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Collateral Damage #2
Damage
We’re a match made in hell, Stefan and I.
He took me to exact his revenge. I went from being a pawn to my father to being a pawn to Stefan. The only difference is I have a ring the size of a boulder on my finger and a husband I don’t want.
And the hardest part is I thought he was different. I thought I was falling in love.
I guess my father was right. I’m not a very smart girl.
Stefan is a powerful man. He doesn’t play nice, not if you’re his enemy. But I've learned one thing about my husband.
He takes care of what’s his
And I am his.
His enemies have become my enemies, but he’ll never let anyone hurt me. He’s fiercely protective. It’s the predator inside that scares me.
He took me to exact his revenge. I went from being a pawn to my father to being a pawn to Stefan. The only difference is I have a ring the size of a boulder on my finger and a husband I don’t want.
And the hardest part is I thought he was different. I thought I was falling in love.
I guess my father was right. I’m not a very smart girl.
Stefan is a powerful man. He doesn’t play nice, not if you’re his enemy. But I've learned one thing about my husband.
He takes care of what’s his
And I am his.
His enemies have become my enemies, but he’ll never let anyone hurt me. He’s fiercely protective. It’s the predator inside that scares me.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 15, 2019
1,126 people are currently reading
2,429 people want to read
About the author
Natasha Knight
101 books5,089 followersNatasha Knight is the USA Today Bestselling author of Romantic Suspense and Dark Romance Novels. She has sold over a million books and is translated into six languages. She currently lives in The Netherlands with her husband and two daughters and when she’s not writing, she’s walking in the woods listening to a book, sitting in a corner reading or off exploring the world as often as she can get away.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 516 reviews
October 19, 2019
This was the conclusion in the duet and I enjoyed this instalment a lot more than the first! I found Stefan’s softer side came out way more than in the first book. This helped me like him more seeing that he wasn’t all bad. Do keep in mind he is an antihero... When he wants to be a jerk, he does it very well! I still wonder how Gabriela put up with him!!!
Secrets come out and betrayals are revealed too. For the most part I was able to guess who betrayed Stefan, but I was still interested in all that was going on!
Another enjoyable read from Natasha Knight! I have read quite a few of her books already, but can’t wait to see what she brings to the table next! She is definitely an author to check out if you like a little darkness in your stories!
Secrets come out and betrayals are revealed too. For the most part I was able to guess who betrayed Stefan, but I was still interested in all that was going on!
Another enjoyable read from Natasha Knight! I have read quite a few of her books already, but can’t wait to see what she brings to the table next! She is definitely an author to check out if you like a little darkness in your stories!
July 16, 2020
Lost interest
August 8, 2020
3.5 “One-heroic-act-does-not-a-hero-make” stars 🌟
I’m a monster, I know that. What would she think if she knew exactly what I did? Would she run from me?
As if I’d let her go.
After that cliffhanger in Collateral, I was so looking forward to Damage.
This book, like it's previous one, is fast-paced and filled with tons of action.
What's not here is the slow-burn chemistry between the MCs that I adored in Collateral. What the hell happened here? I was so weirded out by the sex scenes!
Also, what about character development? How did Gabriella become such a doormat-crybaby? She literally cries in almost all the chapters (there are 35 of them). I get that she's 18 and all, but I don't think I've cried half as much in all my life as she did in a single book!
If I cry one more tear, I’m going to rip out my own tear ducts.
Yeah girl, no kidding!
Stefan is such an asshole in this book, I don't know what to say.
There are two sides to Stefan Sabbioni. Maybe more than two. One is violent, filled with rage. The other is the one who carried me out of that well. The one who swore he’d never let anyone hurt me again.
I don’t know if I can reconcile the two.
Well, I don't know either!
“I can be gentle, Gabriela. And I want to be gentle with you.”
He says this and proceeds to whip her with his belt. On their wedding eve. I just, can't even.
*sits and shudders*
I have no idea when they fell in love; but apparently they do:
“I love you, Stefan. I remember the first time you said that. I told you I hated you and you said I didn’t. You said that I loved you. That was when I knew.”
What kind of twisted logic is that?
By the end of the book there were still quite a few loose ends. I guess I just had a lot of expectations from this one. *sigh*
Any luck I’ve ever had has been bad.
The best thing about this book for me was probably this quote:
I’m a monster, I know that. What would she think if she knew exactly what I did? Would she run from me?
As if I’d let her go.
After that cliffhanger in Collateral, I was so looking forward to Damage.
This book, like it's previous one, is fast-paced and filled with tons of action.
What's not here is the slow-burn chemistry between the MCs that I adored in Collateral. What the hell happened here? I was so weirded out by the sex scenes!
Also, what about character development? How did Gabriella become such a doormat-crybaby? She literally cries in almost all the chapters (there are 35 of them). I get that she's 18 and all, but I don't think I've cried half as much in all my life as she did in a single book!
If I cry one more tear, I’m going to rip out my own tear ducts.
Yeah girl, no kidding!
Stefan is such an asshole in this book, I don't know what to say.
There are two sides to Stefan Sabbioni. Maybe more than two. One is violent, filled with rage. The other is the one who carried me out of that well. The one who swore he’d never let anyone hurt me again.
I don’t know if I can reconcile the two.
Well, I don't know either!
“I can be gentle, Gabriela. And I want to be gentle with you.”
He says this and proceeds to whip her with his belt. On their wedding eve. I just, can't even.
*sits and shudders*
I have no idea when they fell in love; but apparently they do:
“I love you, Stefan. I remember the first time you said that. I told you I hated you and you said I didn’t. You said that I loved you. That was when I knew.”
What kind of twisted logic is that?
By the end of the book there were still quite a few loose ends. I guess I just had a lot of expectations from this one. *sigh*
Any luck I’ve ever had has been bad.
The best thing about this book for me was probably this quote:
“I’m not sure what’s more beautiful,” she starts. “The sunsets or the sunrises.”
“Maybe it depends on the day. If you need a beginning or an ending.”
October 28, 2019
I liked the first one a little bit better, but overall this duet was more of a miss for me. I just don’t understand why they love each other. There was no special moments or deep conversations and really to me if anything there’s only lust between them. Also Gabriela got on my nerves! She cries all the time and acts stupidly. I know she’s just 18 but it was just too much! I knew who the traitor was all along too, so there was no surprises either.
March 27, 2021
she was so annoying 😭
October 16, 2019
3.5 STARS
I'm pretty sure I almost had a damn heart attack after the cliffhanger in Collateral. I was absolutely hooked on the story and salivating for more. There was something so intense and addicting about this enemies to lovers romance. It was especially delicious considering how slow burn the romance was. Stefan and Gabriela burned up the pages together with their chemistry, and we didn't even get a taste for the romance yet. So to say that I was anticipating the second and final book would be a mild understatement.
Damage starts off with a bang and is a non-stop, twisty, page turner full of dark secrets and betrayals. I was riveted to the pages and couldn't wait to see how everything comes to a head. And let me tell you, people, there's some real whoppers of twists in this one that had my head reeling. I love a good mafia romance, and this one spared no details on the dark underbelly of the world. I didn't quite click with Gabi and Stafan here as much as I did in the first book. It seemed like they went from 0 to 60 in a turn of a page, and I had a hard time buying into it. That's not to say I didn't enjoy it, because I did. But I think my own personal bias was at play here and I just set up my expectations too high. This was still one high-octane and sizzling read, and I enjoyed it quite a bit.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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But she is who she is. The devil’s daughter. And I just brokered my own deal. I’ve stolen her. And I’m not finished yet.
I'm pretty sure I almost had a damn heart attack after the cliffhanger in Collateral. I was absolutely hooked on the story and salivating for more. There was something so intense and addicting about this enemies to lovers romance. It was especially delicious considering how slow burn the romance was. Stefan and Gabriela burned up the pages together with their chemistry, and we didn't even get a taste for the romance yet. So to say that I was anticipating the second and final book would be a mild understatement.
Damage starts off with a bang and is a non-stop, twisty, page turner full of dark secrets and betrayals. I was riveted to the pages and couldn't wait to see how everything comes to a head. And let me tell you, people, there's some real whoppers of twists in this one that had my head reeling. I love a good mafia romance, and this one spared no details on the dark underbelly of the world. I didn't quite click with Gabi and Stafan here as much as I did in the first book. It seemed like they went from 0 to 60 in a turn of a page, and I had a hard time buying into it. That's not to say I didn't enjoy it, because I did. But I think my own personal bias was at play here and I just set up my expectations too high. This was still one high-octane and sizzling read, and I enjoyed it quite a bit.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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October 10, 2019
Damage is the twist worthy conclusion to the Collateral Damage Duet that we were waiting for with Baited breath from the moment we experienced that cliffhanger. Gabi and Stephen’s tumultuous relationship knew no bounds and if you thought things were crazy in book one, you’re in for one heck of ride with this one.
Coming off the anxiety ridden cliffhanger, this story immediately picked up from where it left off with Gabi being in trouble and Stephen trying to save her. Lines were crossed that night and unknown enemies were made but Steven was going to stop at nothing to keep his fiancé safe and back at his side. With time moving and threats getting to be more serious, getting to her is his only main focus and his enemies can wait in line.
Trying to whether the difficult storm, Gabi is still trying to adjust to her new life with being the fiancé of a infamous Mafioso. With the new title, comes new threats and betrayals and soon enough, Gabi is going to learn to either be a pawn in someone else’s game, or be a queen and hold the power.
I have to say that I really loved how these two characters interacted in the first book. There was a lot of hatred and built up anger between them but you also felt that undeniable chemistry and when Stephen gave you a glimpse of his other side, you wanted to stay in the moment a little bit longer and I really liked that. I didn’t enjoy Gabi and Stephen’s interactions too much with this one and If I’m being honest, Gabi annoyed me. I was not a fan of some of the decisions she made and I felt like she was overlooking some very important things.
Aside from that, I think that if you’re a fan of arranged Mafia romance, then you should definitely give this one a try. This author is going to suck you in with her writing and give you some of the most frustrating, loving, and dangerous characters you’ve ever come across.
August 22, 2023
Damage is the final conclusion of Stefan and Gabriella story. Like the previous book, Miss Knight delivers a sizzling hot chemistry.
The plot/ twist/ drama is enough to keep me on edge. It is after all a wonderful suspense romance. What makes me short giving 5 stars is Stefan. His behaviour is confusing. He seems want to insert himself as domininant. But his judgement/action/ behaviour makes me believe that he does not have enough alpha male to claim what is his. Nor do more dramatic action to punish Rafa.
Well I do not want to reveal too much plot in here. Overall this is a wonderful book.
4 stars
The plot/ twist/ drama is enough to keep me on edge. It is after all a wonderful suspense romance. What makes me short giving 5 stars is Stefan. His behaviour is confusing. He seems want to insert himself as domininant. But his judgement/action/ behaviour makes me believe that he does not have enough alpha male to claim what is his. Nor do more dramatic action to punish Rafa.
Well I do not want to reveal too much plot in here. Overall this is a wonderful book.
4 stars
November 1, 2019
This is the second part and I enjoyed this as much as the first.
This starts where the last book left off with Gabriella taken captive by persons unknown.
In this, we get to see glimpses of a more humane and caring version of Stefan right alongside his more usual extreme and harsh persona.
Stephan himself is his own worst enemy and here he struggles with what he ultimately wants and it seems the deeper he falls down the rabbit hole the more of a dick he is to Gabriella.
Sort of like a form of self-preservation if you will.
Gabriella herself is still behaving like a petulant child though but I do think there are signs that she is also starting to grow somewhat.
I have made some allowances for her tender age and the fact that she just doesn't know who to trust anymore, With so many unknown enemies some even hiding in plain sight her head is naturally in a spin, combine that with a husband that at times seems to have at times a split personality I think it's understandable that she's behaving the way she is.
The ultimate dynamic here between Gabriella and Stefan is all push and pull, light and dark as Stefan pushes his ownership of his new fiance to its very limit.
This second instalment also turns up the heat and this was scorching in terms of content.
This was well written and compelling reading this author always delivers consistently and manages to invest my attention just so easily.
Finally, I adored both the epilogues they were just so touching and heartfelt.
This is a great duet that I recommend especially if you like a dark bite with your romance.
I voluntary reviewed a copy of Damage.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
September 24, 2021
Loved it!
Well, it usually happens when I read one of Natasha Knight's books, lol...
So that makes me biased...haha
Nevermind that, this conclusion is a fine piece of action, fast paced storytelling, filled with impending tension and anticipation waiting to jump you on the next corner...*sigh* the hate/love/hate relationship the h and H have is more twisty and angsty than the mystery surrounding them...and I relished in it, inspite the "overacting" of the main heroine...
I actually loved Stefan more than Gabriela...LOL, surprise there...
I usually love male characters more than female ones BUT I have been surprising myself several times...
Well, it usually happens when I read one of Natasha Knight's books, lol...
So that makes me biased...haha
Nevermind that, this conclusion is a fine piece of action, fast paced storytelling, filled with impending tension and anticipation waiting to jump you on the next corner...*sigh* the hate/love/hate relationship the h and H have is more twisty and angsty than the mystery surrounding them...and I relished in it, inspite the "overacting" of the main heroine...
I actually loved Stefan more than Gabriela...LOL, surprise there...
I usually love male characters more than female ones BUT I have been surprising myself several times...
October 3, 2019
Ugh.... what can I say, I'm dying to read this.....Collateral was explosive as hell and I'm expecting no less out of Damage!
October 15, 2019
I liked the first book more than this one!
I didn’t like how Rafa is a traitor and somehow I hoped he and Stefan make up in the end! So Stefan is like a brother to him and he is the closest person to him till he finds out they are biological brothers? And Rafa is like “Oh okay let me be a fucking traitor help them kidnapped his wife throw her in well then take her to her father behind my *brother* back and let my father who I know hates me try to kill him just for me to jump in and take the bullet but yeah Stefan is my brother”
I really felt like He is his brother, aside from being his biological brother he was with him through the years! It’s not fair or rational! RAFA BEING A TRAITOR IS ONE BIG PIECE OF SHIT.
Stefan can call Rafa “brother” but can’t keep him close ? What kind of shit is this? Either he is a traitor or he is your Brother ! Gabriala was a traitor too I don’t see him pushing her away!
I hate how the things ended between them! They’re brothers for fucks sake! And they were like this before knowing they’re actual brothers! This kind of a bond doesn’t break for that kind of shitty reason which in my opinion Does not count as a Reason! So yeah I’m pissed at the writer for ruining Rafa’s character .
I also didn’t like how her father died! He wasn’t a good man he was punishing her! What is with this story everyone is hitting Gabriala and she is like “I’m a pawn” seriously?????
I didn’t like when stefan took his belt and hit her with it! I mean wtf was that? She’s 18 and he’s fucking 29!! She’s emotional but this was over cruelty! I now the writer trued to show us two sides of stefan but honestly? She failed, he can be dark without leashing her that way! I have read a lot of dark mafia romantic books but this scene was too much for me!
Also Gabriala was an idiotic disaster! Every three lines she cries? She can’t see because of the tears! One thing the writer was right about that she is indeed acting like a baby! Wtf is that ! And Trust Rafa after everything she saw!!! Stefan went to tell her once he knew for sure and she knew all along that the cage from her father! That Rafa is a traitor! I mean what is this?
I also don’t get when they got to love each other? There was no moments you know? When they talk and connect! It’s out of the blue that he loves her ! And she loves him? For treating her like a human and not the whole time? I didn’t get the love story it was more like a prisoner and her Jailor.
I got really sick of the story that I almost skipped to the end and I don’t know who killed Alex ? Who the fuck killed Alex?
I was excited to this book but it’s a huge disappointment. IMO the story could have been finished in the first book IDK what’s the point of this book other than Rafa being a traitor which still doesn’t make any sense.
I’ve read some of NK books and enjoyed them but this one? Big Fat NO.
I didn’t like how Rafa is a traitor and somehow I hoped he and Stefan make up in the end! So Stefan is like a brother to him and he is the closest person to him till he finds out they are biological brothers? And Rafa is like “Oh okay let me be a fucking traitor help them kidnapped his wife throw her in well then take her to her father behind my *brother* back and let my father who I know hates me try to kill him just for me to jump in and take the bullet but yeah Stefan is my brother”
I really felt like He is his brother, aside from being his biological brother he was with him through the years! It’s not fair or rational! RAFA BEING A TRAITOR IS ONE BIG PIECE OF SHIT.
Stefan can call Rafa “brother” but can’t keep him close ? What kind of shit is this? Either he is a traitor or he is your Brother ! Gabriala was a traitor too I don’t see him pushing her away!
I hate how the things ended between them! They’re brothers for fucks sake! And they were like this before knowing they’re actual brothers! This kind of a bond doesn’t break for that kind of shitty reason which in my opinion Does not count as a Reason! So yeah I’m pissed at the writer for ruining Rafa’s character .
I also didn’t like how her father died! He wasn’t a good man he was punishing her! What is with this story everyone is hitting Gabriala and she is like “I’m a pawn” seriously?????
I didn’t like when stefan took his belt and hit her with it! I mean wtf was that? She’s 18 and he’s fucking 29!! She’s emotional but this was over cruelty! I now the writer trued to show us two sides of stefan but honestly? She failed, he can be dark without leashing her that way! I have read a lot of dark mafia romantic books but this scene was too much for me!
Also Gabriala was an idiotic disaster! Every three lines she cries? She can’t see because of the tears! One thing the writer was right about that she is indeed acting like a baby! Wtf is that ! And Trust Rafa after everything she saw!!! Stefan went to tell her once he knew for sure and she knew all along that the cage from her father! That Rafa is a traitor! I mean what is this?
I also don’t get when they got to love each other? There was no moments you know? When they talk and connect! It’s out of the blue that he loves her ! And she loves him? For treating her like a human and not the whole time? I didn’t get the love story it was more like a prisoner and her Jailor.
I got really sick of the story that I almost skipped to the end and I don’t know who killed Alex ? Who the fuck killed Alex?
I was excited to this book but it’s a huge disappointment. IMO the story could have been finished in the first book IDK what’s the point of this book other than Rafa being a traitor which still doesn’t make any sense.
I’ve read some of NK books and enjoyed them but this one? Big Fat NO.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2019
Damage is the conclusion to the Collateral Damage Duet - This was a highly anticipated read for me after Collateral finished on a HUGE cliffhanger.
As action packed as the first book in the duet, Damage kept me intrigued with all the twist and turns in Gabi and Stefan's story.
Stefan and Gabriella's relationship is almost masochistic, their banter is high in tension and often leads to intense relations in the bedroom. (not that I am complaining) Gabi remains strong and steadfast in her character throughout and we get to see a softer side to Stephan.
I was a little disappointed in the wrap up and wanted a little more passion from Steph and Gabi but overall really enjoyed the story and can't wait to see what Natasha has in store for us next
As action packed as the first book in the duet, Damage kept me intrigued with all the twist and turns in Gabi and Stefan's story.
Stefan and Gabriella's relationship is almost masochistic, their banter is high in tension and often leads to intense relations in the bedroom. (not that I am complaining) Gabi remains strong and steadfast in her character throughout and we get to see a softer side to Stephan.
I was a little disappointed in the wrap up and wanted a little more passion from Steph and Gabi but overall really enjoyed the story and can't wait to see what Natasha has in store for us next
October 3, 2019
Gah!! DAMAGE WAS EVERYTHING I could have wanted in a Natasha Knight story and more! It was sexy and intense and full of unexpected twists and turns that blew my mind! I absolutely FLOVED this story! I wished away time just so I could be back with Stefan and Gabriela as I couldn't help but be swept away with the story and that crazy cliffhanger ending in Collateral. But OMG was Damage SO worth the wait! This story not only met my expectations but far surpassed and exceeded them. Damage was hands down brilliant!!!
After that harrowing ending in Collateral, Gabriela Marchese is now back with Stefan Sabbioni. But with tons of secrets and suspicions between them, it is hard for Gabriela to differentiate between protector and predator when she looks at Stefan. But with enemies coming from them in all different directions, Gabriela must determine her husband's true intentions before it's too late.
I absolutely loved this story. I loved how real and gripping it was as the emotions poured off the pages. The author did an incredible job making me feel Gabriela's connection to Stefan even when she didn't want to. Likewise, Stefan had to reconcile the man he was inside to the predator he became in the name of revenge. I loved seeing his priorities shift and how his feelings for Gabriela affected his decisions. This story was powerful, provocative and an all around winner! 5 stars! Bravo! ~Ratula
After that harrowing ending in Collateral, Gabriela Marchese is now back with Stefan Sabbioni. But with tons of secrets and suspicions between them, it is hard for Gabriela to differentiate between protector and predator when she looks at Stefan. But with enemies coming from them in all different directions, Gabriela must determine her husband's true intentions before it's too late.
I absolutely loved this story. I loved how real and gripping it was as the emotions poured off the pages. The author did an incredible job making me feel Gabriela's connection to Stefan even when she didn't want to. Likewise, Stefan had to reconcile the man he was inside to the predator he became in the name of revenge. I loved seeing his priorities shift and how his feelings for Gabriela affected his decisions. This story was powerful, provocative and an all around winner! 5 stars! Bravo! ~Ratula
June 20, 2020
MEEEEH!!
La mejor forma de describir este libro.
Tenía más expectativas para este libro igual que en libro anterior se desperdició bastante con las peleas entre los protagonistas ya a este punto pensé que abría un cambio de actitud y un poquito de amor pero nada.
Sobre todo fue culpa de la protagonista y su actitud nefasta realmente Gabriela era una STUPID GIRL, demasiado tonta, infantil, ingenua, testaruda, y en la mayor parte del libro me cayó mal.
La historia tenía demasiado potencial, todo ese tema que nos muestran al principio sobre la traición del hermano de Stefan y la culpa que tuvo el padre de Gabriela en su asesinato, la venganza de Stefan pues ahí quedo a medias, no sucedió nada.
Nos muestran otra trama de otra traición que sentí innecesario porque sólo le restó importancia a la de la trama principal en lugar de sumarle.
Siguió sin haber amor, sólo un cambio repentino de Gabriela hacia Stefan.
La verdad que si esperaba más de esta bilogía porque de verdad tenía potencial y era la primera vez que leía sobre mafia italiana en Sicilia de donde surgió y ya sé que me voy a ver bien picky pero la autora no introdujo ninguna frase o palabra en italiano si se supone que ese idioma hablaba el protagonista y más que estaban en Italia por Dios.
Probablemente en un futuro le de otra oportunidad a la autora.
La mejor forma de describir este libro.
Tenía más expectativas para este libro igual que en libro anterior se desperdició bastante con las peleas entre los protagonistas ya a este punto pensé que abría un cambio de actitud y un poquito de amor pero nada.
Sobre todo fue culpa de la protagonista y su actitud nefasta realmente Gabriela era una STUPID GIRL, demasiado tonta, infantil, ingenua, testaruda, y en la mayor parte del libro me cayó mal.
La historia tenía demasiado potencial, todo ese tema que nos muestran al principio sobre la traición del hermano de Stefan y la culpa que tuvo el padre de Gabriela en su asesinato, la venganza de Stefan pues ahí quedo a medias, no sucedió nada.
Nos muestran otra trama de otra traición que sentí innecesario porque sólo le restó importancia a la de la trama principal en lugar de sumarle.
Siguió sin haber amor, sólo un cambio repentino de Gabriela hacia Stefan.
La verdad que si esperaba más de esta bilogía porque de verdad tenía potencial y era la primera vez que leía sobre mafia italiana en Sicilia de donde surgió y ya sé que me voy a ver bien picky pero la autora no introdujo ninguna frase o palabra en italiano si se supone que ese idioma hablaba el protagonista y más que estaban en Italia por Dios.
Probablemente en un futuro le de otra oportunidad a la autora.
October 17, 2019
Audiobook review. In book one we got to know who Stefan and Gabriella were, what motivated them, what about one complemented the other. This book unravels webs we didn’t know existed. It keeps you guessing and brings to a crescendo the tension that was coiling between our main characters.
The plot had twists and turns but I felt that overall the story deviated from the relationship building. It focused on other relationships outside of the main characters. I would’ve liked to hear more experiences that lead them to the inevitable fall into love. Still, the writing was solid and the execution by the narrators, once again Wen Ross and Mackenzie Cartwright, left nothing on the table. They delivered, proving once again that they are a force to be reckoned with.
Complimentary copy received and voluntarily reviewed.
The plot had twists and turns but I felt that overall the story deviated from the relationship building. It focused on other relationships outside of the main characters. I would’ve liked to hear more experiences that lead them to the inevitable fall into love. Still, the writing was solid and the execution by the narrators, once again Wen Ross and Mackenzie Cartwright, left nothing on the table. They delivered, proving once again that they are a force to be reckoned with.
Complimentary copy received and voluntarily reviewed.
October 17, 2019
Dnf @55%
If their relationship wasn't romanticized this book would make good thriller. Stefan is such a bad character, he is absolutely awful. I think not even the author knew what to make this guy like.
He abuses her, she's crying and screaming and the next day she says she liked it? So many illogical things in this book.
What was this?
If their relationship wasn't romanticized this book would make good thriller. Stefan is such a bad character, he is absolutely awful. I think not even the author knew what to make this guy like.
He abuses her, she's crying and screaming and the next day she says she liked it? So many illogical things in this book.
What was this?
November 5, 2021
What a tale spin of lies, mistrust, backstabbing & destruction. No one is safe, nor can anyone be trusted. This book start to show Stefan softer size and according to everyone Stefan has become weak. Little does everyone know in his weakness he starts to show is his strength the love and push and pull he has for his wife.
I guess my father was right. I’m not a very smart girl. This is where Gabby shows age, her innocence & naivety. She trust everyone and that very thing is what gets her in trouble and a pawn for Stefan. The betrayal, twist and turns in this book keeps you on the edge of your seat. Who will betray who and how far will everyone go for power they try and steal away from the first born Sabbioni.
Stefan is a powerful man. He doesn’t play nice, not if you’re his enemy. But I’ve learned one thing about my husband. He takes care of what’s his. And I am his.
I guess my father was right. I’m not a very smart girl. This is where Gabby shows age, her innocence & naivety. She trust everyone and that very thing is what gets her in trouble and a pawn for Stefan. The betrayal, twist and turns in this book keeps you on the edge of your seat. Who will betray who and how far will everyone go for power they try and steal away from the first born Sabbioni.
Stefan is a powerful man. He doesn’t play nice, not if you’re his enemy. But I’ve learned one thing about my husband. He takes care of what’s his. And I am his.
October 27, 2019
Overall rating : 3.5 stars! I loved the first book and I was really looking forward to read the conclusion of this duet. I liked the concept and the execution was stellar as for the previous book. The action, suspense and entire cast of characters meshed this story well and had me hooked from the first chapter. Natasha Knight’s writing was once again flawless even though this second part of the story was not really what I expected. I had high expectations in regards of Stefan and Gabriela’s relationship but sadly, I just could not feel anything between them and that had me a little disengaged with the couple. Don’t get me wrong, I’m still a huge fan of this author’s work but this time not as much as I had hoped for.
October 16, 2019
This is a review for both. I’ve been trying something else. Was in the mood for a crazy guy and crazy about his girl. But really this was not it. That end was a joke. Oh well
October 7, 2019
Welcome back to Sicilia, to Gabriela and Stefan's stormy story, for the second opus of the Collateral Damage duet. Take a deep breath, settle comfortably into your favorite book nook, the story starts off where it ended in the last installment. Remember?
Fast paced, Damage is a book I couldn't put down. From the first page, I found myself swept up by Stefan's mercurial behavior and Gabriela's emotional turmoil.
Caught in the whirlwind of their responsabilities, the young woman and the ruthless mafioso have to make choices, all the while navigating the trusts, deceptions, betrayals. But choosing can prove to be tricky when you are surrounded by to much opacity.
"Out of the frying pan and into the fire."
Stefan had me on the edge of my seat all along, while Gabriela's sadness felt like a punch in my gut. It was so easy to relate to her stress, her constant fight. What felt the most heart wrenching, though, was her loneliness and her despair. The author amazingly captured the helplessness of her heroine when facing Stefan, perfect anti-hero, that I loved hating, and then fell for!
"One heroic act does not a hero make.”
Angsty, edgy, the heavy atmosphere of Damage utterly gripped me.
Enjoy, my friends!
I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED AN ARC COPY OF THIS BOOK. THANK YOU!!!
Fast paced, Damage is a book I couldn't put down. From the first page, I found myself swept up by Stefan's mercurial behavior and Gabriela's emotional turmoil.
Caught in the whirlwind of their responsabilities, the young woman and the ruthless mafioso have to make choices, all the while navigating the trusts, deceptions, betrayals. But choosing can prove to be tricky when you are surrounded by to much opacity.
"Out of the frying pan and into the fire."
Stefan had me on the edge of my seat all along, while Gabriela's sadness felt like a punch in my gut. It was so easy to relate to her stress, her constant fight. What felt the most heart wrenching, though, was her loneliness and her despair. The author amazingly captured the helplessness of her heroine when facing Stefan, perfect anti-hero, that I loved hating, and then fell for!
"One heroic act does not a hero make.”
Angsty, edgy, the heavy atmosphere of Damage utterly gripped me.
Enjoy, my friends!
I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED AN ARC COPY OF THIS BOOK. THANK YOU!!!
October 20, 2019
You must read book 1 of this duet to understand the story.
This book picks up where we finished in book 1 with the heroines escape being thwarted.
Dual POV.
No intimate scenes with anyone other than the Hero and heroine.
Other woman drama though the Hero turns her down.
There were some dark scenes, Stefan seems to have two sides and he switches mid stride.
Lots of uncertainty as to who is the enemy, who to trust.
I felt a bit his turn around came a bit late, his realisation of the 'I love you' came at the tenth hour.
The heroine spends most of the book completely confused by him.
I think it's difficult for an author to know how far to push a Hero before the reader finds him irredeemable, he does treat her badly at times, borders on dubious consent.
HEA.
Epilogue. x2
This book picks up where we finished in book 1 with the heroines escape being thwarted.
Dual POV.
No intimate scenes with anyone other than the Hero and heroine.
Other woman drama though the Hero turns her down.
There were some dark scenes, Stefan seems to have two sides and he switches mid stride.
Lots of uncertainty as to who is the enemy, who to trust.
I felt a bit his turn around came a bit late, his realisation of the 'I love you' came at the tenth hour.
The heroine spends most of the book completely confused by him.
I think it's difficult for an author to know how far to push a Hero before the reader finds him irredeemable, he does treat her badly at times, borders on dubious consent.
HEA.
Epilogue. x2
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2019
This review is for this book and the previous one, Collateral.
Let me first say that these two stories are among the few of Ms. Knight's I've ever been able to finish. I've found her previous books either too harsh (Taken and Given to the Savage) or downright creepy (Naia and the Professor and Stepbrother Jerk). Many of her books contain physical discipline (abuse, really) that would send most women to the hospital and rape (and not the "dub-con" kind, either, or whatever people are calling it, but actual rape with physical, mental, and emotional consequences for the victim). This author frequently -- as she does here -- puts her H and h into enemies-to-lovers situations, usually via forced marriage (in fact, she does this so often she may want to try something fresh). A couple of her books (Reclaiming Sophie and Salvatore) are less severe, and I would recommend those.
I'm finding these particular books hard to rate, though, because I had very mixed feelings about them. On the one hand, I did find them addicting. Although this is yet another entry in the now-way-too-common sub-genre of mafia romance, the plot was gripping enough that I kept swiping the pages to see what would happen next. The action took many twists and turns, and you were never sure who you could trust (in this, we, the reader, see events through Gabriela's eyes as she also doesn't know who she can trust, either). In addition, Ms. Knight is a decent enough writer (descriptive without overwhelming us with detail, a good editor, and can deliver a strong erotic scene) that she does pull you into her world.
Ultimately, however, the story had several problems that include plot holes, incoherent character motivations, a weak heroine, an erratic hero whose volte-faces soon grew dizzying, and a couple it was hard to invest in.
To Be More Specific:
1) Plot: I was invested in seeing all the mysteries solved and the loose ends tied up, if only they had been. It may have been the similarities among all the Italian male names, but I'm still confused as to who actually did what to whom and why. For example, who did ? Those were just a few of the questions I had by the end of the book.
2) Characters: Most of these character were incoherent. It was almost like whiplash watching them turn on a dime, particularly Stefan (I'll get to him below). Few of their motivations made sense. I never understood exactly how Gabriela's father felt about his daughter (I'm fine with characters having ambivalent emotions, as those are true to real life, but his treatment of her really made no sense since he alternately loathed and lusted after her -- neither of which prepares us for what . Rafa, as another reviewer remarked, was particularly hard to understand. The secret he learns about himself should have . Gabriela, who was more consistent than the other major characters, also behaved erratically: trusting those she knew from experience she shouldn't and coming to an .
3) Relationship: So, Ms. Knight implements the very, very tired and very, very frustrating trope common in these books in which the H tells the h to trust him (even though he's given her absolutely no reason to do so) and that he would never hurt her (even though he does, mentally, physically, and emotionally). As Gabriela often points out, Stefan comes across as a split personality who is nice to her one moment and nasty the next. He keeps many secrets from her, makes fun of her, and treats her brutally (at one point whipping her with a belt to get her compliance; he remarks that it isn't as bad as her father would have done since Stefan left no permanent marks -- neither Gabriela nor this reader found his reasoning convincing; and his ). Because he was so mercurial and because he had such a self-serving agenda, it was impossible to believe that Gabriela could ever feel safe with him; thus, their .
2 1/2 stars. If the kind of unintelligibility I mention above doesn't bother you, you may enjoy this. I mean, I did keep swiping the pages.
Let me first say that these two stories are among the few of Ms. Knight's I've ever been able to finish. I've found her previous books either too harsh (Taken and Given to the Savage) or downright creepy (Naia and the Professor and Stepbrother Jerk). Many of her books contain physical discipline (abuse, really) that would send most women to the hospital and rape (and not the "dub-con" kind, either, or whatever people are calling it, but actual rape with physical, mental, and emotional consequences for the victim). This author frequently -- as she does here -- puts her H and h into enemies-to-lovers situations, usually via forced marriage (in fact, she does this so often she may want to try something fresh). A couple of her books (Reclaiming Sophie and Salvatore) are less severe, and I would recommend those.
I'm finding these particular books hard to rate, though, because I had very mixed feelings about them. On the one hand, I did find them addicting. Although this is yet another entry in the now-way-too-common sub-genre of mafia romance, the plot was gripping enough that I kept swiping the pages to see what would happen next. The action took many twists and turns, and you were never sure who you could trust (in this, we, the reader, see events through Gabriela's eyes as she also doesn't know who she can trust, either). In addition, Ms. Knight is a decent enough writer (descriptive without overwhelming us with detail, a good editor, and can deliver a strong erotic scene) that she does pull you into her world.
Ultimately, however, the story had several problems that include plot holes, incoherent character motivations, a weak heroine, an erratic hero whose volte-faces soon grew dizzying, and a couple it was hard to invest in.
To Be More Specific:
1) Plot: I was invested in seeing all the mysteries solved and the loose ends tied up, if only they had been. It may have been the similarities among all the Italian male names, but I'm still confused as to who actually did what to whom and why. For example, who did ? Those were just a few of the questions I had by the end of the book.
2) Characters: Most of these character were incoherent. It was almost like whiplash watching them turn on a dime, particularly Stefan (I'll get to him below). Few of their motivations made sense. I never understood exactly how Gabriela's father felt about his daughter (I'm fine with characters having ambivalent emotions, as those are true to real life, but his treatment of her really made no sense since he alternately loathed and lusted after her -- neither of which prepares us for what . Rafa, as another reviewer remarked, was particularly hard to understand. The secret he learns about himself should have . Gabriela, who was more consistent than the other major characters, also behaved erratically: trusting those she knew from experience she shouldn't and coming to an .
3) Relationship: So, Ms. Knight implements the very, very tired and very, very frustrating trope common in these books in which the H tells the h to trust him (even though he's given her absolutely no reason to do so) and that he would never hurt her (even though he does, mentally, physically, and emotionally). As Gabriela often points out, Stefan comes across as a split personality who is nice to her one moment and nasty the next. He keeps many secrets from her, makes fun of her, and treats her brutally (at one point whipping her with a belt to get her compliance; he remarks that it isn't as bad as her father would have done since Stefan left no permanent marks -- neither Gabriela nor this reader found his reasoning convincing; and his ). Because he was so mercurial and because he had such a self-serving agenda, it was impossible to believe that Gabriela could ever feel safe with him; thus, their .
2 1/2 stars. If the kind of unintelligibility I mention above doesn't bother you, you may enjoy this. I mean, I did keep swiping the pages.
October 29, 2019
2.5 stars
Ahh! I really wanted to like this, but I really wanted to throttle Gabriela by the end of it...
I read Collateral last month and wasn’t aware it was a duet at the time, initially I thought I had to wait until February for part two, so I was pleased when I saw this had been released.
I always prefer to read books together as I find I’ve lost the intensity and connection to the book if I wait for another instalment, and this definitely happened here for me.
The first book ended on a cliff hanger, admittedly I struggled a little at the start of book one, but the author found her stride and by the end of the book I was really invested and looking forward to part two, so I was a little disappointed at the anti-climax of this cliff-hanger - it was resolved within a couple of chapters.
The rest of the book kind of followed suit for me. I think the plot could have been interesting, but its execution was poor. The storyline was packed, yet was rushed, and therefore was all a bit confusing and the interactions between Stefan and Gabriela became repetitive and dull.
I also really found the Clara situation rather disturbing. Casual cousin fucking isn’t really my idea of fun lol…
Anyways, whilst for the most part I was a little disappointed with the conclusion, I did really like Stefan and the story as a whole is worth a read just don't expect fireworks
Ahh! I really wanted to like this, but I really wanted to throttle Gabriela by the end of it...
I read Collateral last month and wasn’t aware it was a duet at the time, initially I thought I had to wait until February for part two, so I was pleased when I saw this had been released.
I always prefer to read books together as I find I’ve lost the intensity and connection to the book if I wait for another instalment, and this definitely happened here for me.
The first book ended on a cliff hanger, admittedly I struggled a little at the start of book one, but the author found her stride and by the end of the book I was really invested and looking forward to part two, so I was a little disappointed at the anti-climax of this cliff-hanger - it was resolved within a couple of chapters.
The rest of the book kind of followed suit for me. I think the plot could have been interesting, but its execution was poor. The storyline was packed, yet was rushed, and therefore was all a bit confusing and the interactions between Stefan and Gabriela became repetitive and dull.
I also really found the Clara situation rather disturbing. Casual cousin fucking isn’t really my idea of fun lol…
Anyways, whilst for the most part I was a little disappointed with the conclusion, I did really like Stefan and the story as a whole is worth a read just don't expect fireworks
October 17, 2019
The story was a good conclusion but hated the characters. I could not stand Gabriela. I get she’s young and doesn’t know who she can trust but she’s constantly crying and yelling at Stefan she hates him.
I enjoyed seeing Stefans dark side as the mafia boss but hated the way he treated Gabriela. He physically & sexually assaults her a number of times. I was ready to DNF it when he starts whipping her with his belt buckle across her legs and threatens to do it from her shoulders down to her ankles if she doesn’t obey him. Every single sex scene made me cringe. I can’t figure out when the hell they fell in love because I totally missed it.
I enjoyed seeing Stefans dark side as the mafia boss but hated the way he treated Gabriela. He physically & sexually assaults her a number of times. I was ready to DNF it when he starts whipping her with his belt buckle across her legs and threatens to do it from her shoulders down to her ankles if she doesn’t obey him. Every single sex scene made me cringe. I can’t figure out when the hell they fell in love because I totally missed it.
September 11, 2019
Buckle up! I’m still trying to catch my breath. Natasha does it again with the explosive conclusion in this duet. I read this one in less than a day also and it consumed me. The detail, emotion, the betrayal, the love is all painted so vividly in this story. Absolutely one of my favorites!
November 2, 2019
3,5 stars...
October 15, 2019
I’m such a fan of Natasha Knight, have been for a while now. This conclusion to her arranged mafia marriage duet is a further testament to her wonderful story telling. Natasha’s characters are so engaging, so real to the reader, that we find ourselves drawn into the story, unable to look away until we find out what happens. And, in her usual talented way, she takes us on an intricate journey through a world of peril, deception, betrayal, love and triumph. I just love her stories.
Stefan and Gabi, such a rough beginning with a lot of obstacles to be overcome. I found myself anxious for their welfare, upset at their actions, and then relieved by them yet again. And, like all of her other books, the secondary characters could be given a book of their own. That’s how effective her writing can be.
Damage is the follow up to Collateral. It is an incredibly well and tightly written story. I’ve said before that I have a small list of my go-to authors and Natasha is on that list. I highly recommend any book written by her adept hand.
Stefan and Gabi, such a rough beginning with a lot of obstacles to be overcome. I found myself anxious for their welfare, upset at their actions, and then relieved by them yet again. And, like all of her other books, the secondary characters could be given a book of their own. That’s how effective her writing can be.
Damage is the follow up to Collateral. It is an incredibly well and tightly written story. I’ve said before that I have a small list of my go-to authors and Natasha is on that list. I highly recommend any book written by her adept hand.
October 2, 2019
Damage is the second book and the conclusion in the arranged mafia romance, Collateral Damage Duet. You should first read Collateral before you begin reading this book.
Get ready! Damage starts off right where Collateral ended and takes you on a wild and rocky ride. Stefan is just as hot as ever and our man is not happy. He’s determined to figure out what’s going on and who is behind what has happened.
Gabriela is as stubborn as ever, but no way can she continue to fight against the pull she has towards Stefan. I adored both of these characters, and loved watching the chemistry between them grow stronger.
Damage is full of lies, betrayal and family secrets that will keep you guessing until the very end. It was the perfect conclusion to Stefan and Gabriela’s story and one I know you will enjoy. There’s also a certain character that I’m hoping we’ll maybe get to see again.
I was kindly provided an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Get ready! Damage starts off right where Collateral ended and takes you on a wild and rocky ride. Stefan is just as hot as ever and our man is not happy. He’s determined to figure out what’s going on and who is behind what has happened.
Gabriela is as stubborn as ever, but no way can she continue to fight against the pull she has towards Stefan. I adored both of these characters, and loved watching the chemistry between them grow stronger.
Damage is full of lies, betrayal and family secrets that will keep you guessing until the very end. It was the perfect conclusion to Stefan and Gabriela’s story and one I know you will enjoy. There’s also a certain character that I’m hoping we’ll maybe get to see again.
I was kindly provided an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 26, 2021
4 mafia 🖤🖤🖤
Overall I liked more than the first book.
It was surprisingly good!!!!
Overall I liked more than the first book.
It was surprisingly good!!!!
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