quick read from Katie Reus is perfect for the romantic at heart.
July 9, 2022
DEADLY PROTECTOR Red Stone Security Series #19 by Katie Reus
This is the 19th book out of the Red Stone Security Series. It is as good as all the previous ones. One of the very best things about these books is the comaraderie of the Red Stone people involved in past books as well as current, they are certainly family. Dimitri in the past was a high end thief that now is contracting for Red Stone. Zamira is single mom of twin kids that she is raising after her husband was killed in an accident several years ago. She found out he was a thief when his past came to meet up with her on the beach and threaten her. Zamira was Dimitri's physical therapist when he was injured in the past and they are casual friends. While at dinner with Dimitri, she realizes the man who threatened her is following her. He is smitten with her and he is going to protect her. This story has plenty of everything, romance, suspense, angst, drama, on fire chemistry, and intrigue. I certainly hope Katie Reus keeps this series on going. It is certainly as fresh as ever. This is 5 stars.
This is the 19th book out of the Red Stone Security Series. It is as good as all the previous ones. One of the very best things about these books is the comaraderie of the Red Stone people involved in past books as well as current, they are certainly family. Dimitri in the past was a high end thief that now is contracting for Red Stone. Zamira is single mom of twin kids that she is raising after her husband was killed in an accident several years ago. She found out he was a thief when his past came to meet up with her on the beach and threaten her. Zamira was Dimitri's physical therapist when he was injured in the past and they are casual friends. While at dinner with Dimitri, she realizes the man who threatened her is following her. He is smitten with her and he is going to protect her. This story has plenty of everything, romance, suspense, angst, drama, on fire chemistry, and intrigue. I certainly hope Katie Reus keeps this series on going. It is certainly as fresh as ever. This is 5 stars.
July 13, 2022
Deadly Protector is a wonderful installment in the Red Stone Security as number nineteen. In many ways this is classic Katie Reus contemporary romance. The anti-hero is well done with Dimitri who feels unworthy of Zamira because of his past. However, one’s past should not continue to define who they are today. Zamira is also wonderful with her family her strengths, and her willingness to take a chance. A threat from the past comes calling so it must be dealt with before anyone is hurt.
I like how the characters were friends first and then more. Likewise that the main characters were older so they had some baggage but maturity and a realism about life. Great read where you know the good guys will win in the end, enjoying the thrill of the journey to the happily-ever-after.
Romantic suspense readers will love Deadly Protector. Escapism reading that checks all the boxes of an entertaining story.
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I like how the characters were friends first and then more. Likewise that the main characters were older so they had some baggage but maturity and a realism about life. Great read where you know the good guys will win in the end, enjoying the thrill of the journey to the happily-ever-after.
Romantic suspense readers will love Deadly Protector. Escapism reading that checks all the boxes of an entertaining story.
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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