Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Protecting the Enemy

Rate this book
Julianna Fox was made for her job. Or so she is told. The only memory Julianna has of her past is after the explosion. She was a nameless victim until a man pulled her out of the darkness and gave her new life. A new purpose, because anything is better than being no one. When she is about to eliminate her next mark something stops her. The moment Julianna makes eye contact with Reid Castleton, she has a flashback of her forgotten past. How does she know the man? And why can’t she follow through with her assignment?

Expert assassin, Reid Castleton, has been told to kill the only woman he ever loved if he wants to live. When he finds his fiancée, he can’t go through with the hit, even if it means losing his own life. Either she can’t remember who she is or is damn good at acting.

Neither one knows who to trust. Both make a truce until they can find out why the leader of ETE 7 wants them both dead. What they uncover is a long line of lies and deception that started the moment Julianna was conceived. Will love conquer all or will fear make them do the unthinkable?

273 pages, Paperback

First published September 3, 2014

4 people are currently reading
133 people want to read

About the author

Christy Newton

31 books140 followers
Published by Simon & Schuster, author Christy Newton is a hopeless romantic with a weakness for warm cookies and dark chocolate. She writes many sub-genres of romance. She currently has over a dozen published books, and is tapping away on her next. She lives in Indiana with her husband, and two amazing daughters. You can learn more about Christy on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Christ... and be sure to follow her on Twitter @CNewtonAuthor

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
24 (57%)
4 stars
7 (16%)
3 stars
8 (19%)
2 stars
2 (4%)
1 star
1 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Jane Hunt.
Author 3 books113 followers
September 16, 2014
Protecting the Enemy by Christy Newton

Jane Hunt Writer First Steps

Jane Hunt Writer Book Reviews Facebook

Jane Hunt Writer Book Reviews Google+

'Protecting the Enemy' is a fast paced, romantic thriller. The suspense is absorbing. You definitely want to know what happens next to Julianna and Reid; two characters that give the story its humour and poignancy.

The heat level of this novel is more sensual than sweet, which fits with the assassin profiles of the heroine and hero. The love scenes enhance the story's emotion and conflict.

The author's gift of setting the scene for the story's action and conflict is a signature of her writing, which she uses to great effect here. It's the attention to detail and vivid descriptions that make 'Protecting the Enemy' believable, easy to visualise and engage with.

The plot is contemporary and she doesn't shy away from some graphic details for authenticity. The twists are gentle and there is no chance of losing your way with this story.

Julianna is a kick ass heroine with a conscience that threatens to destroy her when she finds out the truth. Reid wants to carve out an identity for himself to escape from his less than ideal upbringing.

A vivid, action packed read with lots of heartfelt emotion, thrills and plenty of sensual heat.

I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.



Christy Newton

Profile Image for Toni.
67 reviews3 followers
October 10, 2014
Christy has done it again!!!!!! Outstanding job on this incredible book. Wow is all I can say. I was always wondering thru this book whom the real enemy was lots of twists and turns kept you wanting to turn the page. Christy Newton has a knack at being able to create a story that is full of intrigue. She seamlessly writes across the genres pulling in thriller, romance and a bit of general hotness into her books.

I had a picture in my mind of every scene as it was so brilliantly detailed.

I really felt I knew Julianna and Reid. I could see both of their conflict. Julianna didn’t know whether she could trust Reid, and he was trying to get her to remember their life before she forgot. They had to trust each other to stay alive and work out why Boss had ordered the kill. Who was he? Who was he working for? Like I said it had me turning the pages as this was a well thought out book right to the end.

The twists and turns of this mystery was easy to follow of what was going on but not predictable at all of what was going to happen next which kept you wondering. Some crime stories are hard to follow but not this one and as I said it was so brilliantly done I was totally happy for Christy that she could make this book such a damn good mystery book.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I would definitely recommend it. Christy can't say enough about this incredible amazing book you wrote your an amazing writer. I had read all of Christy's books up to date and loved them all. You so have to read this book you will fall in love with it like I did.
Thanks Christy for writing such an amazing mystery with just the right amount of romance in it.
Profile Image for Rob.
361 reviews46 followers
February 8, 2015
Christy Newton has a knack at being able to create a story that is full of intrigue. She seamlessly writes across the genres pulling in thriller, romance and a bit of general hotness into her books.

While Christy’s writing style is quite flowery and descriptive, I don’t think it takes anything away from the flow of the story. I had a picture in my mind of every scene, directed by the author. The story moved along at a good pace and has enough mystery and likeable characters to keep you wanting more, to keep you wanting to turn the next page.

That’s another thing about Christy, she writes great characters and fully explores their personalities and traits. I really felt I knew Julianna and Reid. I could see both of their conflict. Julianna didn’t know whether she could trust Reid, and he was trying to get her to remember their life before she forgot. They had to trust each other to stay alive and work out why Boss had ordered the kill. Who was he? Who was he working for? Certainly had my head in a spin trying to work out all the questions that this book posed to me and also what I was asking myself as I was reading.

I am rubbish at crime-solving. I struggle to follow the twists and turns of a thriller or mystery, but Christy makes it easy to follow what's going on. I was never lost in a complicated plot twist. This story wasn't predictable though, it kept me wondering and guessing until the pieces started to fall into place!

I really enjoyed this book. I would definitely recommend it. Christy Newton’s writing improves with every book she writes and I put her at the top of my “to read” list every time I see she’s about to publish a new book.

5 mysterious stars from me.
Profile Image for Andrea Huseman.
148 reviews5 followers
September 9, 2014
Wow! Just wow! I wish there was a higher rating than a 5 for this book. It truly is one of the best books I have read. When you see a cover like this one you suspect the inside will be just as intriguing. Let there be no confusion here:: beautiful cover and magnificent story. I was immediately drawn into the storyline and characters. The description does a great job,but once you start reading, there is so much more. I was hooked from word one. Sitting on the edge of my seat reading. I so desperately had to know what happened next. This isn't a simple sweet storyline. It is full of emotion, suspense, drama, action, and so many twists. The writing style makes it so easy to follow and keep up. I never felt lost or confused. Prepare to fall crazy over the characters. Superb writing of each role. I actually could visualize not only the characters but the settings. Outstanding descriptive terminology. Dialogue and interaction of roles very well done. A storyline must seem realistic. I always want to feel like I know the characters personally.- like I am standing right beside them. This one well:: I was knee deep. I even found myself cheering and talking out loud. I do think we see this author stepping outside of her norm with this one. Some different tones and actions by the characters( don't want to give to much away). Very impressive !!!!! Love when the norm genre is stretched or a complete new genre is written. If your looking for a magnificent read THIS IS IT!!!!!! You definitely want to go on this high speed who done it? chase. Spend some time running, jumping, shooting, climbing, etc... while trying to decide how will it end.. I highly recommend....AndreaGH
Author 3 books91 followers
September 17, 2014
Christy Newton knows how to write an intense, suspenseful read; but has the ability to make you sympathize and want to know more about the characters, story line/plot from start to finish.

Protecting the Enemy is an amazing story of Julianne and Reid. You will find Julianne unsure of her past, who she is and is determined to figure it out with Reid even if she doesn't trust him.

You will find Reid sympathetic, loving, caring, kind and protective of the only woman he's ever loved; his fiancee who happens to be/supposedly is the enemy.


These two are amazing. I loved the spunk and awesome assassin abilities Julianne had. I think she was an amazing heroine and enjoyed watching her from start to finish.

Reid.. what can I say about this man? He's loving, kind, protective, overall an amazing loving man! Oh and not to mention a hot assassin. ;)

If you love an action packed book filled with memories, love, intense attraction, suspense of who/what is after them, surprises and more this book is definitely for you!
You won't be disappointed in this high packed suspenseful read by Christy Newton.

By far, this is Christy's best book to date and the sexiest book she's written yet!

What an amazing book. Sexy (check), intense attraction (check), hot leading/loving man (check), kick ass heroine who isn't afraid to get dirty (check) and suspense/death/killing/intrigue (check)

5 stars from me!

*Was given copy in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for ✨the one with all the books✨.
771 reviews30 followers
September 9, 2014
Newton brings us another fast-paced, suspenseful romance with Protecting the Enemy. Newton offers a little more steamy, yet tasteful, sexuality in this new story about Julianna and Reid who are assassins with heart. Both are led to believe that they are killing for the "right reasons" and discover that things are not what they seem to be.

Julianna wakes up in a hospital with total memory loss. Her rescuer gives her a new life and identity, as an assassin. When she meets her next mark, Reid, something finally flashes in her memory and she hesitates. What follows is a brief cat and mouse between the two as they each try to figure out the truth of the situation. Reid has been ordered to kill Julianna because she has switched sides and is working for the enemy, but when they both discover that they were taking orders from the same person, they realize that nothing is as it seems. Suddenly they are on a mission to discover why their boss pitted them against each other and wanted them both dead when they both had been doing exactly what was asked of them.

The story has a few twists and turns, which builds the suspense. Weasel is an interesting and fun/nerdy character that I am happy to see stayed with them throughout the story as a sort-of sidekick, providing them with technical assistance. This is definitely the best out of all of Newton's books so far.
337 reviews2 followers
September 28, 2014
One thing you can be sure of when you read a Christy Newton book is that you will be immersed in the story. She has a knack of writing interesting characters that you can relate to. They are believable and likeable. You either love to love them or love to hate them.

This book is a fast paced thriller with a romance thrown in. It's not graphic, it's proper romance. Reid and Julianna work as characters because all their actions are justified. Julianna's mistrust of Reid had to be set aside so they could work together to find out what ETE7 was all about and why they wanted them dead. I puzzled along side of them to work out what was going on and why.

I love the way Ms Newton paints a scene with her penmanship. You feel like you are watching a movie come alive on the page. Her character development is excellent with just enough details that you can picture them, in fact you feel like you know them.

Christy Newton is always at the top of my to read list. I dive into her books because I know I am in for a good read and I have never been disappointed. I can, quite frankly, lose myself in her books.
Profile Image for Book Junky Girls.
840 reviews33 followers
September 5, 2014
4.5 Stars

Julianna woke up with no memory of her life and a man who came in to give her a job. Six months later and her current assignment is different somehow. The moment she looks into the eyes of her target something inside her snaps, she knows him sje just can't remember him.

Reid was told she went rogue and needed to be taken out, but one look at her and he just can't do it. When he realizes they are being played he has to get Julianna to trust him as he once did so together they can figure out just what's going on.

Julianna is strong willed and determined, she trusts her instincts even when she evidence seems to point her in another direction.

Reid is sweet and caring, he sees things for what they are and will do whatever he has to if it's for the right cause.

These two seem like they butt heads, but you can see by how they work together and how they are around each other that they are perfect together.

I loved the mystery in the story and going along with the characters as they went along to uncover the truth and make things better for themselves.
Profile Image for Leslie.
59 reviews
September 24, 2014
I loved this book, it has a Mr. & Mrs. Smith feel to it with Reid & Julianne both being assassins working for an agency cloaked in secrecy, the book had lots of mystery, action and some steamy romance! I loved the pace of this story, it was fast and kept me on my toes at times waiting to see what was going to happen. The flow of the story was easy to follow and trying to solve the mystery was fun and exciting. Christy has a way with setting the scene as you read so you can envision it in your mind easily.

I loved Reid & Julianne, they are one of my favorite book couples to date! Their interactions with each other from the very beginning were entertaining, heated and witty, the slow build of what was once to what is now and the emotions that came along as hidden truths were revealed felt real and brought them more to life as I read.

Overall I would recommend this story for anyone who likes a good, steamy romance mixed with intrigue and action!

I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Davidandkelley Crandall.
73 reviews9 followers
October 5, 2014
Newton has written a book full of intrigue, action and steamy romance without going overboard. Her attention to detail is impeccable, especially with the characters as I felt like I had a true depiction of Reid and Julianna. The plot twists were true to life and schemes fun to follow without being overly complicated.

I appreciated the character development and loved reading about Julianna who had to trust in Reid when everyday life this is difficult, Newton has created a unique situation where romance, trust, memories and love are perfectly combined to complete a story that left me satisfied. If you’re looking for a gripping and fast-moving storyline this one does not fail. Will continue following this author in future reads!

~The Book Stalker Reviewed
Profile Image for Monica Tillery.
Author 30 books32 followers
March 14, 2015
Great read by Christy Newton! Two assassins are in love, but only one of them remembers. Julianne struggles to remember who she was, and who the sexy man in love with her is, after finding that she can't remember anything in her past. The only thing for sure is that they're in danger and her attraction to Reid is real, even if she doesn't remember him. The two team up to find out who their mysterious "Boss" is, what's going on, and who's behind everything. If they happen to fall in love all over again along the way, then who can blame them?
In Protecting the Enemy, you'll find an intriguing story of danger, mystery, and action, along with a satisfying dose of romance.
Profile Image for Rowena May O'Sullivan.
Author 9 books42 followers
September 26, 2014
I really enjoyed Protecting the Enemy. I think it's very clever to write about two characters, Jewels and Reid, who are assassins and provide them both with valid reasons for what they are doing and for them to find a way out of their dilemma so that they can spend the rest of their life together without fear. The heat between the protagonists is hot without being explicit which I appreciate. This book is well written with good characterization and an excellent mix of romance and suspense to keep you guessing.

I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Susanne Matthews.
62 reviews6 followers
October 2, 2014
Move Over Mr. and Mrs. Smith!

Protecting the Enemy, the newest romantic suspense novel from Christy Newton, is a captivating read from start to finish. Imagine waking up with no memory and discovering you're a trained assassin, and then finding out the mark you're supposed to kill is gunning for you. Who do you trust? The pacing in the novel is excellent, the descriptions realistic, and the chemistry between the characters explosive. While I've enjoyed all of Ms. Newton's books, I consider this one of her best. Bravo!
516 reviews5 followers
September 27, 2014
Christy Newton has done it again. Another must read. Reid and Julianna, loved them as a couple. Another reviewer mentioned a Mr. and Mrs. Smith feel to this book. I thought the same thing. As I was reading I could picture Brad and Angelina playing the roles of Reid and Julianna. This book has it all, a love story, mystery and intrigue. This book has everything that keeps me turning the page and coming back to the author each time she publishes a book.
Profile Image for Crystal Holloway.
157 reviews3 followers
September 27, 2014
Miss Newton really grabs you by the heart and draws you in with this romantic suspense! This is my favorite book of hers yet! Captivating and relatable Characters, intriguing story and lots of romance - my prescription for a great read!
Profile Image for Melissa.
183 reviews4 followers
April 24, 2018
Loved this from the word go! Fast paced romance with characters you want to read forever. I was drawn into this great story and found myself thinking about when I could sneak away from "mom" duties to get more of my fix. Juliana and Reid are a fantastic couple, they brought depth to the story and carried the mystery and suspense brilliantly.
18 reviews
January 16, 2016
Suprising

I have read a number of her books now and have always finished them and felt a wave of calm as love wins out. This book intrigued me and I wasn't sure what Julianne memories would reveal. It had the opportunity to have a bitter ending. However I was not disappointed when love, trust and hope won out.
Profile Image for Shelley Matlack kinder.
54 reviews
June 26, 2015
Love

I loved this story. It was different and it still has happy ending. Jewels goes through a lot but with Reid by her side they come through it
Profile Image for Nancy Weeks.
Author 28 books153 followers
May 1, 2017
This is the first book I have read from Christy Newton. All this review really needs to really say is, Thank you, Ms. Newton for a great ride. I instantly fell in love with the heroine, Julianna Fox, Jewels. What a mess she had on her hands. But she wasn’t alone in her troubles. The relationship between Julianna and Reid Castleton is so complicated, but by the end of the story, just perfect. There were a couple slow spots but the pacing picked up. Of course, my eyes and brain could have been on overdrive. This is an action packed, suspenseful and exciting story. I read it from start to finish over the weekend--nothing else got done. I can't wait to get another Christy Newton book downloaded.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.