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Red Stone Security #2
Danger Next Door (Red Stone Security Series) (Volume 2) by Katie Reus
After an explosion leaves detective Grant Caldwell scarred he quits his job and tries to hide from his well-meaning family while he heals. When Belle Manikas, a beautiful new neighbor, moves in next door with problems of her own he finds himself drawn to her even while he tells himself she’s nothing but trouble. Even though he knows he’d never have a chance with a woman like her—not with his disfigurement—he can’t stay away.Thanks to severe health problems as a child Belle grew up sheltered and smothered by her loving, if overbearing, family. Now that she’s finally out on her own she plans to wring everything she can out of life. When she sets her sights on her brooding neighbor nothing can stop her from getting him into bed—until a madman fixates on her.With Grant now working for Red Stone Security, he sees it as his duty to protect her at all costs. Unfortunately a violent criminal is stalking Belle and will stop at nothing until he’s destroyed her.
Mass Market Paperback
First published June 1, 2012
158 people are currently reading
1592 people want to read
About the author
Katie Reus
157 books3,228 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 204 reviews
April 29, 2019
ARC received for review (I just requested it last week and got it, but this book is from 2012).
Grant and Belle met and fall in love in less than a week. Yes, that's fast, but there are extenuating circumstances. Plus a very nasty bad guy to take care of. Love all of her big, huge family and all of his too.
Grant and Belle met and fall in love in less than a week. Yes, that's fast, but there are extenuating circumstances. Plus a very nasty bad guy to take care of. Love all of her big, huge family and all of his too.
February 27, 2017
Short and sweet.
April 29, 2019
4.5 - "Seeing you is the best part of my day…" Stars!
It’s no secret that I am a huge fan of Katie’s writing, Romantic Suspense and PNR are her forte’s and having read a large number of the later Red Stone Security books in recent years, it’s been on my TBR wish-list to go back to the beginning and ‘fill in the blanks’ so to speak. So when Danger Next Door popped up on Netgalley, I took it as a sign, and have since spent the weekend immersing myself in all things Reus and Red Stone.
Who didn’t have scars whether physical or emotional...
Danger next Door gives us Grant Caldwell’s story, he figured pretty heavily in the first book in the series, and at the time was a Miami Police Detective, after a drug bust goes wrong in the prologue of this book, we find Grant still dealing with the mental and physical fall out six months on.
His new neighbour Belle Manikas offers up a really great distraction from his dark thoughts, and all things protective and alpha in him come to the fore when it looks like she may be the target of a stalker.
When he was with her, he forgot about his scars and limp. She didn’t seem to notice so he didn’t focus on them either… It was strange and freeing and… fucking scary.
I blew through this book like a high speed train, loved every second of its reading, and adored Grant and Belle together, both a little bit vulnerable, but with back bones of steel, although it wasn’t a long read it didn’t feel lacking in anyway whatsoever. Absolutely can be read as a standalone, and a great way to introduce yourself to the authors writing is she is not someone you have read in the past.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
It’s no secret that I am a huge fan of Katie’s writing, Romantic Suspense and PNR are her forte’s and having read a large number of the later Red Stone Security books in recent years, it’s been on my TBR wish-list to go back to the beginning and ‘fill in the blanks’ so to speak. So when Danger Next Door popped up on Netgalley, I took it as a sign, and have since spent the weekend immersing myself in all things Reus and Red Stone.
Who didn’t have scars whether physical or emotional...
Danger next Door gives us Grant Caldwell’s story, he figured pretty heavily in the first book in the series, and at the time was a Miami Police Detective, after a drug bust goes wrong in the prologue of this book, we find Grant still dealing with the mental and physical fall out six months on.
His new neighbour Belle Manikas offers up a really great distraction from his dark thoughts, and all things protective and alpha in him come to the fore when it looks like she may be the target of a stalker.
When he was with her, he forgot about his scars and limp. She didn’t seem to notice so he didn’t focus on them either… It was strange and freeing and… fucking scary.
I blew through this book like a high speed train, loved every second of its reading, and adored Grant and Belle together, both a little bit vulnerable, but with back bones of steel, although it wasn’t a long read it didn’t feel lacking in anyway whatsoever. Absolutely can be read as a standalone, and a great way to introduce yourself to the authors writing is she is not someone you have read in the past.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
October 2, 2017
3.5 stars
February 6, 2017
I was a little torn while reading this .. I loved the hero. He's amazing. Grant had a lot of pent up insecurity over his scars and I adore a damaged emotional hero. Belle was trying to stand on her own two feet and get out from under a stifling family. These two were immediately drawn to each other on a physical level. What I loved was how it didn't take long for Grant to see beyond her beauty and for Belle to see the man under the scars that by the way never bothered her.
What had me torn was how much danger can one woman find? She's under the protection of an ex marine, and his entire security company. Right under their noses she's attached, kidnapped, almost drowned. It really didn't make me very trusting into the heroes strengths and abilities. But the love story is why I read so I pushed past all the unbelievable stuff and fell right along with them.The fact it's a #safe read bumped it up also.
What had me torn was how much danger can one woman find? She's under the protection of an ex marine, and his entire security company. Right under their noses she's attached, kidnapped, almost drowned. It really didn't make me very trusting into the heroes strengths and abilities. But the love story is why I read so I pushed past all the unbelievable stuff and fell right along with them.The fact it's a #safe read bumped it up also.
July 19, 2024
I've been in bit of a book slump. I read a few great books back to back and then anything new I picked up seemed to be a bust. I barely got past 30 pages before calling it quits on multiple books and have been searching for something to pull me out of my slump.
The blurb foe Danger Next Door was appealing. I'm a fan of both romantic suspense and broody, scarred heroes. Added bonus: the book is less than 170 pages, so it's a quick read.
Overall, this wasn't terrible but I wish it was better. The story had potential, but the romance moved verrrrry quickly, which seemed strange given the hero's emotional walls and trauma and the heroine's newfound independence. They both move past their issues very quickly primarily because they are driven by lust and their mutual love of barbecue.
Anyway, the plot is kinda stupid and I definitely skimmed at the end, but I finished the book!
The blurb foe Danger Next Door was appealing. I'm a fan of both romantic suspense and broody, scarred heroes. Added bonus: the book is less than 170 pages, so it's a quick read.
Overall, this wasn't terrible but I wish it was better. The story had potential, but the romance moved verrrrry quickly, which seemed strange given the hero's emotional walls and trauma and the heroine's newfound independence. They both move past their issues very quickly primarily because they are driven by lust and their mutual love of barbecue.
Anyway, the plot is kinda stupid and I definitely skimmed at the end, but I finished the book!
September 3, 2012
This was just ok. I enjoyed the characters and the romance for the most part, but the suspense part bordered on silly. Someone tries to kill the h 4 times in as many days every time she's alone. So of course even though H says he won't leave her alone for a minute, he does and someone tries to kill her. It was kind of silly.
Not a bad book, but not a memorable one either.
Not a bad book, but not a memorable one either.
May 13, 2019
Took another trip to Katie Reus’ Red Stone Security series with Grant and Belle and it was another hit for me. I loved Grant’s over protectiveness and all around alpha traits and I loved Belle’s loyalty and big heart. I loved their instant chemistry and their easy friendship that turns into off the charts heat and their perfect blend of falling in love romance.
When recluse Grant meets his new neighbor, Belle, he’s instantly drawn to her. She’s innocent and kind and when he’s around her, he doesn’t feel like the scarred bitter man he’s turned into. Belle is finally living on her own for the first time and there’s already trouble on her first night. Lucky for her, her ex-cop hunk of a neighbor is there to lend a hand. There’s something about him that pulls at her heartstrings and Belle doesn’t see any reason to fight the attraction. But her proximity to Grant puts her in danger when a crazed killer from Grant’s past comes back to taunt him once again.
Whenever I need a sexy action packed read free of OTT drama and angst or when I just want to sink into a cute romance, KR is my go to author. Her stories are well thought out, her characters are always well developed and the insta-love is always spot on. She can’t go wrong with her alpha Heroes and her kick ass heroines.
Memorable Moment: I was just as hurt as Belle when Grant’s friend tries to ask her out on a date because Grant had said they were “just friends”. Her confrontation with Grant stuck with me because I loved that Grant owned up to his mistake and then doesn’t waste time confessing his own feelings for her. It was a really cute moment and I was reminded why I love this author’s writing style. She always delivers a cute and entertaining romance and she doesn’t have to use cliché drama to get from point A to point B.
Would I recommend? I really liked this couple and can see myself coming back to re-read. Would definitely recommend this one and any book by K.R. Their short, sweet and steamy!
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
When recluse Grant meets his new neighbor, Belle, he’s instantly drawn to her. She’s innocent and kind and when he’s around her, he doesn’t feel like the scarred bitter man he’s turned into. Belle is finally living on her own for the first time and there’s already trouble on her first night. Lucky for her, her ex-cop hunk of a neighbor is there to lend a hand. There’s something about him that pulls at her heartstrings and Belle doesn’t see any reason to fight the attraction. But her proximity to Grant puts her in danger when a crazed killer from Grant’s past comes back to taunt him once again.
Whenever I need a sexy action packed read free of OTT drama and angst or when I just want to sink into a cute romance, KR is my go to author. Her stories are well thought out, her characters are always well developed and the insta-love is always spot on. She can’t go wrong with her alpha Heroes and her kick ass heroines.
Memorable Moment: I was just as hurt as Belle when Grant’s friend tries to ask her out on a date because Grant had said they were “just friends”. Her confrontation with Grant stuck with me because I loved that Grant owned up to his mistake and then doesn’t waste time confessing his own feelings for her. It was a really cute moment and I was reminded why I love this author’s writing style. She always delivers a cute and entertaining romance and she doesn’t have to use cliché drama to get from point A to point B.
Would I recommend? I really liked this couple and can see myself coming back to re-read. Would definitely recommend this one and any book by K.R. Their short, sweet and steamy!
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
July 22, 2019
A sweet romance story with a touch of mystery to keep you hooked.
Read
September 26, 2024Self note: Series not on KU.
Easy read but nothing memorable.
I didn't see the connection between them, lust was obvious but nothing else *shrug*
Will I be continuing the series? No thanks.
Easy read but nothing memorable.
I didn't see the connection between them, lust was obvious but nothing else *shrug*
Will I be continuing the series? No thanks.
September 6, 2014
2.5 stars
A little formulaic...
After reading two Red Stone Security books, it seems we can save time with a reviewing template:
(Insert heroine's name) is in a constant state of needing to be rescued by (insert name of a hot Caldwell brother of Redstone security). They are instantly attracted to one-another and fight that attraction. There is fast-paced action with the heroine's life in peril. The unrealistic frequency and intensity of plot events borders on the ridiculous. The hero and heroine have sex, and that is pretty much the high point of the story.
...but still entertaining.
The obvious stringing and stacking of tropes is entertaining in an almost campy way *rolls eyes*, and I have to admit that I like Belle and Grant--even though their characters are also very formulaic. Grant is the scarred and wounded hero who thinks no woman could see past his scars, and Belle is a nurse (of course) who intends to rescue him from that thinking--when he is not busy rescuing her .
What is it about these stories?
Still *hangs head and blushes*, I can't help liking an adventure in which the hunky, honorable hero rescues me...I mean the heroine *grins*. Just don't read too many of these in a row, or it may lower your IQ!
A little formulaic...
After reading two Red Stone Security books, it seems we can save time with a reviewing template:
(Insert heroine's name) is in a constant state of needing to be rescued by (insert name of a hot Caldwell brother of Redstone security). They are instantly attracted to one-another and fight that attraction. There is fast-paced action with the heroine's life in peril. The unrealistic frequency and intensity of plot events borders on the ridiculous. The hero and heroine have sex, and that is pretty much the high point of the story.
...but still entertaining.
The obvious stringing and stacking of tropes is entertaining in an almost campy way *rolls eyes*, and I have to admit that I like Belle and Grant--even though their characters are also very formulaic. Grant is the scarred and wounded hero who thinks no woman could see past his scars, and Belle is a nurse (of course) who intends to rescue him from that thinking--when he is not busy rescuing her .
What is it about these stories?
Still *hangs head and blushes*, I can't help liking an adventure in which the hunky, honorable hero rescues me...I mean the heroine *grins*. Just don't read too many of these in a row, or it may lower your IQ!
March 11, 2018
This is a terrific romantic suspense.
I really liked Belle. She was strong enough to leave her over-protective family and live on her own. Yes, they had a reason to be protective of her. Her childhood health issues had them constantly worried about her. But they took things too far when they arranged her marriage. Anyway, I'm glad she stood up to them and moved out.
Belle had the hots for her new neighbour and wanted nothing more than to get him in bed. But sadly he had been badly scarred when a drug bust went wrong while he was a detective. He thought the scars looked awful and nobody would be interested in him. But Belle didn't care about his scars and wanted him anyway.
It was tense watching Belle being stalked and attacked. But I liked the way Red Stone Security protected her. I recommend this book to romantic suspense fans.
I really liked Belle. She was strong enough to leave her over-protective family and live on her own. Yes, they had a reason to be protective of her. Her childhood health issues had them constantly worried about her. But they took things too far when they arranged her marriage. Anyway, I'm glad she stood up to them and moved out.
Belle had the hots for her new neighbour and wanted nothing more than to get him in bed. But sadly he had been badly scarred when a drug bust went wrong while he was a detective. He thought the scars looked awful and nobody would be interested in him. But Belle didn't care about his scars and wanted him anyway.
It was tense watching Belle being stalked and attacked. But I liked the way Red Stone Security protected her. I recommend this book to romantic suspense fans.
September 2, 2019
I just finished reading this book and it was awesome from the beginning to the end! The characters are interesting and the dynamic between them is amazing.
August 21, 2013
I remember reading No One to Trust about a year or so ago and really enjoyed it and I bought this one quite awhile ago but never got around to reading it. I'm glad I decided to pick it up because I was in the mood for a book just like this. Danger Next Door was very exciting! It was suspenseful, but had all the romance that I needed. It was also fast paced and also action packed which is hard to find in a romance. Also both the characters Grant and Belle were very interesting to get to know. Grant is recovering from an explosion from when he worked for the police department/swat so he had some insecurities about the scars he has gotten from the accident. I thought that made Grant a very realistic character. And Belle was awesome because she didn't judge him from the scars that were so very visible and I like that about her as well. Overall, I thought the book was very enjoyable and I flew through it :) I'm curious about the others in this series!
November 30, 2012
A sweet, passionate romance mixed with danger, mystery, and suspense. I loved Grant and Belle’s story – the strength and vulnerability of both characters.
My favorite in the series so far.
My favorite in the series so far.
May 7, 2019
Originally posted on Adria's Musings and Reviews
* A copy of this book was and provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review. All conclusions are my own responsibility and I was not compensated for this review.
The Story in 4 Sentences or Less: Grant Caldwell was left scarred and became a recluse after an explosion ended his run as a detective until he meets his new neighbor Belle Manikas. Belle is trying to make a life of her own, away from her overbearing but loving family and she has her sights set on Grant. But when someone keeps trying to kill her, Belle has no choice but to depend on Grant to figure out who wants her dead and why.
Like It? Hate it? Love it? Why? Danger Next Door is a modern take on the Beauty and the Beast trope and what a lovely take it is. Grant isn’t a surly hero but he’s in a self imposed isolation because he’s insecure about his scars. I loved that this big ‘ole tough guy had that insecurity about him, it made him more than just this untouchable hero. He had a surprising sense of humor and an ingrained sense of duty that overrode his concerns about his scars.
And Belle was a lovely heroine. She’s a nurturing, caring sort but not sugary sweet. I loved her sass and I definitely admired her for having the guts to leave her family’s loving but suffocating home and move out on her own. When she’s attacked and it is clear she needs help, Belle didn’t pretend that she was able to handle things on her own, she definitely knew when she was in over her head.
Danger Next Door moves at a pretty quick pace, and it’s not a very long story. That would normally spell disaster for me as a reader but Katie Reus has a knack for keeping things interesting and as realistic as possible in a short amount of time.
Click It or Skip It? Click It.
* A copy of this book was and provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review. All conclusions are my own responsibility and I was not compensated for this review.
The Story in 4 Sentences or Less: Grant Caldwell was left scarred and became a recluse after an explosion ended his run as a detective until he meets his new neighbor Belle Manikas. Belle is trying to make a life of her own, away from her overbearing but loving family and she has her sights set on Grant. But when someone keeps trying to kill her, Belle has no choice but to depend on Grant to figure out who wants her dead and why.
Like It? Hate it? Love it? Why? Danger Next Door is a modern take on the Beauty and the Beast trope and what a lovely take it is. Grant isn’t a surly hero but he’s in a self imposed isolation because he’s insecure about his scars. I loved that this big ‘ole tough guy had that insecurity about him, it made him more than just this untouchable hero. He had a surprising sense of humor and an ingrained sense of duty that overrode his concerns about his scars.
And Belle was a lovely heroine. She’s a nurturing, caring sort but not sugary sweet. I loved her sass and I definitely admired her for having the guts to leave her family’s loving but suffocating home and move out on her own. When she’s attacked and it is clear she needs help, Belle didn’t pretend that she was able to handle things on her own, she definitely knew when she was in over her head.
Danger Next Door moves at a pretty quick pace, and it’s not a very long story. That would normally spell disaster for me as a reader but Katie Reus has a knack for keeping things interesting and as realistic as possible in a short amount of time.
Click It or Skip It? Click It.
May 7, 2019
Grant Caldwell is trying to hide from is well-meaning family while he heals until he finds himself drawn to his beautiful new neighbor with problems of her own. He can’t stay away even though he knows he’d never have a chance with a woman like her – not with his disfigurement. Belle grew sheltered and smothered and now that she’s finally out on her own she plans to wring everything she can out of her life. She sets her sights on Grant and nothing can stop her from getting him into her bed – until a madman fixates on her and Grant sees it as his duty to protect her at all costs.
This romantic suspense is an emotionally gripping and highly suspenseful read that holds readers in its grip until the very end. Grant and Belle are two strong characters that both have pasts that they have to overcome, pasts that have reacting in different ways and readers can practically feel all of the emotions that flow from the pages of this engaging romance. The romance is sweet and quite delightful as Belle teaches Grant that she’s very willing to be his.
The plot is faced paced and full thrilling excitement and suspense as a violent criminal stalks Belle with no intentions of stopping until he has destroyed her. An OMG twist has readers jaws dropping as the climax reels the readers in and has them holding their breath in suspense and the conclusion to the romance between Belle and Grant is a sigh worthy event for romance readers.
This romantic suspense is an emotionally gripping and highly suspenseful read that holds readers in its grip until the very end. Grant and Belle are two strong characters that both have pasts that they have to overcome, pasts that have reacting in different ways and readers can practically feel all of the emotions that flow from the pages of this engaging romance. The romance is sweet and quite delightful as Belle teaches Grant that she’s very willing to be his.
The plot is faced paced and full thrilling excitement and suspense as a violent criminal stalks Belle with no intentions of stopping until he has destroyed her. An OMG twist has readers jaws dropping as the climax reels the readers in and has them holding their breath in suspense and the conclusion to the romance between Belle and Grant is a sigh worthy event for romance readers.
March 11, 2020
I'm pretty surprised that I actually really liked this book- certainly more than the first one.
I really liked the romance. Though it was fast-paced, there was a lot of chemistry and it was very sweet. Grant was a more interesting hero than Porter though I wish he and Belle had opened up to each other more, especially when it came to Grant's insecurities and past.
The suspense was better than last time and not nearly as obvious, but I wish it had been dragged out more. In general this story felt very short.
Overall, though, I really liked the story.
I really liked the romance. Though it was fast-paced, there was a lot of chemistry and it was very sweet. Grant was a more interesting hero than Porter though I wish he and Belle had opened up to each other more, especially when it came to Grant's insecurities and past.
The suspense was better than last time and not nearly as obvious, but I wish it had been dragged out more. In general this story felt very short.
Overall, though, I really liked the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2019
Danger Next Door was a pretty quick but fun read. I liked Grant, I was worried at first because Belle was written as a very sheltered character but thankfully she turned out to have a decent head on her shoulders. The suspense was exciting, and the romance steamy.
May 18, 2014
4 stars
This was a very good story. I liked Belle and Grant and their story was very good. This is the first book I've read by this author and based off this I will probably read more of her books in the future. Obviously I didn't read book #1 before this but I didn't have an issue with confusion because of not reading it first.
Belle is a nurse and a really nice woman. She grew up sheltered due to heart issues that caused her to need multiple surgeries when she was younger. Belle finally managed to break loose from her over-protective family and out on her own for the first time. She wasn't expecting to become the victim of a stalker on the first day she moved in to her new house.
Grant is a former police detective and former military. He was injured and badly scared when an explosion went off while he was on a raid of a drug den. Grant’s family has been trying to get him to join up with their security team but he hasn't wanted to. Grant’s been staying inside his house most of the time as he’s having a hard time dealing with others seeing his scars. His beautiful next door neighbor’s house getting broken in to is just what he needs to pull him out of his shell.
Belle has a bit of trouble when moving in to her new house when a family friend, Palo, is being rather brutish and rough with her. Grant happens to hear the raised voices and when the woman’s voice sounds upset, he goes to check it out. Grant saves Belle from Palo's attentions and then they talk. Grant tries to keep his scars hidden but Belle can see them. She’s not bothered by them though and Grant is happy about this but unsure how much Belle would want to be around him. That night, Grant sees someone trying to break in to Belle’s house and runs the intruder off. He decides to protect her and sleeps at her place (on her couch) to safeguard her. The next day, Belle is attacked again while swimming in the middle of the day. Belle is saved in the nick of time but once again, the attacker gets away. Grant is even more determined to keep Belle safe and stays with her even after the she gets a security system installed. Belle is attracted to Grant and is sure he’s attracted to her but he doesn't make a move. They share a kiss that Belle started but when Grant doesn't follow up on it she’s unsure what to do. Eventually things come to a head and Belle demands to know what they “are”. Grant didn't want to presume anything and kept thinking she wouldn't want him but when she confronts him, Grant lets her know that he's more than willing to start a relationship with her. Once that’s cleared up, Belle makes sure they start things out right and shows him just how little she cares about his scars, all his scars all over his body. There’s some drama as they try to figure out who the bad guy is and Belle ends up in more danger before things are settled. After the bad guy is taken care of, Belle and Grant are able to explore their blossoming relationship and start their HEA.
This was a very enjoyable story. I really liked Belle and Grant and was happy to see them get together because I couldn't help rooting for them from the beginning. I’ll probably read more of this series when I have time. I’d recommend this book. Thumbs up. :D
* note - I listened to the audio version of this book and the narrator did a good job.
This was a very good story. I liked Belle and Grant and their story was very good. This is the first book I've read by this author and based off this I will probably read more of her books in the future. Obviously I didn't read book #1 before this but I didn't have an issue with confusion because of not reading it first.
Belle is a nurse and a really nice woman. She grew up sheltered due to heart issues that caused her to need multiple surgeries when she was younger. Belle finally managed to break loose from her over-protective family and out on her own for the first time. She wasn't expecting to become the victim of a stalker on the first day she moved in to her new house.
Grant is a former police detective and former military. He was injured and badly scared when an explosion went off while he was on a raid of a drug den. Grant’s family has been trying to get him to join up with their security team but he hasn't wanted to. Grant’s been staying inside his house most of the time as he’s having a hard time dealing with others seeing his scars. His beautiful next door neighbor’s house getting broken in to is just what he needs to pull him out of his shell.
Belle has a bit of trouble when moving in to her new house when a family friend, Palo, is being rather brutish and rough with her. Grant happens to hear the raised voices and when the woman’s voice sounds upset, he goes to check it out. Grant saves Belle from Palo's attentions and then they talk. Grant tries to keep his scars hidden but Belle can see them. She’s not bothered by them though and Grant is happy about this but unsure how much Belle would want to be around him. That night, Grant sees someone trying to break in to Belle’s house and runs the intruder off. He decides to protect her and sleeps at her place (on her couch) to safeguard her. The next day, Belle is attacked again while swimming in the middle of the day. Belle is saved in the nick of time but once again, the attacker gets away. Grant is even more determined to keep Belle safe and stays with her even after the she gets a security system installed. Belle is attracted to Grant and is sure he’s attracted to her but he doesn't make a move. They share a kiss that Belle started but when Grant doesn't follow up on it she’s unsure what to do. Eventually things come to a head and Belle demands to know what they “are”. Grant didn't want to presume anything and kept thinking she wouldn't want him but when she confronts him, Grant lets her know that he's more than willing to start a relationship with her. Once that’s cleared up, Belle makes sure they start things out right and shows him just how little she cares about his scars, all his scars all over his body. There’s some drama as they try to figure out who the bad guy is and Belle ends up in more danger before things are settled. After the bad guy is taken care of, Belle and Grant are able to explore their blossoming relationship and start their HEA.
This was a very enjoyable story. I really liked Belle and Grant and was happy to see them get together because I couldn't help rooting for them from the beginning. I’ll probably read more of this series when I have time. I’d recommend this book. Thumbs up. :D
* note - I listened to the audio version of this book and the narrator did a good job.
March 22, 2014
Overall rating: 5 Rockin’ Stars!!!!!
Grant is a good guy. He takes care of others, defends those that are weaker and hunts criminals in the Miami area. During a drug bust, Grant protects an innocent child from a bomb and it leaves him scared and damaged.
Curling around the kid, he cried out in agony as the flames licked over him, searing through flesh and muscle. Then blackness engulfed him.
Working hard to rehabilitate himself and get back to work, Grant is surprised to see a new neighbor moving into the house next to his. She is beyond beautiful and he is sure that one look at him would scare her to death. During his daily therapy exercises, he overhears a loud male voice and the sounds of his new neighbor in a state of distress. Grant immediately goes to assist her and removes the threat.
She noticed he kept the left side of his face turned away from her even when he’d laughed and it bothered her. The fading red marks that covered the side of his face and his ear were definitely noticeable, but it wasn’t as bad as he obviously thought it was. She nearly snorted at the thought of this blatantly sexual man trying to hide part of himself from her. God, who didn’t have scars whether physical or emotional?
There is an instant attraction between Belle and Grant. Grant however feels there is no way a beautiful woman could be interested in a damaged man. It is up to Belle to convince him that she sees him as a man not the scars on his body.
Breathing hard, he looked down at her flushed face. Her lips were swollen, her eyes glazed and he could practically smell the desire coming off her it was so potent. “Why do you want me?” he rasped out, hating the desperation in his voice but unable to stop it.
This story will move you with struggle that Belle and Grant go through to find safety in each other’s arms. Keeping Belle safe from a deranged killer and solving a long string of murders keeps this plot moving. Our Hero finds true love and a place where he belongs, scars and all.
A soft hand settled on his non-scarred arm. Her fingers slightly dug into his skin. “Grant. I want you to touch me, to make love to me. Right now.”
Hero – Grant Caldwell: 5 stars
Heroine – Belle Manikas: 5 stars
Steam: 5 stars
Plot: 5 stars
Cliffhanger: No
Would I recommend this book: Yes, this story has heart and soul mixed well with action.
Would I read other books by this author: Yes, she makes her characters feel real!
Danger Next Door
Katie Reus
April 24, 2017
I really enjoyed this book! Belle had always been sheltered by her big family. She loved them, but was ready for her freedom. She was so happy to move into her very first house to put a little space between her, and her overbearing family.
Grant in on medical leave from the police department. He was in an accident that left him scared. His appearance from the accident really bothers him. I was thankful that his insecurities about his appearance blended right in with the story. In some books when the hero or heroine have insecurities you have to read about them over and over again. Not in this book. When he meet his new neighbor Belle, she didn’t even notice his scars. She just noticed a handsome man. She helped him see that he was not as damaged as he once thought he was.
The first night Belle moved into her house, grant was in his backyard, when he heard his new neighbor’s voice raise, and he heard a male’s voice. He can’t stand anyone mistreating woman, so he went to help. He got there to see a man’s hand tightly gripping Belle’s arm. The man retreated, and left when Grant left him no choice. After that night a friendship was made. The chemistry was perfect in this book. The two didn’t fall into bed right away. The author allowed us to see a friendship, and relationship grow between the two. There was however an instant attraction. The author let us know what the two was thinking, but not acting upon. When the two did make love, it was magical.
Some sick o, has his sights set on Belle. I really enjoyed that Grant was her personal bodyguard. This book reminded me that villains blend in, and look just as normal as you and I. They can have any job, or be anywhere. It’s really creepy to think about…
Sample from chapter 4
She wasn’t sure how long she’d been in the pool but the warm sun beating on her back and her tired body told her it was time to get out. As she reached the wall in the deep end, she was ready to push off for her last lap when she glimpsed a masked figure in her line of sight. She blinked trying to get the water out of her eyes when strong hands shoved her under. Belle tried to suck in a breath but pulled in water, burning her nose and throat. Choking and thrashing around, she gasped at the forearms of the man holding her under water. And there was no doubt it was a man. His hands were really strong, and holy shit, she was going to die. The thought registered clearly in her fogged mind.
Grant in on medical leave from the police department. He was in an accident that left him scared. His appearance from the accident really bothers him. I was thankful that his insecurities about his appearance blended right in with the story. In some books when the hero or heroine have insecurities you have to read about them over and over again. Not in this book. When he meet his new neighbor Belle, she didn’t even notice his scars. She just noticed a handsome man. She helped him see that he was not as damaged as he once thought he was.
The first night Belle moved into her house, grant was in his backyard, when he heard his new neighbor’s voice raise, and he heard a male’s voice. He can’t stand anyone mistreating woman, so he went to help. He got there to see a man’s hand tightly gripping Belle’s arm. The man retreated, and left when Grant left him no choice. After that night a friendship was made. The chemistry was perfect in this book. The two didn’t fall into bed right away. The author allowed us to see a friendship, and relationship grow between the two. There was however an instant attraction. The author let us know what the two was thinking, but not acting upon. When the two did make love, it was magical.
Some sick o, has his sights set on Belle. I really enjoyed that Grant was her personal bodyguard. This book reminded me that villains blend in, and look just as normal as you and I. They can have any job, or be anywhere. It’s really creepy to think about…
Sample from chapter 4
She wasn’t sure how long she’d been in the pool but the warm sun beating on her back and her tired body told her it was time to get out. As she reached the wall in the deep end, she was ready to push off for her last lap when she glimpsed a masked figure in her line of sight. She blinked trying to get the water out of her eyes when strong hands shoved her under. Belle tried to suck in a breath but pulled in water, burning her nose and throat. Choking and thrashing around, she gasped at the forearms of the man holding her under water. And there was no doubt it was a man. His hands were really strong, and holy shit, she was going to die. The thought registered clearly in her fogged mind.
July 29, 2012
This second book in the Red Stone Security series is about Grant Caldwell. His brothers run the Security firm. Grant was a police officer with the Miami PD when a drug bust goes horribly wrong and he is burned on his back and part of his face and sustained a lot of damage to his knee. He is home on disability leave and feeling pretty sorry for himself and has basically become a recluse due to his embarrassment over his burns. One day he notices his new neighbor moving in and thinks she is really hot but has no business lusting over her when he knows no one would want to be with a man that looked liked him.
Belle Manikas is from a large Greek family that has hovered over her all of her life since her multiple heart surgeries when she was a child. She wants nothing more than freedom. When a man who's family was close to hers comes over and starts manhandling Belle, Grant rushes over and saves her. The two form a close friendship from this. They are also very attracted to each other but Belle knows that Grant is holding back due to his burns which she doesn't even care about as she sees the man underneath the scars and that is who she is really attracted to.
After an attempted break in one night at Belle's house Grant can no longer stand back and has Belle come and stay with him while his brothers set up her house with a good security system. While staying at Grant's she is attacked in the pool and almost drowns. And after another attack her job Grant comes to realize that she has a stalker. But what Grant doesn't realize is the stalker is actually someone from his past on the Miami PD. Will he be able to continue to save Belle from this madman??
I've always had a thing for Beauty and the Beast type stories. I love it when the hero/beast finally realizes that a man's worth comes from the inside not the outside.
Belle Manikas is from a large Greek family that has hovered over her all of her life since her multiple heart surgeries when she was a child. She wants nothing more than freedom. When a man who's family was close to hers comes over and starts manhandling Belle, Grant rushes over and saves her. The two form a close friendship from this. They are also very attracted to each other but Belle knows that Grant is holding back due to his burns which she doesn't even care about as she sees the man underneath the scars and that is who she is really attracted to.
After an attempted break in one night at Belle's house Grant can no longer stand back and has Belle come and stay with him while his brothers set up her house with a good security system. While staying at Grant's she is attacked in the pool and almost drowns. And after another attack her job Grant comes to realize that she has a stalker. But what Grant doesn't realize is the stalker is actually someone from his past on the Miami PD. Will he be able to continue to save Belle from this madman??
I've always had a thing for Beauty and the Beast type stories. I love it when the hero/beast finally realizes that a man's worth comes from the inside not the outside.
October 2, 2014
Danger Next Door – Grant Caldwell
5 STARS
In this book we have Grant Caldwell. Grant is working for the Miami Police Department as a detective and one night while out with swat busting a cocaine ring things go very wrong. In order to save a young boy he has to throw himself on top of him and takes the brunt of an explosion. That explosion has caused all kinds of feelings in Grant and he doesn’t know yet how to accept things. He is no longer on the police force as he is on disability leave and he doesn’t want to work for his fathers company Red Stone Securitys. One day he notices his neighbor who just recently had moved in and of course he has seen her before but never this good. He has all kinds of thoughts and feelings running through his mind but then he doesn’t think of himself as ever having a sexy beautiful woman like that again in his life. He is so ashamed of his scars and his limp. One evening while out grilling he hears shouting / arguing coming from the neighbors back yard and he goes to check it out and comes upon a man bullying the beautiful green eyed woman. Of course its Grant to the rescue. From that moment on they become friends and she introduces herself as Belle. Throughout this story someone is trying to kidnap / get to belle. Grant has had Red Stone Security put in high tech alarm system and has 2 bodyguards shadowing her but one morning things have gone all wrong. He gets a call and now knows who has taken belle. He also knows he is madly inlove with her. After their time together expecially in the shower and after the shower. HOT HOT HOT …
Can Grant save her?
Will they have a happily ever after?
GO PICKUP your copy of this book !!!!
Read and Reviewed as part of a book bundle
5 STARS
In this book we have Grant Caldwell. Grant is working for the Miami Police Department as a detective and one night while out with swat busting a cocaine ring things go very wrong. In order to save a young boy he has to throw himself on top of him and takes the brunt of an explosion. That explosion has caused all kinds of feelings in Grant and he doesn’t know yet how to accept things. He is no longer on the police force as he is on disability leave and he doesn’t want to work for his fathers company Red Stone Securitys. One day he notices his neighbor who just recently had moved in and of course he has seen her before but never this good. He has all kinds of thoughts and feelings running through his mind but then he doesn’t think of himself as ever having a sexy beautiful woman like that again in his life. He is so ashamed of his scars and his limp. One evening while out grilling he hears shouting / arguing coming from the neighbors back yard and he goes to check it out and comes upon a man bullying the beautiful green eyed woman. Of course its Grant to the rescue. From that moment on they become friends and she introduces herself as Belle. Throughout this story someone is trying to kidnap / get to belle. Grant has had Red Stone Security put in high tech alarm system and has 2 bodyguards shadowing her but one morning things have gone all wrong. He gets a call and now knows who has taken belle. He also knows he is madly inlove with her. After their time together expecially in the shower and after the shower. HOT HOT HOT …
Can Grant save her?
Will they have a happily ever after?
GO PICKUP your copy of this book !!!!
Read and Reviewed as part of a book bundle
June 3, 2012
Grant notices his new neighbor the moment she moves into the house next door. He can’t help but notice her, she’s beautiful. He also believes that his burn scars will scare her. Belle is thankful that her neighbor is around when she is attacked in her new back yard. On her own for the first time in her life she finds having the former detective right next door a comfort. The fact that he is protective and handsome is just an added bonus.
Grant and Belle are trying to figure out what is beginning between them. The mutual attraction is there. They enjoy the time together, but someone keeps attacking Belle. While this keeps Belle close to Grant he wants to find the person behind it. The violence of the attacks are rapidly escalating and her life is in constant danger.
I loved Grant and Belle’s characters. Belle’s blunt, holds nothing back personality is exactly what Grant needed. Grant tried to hide away from the world after he was left scarred by an explosion. He still has his all of the instincts and protectiveness that the military and law enforcement work engrained in him. His issues stem from having recently had his view about his personal appearance changed. He is still physically and mentally healing. Belle works at a hospital and has been through some medical problems of her own. She knows how to handle many of the emotional problems Grant is struggling with.
Having not read the first book in Katie’s Red Stone Security series I can easily say this book works as a stand-alone. The characters from the first book are mentioned, but they do not have an actual role in this book.
Grant and Belle are trying to figure out what is beginning between them. The mutual attraction is there. They enjoy the time together, but someone keeps attacking Belle. While this keeps Belle close to Grant he wants to find the person behind it. The violence of the attacks are rapidly escalating and her life is in constant danger.
I loved Grant and Belle’s characters. Belle’s blunt, holds nothing back personality is exactly what Grant needed. Grant tried to hide away from the world after he was left scarred by an explosion. He still has his all of the instincts and protectiveness that the military and law enforcement work engrained in him. His issues stem from having recently had his view about his personal appearance changed. He is still physically and mentally healing. Belle works at a hospital and has been through some medical problems of her own. She knows how to handle many of the emotional problems Grant is struggling with.
Having not read the first book in Katie’s Red Stone Security series I can easily say this book works as a stand-alone. The characters from the first book are mentioned, but they do not have an actual role in this book.
June 3, 2019
All things considered, this heroine is one of the luckiest, unluckiest book characters I’ve come across in a long time. Despite the life threatening situations she keeps finding herself, at least she finds true love in the midst of all this seemingly senseless, unprovoked attacks. It’s like she’s got a target on her back. Fortunately for her, Grant isn’t going to let the bad guy get his death wish.
Belle breezes into Grant’s life like a lifeline, folks. Physically and emotionally scarred after getting injured on the job, he’s been struggling to get back into the swing of things again. His instant attraction to Belle begins him on the path of healing and recovery.
As usual, this author never seems to fail at giving me an alpha protective, possessive, good guy hero and a leading lady I can’t help but root for. If this storyline intrigues you, well, you are the lucky one now. Turns out this book is just one of a 15 book series. Each one is a standalone but connected to this group of macho, lovable, private security book heroes.
Title: Danger Next Door, Series: Red Stone Security (Book 2), Author: Katie Reus, Pages: 176, stand-alone but part of a series, scarred alpha protective hero, damsel in distress heroine, very steamy scenes, romance safe.
(I voluntarily read and reviewed a free 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.)
Belle breezes into Grant’s life like a lifeline, folks. Physically and emotionally scarred after getting injured on the job, he’s been struggling to get back into the swing of things again. His instant attraction to Belle begins him on the path of healing and recovery.
As usual, this author never seems to fail at giving me an alpha protective, possessive, good guy hero and a leading lady I can’t help but root for. If this storyline intrigues you, well, you are the lucky one now. Turns out this book is just one of a 15 book series. Each one is a standalone but connected to this group of macho, lovable, private security book heroes.
Title: Danger Next Door, Series: Red Stone Security (Book 2), Author: Katie Reus, Pages: 176, stand-alone but part of a series, scarred alpha protective hero, damsel in distress heroine, very steamy scenes, romance safe.
(I voluntarily read and reviewed a free 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.)
November 28, 2012
Grant Caldwell loved being a cop, but after a explosion during a drug bust leaves him scarred he finds himself hiding out in his house and wondering what direction he life will go. Enter new neighbor Belle Manikas.
Belle, a OB/Gyn nurse, moves next door to Grant to finally make her independent stance with her family. Too bad, her independent streak is marred by a stalker that her sexy neighbor is determined to save her from. Too bad it seems her stalker has more to do with getting Grant back in the game than coming after her.
I LOVED this addition to the Red Stone Security series. Grant is perfect as the scarred hero, all broody and bitter while still honor bound to protect those that need it. Unfortunately, all Grant saw of himself now was the scars from the blast and not the man he is at his core. That's why Belle was his perfect woman. She saw past the scars, immediately to see just what kind of man Grant was.
I enjoyed the storyline with the serial killer managing to pull Grant out of his pity party and working for Red Stone. It was a little disturbing to think a serial killer could obtain the name and address of a ex-cop in hopes of continuing his game, but it totally kept you on the edge of your seat...which was a lot of fun.
Awesome, awesome read.
Belle, a OB/Gyn nurse, moves next door to Grant to finally make her independent stance with her family. Too bad, her independent streak is marred by a stalker that her sexy neighbor is determined to save her from. Too bad it seems her stalker has more to do with getting Grant back in the game than coming after her.
I LOVED this addition to the Red Stone Security series. Grant is perfect as the scarred hero, all broody and bitter while still honor bound to protect those that need it. Unfortunately, all Grant saw of himself now was the scars from the blast and not the man he is at his core. That's why Belle was his perfect woman. She saw past the scars, immediately to see just what kind of man Grant was.
I enjoyed the storyline with the serial killer managing to pull Grant out of his pity party and working for Red Stone. It was a little disturbing to think a serial killer could obtain the name and address of a ex-cop in hopes of continuing his game, but it totally kept you on the edge of your seat...which was a lot of fun.
Awesome, awesome read.
February 18, 2013
I really enjoyed this read. The characters were fleshed out. I also really liked Belle as a heroine. She was confident, strong, bold, and what she want, she went after & and that was Grant. Grant was also a great hero: protective, loving & sexy. Furthermore, the plot & storyline were well-developed. The pacing was good. I never got bored while reading and I liked the suspense that was provided in the story. This story was packed with just the right amount of heat, action, and twist and turns. I also loved the sizzling tension between Grant & Belle. They didn't jump in between the sheets within minutes of meeting each other which I always appreciate. Author Reus built up the sexual tension throughout the story & once Grant & Belle got together, it was explosive! ;)
I also loved this story due to the beauty and the beast theme. Grant is insecure & self-conscious about the physical scars that mark his body & left cheek, but Belle is not repulsed by this. Instead, she accepts him just the way he is. Overall, Danger Next Door was an entertaining read & definitely a good and sexy romantic suspense to get lost into. Highly recommend!
I also loved this story due to the beauty and the beast theme. Grant is insecure & self-conscious about the physical scars that mark his body & left cheek, but Belle is not repulsed by this. Instead, she accepts him just the way he is. Overall, Danger Next Door was an entertaining read & definitely a good and sexy romantic suspense to get lost into. Highly recommend!
March 16, 2014
Entertaining, but I think the story and characters could have used some fleshing out. There was no depth. The conversations between H and h seemed superficial. It's only been 6 months after the explosion that severely scarred Grant and forced him into retirement. The author tells us he's been depressed, has had dark moods, goes to physical therapy, etc., but I'd rather be shown it than told. Another example: it's repeatedly mentioned that Belle's family is overprotective and slightly overbearing, but they only appear at the end of book! Belle has just moved out on her house, ignores their phone calls, and they know the cops are investigating something to do with her, yet her "overprotective" parents and siblings are no where around. That just doesn't mesh. I expected some family member to come barging in at an inopportune time. The 'madman' storyline was a little weak and ridiculous, but it served its purpose. Also a nitpick: the there was so much barking going on (as in 'a bark of laughter' or 'he barked a command') I thought we were moving into a shifter romance.
Despite these flaws, I enjoyed the book and plan to read another in the series.
Despite these flaws, I enjoyed the book and plan to read another in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 20, 2019
When Belle moves into her first house she is excited about being on her own. She doesn't know however what's about to occur and flip her world upside down. After meeting her neighbor for the first time during an argument with a childhood friend she is convinced he is going to think she is the worst neighbor possible. When he invites her over for lunch they are both surprised.
When Grant hears his new neighbor in an argument he has no idea that going to her aid is going to lead to an invite for lunch. After all, he doesn't want to see or talk to anyone. His self pity over his burns are keeping him like a hermit in his house. He doesn't care to change it today. But it sounds like he just invited his new gorgeous neighbor to lunch, at his house. Did he really just do that?
Read what develops between the neighbor when her life is in danger and he steps in to save her.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When Grant hears his new neighbor in an argument he has no idea that going to her aid is going to lead to an invite for lunch. After all, he doesn't want to see or talk to anyone. His self pity over his burns are keeping him like a hermit in his house. He doesn't care to change it today. But it sounds like he just invited his new gorgeous neighbor to lunch, at his house. Did he really just do that?
Read what develops between the neighbor when her life is in danger and he steps in to save her.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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